2004 Acura RL Consumer Discussions

Acura RL 2006

• Re: Chevy Chase Acura [jeffp2]

  Written by: michael0137 on Apr 10, 2012 10:06:54 AM

  One thought about the mileage - the RL is a HEAVY car - 4400 lbs. Constant acceleration of something that heavy is a problem in the city. Once on the highway with the car in OD? 29-30 is quite reasonable to expect. My 2008 Accord EXL V6 ran at higher RPMs cruising than the Acura does. Why Honda loves high RPMs I will never understand. Got rid of 2004 S2000 - ... Read More

Acura RL Seats

• Acura RL seats are too hard (2010 model).

  Written by: bellhead on Aug 2, 2009 9:04:03 AM

  I sat in an 2010 Acura RL and found the seats too hard, especially in the thigh support area. The TL seats are better, softer but still supportive. I hope Acura puts somewhat cushier seats in the upcoming 2011 generation. I found the seats in the previous generation (2004 and earlier) better, not nearly as firm. Seat comfort is critical for me in a car, ahead of all other factors.

2009 Acura RL

• Re: [jjacura] Community - ACURAPHILE

  Written by: pellucid on Oct 17, 2008 5:53:59 AM

  JJACURA and I have been good friends since the early Forum days in 2004. The excitment that attended the yet unknown 2005 RL was at fever pitch. We Acura buffs waited nine years for a model change, and our excitement could barely be contained. I hope that we can resurrect that enthusiasm while waiting for what has been described to be a real 'flagship' RL. George

• Re: [nebraskaguy]

  Written by: jjacura on Oct 16, 2008 10:06:05 PM

  Howdy Nebraska Guy! In Oct 2003 the redesigned 2004 TL was unvailed and my wife and I were visiting our daughter in Houston. My son-in-law and I drove to the nearest Acura dealer and stood in the dealer showroom checking out the all new design of the new TL. I owned a 2000 TL and was excited to see what the 2004 had to offer. I don't think I was quite ... Read More

Acura RL

• Re: Back To Should I Buy a 2004 RL or a 2008 Accord? [houdini1]

  Written by: bbrimmer on May 30, 2008 3:25:11 AM

  Have driven the Accord and it is a lot of car for the money. Strangely enough, the lumbar support couldn't adjust to a point where I was comfortable. Did test drive a Volvo S60 AWD. The seats are hands down the most comfortable I have ever experienced. Only down side is a smallish back seat. My end game may be to not have any car payment and buy a good pre-loved ... Read More

• Re: Back To Should I Buy a 2004 RL or a 2008 Accord? [bbrimmer]

  Written by: jjacura on Jan 19, 2008 8:05:18 PM

  BBRIMMER, The condition of the 2004 RL would have to be spectacular to even consider the choice to begin with. Having said that I have driven the new 2008 Accord and thought it to be an excellent car. It has Acura all over it. My wife and I have owned Hondas since '83 and Acura's since '96. Personally I would lean heavily toward the new Accord in this case. Good Luck. ... Read More

2009 Acura RL

• Re: FIGURE OF SPEECH [bartalk3]

  Written by: jjacura on May 15, 2008 3:30:58 PM

  My favorite LIPSTICK shade would DAZZLE A PIG because the first time I saw it was 40 years ago on my all time favorite gal...Yep...the good woman I met AND married in 1968! Figure of speech or not it's still good to see you BARTALK, as well as NEBRASKA GUY and my good friend ACURAPHILE. I have stayed in touch with GEORGE (ACURAPHILE) ever since the 2005 forum was the hottest ... Read More

Luxury Performance Sedans

• Update for Acura RL

  Written by: lynnminny on Nov 19, 2007 8:01:08 AM

  Major facelift planned next year for Acura RL Posted on Monday 19 November 2007 Acura is planning to inject some life into the slow selling RL flagship saloon by giving the car a major overhaul in time for next year’s summer sale period. Several dealers were given information about the update but no specifications or details about the car’s final styling were revealed. One dealer in Pittsburgh told Automotive News that ... Read More

2009 Acura RL

• Re: LIPSTICK ON A PIG [nebraskaguy]

  Written by: acuraphile on Feb 14, 2008 5:13:07 PM

  I agree: 'lipstick on a pig' is disrespectful. However, bartalk3's mail appears to be on target. I find it incomprehensible that Acura took nine years to produce the '05 RL, a sweet car, but undistinguished and of 'vanilla' design, as borne out by the sales numbers. Now, along comes this touch-up with the unpleasant grille,and frankly, from the pictures, is not as aesthetic as my '05 RL. Is there someone seditious ... Read More

Acura RL

• Re: Back To Should I Buy a 2004 RL or a 2008 Accord? [bbrimmer]

  Written by: houdini1 on Jan 19, 2008 3:54:13 PM

  I will be driving my 2002 RL for one more year before I will be faced with the same decision you are faced with. I have looked at the Accord but not driven it. I am hoping the Accord will have a diesel by then. All I could tell you is to drive them both and pick the one you like best. The Accord would have to be awfully good to ... Read More

• Re: Should I Buy A 2002-2004 RL or A New Accord ? [eclipse2]

  Written by: avatar1 on Jan 17, 2008 7:16:32 PM

  All these "improvements" and nothing about reducing the noise in the cabin. Thats a big problem historically with Acuras. My dealer has heard this complaint so many times he won't even record my comments, says they have been reporting that for 2 years. And what about the image of the RL? Did anyone notice the new Accord? Sort of degrades to exclusivity of this model. So it would require at least ... Read More

