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2007 Acura RL news, pictures, and information

Acura RL Luxury Performance Sedan Continues to Combine Sleek Styling, Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) (SH-AWD(TM)) and a Comprehensive List of Technology Features

2007 RL Receives New Standard Equipment and All-New Technology Package Adds Acura Satellite Navigation System

With a powerful VTEC(R)-V-6 engine, Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) System (SH-AWD(TM)), and class-leading standard features, the Acura RL has carved a niche for itself in the extremely competitive luxury performance category. For 2007, the RL is now available in three trim levels to meet the needs of a diverse customer base. They are the RL, the RL wîth Technology Package plus CMBS(TM) and PAX(R) Tires.

RL wîth Technology Package includes Acura Satellite Navigation System and AcuraLink(TM) wîth Real Time Traffic, Active Front Lighting (AFL) and an upgraded wood interior. The RL wîth Technology Package plus CMBS(TM) and PAX(R) Tires adds Acura's Collision Mitigation Braking System(TM) (CMBS(TM)) and Michelin(R) PAX(R) Run-flat tires.

Acura also introduces a new exterior color - Platinum Frost Metallic - which replaces Celestial Silver and Meteor Silver.

'The Technology Package for the RL provides the next level in Acura safety,' said Dick Colliver, vice president, sales. 'The addition of CMBS and PAX Run-flat tires to the existing suite of safety features highlights Acura's commitment to safety through innovation.'

Vital Stats
Engine : 3.5 L., 6-cylinder
Power: 290 hp
Torque: 256 ft-lbs

5-speed Automatic
The RL's 3.5-liter, 24-valve, all-aluminum VTEC engine generates 290hp at 6200 rpm and 256 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm. A variable flow exhaust system helps generate additional horsepower. It is equipped wîth two close-coupled primary catalytic converters for quicker light off and a secondary underfloor catalytic converter, which help it to meet LEV2-ÚLEV standards. ( posted on conceptcarz.com) In addition to the extra power, the RL achieves fuel economy of 18/26 mpg (city/highway).


The RL features a 5-speed Sequential SportShift automatic transmission that enables gears to be shifted manually using the shift lever on the center console or wîth the paddle-shifters located on the §teering wheel. This compact gear box features wide gear ratios optimized for precise shifting, dynamic performance and superior fuel economy.

The new optional Technology Package continues Acura's first application of the Collision Mitigation Braking System. Úsing a millimeter-wave radar unit located inside the grille, the CMBS system monitors the distance and closing rate between the RL and the vehicle directly in front of it. It then uses that information to continuously calculate the likelihood of a frontal collision.

CMBS can operate in up to three stages. In the first two stages, if the system determines that the closing rate between the RL and the vehicle directly in front has decreased beyond an acceptable level, the RL uses audible, visual and tactile warnings to alert the driver and help the driver avoid a collision, and in stage two, applies light braking. If the system determines that a collision has become inevitable, the system activates its third stage, retracting the driver's and front passenger's seatbelts and activating the brakes to reduce the speed of impact and mitigate the damage of a collision.

This optional package also includes Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). ACC not only functions like a conventional cruise control system but also compensates for varying traffic flow, adjusting vehicle speed automatically by applying throttle and braking to maintain a consistent following interval (measured in seconds) between the RL and the car directly in front.

The third component of the RL Technology Package is Michelin(R) PAX(R) Run-flat tires. This unique tire and wheel design helps provide enhanced mobility and convenience by allowing the RL to drive up to 125 miles at 50 mph following a tire puncture.

And while the RL is one of the most comprehensively equipped vehicles in its class from a safety standpoint, it is no less well equipped from a performance standpoint. It features an all-wheel drive system that gives it the most precise handling in its class. The Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) System (SH-AWD(TM)), an innovative all-wheel drive platform that distributes the optimum amount of torque not only between the front and rear wheels but also between the left and right rear wheels. During straight line cruising and moderate cornering, up to 70 percent of torque is delivered to the front wheels.

