Up Close: 2009 Acura RL

The Acura RL receives a host of changes for the 2009 model year, but the most recognizable one is its new front end, which takes on the shield theme the automaker uses on its MDX luxury SUV. It’s a distinctive look for sure, but I’m not convinced it’ll resonate with luxury sedan buyers.

One of the more interesting updates the sedan receives is available real-time weather updates from XM Satellite Radio. With the service, weather information can be presented in both textual and graphical formats, the latter as an overlay over the navigation system map. You can also zoom in to your current location to get local weather conditions.

Unlike the RL’s real-time traffic feature, which is primarily available in metropolitan areas, real-time weather is available across the country, according to Acura spokeswoman Jessica Fini, and is updated every two minutes. Yes, the screens pictured show the current weather in Chicago today. XM weather, traffic and satellite radio are included free for three months and are available at an extra charge thereafter.

Despite these and the car’s other updates, Acura is unlikely to get luxury buyers who’ve crossed the RL off their lists to give this updated 2009 model another look; underneath the tweaks and improvements, the RL is much the same as before.