Acura RL Model Years and History

The RL is virtually unchanged for 2012. The RL shows a base price increase of $500 over last year.

After a major refresh in 2009, there's not much new in the RL for 2011. The most notable change is the addition of a new 6-speed transmission, as well as a revised front grille. In addition, Acura has also fitted the 2011 RL with Hemholz resonators in the wheels, which in turn help reduce vibration and interior noise. The RL achieved 5-star ratings in all NHTSA crash tests, including the rollover test. Acura claims it's the only luxury automaker to do so.

After a major refresh in 2009, there's not much new in the RL for 2010. Last year, the engine got an upgrade to 3.7 liters, and this continues for the 2010 model year. The RL achieved 5-star ratings in all NHTSA crash tests, including the rollover test. Acura claims it's the only luxury automaker to do so.

Acura's flagship RL sedan is restyled and then some for 2009. Exterior changes include a new "power plenum" grille, following the other models in the Acura lineup, as well as a new aluminum hood and trunklid, front and rear bumpers, rocker panels, headlights and taillights. The engine is new, too. A 300-hp 3.7L V6 replaces last year's 3.5 liter, and includes variable valve timing for both intake and exhaust valves. Steering wheel paddle shifters now accompany the standard 5-speed automatic transmission. The suspension has been revised for sportier handling, and inside, the RL gets new gauges, a revised steering wheel and climate controls, more rear seat room, and a new Active Sound Control (ASC) system for improved noise reduction.

The Acura RL has minimal changes for 2008. On the entry-level RL, the GPS-linked solar sensing dual-zone automatic climate control has been replaced with a more conventional dual-zone automatic climate control. For 2008 both the base RL and the Tech Package come with a Bluetooth wireless telephone interface.

Acura has slightly juggled their RL lineup for 2007, allowing consumers to get behind the driver's seat for slightly less than last year. An entry-level 2007 RL retails for $45,780--its lowest price since the 2004 model year. To achieve this price reduction, the base style was gently decontented, losing its NavTraffic live traffic navigation system, active front lighting and wood interior trim. This year's Tech Package adds all of that equipment back to the vehicle (essentially recreating last year's base style) as well as a rearview camera and AcuraLink satellite communication for $100 more than 2006's $49,300. Opting for the vehicle's third guise by ordering run-flat tires, adaptive cruise control and Honda's collision mitigation braking system boosts the price another $3,800 to $53,200. Remote retractable headrests and an MP3 auxiliary jack have been added to all RLs for the new model year as well.