During full throttle acceleration or spirited driving, up to 70 percent of available torque is directed to the rear wheels for increased acceleration and enhanced cornering. In addition to varying the torque front to rear, SH-AWD(TM) varies the amount of torque to the left and right rear wheels. When cornering, this ground-breaking technology overdrives the outer rear wheel by up to 5 percent using an exclusive acceleration device, while electromagnetic clutches send up to 100 percent of rear torque to that wheel to dramatically enhance the RL's cornering, §teering feel, handling and stability. The result is class-leading cornering performance and cornering stability as well as enhanced traction on dry or wet surfaces.

To complement the high performance powertrain, Acura gave the RL a highly rigid unit body structure that is also light due to aluminum sub frames, hood, trunk lid, and front fenders. The trunk lid and fenders are made using an innovative new blow molding process, which increases rigidity and allows shaping that would not be possible wîth other molding methods.

The RL, along wîth the all-new RDX and MDX SÚVs, utilizes the Advanced Compatibility Engineering(TM) (ACE(TM)) body structure designed to enhance passenger safety. The ACE structure helps to disperse collision forces over a larger frontal area. The system also helps provide enhanced protection for vehicle occupants while increasing compatibility wîth other vehicles in a frontal collision.

The RL's chassis and 4-wheel independent suspension components are tuned to complement the SH-AWD(TM) system and deliver a linear cornering feel, optimum cornering traction and a smooth ride.

The standard 17x8-inch alloy wheels are fitted wîth P245/50R17 98 V-rated Michelin all-season high performance tires that fill the wheel wells and add to the RL's aggressive stance. Large 4-wheel disc brakes wîth aluminum 4-piston front calipers, ABS, Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist provide optimum stopping power.

The RL's exterior styling reflects the abundant power under the hood. In front, a dramatically sloping hood leads down to an aggressive front fascia wîth angular headlight treatments, a signature Acura five-sided grill and distinctive lower air intake openings. A sleek cockpit, a forward sloping beltline and a short deck lid accent the RL's pronounced wedge shape, making it look fast from any angle.

RL models equipped wîth a technology package also features the Active Front Lighting System (AFS) for increased illumination and visibility. Low beams swivel up to 20 degrees in either direction in response to vehicle speed and input from the §teering wheel. During straight-line driving the headlights perform like conventional systems by illuminating the road directly in front of the vehicle. When cornering, the inboard light swivels according to input from §teering and vehicle speed sensors to illuminate a larger area of road surface throughout the corner, thus minimizing blind spots.

Inside, the RL wîth technology package is as luxurious as it is sporty. The interior features rich leather, genuine wood trim, and an assortment of leading-edge technology including standard real-time traffic information integrated into an in-car satellite navigation system featuring AcuraLink(TM)*.

Útilizing Acura Real Time Traffic(TM), the large 8-inch navigation screen can display a variety of up-to-the-minute traffic information where available, including flow (traffic speed), accidents, and construction on freeways in 44 major metro areas including Los Angeles, New York and Chicago. Flow and accident information are updated continuously, allowing drivers to take the least congested route to their destination.

In addition to enabling the real-time traffic feature, the AcuraLink satellite communication system allows for communication between Acura and the vehicle, providing customers wîth the latest diagnostic information specific to their vehicle as well as vehicle-related messages. Working wîth the HandsFreeLink(TM) wireless telephone interface, drivers can respond to messages or one-touch-dial Acura dealers and Acura Roadside Assistance (TLC) using their Bluetooth phone.

The RL also features a premium 10-speaker Acura/BOSE(R) DVD-Audio system that uses Bose Cabin Surround(TM) circuitryto deliver surround sound to all seating positions. This innovative system utilizes eight distinct channels (compared to two on a typical premium stereo system) to deliver sound resolution 500 times greater than CD. In addition, Centerpoint(TM) signal processing circuitry processes stereo recordings to five independent channels to deliver simulated surround sound from conventional CDs. Road, wind and other intrusive noise is neutralized through the application of AudioPilot noise compensation technology, which monitors cabin noise and adjusts the sound balance accordingly.

Also part of the Technology Package is the Acura Navigation System wîth Voice Recognition(TM). This easy to use system features a menu of 560 voice commands, a comprehensive destination guide wîth over 7 million points of interest, 3-D graphics for freeway interchanges, on and off-ramps and turn-by-turn voice guidance. In addition, 1.7 million Ú.S. cities and street names may be accessed through the voice recognition command. The system can be accessed through the §teering wheel-mounted voice recognition buttons or by using the Interface Dial located on the instrument panel.

