(2005 model shown)
RL
Acura's flagship
sedan was completely redesigned last year as a larger and more luxurious
all-wheel-drive model. While a V-8 is still not part of the picture, its
3.5-liter VTEC V-6 engine delivers a respectable 290 horsepower. It comes mated
to a five-speed Sequential SportShift automatic that can be taken through the
gears manually, via either a console shifter or steering-wheel-mounted race
car-like paddle controls. A four-wheel independent suspension helps the car
hold the corners, and traction on both wet and dry pavement benefits from the
RL's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive System that distributes the optimum amount
of torque between both the front/rear and left/right rear wheels. The car's
satellite navigation system includes a real-time traffic monitoring function for
majorU.S.cities that can warn the driver
of road delays ahead and suggest alternate routes. Standard features include
adaptive headlamps and a keyless access/starting system. A newly offered
Technology Package includes a Collision Mitigation Braking System that monitors
potential frontal collisions and automatically alerts the driver, tensions the
seatbelts, and applies the brakes if it detects a crash
is imminent and unavoidable; it also comes with adaptive cruise control and
run-flat tires. A dealer-installed A-SPEC performance package becomes newly
available for 2006, and includes a track-tuned suspension package that lowers
the car by nearly three-quarters of an inch, 18-inch alloy wheels with Michelin
Pilot Sport tires, an underbody kit, and a rear
spoiler.
2005 Acura RL by Marc K. Stengel
(10/11/2004)
Acura's newest RL flagship redefines performance and
sophistication.
More reviews at TheCarConnection.com
Get invoice and MSRP prices for this
vehicle
Get a dealer quote for this vehicle