Overview & Reviews

As a flagship luxury sedan, the Acura RL was always a bit of an oddity. It was never notably large or roomy, and always offered a V6 as its sole engine choice. Nor was the RL a style or design standout, and it generally received little notice among more prestigious makes or even models within its own family. In recent years, for example, the TL sedan has offered more excitement and the same premium feel for less cost.

Acura hopes the RL's replacement, the RLX, can distinguish itself among the luxury pack in a way the RL never could. From a used-car standpoint, older first-generation Acura RLs are rather ho-hum. The newer generation is a better car for sure, though in general it was still outclassed by other luxury sedans such as the Audi A6 and BMW 5 Series.

Most Recent Acura RL
The second-generation Acura RL was produced from 2005-'12. It sported a tighter, more athletic look than the frumpier stance of its predecessor. The new car also introduced a 290-horsepower V6, a five-speed automatic transmission, an advanced all-wheel-drive system and only one trim level.

Although it didn't offer the posh reputation of other luxury vehicles, the Acura RL nevertheless featured a classy, sumptuous interior adorned in high-quality materials, leather and real wood trim. The dash was awash in buttons, but they served as a welcome alternative to the navigation system's iDrive-like control knob and voice commands. The RL's 10-speaker surround-sound stereo with six-CD/DVD audio changer, satellite radio and standard iPod integration was one of the best in the business. An optional Technology package included a voice-activated navigation system.

In road tests, we found that the Acura RL got better the harder it was driven, thanks to its SH-AWD system that tenaciously maintained traction. The ride was tuned on the cushier side of the spectrum, so despite offering notable handling abilities, the RL was principally designed to be a comfortable cruiser. Though the V6 offered impressive peak output, it still couldn't match the refined low and midrange thrust of its competitors' V8s.

The RL changed incrementally through the first few years of this generation. For 2006, the RL gained the Technology package that included adaptive cruise control, run-flat tires and a collision-preventing radar-based active braking system. The next few years brought no significant changes until 2009, when Acura face-lifted the RL with its controversial design language. The front grille in particular was described in rather unflattering terms such as "bagel slicer." Better news was under the skin, where the 3.7-liter V6 gained 10 hp and a six-speed automatic transmission replaced the five-speed unit.

Past Acura RL Models
Buyers looking at used Acura RLs built before 2005 will be dealing with the first-generation Acura RL (known as the 3.5 RL) produced from 1996-2004. The 3.5 RL debuted as a replacement for the popular Acura Legend, but its unimaginative name demonstrated an unfortunate change in Acura's philosophy that saw it move in a more staid, Lexus-like direction. This generation also had a high level of standard equipment and typically cost less than its competition, but it couldn't overcome its anonymous styling, unexciting V6 engine and lax driving dynamics.

While front-wheel drive is beneficial in smaller cars, most luxury car buyers seem to prefer the extra performance and handling that come from rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. This wasn't such a big issue during the RL's early years, but as newer competing models debuted with more power and more features, the Acura RL became increasingly outclassed.

Acura didn't change the 3.5 RL much during its first generation. In 2000, it received a standard stability control system and an improved navigation system. The most significant changes were made in 2002, when it gained a bit more power and a more firmly tuned suspension.

The RL's predecessor was the Acura Legend. Available in coupe and sedan body styles, the Legend largely lived up to its name, being praised for its sporty nature, strong performance and impeccable fit and finish. As with most Acura/Honda products, reliability was very good.

User Reviews:

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  Great Ride - Bose Sound System - 1998 Acura RL
  By wabbit - April 29 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car in 1998 and havent been disappointed. I have had absolutely no mechanical or other problems. The Bose system is excellent and the ride smooth. A wonderful car for trips and for simply relaxing behind the wheel. Would recommend to all interested buyers.

