Acura RL
| Acura RL | |
|---|---|
| Production period: | 1996-2012 |
| Class : | upper middle class |
| Body versions : | limousine |
| Previous model: | Acura Legend |
| Successor: | Acura RLX |
The Acura RL is an upper mid-range model from the Honda-owned Acura brand . RL stands for Road Luxury .
First generation
The Acura 3.5 RL was introduced in 1996 as the successor to the Acura Legend . Like its predecessors, the model was sold in all markets where Acura is not present with the Honda Legend . The model name Acura 3.5 RL followed a marketing strategy to strengthen Acura as an independent brand. Similarly, the other Acura models were renamed 2.5 TL and 3.2 CL .
The RL was powered by a longitudinally installed 3.5L V6 engine with initially 210 hp. The vehicle was revised almost annually in its later construction period. In 1999 there were new xenon headlights and optically modified rear lights as well as side airbags. In 2000 a navigation system was added, in 2002 the engine output was increased to 168 kW (225 hp), from 2003 turn signal lights with clear glass were used.
Second generation
| KB1, KB2 | |
|---|---|
 Acura RL (2005-2009) |
|
| Production period: | 2005–2012 |
| Body versions : | limousine |
| Engines: |
Petrol engines : 3.5–3.7 liters (220–224 kW) |
| Length: | 4917-4973 mm |
| Width: | 1847 mm |
| Height: | 1450-1453 mm |
| Wheelbase : | 2799 mm |
| Empty weight : | |
A model replacement was urgently required in 2005, as the previous model could only be sold at high discounts after eight years of construction. The most noticeable change concerned a completely new engine, which with a displacement of 3.5 l now developed 220 kW. Contrary to all rumors, no V8 engine has been used so far. The vehicle has one as SH-AWD designated four wheel drive , in which the force can also be shifted both at the front as the rear axle laterally on the wheels. Another special feature was keyless entry before this technology was also used in mass production.
In 2009 the car was visually significantly redesigned, with also increased dimensions (see the information in the overview). Like the Acura TL, which was new at the same time, the front section was provided with a striking chrome strip in the upper area of the radiator grille. The engine now has a slightly larger displacement of 3.7 liters with the same output.
