At the TheCarConnection.com, the goal is to give you the best, most comprehensive review available on the 2007 Acura RL. The editors have not only driven the car, they've also compiled impressions from across the Web so that you have access to all the info out there about the Acura RL.
Likes
Smooth, powerful engine
Swoopy interior style
Handles like a smaller sedan
AWD is standard
Reliability
Dislikes
Conservative exterior
No V-8 to brag about
Lacks prestige-brand look and feel
The big RL sedan is Acura's flagship vehicle, and the brand pours plenty of R&D into making it among the best of the bunch year after year. Overall, editors at TheCarConnection.com note that covering every Acura vehicle is a veneer of stability and sensibility―and the 2007 Acura RL is the king of this philosophy. In 2006 the RL picked up all-wheel drive and became sportier in flavor, and it hasn't changed much for 2007.
The 2007 Acura RL has a standard 3.5-liter VTEC V-6 engine that puts out 290 horsepower. The RL performs well with the five-speed Sequential SportShift automatic, and the driver can manipulate the gears manually should they choose.
Handling remains top-notch, and the Acura RL feels a lot like a smaller car on a twisty road or on tight city streets than similar-sized rivals such as the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Standard all-wheel drive aids traction, along with handling. Plus, performance-minded drivers can add an A-Spec performance package with a lowered, track-tuned suspension.
The exterior of the RL is quite conservative and unremarkable. Inside, a swoopy, ornate instrument panel dazzles the driver and front passenger. There's more techno-friendliness, at least in appearance, here than on anything from Germany. Fine materials and attractive surfaces are used throughout; most are a clear departure from budget-priced Hondas, which isn't always the case between Lexus and Toyota models. The backseat is quite spacious, with room for five adults.
Key standard features include a Bose audio system with DVD-Audio, as well as a keyless access and starting system. The 2007 Acura TL also has a couple of interesting option packages. The first is a Technology Package, which tosses in a rearview camera, Active Front Lighting (AFL), an enhanced wood interior, and a satellite navigation system with AcuraLink and real-time traffic info. The second option in the 2007 Acura TL is the CMBS/PAX Package, which supplements the RL's top-notch crash-test results and includes the so-called Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) and Michelin PAX run-flat tires. The system senses approaching front- or rear-end collisions and warns the driver. If a crash seems likely, the seatbelts automatically tighten and the brakes are applied.
The Bottom Line: The 2007 Acura RL is a top-notch luxury sedan that's sportier than its conservative exterior might indicate, yet those who want to be seen―or have a V-8 under the hood―should look elsewhere.
Other Choices
If you're interested in the 2007 Acura RL, also consider:
Audi A6
Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Infiniti M
Cadillac STS
Reason Why
For drivers who are moving up from an entry-level high-end sedan, the 2007 Acura RL is just one of many options. In general, the V-6 engine and all-wheel drive aren't exactly matched elsewhere; other manufacturers offer an available V-8 but don't necessarily include all-wheel drive. Most rivals employ rear-wheel drive, although the RL stands as surprisingly sporty in feel in comparison. The RL does have a few practical advantages as well―namely, top reliability scores and resale values, making it a great choice for long-term ownership.
Buying Tip
Although the RL itself might not grab as much attention as some rival models, consider the dealership experience; Acura dealers consistently perform near the top in customer satisfaction and offer an experience you might not find with some other lux brands.
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Review was originally published at TheCarConnection.com
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