• Re: Should I Buy A 2002-2004 RL or A New Accord ? [tayl0rd]

  Written by: rv65 on Jan 17, 2008 12:35:03 AM

  I can confirm what Vavavavolvo said. It will be the largest mid model year facelift on any Honda/Acura vehicle. Lots of changes. Weather reporting reported to be one of them. Collision Mitigation braking system is a seperate option. Dont know about the adaptive cruise control. Might be standard. PAX tires are rumored to be discontinued. Improvements to the Navi, Bluetooth, HVAC, and audio systems are expected. Navigation will have weather reporting ... Read More

• Re: Should I Buy A 2002-2004 RL or A New Accord ? [vavavavolvo]

  Written by: rv65 on Jan 11, 2008 4:21:58 PM

  I can confirm this as well. An LPL who works with Acura says expect some big changes. It's going to be the most significant MMC for Acura/Honda. It's also the most expensive MMC.

Acura RL - would you purchase it again?

• Re: So would you do it again? [ross16]

  Written by: acurat on Apr 28, 2007 11:04:50 AM

  In a New York minute. The RL should actually be known as the 4th generation Acura Legend--it's called the Honda Legend in Japan and most of the world. It would sell a lot better with the proper moniker. I bought a 2006 RL Tech (CMBS/PAX) in December 2006 for $11,500 off list price. I traded up from a US-built 2004 TL which was sweet but squeaky, not to mention a little ... Read More

Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: Used vehicle choice, MB 320 CDI vs BMW 530 vs Audi A6 3.2 Quattro [briantucson]

  Written by: habitat1 on Apr 3, 2007 4:30:56 AM

  As others have said, the maintenance and repairs for the cars you have listed could make a 10 year hold an expensive proposition. That said, I'd consider an Acura RL over the Audi A6. I own a 2004 TL 6-speed and it's quicker and more fun to drive than the RL, but not as luxurious. The RL has been a very tough sell for Acura, so good deals should be available. ... Read More

2007 Acura RL

• Sound System Quality and Interior Noise

  Written by: iceneedle on Apr 2, 2007 6:29:08 AM

  I picked up a new 2007 Acura RL 3 days ago. I traded in a 2004 TL. I am extremely disappointed by the quality of the sound system as well as with the interior noise level on the highway. The sound system appears to have some kind of distortion, possibly phase distortion. It's sufficiently irritating that I can't listen to music while I'm driving. In addition, the cabin noise is significantly ... Read More

Acura RL vs. Infiniti M35

• Re: CR report on RL and M35 [readerreader]

  Written by: ocim on Jan 1, 2007 10:26:15 AM

  Happy New Year readerreader!! Thanks for the psychological evaluation But, I think you may have missed my point. I was simply trying to say that CR is much better equipped to evaluate cars under many conditions than most people could by taking the car on a test drive. You would have to spend a lot of time in a car to evaluate the car in such areas as ride/noise under many ... Read More

Acura RL vs. Acura TL

• Re: OK, OK, I concede! [tamparl]

  Written by: habitat1 on Dec 23, 2006 6:41:23 AM

  "But from my angle, I'd settle for it just as it is, and I think more people would also if they only knew and were inspired enough to get their butt into the seat and drive one." You may be right, that Acura could increase RL sales with an all out blitz to try to get more prospective buyers give it a chance. But I think the increase would be nominal. ... Read More

Acura RL vs. Infiniti M35

• Re: Consumer Reports...? RL vs. M [carfan28]

  Written by: acurat on Dec 22, 2006 10:22:11 AM

  Carfan, Thanks for the thoughtful analysis! Of course I agree with your conclusion. (BTW Stay in the Lane is an Infiniti feature--the Acura has Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision-Mitigation Braking System but no lane-departure warning.) Here's the update: I could resist no longer and pounced on a 2006 RL Tech/CMBS/PAX at $42,475 + TTL here in L.A. a couple of weeks ago. Missed my sweet-but-squeaky 2004 non-navi TL for all of ... Read More

Acura RL vs. Acura TL

• OK, OK, I concede!

  Written by: acurat on Dec 10, 2006 12:49:56 AM

  Strongly considered another (2007) TL to replace my 2004 non-navi but ultimately decided it was time for a grown-up car. By the time I decided, all the 2006 RL non-techs except demos and weird colors were gone. Seeing as how you would have to be nuts to pay list price, I called around and got an offer on a 2006 Tech CMBS-PAX in black/ebony at $100 over dead cost (invoice minus ... Read More

Acura RL vs. Infiniti M35

• Consumer Reports...? RL vs. M

  Written by: acurat on Dec 6, 2006 4:59:45 PM

  Recently almost bought a 2006 RL at $40K but balked at the pathetically low trade offer on my 2004 TL non-navi. Strongly considering 2007 TL for touch-screen navi with real-time traffic; sportier, less $$$. Hanging fire for now. Took another look at last year's Consumer Reports luxury performance sedan issue and their 2006 Buying guide. The 2006 Infiniti M35x merits an unprecedented 97 points against the 2006 RL's lackluster 76. (TL ... Read More

2007 Acura RL

• Re: 2007 Acura RL [jaybee85]

