2013 Honda Accord V6 Touring: Driven
The Honda Accord is now in its ninth generation, and as we reported in our First Drive of the 2013... Read More
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uses a sort of fake key handle on the steering column, as if the company merely retrofitted a standard ignition lock
Available packages - Technology and Advanced - add even more tech to the RL's almost nostalgic ambience.
there are no wow-level toys for occupants of the rear seats
there are no wow-level toys for occupants of the rear seats
FEATURES | 8 out of 10
Expert Quotes:
uses a sort of fake key handle on the steering column, as if the company merely retrofitted a standard ignition lock
CNET
Available packages - Technology and Advanced - add even more tech to the RL's almost nostalgic ambience.
Kelley Blue Book
there are no wow-level toys for occupants of the rear seats
Winding Road
there are no wow-level toys for occupants of the rear seats
CNET
Tech and comfort features are on offer in abundance on the 2012 RL, with some including xenon headlamps with Active Front Lighting, adaptive cruise control, heated and ventilated seats, Bluetooth and USB connectivity is standard. The navigation system taps into real-time traffic and weather data, though we found it somewhat laggy and rudimentary compared to some of the latest infotainment systems.
Other features include a navigation system with real-time traffic and weather data, along with full XM satellite radio integration.
If you skip all that, standard equipment is pretty impressive, with a sunroof and xenon headlamps included, and leather upholstery, power sunshades, and dual-zone climate control further swaddle occupants in luxury. But many of the tech features are bundled together, driving up the price by thousands.
Also, technophiles will want to consider that many of the tech features are showing their age. They 'keyless' ignition is a disappointing stub attached to the steering column (not a fully integrated/hidden piece), and the overly sluggish, outdated navigation system feels a full decade behind Audi's 3D Google Earth displays in the A6 and other models. You'll also want to consider the merits of the RL's control layout, which opts for a central rotary knob—and many peripheral buttons—instead of touch screens. Some of the layout choices—like the A/C button clustered with the nav controls—are puzzling.
Conclusion
The 2012 Acura RL offers many of the latest infotainment and tech features, but the implementation doesn't feel as contemporary or elegant as you might want.
