German Car Zone

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The previous-generation RL faced some challenges. In a market dominated by V-8-powered sport sedans, the RL offered a V-6 and sedate styling. It fell outside consumers' minds, and sales trailed behind rivals. Acura has updated and adapted the RL by increasing horsepower (although there are still only six pistons firing under the hood), fine-tuning the all-wheel-drive system, and radicalizing the styling, to say the least.

The 2009 RL is comfortable and quiet and comes equipped with a bevy of features standard, keeping with Acura's philosophy of short options lists. Underhood rests an SOHC 3.7L V-6 with VTEC on intake and exhaust valves. The engine is smooth while circling its 300-hp powerband and returns 16/22 city/highway mpg. It's mated to a five-speed transmission; six speeds forward is more common in this class now, but the ratios are spot on and the powerband is wide, so there's no downside to being short one cog.


Full Story:

2009 Acura RL - Quick Drive - Motor Trend



Funny thing is that after seeing the new TL, this RL doesn't look as bad anymore. I so want Acura to make a good looking car, I'd buy it in a minute.

M

What the heck is going on with that grille?

I've got quite used to that radical grille (if that's possible) but the design of the rear lights is something I can't really swallow...