  Written by: acurat on Nov 26, 2006 3:24:15 PM

  Also shopping for an RL, have been slow to pull the trigger and now find that 2006 RLs are just about gone. May consider a 2007 at this point. I just hate letting go of my beloved 2004 TL for less than wholesale; probably will trade in the end as selling privately is a giant hassle. If you are a value-minded person, note that Honda Finance typically puts on low APR ... Read More

Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: Question about Tire [royal3]

  Written by: shipo on Nov 22, 2006 3:41:20 AM

  A couple of points: 1) You aren't alone in your dislike for the PAX system, checkout this discussion (different vehicle, same tire) for more information: steve_, "Run-flat, self-sealing, PAX tires for Minivans" #1, 29 Nov 2004 7:27 pm 2) It is very unlikely that the diameter of the overall tire and wheel assembly is anything other than what Honda designed it to be. Consider the following: Acura RL standard tires: 245-50 ... Read More

Acura RL Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Trade in of Audi A8 for Acura RL?

  Written by: golden49 on Nov 3, 2006 4:24:05 PM

  I am considering trading my 2004 A8L with 33k miles for a new 2007 Acura RL. Does anyone have an opinion about the differences? The A8 is a beautiful car but is in the shop at least once a month and I own an MDX which has been flawless.

• Re: Dealership Experience: Pohanka in Chantilly [carlva]

  Written by: dooda1 on Aug 27, 2006 12:19:22 PM

  That's how I looked at my purchase! I traded in my 04 TL on the 06 Carbon Gray RL! I absolutely love the car! The gadgets are fantastic and it drives like a luxury car! I like the fact that it is somewhat understated in exterior design. I know that I am driving a $50K car and it feels like it is to me. I traded my 2004 TL for $23K ... Read More

Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: I was [lexusguy]

  Written by: sfcharlie on Aug 20, 2006 9:15:07 AM

  "The RL just doesn't bring enough to the table, and people literally aren't buying it." 2001: For Acura, TL was up, selling 69,484 units. RL was down almost 28% from 2000. 2002: TL was down 12% from 2001,but is Acura's best-selling vehicle (60,764 sold). RL goes down another 12+% to 9,392. 2003: Acura finished 2003 with record December sales of 15,537 cars and light trucks, up 21 percent over last year ... Read More

Acura RL 2006

• 2006 RL

  Written by: 6sptl on Aug 13, 2006 2:14:46 PM

  I just upgrade my beloved 2004 6 spd TL for an acura RL with tech package. What a car! It preserves all of the TL's dynamics, except for the furious acceleration (the RL is fast but not furious) while providing probably the most comfortable, quiet and refined ride in the industry. The AWD system is all its hyped to be, particularly in foul weather, making this without a doubt the safest ... Read More

Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: the [torque] problem [dhamilton]

  Written by: sfcharlie on Aug 2, 2006 11:06:20 PM

  2005 Audi A6 3.2 quattro AT6 - 243 @ 3250 rpm 2004 BMW 530i Sport - 214 @ 3500 rpm 2005 Cadillac STS V6 - 252 @ 3200 rpm 2005 Infiniti M35 - 270 @ 4800 rpm 2005 Jaguar S-Type 3.0 - 216 @ 4100 rpm 2005 Acura RL - 260 @ 5000 rpm 2006 MB E-Class detail, just for comparison: torque of 350 Nm between 2400 and 5000 rpm 305 ... Read More

Acura RL Maintenance and Repair

• Re: Acura RL: Problems & Solutions [zitface]

  Written by: gwestbound on Mar 21, 2006 12:18:27 PM

  I have a 2004 RL. There’s not much difference between the 1996-2004 model years. Taching 2,500 rpm at 70 mph is about right. They're known to be fairly thirsty beasts. I get 24 mpg (U.S. gallon) on the highway. At 3,900 lbs. it's a surprisingly heavy car.

• Re: 04 RL gas and noise [drgkje]

  Written by: gwestbound on Mar 29, 2006 6:27:58 AM

  Consumer Reports’ review of the near identical 2002 Acura RL reported, "The cabin stays quiet, although it's not as well isolated from the road as the other cars' cabins." The others were a Cadillac Deville, Oldsmobile Aurora and Lincoln Continental. My 2004 RL’s highway road noise is a bit louder than some others, but not objectionable. A 9.6:1 compression ratio doesn’t seem to warrant premium grade gasoline. I detected no ill ... Read More

Acura RL

• The Difference Between Welcome and Unwelcome

  Written by: acuraphile on Mar 1, 2006 2:57:06 PM

  This Forum began mid-2004. The dozen-or-so regulars who posted frequently were either Acura owners or prospective buyers, all excited at the emergence of a Legend model change, after having patiently waited nine long years. Those postings, then, had mainly to do with speculation about HP, MPG, PRICE, TORQUE, ELECTRONICS, WHEEL SIZE etc. When the RL finally appeared at the dealerships, the original posters were joined by others who were eager to ... Read More

• Re: CR (Here we go again!) [jjacura]

  Written by: gwestbound on Mar 6, 2006 5:17:24 PM

  Another case of shooting the messenger. Consumer Reports gave the previous Acura 3.5RL a top rating calling it a refined and well-rounded luxury car. The April 2004 CR recommended only two up-scale luxury sedans, the Lexus LS and the Acura 3.5RL. The Acura 3.5RL is a CR top used car choice. Though it's a very nice car, the current RL's price/value ratio is unacceptable to thousands of potential purchasers accounting for ... Read More