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  Par None - 2002 Acura RL
  By Merrittk - April 28 - 2:00 am

  I enjoy driving the Acura 3.5 RL. It provides the comfortable drive that I have been looking for in a luxury car that doesnt have a luxury price tag. I believe the engine to be the most reliabe i nthe industry. QUALITY par none. The major drwaback in this vehicle that I find is the fuel economy which. The vehice sems to absorb fuel like no other car that Ive owned.

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  Luxury ride with super GPS navigation - 2002 Acura RL
  By MR - April 25 - 2:00 am

  One of the best luxury car values in its class since just about every option comes standard. I was able to negotiate with the dealer just slightly over the invoice price. Additionaly the less than 1% interest rate or money factor offered by American Honda on the lease at that time lowered the payments. Prior to buying the RL I drove the 3.2 TL-S which had lots of power but lacked refinement. I didnt care for the cheap looking wood, silver instrument panel and poor handling which suprisingly had a worse turning radius than the larger RL whose radius is very good. I Would definitely recommend test driving the RL against the more expensive competition.

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  Solid ride - 2002 Acura RL
  By mikerob - April 25 - 2:00 am

  Newsflash....A CAR IS NOT AN INVESTMENT! This car is by far the best value for the money. Have driven S-type Jag, GS, A6 and Q45. Nice cars but I will be forever be a Acura owner because they include virtually all options(minus nav)in the price of the car. Very nice! I drive mostly in town so I have no need for a V8. Anyone with any common sense should see why this is a car worth looking at.

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  Robertos review. - 2005 Acura RL
  By Roberto - April 22 - 11:43 pm

  The car is a pleasure to drive. Its acceleration and movements are excellent. Very comfortable interior with easy to use controls. The voice activation system requires some practice, though, but works fine. Excellent audio system. And the price is competitive when you compare it to the BMW 530.

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  The car to get. - 1996 Acura RL
  By Mismith - April 16 - 2:00 am

  This car, is a car you can enjoy. Just get one!

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  Very pleased-wonderful ride - 2002 Acura RL
  By S Davis - April 14 - 2:00 am

  I have owned my RL for a little over a week and logged many miles. It is very comfortable and responsive. I was actually able to do a little better than the 499 lease (495). They are only clearing inventories so there arent many colors to choose from on some lots. I dont think you would be disappointed with this purchase.

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  Cant believe we get to drive an RL - 2002 Acura RL
  By follow_jesus - April 10 - 2:00 am

  Its the ride quality, folks! Doesnt the brochure say something about the seat springs being tuned to filter out vibrations. Our RL is so smooth it shames my 98 Accord (which has "vault-like quietness" according to Automobile magazine!). Also, less is more. The controls are few in number and easily accessible (non-Navi). Ridiculous to have a "Fun to Drive" rating in this class of car -- like minivan buyers looking at slalom figures! Its a true limousine -- no surprises, perfect manners and looks beautiful. I still am in awe that we get to drive it around.

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  New Owner of Premium RL - 1998 Acura RL
  By BSS - April 2 - 2:00 am

  I just bought a RL, Premium model with Navigation system. I looked hard at BMW 5 series and Mercedes E320 as well as the Lexus LS400. I found the big Acura to have no real weaknesses. It was larger, more plush and with more features than the German models. Plus, it doesnt come with the snob label attached. It seemed the equal of the Lexus (other than the V8 vs the V6) and was thousands less. Plus, there are LS400s EVERYWHERE. I have had it for about a month and am very happy with it. Power is smooth, interior very comfortable and the sound system is incredible. This car doesnt necessarily demand attention, but it has understated class and refinement.

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  Best Acura Yet! - 2002 Acura RL
  By lizzylou - April 2 - 2:00 am

  Ive now owned 3 Acursa and this 2002 3.5 RL is easily the best of the group. I can not find any flaws or faults with this car. Easily the best value proposition in the luxury car market niche. Far and away better value tha Lexus LS or Infinity Q45 or BMW 5-series.