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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  Acura Luxury Sedan - 2002 Acura RL
  By Austin TX - December 16 - 5:23 pm

  We have owned the 2002 Acura RL since June 2001 - 2nd Acura and absolutely the best car purchases we have ever made. The Acura RL is a large performance luxury sedan, and it rides and handles wonderfully. The acceleration is brisk, the handling rock-solid and the build-quality is absolutely first-rate. Routine maintenance is all this car has needed in last 7+ years - still has original disc brakes at 78K miles, and dealer says they have 40% wear left. Based on Acuras reputation and our experience, I expect this car to last another 7+ years before I can justify replacing it. No regrets, no complaints... every one should be so lucky to own a 2002 Acura RL.

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  Great Car - 2005 Acura RL
  By Jim Ferrari - December 16 - 5:00 pm

  Love the car. Car is quick, comfortable and very well built. compliments from family and friends on my choice of the RT. Still working on the Nav system, and doubt that I will ever be able to use it to its full potential. Its still fun and it seems like I find something "new" everytime I drive the car.

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  Great car but too many rattles - 2006 Acura RL
  By tony - December 11 - 4:20 pm

  I bought this vehicle used with 6800 miles. Very comfortable, very quiet (with exception of some minor rattles) and decent gas mileage for AWD. Im waiting for snow to see how well the SH-AWD performs.

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  The Best Car Ever Owned - 2005 Acura RL
  By Moore - November 30 - 11:33 am

  I have owned 6 different cars including 2 Acuras and have driven at least 5 different types of cars owned by my husband. This is the best car I have owned or driven. I would highly recommend it because of its reliability, technology, and styling. Thank you.

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  Best luxury value - 2008 Acura RL
  By Kanthi Rameswaram - November 19 - 9:24 pm

  A co-worker of mine gave me a ride to work one morning. She picked me up in her Acura RL. By the time we reached work I believe I repeated the phrase - "this is a great car" - about 5 times. Well I own one now, just completed one year of ownership. Let me tell you folks there is no better value for money in the luxury category. I compared the RL to the BMW 5 and the Audi A6 and I saved about $15k easily. The best car that I have owned bar none. You are surrounded in luxury and comfort. The AWD, steering and handling are superb. I wonder how I ever survived the LA labyrinth without my Acura nav system - it is amazing. The only negative is the rear middle seat, it is uncomfortable.

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  Albert - 2009 Acura RL
  By Albert - November 16 - 8:09 pm

  I really enjoy driving my new (09) RL/w Tech Pkg. I own a 06 (TL) prior. The fuel consumption is high, about 16 city 22 highway. I replaced the factory tires with 245-35-20, 8.0. This was a great enhancement. I plan on driving my RL a lot.

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  Excellent Cruiser - 2002 Acura RL
  By Z - October 31 - 2:41 pm

  It is my second Acura. First 2 dr. legend made to 232K mi without any major hiccups. This one done well till 75k so far. I bought it preowned with 19K 3 years ago. Great highway cruiser, and comfortable one. Build quality - Honda at its best. Extremely low maintenance car, especially for the large luxury segment. Mileage is still 18 city and 24 highway on premium gas. Brakes lasted 56k mi front and 72kmi rear. Highly recommend!

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  Good for your money - 2008 Acura RL
  By Acuraman - October 26 - 2:33 am

  I got my RL (top of the line) by the end of Nov. 2007. So far its fine. It drives well with very good highway mileage considering AWD. The average mileage rate was over 30 mi/gal in long distance driving. Before I purchased it, I searched the market well. For about $50K Mercedes/BMW/Audi were some offering their stripped versions. If you own the top of the line luxury car, your dealer treats you like a king for maintenance calls (your loaner there if need be). One thing was bad about these sports cars, they are so low. Even cement divider on parking lots touches your fender if you are not careful. Tires are so expensive (PAX system). If you damage it, prepare to pay $500 per tire change.

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  Unbelievable Car - 2000 Acura RL
  By Ryan - October 3 - 10:56 am

  I have owned over 20 cars and I can honestly say that my 2000 Acura RL has a much higher level of quality than others I have owned (Lexus, Lincoln, Ford, etc.) I bought the car from a single owner who had all maintenance records, window sticker, about a year ago with 67,000 miles. Still to this day there is not one rattle or anything on the inside. I have always heard that Honda/Acura is a step above the rest. After owning one for about a year I couldnt agree more. I have not had one issue at all. I dont know if I will ever buy anything other than a Honda/Acura.

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  Love this car, but - 2006 Acura RL
  By fred porter - September 17 - 7:44 pm

  Bought the car July 2006, wife agrees with me that it is the nicest, most luxurious and fun car we ever owned. Just a total pleasure to drive. Power, comfort, sound system: everything is great BUT: we are on the third battery in 2 years, left us stranded twice. Dealer can find nothing wrong with the electrical system, very frustrating-- waiting for the next time we get stuck.