Acura RL Maintenance and Repair

• Re: Active Front Headlights [dano4]

  Written by: legend2rl on Feb 20, 2006 4:42:19 PM

  I have a 2005 RL with 20K. The AFS problem started in Nov 2004. Would have it looked at at every oil change/service visit. Finally, this month the dealership found a bad "steering angle sensor" malfunction and the part is on the way. My gripe: The last time the AFS warning cilityame on I was pulling to a stop - FLASH - FLASH DING! and I bumped a Ford F250. Put ... Read More

Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: Acura's RL Sales? [lexusguy]

  Written by: nebraskaguy on Feb 2, 2006 3:12:26 PM

  It's nicer, yes, but $12K+ nicer? The TL is better looking, just as fast, has just about all of the technology, (integrated into a much more attractive center stack) and is basically the same size. I've driven my RL since Oct 2004 and have ridden extensively in a friend's TL. For me, there's no doubt the RL is $12K nicer. The RL is quieter, rides nicer, has a better NAV, and ... Read More

• Re: Quality [acctprof]

  Written by: lexusguy on Jan 27, 2006 12:50:06 PM

  Dont give up on a car because of a couple of angry owners on a car forum. 90 people gave the M35 an average score of 9.3 out of 10 in the consumer review section. Additionally, in JD power IQ scores, Acura was thoroughly beaten by Infiniti in both 2004 and 2005. The M35 scored just as well as the Lexus GS300 in CR's '05 scores. The '05 RL scores were ... Read More

Acura RL Maintenance and Repair

• 2005 RL Acura Buyback

  Written by: gtjacket67 on Jan 14, 2006 9:05:46 AM

  I am considering purchasing a 2005 RL that is a buyback from Acura. Acura has since sold the car and it is at a used car dealer, not an Acura dealer.. In service date on vehicle of 10/2004. Issue causing buyback was door locks recycling and continually running down battery. Acura issued TSB on this problem. Problem has been fixed, according to dealer, and remaining portion of 4 year factory warranty ... Read More

Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: acura rl sales stats [lexusguy]

  Written by: rjlaero on Dec 27, 2005 9:07:37 AM

  Here's the sales stats for the new Audi A6 Thru Nov 2005: 15,740 Thru Nov 2004: 12,096 I think Audi is happy moving another 3,700 A6's over last years totals. The new body style cars are doing quite well. Acura has moved 16,294 RL's so far this year. The RL looks too much like a glorified Honda Accord, and it doesn't have the presence of a $50,000 vehicle IMO. I guess ... Read More

• Re: Pinch your nose and drink the cod liver oil [merc1]

  Written by: jjacura on Dec 4, 2005 2:27:07 PM

  "Ok, but let me ask you this, you think Acuras are good looking cars?" Not all Acuras...I passed on the 2004 TL when it came out. But I think the 2005 RL is the best design of any Honda/Acura product to date.

Acura RL Maintenance and Repair

• Re: Call waiting HFL issue [kgd_007]

  Written by: shs111 on Nov 11, 2005 3:32:32 AM

  Please let us know if you are able to get the 'wait' command to work, Kris. While the documentation says that it should, and it worked perfectly fine on my 2004 TL, it just does not work on the 2005 RL. After many calls and conversations with Acura and with the dealer, I've just given up.

Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: Acura RL or BMW 530xi Which One?? [dewey]

  Written by: mexibec on Oct 13, 2005 11:18:36 PM

  > So all German cars are unreliable? Don't mean to offend you, but yep, 90% of them are. And by "unreliable" I mean "reliability below average for models 2004+". At the very best, they are average (e.g. BMW 3). The 5 is well below average. I've been driving BMWs for 10 years, but they set the bar too high for themselves with the E39 regarding the 5. > BUY THE CAR ... Read More

• no title

  Written by: markcincinnati on Oct 7, 2005 9:40:35 AM

  The monthly sales figures posted here have often found Audi's A6 fighting for last place with Acura's RL. Yet, Audi of America has [again] been able to take their stats and create blurbs such as: "AUBURN HILLS, Mich. –– Audi of America, Inc. reported its best September sales month in history. With sales of 7,854 units, the German luxury brand’s numbers are up 34.6 % over September of 2004. Key drivers ... Read More

• Re: JJAcura [warthog]

  Written by: jjacura on Aug 15, 2005 10:18:54 PM

  Yes, the 2004 TL was a serious change from the 2000-2003 model and I thought they took the car in the wrong direction at the time and backed away from it. Acura in my opinion at that time was going after a new demographic and I personally did not like the new design. Today I feel differently about the TL because we have driven it a number of times and it ... Read More

• Re: JJAcura [docnukem]

  Written by: jjacura on Aug 15, 2005 2:32:58 PM

  I loved the Vigor. Owned a '93. When I see them on the road I still check them out and look at the overall condition. As I headed toward retirement I Thought the 2000 TL was Acura's best car at the time, drove it for 4 years and in 2004 when the newly designed TL was first introduced, I had my money ready but backed away from it because I thought ... Read More

• VW and Audi

  Written by: markcincinnati on Aug 8, 2005 8:49:17 AM

  The lone 2004 or newer, I'm not sure, Passat, in my parking lot does indeed look like an Audi cousin. The door pulls (interior) were dead on identical to the door pulls on my 2003 allroad, other bits and pieces (look at the engine -- an "Audi" 2.8) are also from the VW/Audi group (if they're not they missed an opportunity for volume discounts on some of the switchgear.) Does this ... Read More

• Lots of facts. . .

