2008 Chicago Auto Show: 2009 Acura RL
- Competes with: Infiniti M35, Lexus GS, BMW 5 Series
- Looks like: Last year’s RL with a new grille — wait, that’s exactly what it is
- Drivetrain: 300-hp, 3.7-liter V-6 with five-speed automatic
- Hits dealerships: Spring 2008
Acura’s RL is an underrated luxury sedan that has been hobbled by the perception that it’s underpowered and a dud in the styling department. While the competition offered distinctive looks and optional V-8s, the RL stuck to a V-6 and a meek demeanor. Acura hopes to change that with the slightly revised 2009, but it doesn’t seem like too much has been done.
Outside, the RL has a new grille with a small “shield” similar to the large one adorning the MDX crossover, along with slightly altered headlights. The look is certainly bolder, but we’re not sure it’s more cohesive than the old design. Inside, the company says it’s upgraded things, but besides a new shifter it all looks the same to us. The optional navigation system, however, will now come with live weather updates; the RL was also one of the first cars to offer live traffic updates.
The biggest changes come to the engine, which grows to a 3.7-liter V-6 pushing out an even 300 hp, up from a 290-hp 3.5-liter. Acura has also upgraded the suspension and steering and added larger 18-inch wheels and “aggressive” tires as standard. All-wheel drive remains standard and, yes, Acura still calls it Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive.
Expect prices to remain close to the current $46,280-$53,700 range when the RL goes on sale in a few months. We have many more photos below of the new Acura, but we’ll ask you if you think the changes are enough to make the RL a stronger player in the segment.
