Test Drive: 2009 Acura RL Elite

February 26, 2009

Driving impressions

2009 Acura RL. Click image to enlarge

A key performance feature of the RL is its Super Handling All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. In addition to the added traction benefits of a conventional all-wheel-drive system, the SH-AWD system utilizes torque vectoring, and can rotate the outside rear wheel faster than the front axle speed while cornering. If an understeer situation is detected while cornering the SH-AWD system uses this action to cause what Acura calls a “yaw moment” as it generates a turn-in effect. Improved handling, balance and controllability are the main benefits of this system in all weather conditions, including a perfectly dry road.

While not a light vehicle (1,860 kilograms), the RL is not as heavy as other vehicles in this class, particularly some of its V8 engine competitors. Yet the lack of a V8 engine option for the RL has been cited as a reason for its less than spectacular sales performance. The V6 doesn’t give that initial burst of raw power that you typically get from a V8, but it can still move the RL very promptly. A 7.2 second zero-to-100 km/hour acceleration time was clocked at this year’s Canadian Car of the Year evaluation event, which is very respectable.

Verdict

A technically brilliant and a sophisticated luxury sedan, the Acura RL should not be overlooked just because it doesn’t fit neatly into any popular vehicle category and doesn’t offer a V8 engine.

Pricing: 2009 Acura RL Elite

Base price: $63,900

Options: $5,600

A/C tax: $100

Freight: $1,825

Price as tested: $71,425
Click here for options, dealer invoice prices and factory incentives

Specifications

Specifications: 2009 Acura RL

Competitors

Buyer’s Guide: 2009 Audi A6

Buyer’s Guide: 2009 BMW 5 Series

Buyer’s Guide: 2009 Cadillac CTS