2008 Chicago Auto Show - 2009 Acura RL
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The Consumer Reports auto experts report from the 2008 Chicago Auto Show
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- Acura RL
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Acura RL
2009_Acura_RL_CAR_CHICAGO_Exterior front
2009_Acura_RL_CAR_CHICAGO_Exterior front 2009_Acura_RL_CAR_CHICAGO_Exterior front
2009_Acura_RL_CAR_CHICAGO_Exterior rear 2009_Acura_RL_CAR_CHICAGO_Interior dash

What is it? Acura has given its flagship sedan a significant, midlife freshening that goes more than sheetmetal deep. The most visible change is to the front fascia, with a new grill design. Five new colors will be available.

The interior features a wide range of detail changes that include easier-to-use front seat belts, door-mounted pull pockets, softer arm rests, redesigned vents, better labeled controls, and updated steering wheel. Acura promises a quieter cabin due to increased insulation and a new active noise control system. The perforated front buckets now have six levels of heated/cooled ventilation and the passenger seat has 10-way power adjustment, like the driver’s seat. These seats use a new active head restraint system to better protect the head and neck in a collision.

The V6 engine sees displacement increase from 3.5 liters to 3.7, raising horsepower from 290 to 300. The five-speed automatic transmission has been updated, and it can be control with new steering wheel mounted paddle shifters. The all-wheel drive system has been enhanced to hasten response and improve performance. We’re told that the different feel in track-like conditions is quite noticeable.

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