  Written by: markcincinnati on Aug 3, 2005 1:24:50 PM

  . . .I read with some disappointment the July sales figures posted here on edmunds for the LPS group. Audi's A6, once again, was at the bottom of the list (in fairness, it is sometimes above the Acura's RL, but be that as it may the Acura and the Audi are lagging behind other German and Japanese players.) So, with my tail tucked between my legs, I got fired up [again] ... Read More

Acura RL vs. Acura TL

• Re: TL over RL everyday of the week [laurasdada]

  Written by: shs111 on Jul 23, 2005 9:55:28 PM

  Just today I traded my 2004 TL for a 2005 RL. The RL was not available when I bought the TL, and I have loved every minute, every mile of the TL. But I wanted the advanced all wheel drive of the RL (I live in the Boston area, so in some respects all wheel is a necessity, not a luxury), and also liked its smoother ride (albeit a marginal difference ... Read More

Luxury Performance Sedans

• Topic ... again

  Written by: pat on Jul 7, 2005 5:40:55 AM

  When someone creates a discussion, he/she pretty much gets to define the topic. So let's revisit the opening post: jrock65, "Luxury Performance Sedans" #1, 6 Apr 2004 12:19 am. "With the upcoming new Acura RL, Audi A6, Infiniti M, Lexus GS, as well as mainstays MB E and BMW 5, this segment seems poised to heat up." The vehicles under discussion here are the ones listed in the header. I wish ... Read More

Acura RL

• Re: 2005 Cayenne S and 2005 RL [frisconick]

  Written by: jjacura on Jul 6, 2005 8:41:20 PM

  Interesting how our wives enter the picture and manage to do their suttle nudging into their man's precious domain. Ha Ha Ha. The 2004 TL came on to the scene in Oct of 2003 and I was visiting our daughter in Houston and grabbed my son-in-law and the 2 of us drove over to Gilman Acura to see the Brand New long awaited re-designed TL. I was ready to practically buy ... Read More

• Re: 2005 Cayenne S and 2005 RL [jjacura]

  Written by: dennis721 on Jul 6, 2005 6:01:10 AM

  JJ Actually I have had 2 Toyota Land Cruisers a Lexus Land Cruiser and a 2001 MDX prior to the Cayenne S. I really loved the LC's and the Toyota-Lexus quality. Of course I was very pleased with my MDX too. The Porsche though is a totally different animal, I really love the Cayenne S and like driving it but I still look forward to and miss driving the Acura RL ... Read More

• NavTraffic

  Written by: msu79gt82 on Jun 30, 2005 8:18:52 AM

  OK I have to admit that I was wrong and swallow a little crow NavTraffic linked to a cars navigation system is NOT a unique technology to the RL. From the XM website: The XM NavTraffic system launched in October 2004 as a standard feature on the all-new 2005 Acura RL with resounding success to revolutionize in-car GPS navigation systems. In January 2005, General Motors added XM NavTraffic to the 2005 ... Read More

• Re: Revisiting the RL's Suspension [acuraphile]

  Written by: dennis721 on Jun 29, 2005 10:27:52 AM

  Hi JJ and Acuraphile, I know what you are saying about acura's suspension as they have been mooving toward stiffer suspension on all their models. I believe they are moving their design criteria toward more performance and hence a stiffer ride goes with it. Having said that though, I like the suspension in my 2005 RL, but I did get rid of my 2004 TL (traded it in on my 2005 ... Read More

Acura RL Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Acura RL New or Buy?? Never Leased before. HELP

  Written by: terbear on Jun 28, 2005 6:42:25 AM

  Please if someone could help. I have never leased before and I am not sure what to do.The dealership has offered the RL for 44,340 whether we buy or lease. Here is the deal: I have a 2004 TL for trade-in which they are offering 26,500. If we lease, they will apply 12,500 to the 48 month lease and cut us a check for 14,000.The payoff will be around 23,868 atthe ... Read More

Acura RL vs. Infiniti M35

• Re: RL [irnmdn]

  Written by: robertash on Jun 8, 2005 9:24:15 PM

  A 2004 G35 is listed at $4000 less than a 2004 TL. That is based on a base vehicle. Equipped the same you would be $6000 less. In other words, Acura has a MUCH BETTER resale than the Infiniti. The M35 won't do any better. Base price $40M but $50M with same equipment. By the way, no one even mentioned that the RL has On Star and which isn't offred on ... Read More

Luxury Performance Sedans

• Spinning along. . .

