2009 Acura RL Review | Buyer Guide
Looking For Respect
The Acura RL has been the Rodney Dangerfield of the Mid-Premium Luxury segment—it’s gotten no respect. Competitors, like the Lexus GS350 and the Infiniti M35, have sold three times as well. There are several possible explanations for this—some say the styling was too bland—others criticized the lack of a V-8 option. Whatever the reason, Acura has redesigned the RL for 2009 in hopes of turning things around.
The 2009 RL still doesn’t have a V-8, but it has fresh styling. The most impressive part of the new design is the front facia. It now sports Acura’s signature shield-like grille. This solidifies the RL’s Acura identity, and gives it a stronger look. Larger 18-inch aluminum wheels also provide some heft. A kick-up spoiler integrated into the rear deck adds a sporty note.
The interior is attractive too. My top-of-the-line test car featured distinctive and elegant wood trim. The layer of walnut on the dash looked more than an inch thick. A wood and leather-wrapped steering wheel added to the feel of luxury. Leather-trimmed seats up front had the ability to warm or cool passengers as needed. Rear passengers don’t have this perk, but do get more legroom this year. The only gripe I had in the cabin was with the center control panel. It had a lot of buttons crammed into a small area.
The RL comes nicely equipped with standard luxury features like, surround-sound audio, solar-sensing climate control, a power rear sunshade and keyless entry and start. The optional Technology package adds a navigation system with real-time traffic and weather, as well swiveling headlights.
However, buyers can also go one step further and add CMBS, Acura’s Collision Mitigation and Braking System. Radar mounted behind the grille alerts drivers if a collision seems imminent. The system then tightens the seat belts and applies the brakes. Buyers who order CMBS also get Adaptive Cruise Control packaged with it.
Under the hood, the RL comes with a larger 3.7-liter V-6 this year. Compared to last year’s 3.5 engine, it generates 10 more horsepower, now 300, and adds 15 lb-ft of torque. Acceleration is brisk—60 mph can be reached in 6.5 seconds. The V-6 is teamed with a five-speed automatic, with a manual mode and paddle shifters. This gearbox performs well, however, other automakers offer six, or even seven speed automatics these days. Gas mileage is also slightly below par at 16-22 mpg.
One thing the competition doesn’t have is Acura’s Super Handling-All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). This is a remarkable system that not only shifts torque from front to rear, but even side to side. In fact, during cornering, SH-AWD allocates more power to the outside rear wheel to help the RL rotate into a turn more capably. I found that the RL would whip through switchbacks without breaking a sweat.
Acura has firmed up the suspension on the 2009 RL with higher rate coil springs, stiffer bushings and a larger rear stabilizer bar. They also upgraded the steering system, which now feels more precise and direct. All these enhancements contribute to a car that now feels lively and nimble—although some may find the ride a bit too stiff.
Acura RL pricing starts at $47,040. My fully loaded test car had an MSRP of $54,860. This car has a lot to offer, and is competitively priced. Maybe now it will start getting some respect.
Snapshot Review
Improved Styling
High-Tech Features
Excellent Handling
