While they often aren’t the flagship models of the lineup, these
5-passenger midsize premium cars are sure to please even the most
discerning consumers with their high standard levels of luxury,
convenience and safety.
This 2009 Midsize Premium Cars Buyer’s Guide is a compiled list of the
top-performing midsize premium cars from J.D. Power and Associates
three key automotive studies. The studies include the 2008 Vehicle
Dependability Study (VDS), the 2008 Automotive Performance, Execution
and Layout (APEAL) Study, and the 2008 Initial Quality Study (IQS). In
addition, we have also noted any models in the guide that have earned
“5-star” crash test scores from the National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration (NHTSA),
or have been chosen as “Top Safety Picks” by the Insurance Institute
for Highway Safety (IIHS).
All models are listed alphabetically by manufacturer.
2009
Acura RL
The RL arrived in the United States known as the flagship Acura Legend
in 1986, and was rebadged the Acura RL in conjunction with a redesign
in 1996. Now in its second generation, the RL remains the flagship of
the Acura
model range. As such it offers a combination of luxury and technology
inside a cabin swathed in leather and wood. All RL models feature the
same 6-cylinder engine coupled with Acura’s advanced Super Handling
All-Wheel Drive technology that returns EPA fuel economy estimates of
16 mpg city, and 22 mpg highway. In the 2008 J.D. Power and Associates
Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS), which measures problems experienced
by original owners of 3-year-old vehicles, the Acura RL ranked among
the top three models in its segment. In governmental crash testing by
the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Acura
RL earned a 5-star rating in frontal impacts. The RL is also one of the
few models on the market, no matter the cost, to get 5-star side and
5-star rollover ratings, as well. In addition, the RL was named a “Top
Safety Pick” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The
Acura RL receives a minor facelift for 2009 that includes new front and
rear styling, more power, an upgraded transmission, a revised interior,
and new technology.
Get more
information on the 2009 Acura RL
Other 2009 Midsize Premium Car models:
2009 Midsize Premium Cars Buyer's Guide
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