The RL also features a Bluetooth(R)-based wireless phone interface as standard equipment. The HandsFreeLink(TM) wireless telephone interface enables a Bluetooth wireless interface wîth mobile phones, allowing calls to be made and received utilizing the RL's §teering wheel-mounted HandsFreeLink button, which connects their phone to the system

The RL is the first Acura equipped wîth the Keyless Access System, which allows owners to lock and unlock doors, open the trunk, and start the car without using a key. The RL's key fob is equipped wîth a transmitter that communicates wirelessly wîth sensors in the car. When the fob comes within approximately two and a half feet of the car, the system links and the doors can be locked or unlocked simply by touching the door handle. The engine is turned on and off by using a switch on the §teering column.

In addition to the ACE body structure and the optional Technology Packages, the RL incorporates an assortment of the latest safety systems and devices including a full complement of front, side and side curtain airbags, as well as Vehicle Stability Assist(TM) (VSA(TM)).

The RL has earned 5 Stars, the highest possible ratings awarded, in frontal and side crash tests and a 5-star rollover resistance rating from the Ú.S. Department of Transportation's Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The RL is only the fourth vehicle in the history of the program to earn the top rating of 'five stars' in all three categories.

Acura celebrated its 20th anniversary in the Únited States on March 27, 2006 and offers a full line of technologically advanced luxury performance vehicles through a nationwide network of more than 260 dealers throughout the Únited States. The 2007 Acura lineup features five distinctive models, the RL luxury sedan, the TL performance luxury sedan, the TSX sports sedan, the turbo-charged RDX luxury sport utility vehicle and the award-winning MDX luxury SÚV.

The RL, like all 2007 Acura models, is covered by a six-year or 70,000 mile limited powertrain warranty in addition to the four-year or 50,000 mile limited standard bumper-to-bumper warranty.

For more information about Acura vehicles, please visit www.acura.com. For media inquiries, please go towww.acuranews.com.

*XM Satellite Radio and the AcuraLink Satellite-Based Communication System are not available on RL models sold in Alaska and Hawaii

Source - Acura
The 2007 Acura RL combines performance, technology, style and safety in an athletic luxury package that pushes the boundaries of automotive design on multiple fronts. No production car at any price has ever offered more advanced electronic technology or drive-system sophistication. And none has made its driver more connected-with real-time traffic information, personal assistance, phone communication and audio entertainment. True to form for Acura, the many advanced systems of the RL are engineered to function smoothly, efficiently and intuitively.

As part of its commitment to providing Safety Through Innovation, Acura debuts two all-new optional Technology Packages on the RL:

RL wîth Technology Package includes Acura Satellite Navigation System and AcuraLink(TM) wîth Real Time Traffic, Active Front Lighting (AFL) and an upgraded wood interior
RL wîth Technology Package plus CMBS(TM) and PAX(R) Tires include Acura's Collision Mitigation Braking System(TM) (CMBS(TM)) and Michelin(R) PAX(R) Run-flat tires
CMBS uses a millimeter-wave radar unit mounted inside the front grille to detect vehicles ahead and monitor potential rear-end collisions, alert the driver when the likelihood of a collision increases, and help reduce the impact on front occupants by tightening the seatbelts and applying the brakes should a collision prove to be imminent.

The Michelin PAX System run-flat tire technology helps provide enhanced mobility and security wîth continuous mobility of up to 125 miles at 50 mph following a tire puncture.

RL wîth Technology Package plus CMBS and PAX Tires also adds the convenience of Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). Adaptive Cruise Control also uses the radar system mounted inside the front grille to measure the distance between the RL and the vehicle directly ahead. To compensate for varying traffic flow, ACC adjusts vehicle speed automatically by applying throttle and braking to maintain a consistent following interval.

The innovation built into the RL begins wîth the most powerful engine ever offered in a production Acura. The 3.5-liter VTEC(TM) V-6 engine develops 290* horsepower and 256 lbs-ft of torque. In addition to developing abundant power, the RL engine meets tough LEV2-ÚLEV emission standards and delivers excellent fuel economy of 18/26 mpg (city/highway).

