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The 2008 Acura RL sedan is available in two trim levels with an MSRP range of
$46,280 to $53,700. All are equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 producing 290
horsepower. Estimated fuel economy is 16 miles per gallon city and 24 highway.
The four-door RL has room for five. All versions come with an impressive array
of standard safety features including a full complement of airbags in the front
and side position.
The Technology Package is apt to be a favorite with drivers who like their ride
to have all the extra gizmos. Look for traction control, fog lamps, ABS, and an
engine immobilizer standard. The combination audio unit includes a CD player,
MP3 capability, and satellite radio with controls on the steering wheel. The
leather seats are heated and powered (with eight levels of adjustment for the
driver) on both front sides. All onboard communications are hands free with a
navigation unit, trip computer, and auxiliary power outlets standard.
Elegant little touches like burled camphor wood trim, front and rear reading
lamps, and a center arm rest to the rear firmly confirm that the RL is a luxury
sedan. The vehicle competes more than favorably with the Jaguar S-Type, Audi A6,
and Volvo S80. In addition to outstanding safety ratings, reviewers have found
the RL to deliver a smooth, steady ride worthy of the sedan's position as the
maker's flagship model.
Granted this is largely a carry over from 2007, but Acura didn't let the dust
settle on its finer touches. There's little here to disappoint. While not as
sporty in appearance as a high-performance coupe, the RL delivers the same level
of power with the roominess of a sedan. A V8 engine choice would have been nice,
but the V6 offers better than average reliability. Since no major re-design of
the RL is expected until 2010 or later, there's no point in waiting if you're in
the market for a well-conceived, top-level luxury sedan. |
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