  Written by: markcincinnati on Jun 3, 2005 8:16:49 AM

  All good points, all hit some target's bulls-eye. This report showing Audi has slipped to the bottom of the heap has to be particularly galling (to Audi and its most loyal fans) no matter how we try to spin it. Were I a completely objective observer (I'm not) and at least somewhat aware of the concepts of "retailing" (I'm at least an amateur at this), I would think that the Audi ... Read More

Acura RL vs. Infiniti M35

• Re: ACURA RL vs INFINITI M45. Its narrowed down to just these 2. Please HELP!! [chintan]

  Written by: s54 on May 18, 2005 4:55:42 AM

  One serious thing to consider with the RL is Acura first-year build quality. Take a look at the Acurazine forum and even after discounting forum whiners, it reveals issues. I have a 2004 TL that is a first year model and had rattles/pops and vibrations from day 1, which were eventually fixed. I had to replace three sets of tires due to vibration issues and I am afraid the same thing ... Read More

Acura RL Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: 2005 RL purchased in Indianapolis [mevande]

  Written by: steveinindy on May 7, 2005 6:01:23 AM

  I also live in Indy (Fishers) and I use Ed Martin and they will give you a loaner car if you make an appointment and ask for one. Otherwise, they usualy have given them all out to others who have made service appointments. They gave me a 2004 RSX as a loaner last time. Their service was good. I plan to return to them, but only for service. They do not ... Read More

Acura RL

• Re: Just bought 2005 RL [pvs]

  Written by: jjacura on Apr 25, 2005 4:03:27 PM

  PVS....Congratulations! You did exactly what I did last November. I sold my 2000 TL and bought a new RL. Couple of comments. I think you made a wise decision moving beyond the TL...actually the new 2004 TL was in our plans but after seeing the new design both my wife and I were disappointed. We felt Acura went too far with the sport design although the car performed extremely well. AND...what ... Read More

• Re: Acura RL 2005--choppy ride [jjacura]

  Written by: dennis721 on Apr 24, 2005 5:38:48 AM

  Hi, Why do most car manufacturers put on crappy tires, cost!! Cost savings is all I can think of.$ 30/tire extra times 4 = $120 per car x 20000 vehicles per year = $2.4 million. I am getting a set for my RL too. However I dont hate the oem that much, I bought an extra set of wheels off a 2005 RL with TPM's and I will put the new ... Read More

Acura RL Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Patience!

  Written by: nba on Apr 30, 2005 9:27:05 PM

  You can be sure that incentives are right around the corner, their is no choice but provide aggressive leasing rates and possibly higher holdbacks to the dealer. The inventory is way too high at all dealers, with 2006 models to be launched in November, Acura has no choice to try to move them NOW. Production has already been reduced from the estimated 20k units that was slated to be sold for ... Read More

Acura RL

• OEM Tires ,other A/S options, & winter tires

  Written by: dennis721 on Apr 29, 2005 6:17:52 AM

  I started to investigate tire options because the OEM Pilot MXM4 tires are not very good tires in all performance aspects especially their rating in snow (ref: Tire Rack owner surveys). No the stock tires do not bother me as far as ride comfort, handling, road noise ect., just snow, so I bought an extra set of standard 2005 Acura RL 17" wheels and was looking into getting a winter tire ... Read More

Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: M interior's [richcream]

  Written by: jjacura on Apr 20, 2005 3:53:19 PM

  I see similarities in the M to the RL as well: M: http://www.autoweek.com/weekart/2004/0503/0503-M45_interior.jpg RL http://www.edmunds.com/new/2005/acura/rl/100444153/photogallery.html?app=il&pg_type=Sedan And not to overlook a couple more ...the following seem to stand alone: 2006 A8 (Excellant) http://www.edmunds.com/new/2005/audi/a8/100408895/photogallery.html?app=il&pg_type=Sedan (Click on INTERIOR) 2005 Lexus LS 430 (Amazing) http://www.edmunds.com/new/2005/lexus/ls430/100414130/photogallery.html?app=il&pg_type=Sed- - - - an (click on INTERIOR)

• Re: cstiles [lexusguy]

  Written by: cstiles on Apr 7, 2005 7:46:40 PM

  Lexusguy---where are you getting your facts regarding Honda sales doing so poorly? The Honda Division posted its second best March and fifth best month ever with sales of 109,949 cars and light trucks, an increase of 7.4 percent over year-ago results. This month marks only the second time in Honda Division history that the 100,000 sales barrier has been broken in March. Accord sales of 33,075 rose 2.4 percent, helping the ... Read More

• March 2005 sales in the Luxury Sports Sedan class

  Written by: jrock65 on Apr 1, 2005 11:27:38 AM

  March 2005 sales in the Luxury Sports Sedan class 5 = 3,949 E = 3,608 GS = 3,209 STS = 2,954 M = 2,253 A6 = 1,681 RL = 1,376 Not surprisingly, the biggest winners were the GS and the M. The E was the biggest loser, whose sales went down 27.4% from March 2004 (4,971 units). However, part of the reason for this may be because of cannibalization by the ... Read More

Acura RL

• Re: v8-v6 comparisons [bodble2]

  Written by: jjacura on Mar 24, 2005 3:28:09 PM

  You have a point. I pulled out a copy of Automobile magazine (July 2004) issue, On the cover was a picture of the 2005 Acura RL, the 2005 Cadillac STS, and the 2006 Infiniti M45. A great story inside. It was my first good look at the new RL. I knew I immediately liked the RL design over the M at that point but forgot that the M was a 2006. ... Read More

Luxury Performance Sedans

• Volvo S60 Type R

  Written by: markcincinnati on Mar 24, 2005 9:19:22 AM

  I took one of these caffinated cars for a test drvie about a year ago (with the stick shift). The 300HP 5cylinder engine and the upgraded interior etc etc -- "might" have made it eligible in this crowd -- at least moreso than the S80 T6, IMHO. Of course the S60 Type R that I test drove did demonstrate that trait that is just not acceptable in this segment -- "it ... Read More