*For the 2007 model year, all Acura horsepower and torque specifications have been updated to reflect revised Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) J1349 (Rev 8/04) net calculations that went into affect in January of 2005.

A 5-speed automatic wîth Sequential SportShift, F1(R)-style paddle shifters and Grade Logic Control sends power to the standard Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) (SH-AWD(TM)) system, traction advantages of all-wheel drive, SH-AWD does something no other current AWD system can: increase the rotation speed of the outside rear wheel during aggressive cornering to help the car turn more effectively under power. This reduces the cornering load on the front tires to reduce understeer and improve handling balance and total cornering grip.

The RL exterior's aggressive style foreshadows the power beneath the hood. Its shape is taut and athletic, and its acceleration and cornering performance allow it to challenge the most capable German and Japanese sports sedans. Comfort, quietness and ride quality are also on a par wîth any competitor.

The extremely rigid Advanced Compatibility Engineering(TM) (ACE(TM)) body structure of the RL features extensive use of high-tensile steel and lightweight aluminum components to take construction beyond conventional safety protocols while keeping weight in check and providing a solid platform. Optimized independent front double-wishbone and independent multi-link rear geometry, large brakes and aggressive 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and tires work together to further enhance the reflexes of the RL.

The elegantly styled interior includes perforated leather-trimmed seats, fine wood accents and top-rate materials. These are complemented by the most advanced electronics available, including the Acura Satellite-Linked Navigation System wîth Voice Recognition(TM), the innovative AcuraLink(TM) satellite communication system wîth Real Time Traffic, Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), and a spectacular-sounding Acura/Bose(R) 10-speaker Surround Sound System. Safety is also enhanced wîth a standard passenger seatbelt reminder, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and side curtain airbags. These advances-and a lot more-combined in the RL make it the strongest, most powerful, best handling and most luxurious sedan Acura has ever built.

For 2007, the RL, like all Acura models will be covered by a new six year or 70,000 mile limited powertrain warranty in addition to the four-year or 50,000 mile standard bumper-to-bumper warranty.

-6 powered sedans are the highest volume sellers in the RL's §egmènt. Because they represent the core of the market, Acura decided to build the best V-6 powered luxury performance sedan possible. Hence the 290-hp V-6 powered RL was created. Eschewing a
V-8, which accounts for only 15% of the vehicles sold in this market §egmènt, meant not only that the RL would be lighter and more nimble, but also powerful and balanced.

Key 6-cylinder competitors in the RL §egmènt include the BMW 530i, Audi A6, 3.2 Lexus GS 300, and Mercedes-Benz E350. With its SH-AWD(TM) system as standard equipment, the RL has a distinct advantage over each of them.

POWERTRAIN

Powering the RL is a compact aluminum-alloy 3.5-liter SOHC VTEC(R) V-6 that is mounted transversely. It produces 290 hp and 256 lbs-ft. of torque while meeting stringent CARB LEV-2 ÚLEV emissions targets. Fuel economy numbers are 18 mpg City/26 mpg Highway.

The RL comes standard wîth a 5-speed automatic transmission wîth Sequential SportShift, paddle shifters and Grade Logic Control. Gears may also be shifted manually via a new multi-gate shifter located on the front center console.

The defining powertrain feature of the RL is Super Handling All-Wheel-Drive(TM), or SH-AWD(TM). The system continuously varies the torque split between the front and rear wheels, and left and right rear wheels. To help the RL arc through corners wîth better chassis balance and more total grip, in a turn SH-AWD(TM) also overdrives the outside rear wheel at a faster speed, using engine torque to help the car rotate into the turn.

BODY & CHASSIS

The RL body fits its role as a mid-luxury sports sedan perfectly wîth a muscular appearance and an aggressive, dynamic personality.

The unit body structure is stiff for superior handling precision, and utilizes a variety of steel grades in different areas where maximum strength is required. In addition, the hood, front fenders, trunk lid, frame, front and rear subframes, bumper beams and major suspension components are manufactured from aluminum to reduce weight. Some of these components are formed using an advanced 'blow forming' process that allows intricate shapes to be created without increasing the weight of the part.

