2009 Acura RL: A Fusion of Luxury, Power, and Cutting-Edge Technology

Acura's flagship RL sedan is restyled and then some for 2009. Exterior changes include a new "power plenum" grille, following the other models in the Acura lineup, as well as a new aluminum hood and trunklid, front and rear bumpers, rocker panels, headlights and taillights.

The engine is new, too. A 300-hp 3.7L V6 replaces last year's 3.5 liter, and includes variable valve timing for both intake and exhaust valves. Steering wheel paddle shifters now accompany the standard 5-speed automatic transmission.

The suspension has been revised for sportier handling, and inside, the RL gets new gauges, a revised steering wheel and climate controls, more rear seat room, and a new Active Sound Control (ASC) system for improved noise reduction.

The 2009 Acura RL comes loaded with features normally reserved for the options list on other cars. With its revised styling, new 300-hp powerplant, and its own healthy options list, the RL is a luxury sedan without a luxury price.

Acura's RL is mostly new for 2009, which means the company's engineers have the car's already-excellent refinement to a whole new level.

Excellent reliability; ample power from standard V6; all-wheel-drive stability; luxurious interior

For starters, the exterior has benefited from a complete restyle, which updates the RL's looks to those of the rest of the Acura lineup. Under the skin, a new 3.7L V6 drives all four wheels in the standard AWD setup. The 24-valve VTEC unit produces 300 hp and 271 ft-lb of torque on its way to a 6,800 redline. A 5-speed automatic with overdrive and manual shifting mode is standard. EPA fuel economy estimates are 16 mpg city and 22 mpg on the highway.*

The RL comes in two trim levels: Base and Tech Package. Acura's Collision Mitigation Braking System is optional with the Tech Package for an additional $3800.

The Base RL comes loaded with plenty of creature comforts, including a power sunroof, HID headlights, steering wheel stereo controls, fog lamps, a Bose 6-disc CD stereo with XM Satellite radio, heated power mirrors, keyless start and dual-zone climate control. Leather seating is also standard, with power controls to both driver and passenger seats.

To this luxurious mix, the Tech Package adds a rear parking camera, navigation with traffic rerouting information, 6-level heated and cooled front seats, wood interior trim, active headlights, and Bluetooth handsfree interface.

2009 Acura RL Prices

TRIM

Starting MSRP

2009 Acura RL Automatic (Hawaii)

$50,300

2009 Acura RL Automatic

$46,680

2009 Acura RL Automatic with Technology Package

$50,300

2009 Acura RL Automatic with Technology and CMBS/PAX Packages

$54,100

Opt for the ultra-smart Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), and you also get adaptive cruise control, Michelin PAX run-flat tires, and curly maple interior trim. CMBS is powered by a radar transmitter that constantly evaluates distance to objects in front of the RL. If the system detects a possible collision, a series of warning lights and beeps go off in the cabin to alert the driver. If the driver fails to take action by braking and/or turning the wheel, CMBS automatically tugs at the front seat belts and applies initial braking. If collision is unavoidable, the seat belts tighten fully and heavy braking is initiated. The CMBS system can be switched off by the driver at any time.

All 2009 RL sedans benefit from a host of standard safety systems. These include antilock brakes with electronic brake distribution and brake assist, stability control, a tire pressure monitor, dual-stage front airbags, front side airbags, side curtain airbags, and active headrests.