Acura RL Maintenance and Repair

• 02 or oxyg. sensor- caltalytic convertor

  Written by: buffalob on Mar 19, 2005 9:38:51 AM

  Have had our 2004 Acura RL 24000 miles. Catalytic convertor warning light came on on dash and would not go off. Took it to dealer and they say the 02 or oxyg. (not sure) sensor was physically damaged and therefore the new part and labor charge of $409.00 could not be covered by warranty. First of all, how do we know its physically damaged as opposed to mere malfunctioning. Also we ... Read More

Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: Comparison

  Written by: steels on Mar 12, 2005 3:56:48 PM

  I've had 5 Audi Quattros going back to 1992 and I still have a 2004 S4. I just got a new Infiniti G34x AWD in July 2004 and I had to break my lease early since I was so dissatisfied; the quality of the interior materials was so much beneath what I was used to and the service was unreliable. I put a lot of time and research into my comparison ... Read More

Acura RL

• Re: Acura Update = Improved Performance [shotgun]

  Written by: shotgun on Feb 22, 2005 1:35:56 PM

  ...I’ve owned my RL since Oct 14th 2005... OK, OK, I meant to say October 2004 - My humble apologies!

• Re: [jjacura]

  Written by: dennis721 on Feb 14, 2005 11:24:23 AM

  JJAcura I too am retired and I bought a Acura 2004 TL which I dearly love but now I have the hots for a new 05 RL. I believe the 05 RL is awsome in all respects. Yes some new gadgets like rain sensing wipers would be nice but I love the car just the way it is. I really like the styling and the way Acura's fit and finish is ... Read More

Luxury Performance Sedans

• Sales..

  Written by: merc1 on Feb 3, 2005 12:56:36 AM

  One month doesn't indicate anything definite, especially Jan which is traditionally a slow month for luxury cars sales anyway. Mercedes and BMW both posted gains for the year 2004 compared to 2003, only Audi dropped. Usually only hot models post any gains for Jan, like the RL for Acura and SLK for Mercedes, the rest are usually flat or decrease. Even Lexus had drops across the board for their cars in ... Read More

• Re: ckelly14 [lexusguy]

  Written by: ckelly14 on Feb 3, 2005 12:51:25 AM

  You may be right, and I'm anxious to see what happens when M35 and GS come to the market. However, I would be cautious about interpreting what's going on across the board for what's happening in this segment. Again, I think that the TL vs. 3-series vs. c-class buyer is different from the RL vs. 5-series vs. E-class buyer. Although the E-class is floundering and the RL is doing great, the ... Read More

Acura RL

• Re: 05 Value vs Size @ 50K [spiritinthesky]

  Written by: dennis721 on Jan 3, 2005 6:25:35 AM

  Hey, Good to hear from you about your circumstantial purchase of a Porsche Cayenne TT. I suppose we should be on the Porsche forum, but just in case your looking here. I love my Cayenne, it's like no other car/suv I have ever owned and performance combined with full time four wheel drive. I ordered mine the way I wanted it and still got a $6000 discount. Mine is the S ... Read More

• 05 Value vs Size @ 50K

  Written by: dennis721 on Jan 1, 2005 9:12:24 AM

  Well I read the auto spies article too and I dorve a new 05 RL back in November, the first one my local dealer had. I own a 2004 TL and a 2005 Porsche Cayenne S.   My opinions on several items are as follows:   1.Yes the 2004 TL and 2005 RL are very close in size with the RL being only a couple of inches larger in most measurements, ... Read More

• 2004 Acura - a couch-mobile

  Written by: mccccland on Dec 30, 2004 4:55:04 PM

  Let me respond to all who did comment on my postings. First to clarify, my primary concern was about the Acura official making a derogatory statement (in my opinion) about the pre-2005 RL. I have not seen anybody defending it. Some agreed with me that it seemed inappropriate. While a personal opinion is what it is (just a personal point of view) and everybody is entitled to their own personal opinion, ... Read More

• Re: 2004 Acura RL - a couch mobile or a luxury sedan? [mccccland]

  Written by: r2917 on Dec 29, 2004 8:07:11 AM

  Um, you say you can't comment on the RL but you DID. You made many comments on the 2005 RL saying it isn't Lexus-like, doesnt have enough torque, the AWD doesnt help, etc. Go back and read your post. Actually, here is a quote of what you said:     "The new RL does not impress me at all. It does not have the look. (try to find it quickly on ... Read More

• Re: 2004 Acura RL - a couch mobile or a luxury sedan? [luvinmylex]

  Written by: mccccland on Dec 28, 2004 4:30:57 PM

  My comment related to the 04 models. In my opinion Lexus (GS430) which I had a chance to drive a couple of times was quieter than my 04 RL. The seats in the 04 RL are not shaped well for even slightly aggressive driving. If it comes to the 05 RL I did not drive it, so cannot comment, but you probably would agree that for $50K you can get a ... Read More

• Re: 2004 Acura RL - a couch mobile or a luxury sedan? [luvinmylex]

  Written by: jmatthe on Dec 28, 2004 2:40:15 PM

  Those that comment about torque are really comparing against other V8 competition usually costing more for the most part. Drive the RL back to back vs. a 530 or a E 320 and find that against six cylinder comps there is more torque and HP. I love the car, and have owned mostly BMWs with a Porsche or two thrown in. So far, 2000 miles, the car has been flawless except ... Read More

• Re: 2004 Acura RL - a couch mobile or a luxury sedan? [mccccland]

