New 2009 Acura RL

One of the more popular luxury sedans around, the 2009 Acura RL is continually earning its stripes without sacrificing features for the value-conscious new car buyer.

The RL is modestly restyled this year with new front- and rear-end styling and revised suspension tuning. Most evident, however, is a more powerful engine in the form of a 3.7-liter, 300-horsepower V-6 coupled with a quick-responding 5-speed automatic transmission.

Standard manual shift control and Acura’s own Super-Handling All-Wheel-Drive (SH-AWD) system, which increases handling and balance across both front and rear or left and right wheels on turns. An optional Technology Package offers a useful navigation system and backup camera, while a Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) package goes one step further with adaptive cruise control.

Posting high marks with the likes of the Infiniti M and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, the RL is the automaker’s flagship midsize luxury sedan that continues to gain favorable impressions for everyday pleasing rides and competent handling. While modest 16 MPG city and 22 MPG highway fuel economy isn’t going make a buyer salivate, the RL is on par with those in its class and more than makes up for it with an impressive array of technology accents, high-quality cabin materials and increased interior space.

Attractively crafted with an ever-so-slight redesign, the RL seats up to five passengers and comes beautifully stocked with 18-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, power and heated front seats with driver memory settings, a sunroof, keyless ignition, Bluetooth connectivity and a 10-speaker Bose surround-sound system with a six-disc CD/DVD-audio changer and satellite radio.

All RLs received 5-star government crash-test ratings on front- and side-impact safety. Antilock disc brakes with assist, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, active front head restraints and a stability control system come standard.

This grouping of RL safety features are furthered by high-intensity-discharge headlights and side mirrors with redundant turn signals. The aforementioned CMBS is a preventive option package that gives driver warnings and applies braking when an emergency situation or collision becomes unavoidable.

The smart choice with a litany of standard and optional features available, the 2009 Acura RL gives consumers maximum value without holding back on the type of luxury that is sure to make bystanders take full notice.