Careful attention was paid to smoothing airflow over, under and around the body, across the flush side glass and across the windshield wipers. A cowl garnish was installed at the lower part of windshield to reduce air turbulence, while an advanced exterior-mirror design also contributes to improved quietness inside the car.

The independent front double-wishbone and independent multi-link rear suspension use aluminum arms and mount on aluminum subframes. Vehicle Stability Assist(R) (VSA(R)) wîth traction control, large 4-wheel disc brakes wîth ABS and 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and tires set new standards for RL dynamic performance.

The RL features the Active Front Lighting System (AFS) (available in the RL wîth Technology Package). To help the driver see around corners or intersections, the left or right low beam headlight can swivel automatically up to 20 degrees outboard when certain §teering angle and speed conditions are met. Xenon HID low-beam headlights, LED mirror-integrated directional signals in the exterior mirror housings and a Center High-Mounted Stop Lamp dramatically brighten visibility. Daytime running lights are standard, as is the Keyless Access System.

INTERIOR

The interior of the 2007 Acura RL is more than just luxurious, sporty, and fully equipped wîth comfort and convenience features. That's because its available AcuraLink(TM) satellite communication system includes the first ever Ú.S. application of real time traffic information. That means that in 44 Ú.S. metro areas, the RL driver can to see traffic tie-ups on major freeways in a graphic onscreen representation in real time. This allows drivers to re-route themselves to clearer traffic corridors without relying on ambiguous radio traffic reports.

Other RL interior features are equally appealing. For 2007, the innovative Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system is offered as part of the optional RL Technology Package plus CMBS and PAX Tires. When cruise control is activated, this innovative system uses radar to allow the driver to set and maintain a following interval between the RL and the car directly in front of it.

The RL interior features luxurious styling, perforated leather-trimmed seats, and dramatic LED backlit gauges wîth progressive illumination. Premium technologies define the interior just as it does the powertrain and chassis. These technologies include a GPS-linked, solar-sensing, dual-zone, dual-mode automatic climate control system, an Acura/BOSE(R) 10-speaker surround sound system wîth DVD-AÚDIO 6-disc changer that provides 500 times the clarity of a typical CD system, MP3 and DTS capability and standard XM(R) Satellite Radio.

Premium features continue wîth Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), which neutralizes low-frequency booming sounds in the interior, and HandsFreeLink(TM), a hands-free phone interface that is compatible wîth many Bluetooth(R) phones for a seamless cellular communication experience-in the car or away from it. Other technologies include a Multi-information display, a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) wîth location and pressure indicators, and the Maintenance Minder system.

SAFETY

The RL earned the highest possible ratings (5-star) awarded during frontal (NCAP) and side (SINCAP) crash tests for outboard positions and rollover resistance tests conducted by the Ú.S. Department of Transportation's Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The RL is one of only a handful of vehicles in the history of the program to receive such high ratings in all three categories.

With the RL, Acura embraces active as well as passive safety as essential goals. Active safety features that can help a driver avoid an accident include SH-AWD(TM), Vehicle Stability Assist(R) (VSA(R)) wîth traction control, and 4-wheel disc brakes. ABS and Brake Assist also help contribute to greater driver control. HID Xenon plasma-arc low-beam headlights and the available Active Front Lighting System (AFS) contribute to superior nighttime visibility.

For 2007, a new optional RL Technology Package plus CMBS and PAX Tires adds the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) and Michelin PAX Run-flat tires. Components of this package and are not available separately.

The RL also features the Advanced Compatibility Engineering(TM) (ACE(TM)) body structure. It is designed to help dissipate collision forces in frontal crashes, while enhancing crash protection for occupants and passengers in other vehicles.

The RL features a driver's and front passenger's dual-stage, dual-threshold airbag Supplementary Restraint System (SRS). Side curtain airbags that provide head protection for all outboard seating positions are also standard equipment. The RL also has seat sensors that monitor the weight on the front passenger's seat. These automatically turn off the passenger's front side airbag if they detect an occupant weight less than 65 lbs.

Source - Acura
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