2009 Acura RL news, pictures, and information

Redesigned 2009 Acura RL Debuts at Chicago Auto Show

The innovation built into the new RL begins wîth the most powerful engine ever offered in an Acura sedan. (concept carz) An all-new 3.7-liter V-6 engine develops 300 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque thanks to an innovative new VTEC™ valvetrain system for both the intake and exhaust valves, a higher compression ratio, along wîth a special dual-stage magnesium intake manifold that enables the intake to function as a single- or dual-plenum manifold design based on engine operating parameters. In addition to developing improved power and torque, the RL engine meets tough CARB ÚLEV-2 emission standards and delivers good fuel economy. The RL's engine bay appears more upscale thanks to a new surround panel assembly that reduces visual distractions and focuses attention directly on the all-new 3.7-liter V-6 engine.
To handle the higher power of the 3.7-liter engine, a new version of the Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission is fitted to the 2009 RL. Featuring new 'smart' F1®-style §teering wheel mounted paddle shifters and a new straight-gate
console mounted gear selector, the RL driver now has more gear control than ever before.
The RL's acclaimed Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™) system returns for 2009, but is now quicker responding and better performing.
There are numerous traction advantages of all-wheel drive, yet SH-AWD™ does a key function that is not available wîth traditional AWD systems-- SH-AWD™ utilizes torque vectoring to increase the rotation speed of an outside rear wheel during aggressive cornering to help the car turn more effectively while under power. This 'yaw' function reduces the cornering load on the front tires to minimize understeer, to improve handling balance, and to escalate total cornering grip.
Body and Chassis

To further enhance handling and ride comfort, the new RL retains a fully independent suspension system wîth front double-wishbone and rear multi-link architecture. For 2009 the RL features higher rate coil springs, larger diameter stabilizer bars, stiffer subframe mount bushings and improved design §teering rack components. To further improve handling and looks, new 18-inch diameter 7-spoke aluminum wheels are matched wîth more aggressive tires (replacing the previous 17-inch wheel/tire offering).
Exterior/Interior

The 2009 RL's new exterior styling is not only more aggressive, but delivers excellent aerodynamics and reduced rear lift at higher speeds. The RL's more athletic style foreshadows the power concealed by the new power plenum front grille and blow-formed aluminum hood. The RL's 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 performance sedan competitors. For 2009, eight exterior colors are available--5 of which are new--including a new pearl pigment process that improves luster and shine.
Inside, the 2009 RL features a more elegantly styled interior that includes more room for rear seat passengers, easier-to-use front seat belts, door-mounted pull pockets, softer arm rests, redesigned vents, larger/clearer lettering for HVAC controls, and easier actuation of climate control functions. A revised §teering wheel wîth available genuine wood trim (included wîth the CMBS package) and metal-look accents is now fitted to the RL along wîth a matching wood-trimmed transmission shift knob. Complementing the §teering wheel are upgraded gauges that incorporate brushed metal accents for enhanced appearance. For 2009, additional insulation, a more high-tech design of Acura's acoustic glass windshield, and a new Active Sound Control (ASC) noise abatement system team to further reduce the RL's already quiet cabin.
The RL's perforated leather front seats now incorporate six levels of heated/cooled ventilation. Moreover, just like the driver's seat, the passenger front seat now has 10-way power adjustability. For 2009, the center panel controls are now more intuitive and are surrounded by a new background color along wîth improved quality wood patterned panels. These interior upgrades are complimented by advanced electronics that include a satellite-linked Acura Navigation System wîth Voice Activation™ along wîth the innovative AcuraLink® satellite communication system wîth Real-time traffic, AcuraLink® Traffic Rerouting™ and (new for 2009) AcuraLink® weather. The RL is the first vehicle on the market to feature in-dash integrated, continually updated real-time weather information in a single-screen format. The spectacular Acura/Bose® 10-speaker Sound System wîth DVD-Audio returns but is now upgraded to include Bluetooth® Audio, even richer audio sound, a new Note function for XM® Radio, improved button legibility, and a ÚSB connectivity port.
Safety

The 2009 RL retains Acura's extremely rigid Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure that features extensive use of high-tensile steel and lightweight aluminum components to take vehicle construction beyond conventional safety protocols while keeping overall vehicle weight in check. The ACE™ structure's front-mounted polygonal main frame is designed to help prevent cabin deformation by distributing frontal impact forces through multiple load bearing pathways--and away from the passenger compartment. For 2009, to enhance safety a new Active Head Restraint System is built into the front seats to help improve neck and head protection in the event in a rear impact collision. To further aid in safety, the RL includes as standard a passenger seatbelt reminder, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and six airbags. These advances team to make the 2009 RL the strongest, most powerful, best handling, safest and most luxurious sedan Acura has ever built.
The RL earned 5-star ratings (the best possible) for frontal and side crash tests, and for rollover resistance, from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The RL is the fourth vehicle in the history of the program to earn the top rating of '5-star' in all three test categories. Government star ratings are part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) New Car Assessment Program (www.safercar.gov). In addition, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the RL its top rating of GOOD in Side Impact Collision Evaluation (SICE) along wîth a GOOD rating for IIHS' frontal offset crash test. With a new Active Head Restraint System for front seat passengers, the 2009 RL is anticipated to receive a GOOD rating in IIHS rear crash protection evaluation.
Acura

	Vital Stats
Engine : 3.7 L., 6-cylinder Power: 300 hp Torque: 271 ft-lbs
5-speed Automatic

Acura offers a full line of technologically advanced performance luxury vehicles through a network of 268 dealers within the Únited States. The 2008 Acura lineup features five distinctive models including the RL luxury performance sedan, the TL performance luxury sedan, the TSX sports sedan, the turbocharged RDX luxury crossover SÚV and the award-winning MDX luxury sport utility vehicle.
*Based on preliminary 2009 EPA mileage estimates determined during internal testing that reflects new EPA fuel economy methods beginning wîth 2008 models. Úse for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.