The good: The 2011 Acura RL's standard all-wheel-drive vectors torque for improved cornering. Forward-facing radar allows adaptive cruise control and emergency automatic braking.The bad: Acura has not implemented the same navigational and audio system improvements in the RL that it has in other models.
The bottom line: With only moderate tech updates over the years, the 2011 Acura RL lags behind the cutting-edge competition, and has trouble justifying its over-$50K price. While other automakers push the technological edge with their top sedans, Acura remains strangely resistant to change. The 2011 Acura RL shows some improvement in its drivetrain and driver assistance features, but the company installs more advanced cabin tech features in its TL and TSX models. And the RL falls far short of top sedans from European manufacturers.
Of course, the RL has never exuded the prestige of the Audi A8 or the Mercedes-Benz S-class. And it keeps a comparatively low price tag, suggesting Acura does not really want to compete in that big, executive sedan segment. The RL keeps its aspirations lower, offering reasonable comfort rather than plush luxury.
In the cabin, the RL sports as much plastic as it does wood trim, and thin strips of metal coexist with leather seats. Luxury tech touches include heated and cooled seats and a smart-key system that unlocks the doors with a touch of the handle. But instead of a push-button start, the RL uses a sort of fake key handle on the steering column, as if the company merely retrofitted a standard ignition lock.
Image via WikipediaFollowing the 2008 model year, the Acura RL received a new front-end grille on the outside but inside is where most of the changes were instituted. The passenger seat was outfitted with ten-way power control (just like the driver's seat). Leg room was increased in the rear while the paneling of the vehicle saw an increase in insulation. To augment the model's improved "quiet drive" capability, Acura implemented the "Active Noise Cancellation" system (ANC). This made riding inside the RL much quieter than before, as road noise, tire noise, and sound from the exhaust were much less audible. The powertrain was given another boost, also, as the engine was increased to a 3.7L V6 which produced approximately 300 horsepower.True to the Acura stature, the RL is the benchmark for the brand's stateside success story.
The RL has become a must for those who blend a little aggression along with their fashion-sense. Between a tasteful interior that breeds a custom feel and an authentic exterior which lights up the road, RL drivers get the best of everything. Designed for the street but fit for a kingdom, the Acura RL is one of the most revered models in the Acura family.When you visit CARiD.com, there is one thing you can always count on: the highest quality Acura RL Accessories and parts available! The reason? We enlist only the crème de la crème in terms of manufacturers, giving you more options of Acura RL accessories and parts than anywhere else. If it sparkles, protects, or comforts, not only do we have it, but you can find it here at the best value possible. Acura RL accessories are an important way to represent yourself more fully with your vehicle. Take advantage of it!
