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2005 Acura RL SH-AWD Road Test

A Pleasure to Savor

The Acura RL is but one of several new premium sedans offered this year by Japanese manufacturers. Lexus just launched a completely new GS line while Infiniti recently dispatched a new line of its M designates.

Joining this pair of espresso-laden sedans is Acuras newly-minted RL, now four inches shorter than the previous generation, but propelled at all four wheels by 300 horsepower - 75 more stallions than last year. In addition to shedding sheet metal, the re-make is serving to shed the former RLs decaffeinated reputation by waking-up the big sedans sleepy styling and adding spice to its performance.

Acura has done a commendable job in styling the RL, blending a

Acuras newly-minted RL is now four inches shorter than the previous generation, but propelled by 75 more horsepower. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

dollop of sportiness into its smooth, sculpted exterior lines. As much as I approve of its design, I must admit to preferring the bolder lines of the Lexus and Infiniti offerings mentioned; the RL looks good - but its Japanese rivals look sensational. One aspect of the Acura that takes second-place to no one, though, is build quality.

This sedan is one of the few

As much as I approve of the RLs design, I must admit to preferring the bolder lines of the Lexus and Infiniti midsize offerings. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

remaining Japanese-manufactured vehicles that is actually made in Japan. Much care has been taken to ensure that fit and finish are extraordinary. Lifting the hood is a good example of this. It is counter-balanced by small struts, raises with fingertip effort and closes similarly, making only a solid "thud" in doing so.

The materials used in the RLs cabin are top-notch too. The butter-soft stitched cowhide, genuine wood trim and

Much care has been taken to ensure that fit and finish are extraordinary. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

satin-finished metals are very Jaguar-like. Most impressive is the assembly quality of the many bits and pieces that make up a modern automotive interior, especially one as hi-tech and comprehensive as the RLs. A bold, three-dial cluster groups the tachometer, speedometer, fuel level and engine temperature gauges in full view of the driver.

A uniquely-styled center stack houses the climate controls, along with audio and navigation switchgear, all within easy reach of the driver and front passenger. It imparts a sense of sophistication that is more than just visual.

A uniquely-styled center stack imparts a sense of sophistication that is more than just visual. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

A multi-function pod control, a la BMW I-Drive but not as complicated, manages navigational and audio functions through a large, dash-mounted interface screen. Some getting-used-to is needed before its multi-layered operation becomes second nature.

Adding to the latest technology aboard the RL is a tremendously powerful DVD-enabled audio system. With this concert-hall sound and the heated/ventilated power-adjustable front seats, driving it is a pleasurable activity. Much of the bliss is attributable to a smooth ride, accompanied by very little road or engine noise. Acura has taken special steps to ensure the rigid body structure

Complementing the low levels of road and wind noise is perhaps the silkiest V6 powerplant I have ever experienced. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

is particularly mute when it comes to auditory annoyance by electronically canceling-out road noise with the use of white noise. It seems to work. The cabin isnt silent by any stretch, but its certainly hushed, which makes a great backdrop to the RLs dynamic audio system.

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