  Written by: luvinmylex on Dec 28, 2004 12:26:53 PM

  I agree with your opinion that Acura executives should not bad-mouth an outgoing car just to make a new model look superior. Bad judgement IMO.   However, re: resale value, a good indicator of future resale value is how well a car sells when it is new. In the case of the pre-'05 RL, sales were lukewarm at best. That doesn't bode well for future resale, regardless of the "couch mobile" ... Read More

• Re: 2004 Acura RL - a couch mobile or a luxury sedan? [kennyg5]

  Written by: mccccland on Dec 27, 2004 6:17:07 PM

  My concern is the manufacturer's commitment to its vehicles. Making a comment about exiting model as a "couch mobile" does not make me happy. I cannot be happy with something that is labeled by its own creator as a couch mobile. Now I feel completely different about my vehicle and probably will sell it rather quickly (this comment stays in my head, this is me driving a couch mobile). This unfortunate ... Read More

• Re: 2004 Acura RL - a couch mobile or a luxury sedan? [mccccland]

  Written by: kennyg5 on Dec 27, 2004 4:14:56 PM

  As noted, the RL is known for its reliability. If you intend to keep your 04 RL for more than 6 or 7 years, why should you care about resale value? The new 05 RL is $15k more expensive, given its cutting edge technology, revolutionary design and new-found sportiness. If you are satisfied with the nice drive of your so-called "couch mobile" (I just don't know why an Acura official would ... Read More

• 2004 Acura RL - a couch mobile or a luxury sedan?

  Written by: mccccland on Dec 27, 2004 2:22:07 PM

  When I purchased my 2004 Acura RL it was presented to me as a luxury vehicle. Nice drive, fully equipped, classic style, dependability without all the Lexus style hoopla and pricing.   Now it seems that Acura has changed its approach and takes on a new direction. Emphasis on luxury gives way to sportiness. According to the Acura official, the pre-2005 Acura RL is a "couch-mobile". Acura also admits that "We ... Read More

• Re: SH-AWD & VSA problem [r2917]

  Written by: lovemyclk on Dec 25, 2004 11:44:04 AM

  So um, yeah... the numbers I quoted were from two sources... MT and C&D magazines. I did not simply "guess" about the numbers based on something I may have read in the past. Appears R&T has even different numbers from these mags, so who is right/wrong? Variances are from professional drivers who have driven and tested all of these vehicles.   If you would like to debate the nature of BMW ... Read More

• SH AWD Problems and Napleton Il Dealer

  Written by: dennis721 on Dec 25, 2004 7:17:56 AM

  Hi, Boy I am really sorry to hear about your problems witht the new RL. I would be calling every number at Honda headquarters telling them I want a new car. Napleton messed up big time in my opinion not teating you like royalty and at least giving you a 2004-TL or even 2004-RL loaner. My 2001 MDX went in for warranty service early this year and my dealer gave me ... Read More

• Re: Beating a dead horse! [gogglespiasano]

  Written by: habitat1 on Dec 4, 2004 4:39:31 AM

  Thanks for the support, but I take no offense to anyone who suggests my personal opinions are "supposition". Half (or more) of what we read in these forums is somebody's subjective opinion and, as long as we agree to disagree with respect, so be it. Regarding the Acura RL vs. the upcoming Ifinity M car, I'll state another "supposition". Based upon it's previous track record, Infiniti makes some nice cars, but... ... Read More

• Re: styling [y2ktony]

  Written by: robertsmx on Dec 2, 2004 11:53:15 AM

  If I had to rank european brands based on cookie cutter styling, MB would rank on top. The only thing that really stands out in a typical Benz is the grill. Audi, would fit at the other end of the spectrum. If I were to pick a car solely based on exterior styling, Audi/VW could be it. BMW has tried hard to move away from relatively docile styling but fell face ... Read More

• Re: [munro]

  Written by: nebraskaguy on Nov 30, 2004 1:02:50 PM

  >>I have a 2004 Acura RL. Can I erase a particular destination from the "PREVIOUS DESTINATION" screen. I don't want girlfriend #2 to see that I've got girlfriend #1's address on the screen. Yes, you can. I believe you go under Personal Settings and delete previous addresses. If that doesn't work, try the Setup button and click on previous destinations.

• no title

  Written by: munro on Nov 30, 2004 12:49:51 PM

  I have a 2004 Acura RL. Can I erase a particular destination from the "PREVIOUS DESTINATION" screen. I don't want girlfriend #2 to see that I've got girlfriend #1's address on the screen.

• Re: RL vs. TL value [gogglespiasano]

  Written by: steveaccord on Nov 26, 2004 6:44:07 AM

  A very effective argumenting yours yet one that does not bind me to reach conclusions similar to yours. I guess factors to be considered are the reality of market offerings (note the posting offered by the Detroit news follwoing your own in the forum). Summing up my impressions I believe the Honda/Acura folks did the right thing. A) Price was increased in reasonable terms from the previous model B) Quality/performance has ... Read More

• Re: RL vs. TL value [gogglespiasano]

  Written by: shotgun on Nov 23, 2004 2:04:17 PM

  Au contraire Googlespiasano! I did, in fact, give proper priority and credence to the importance of braking when I stated “Not withstanding Braking distance - back seat and trunk volume are far from what I would call "key areas". The word "notwithstanding" is intended to convey "despite, nevertheless, although, against,however, etc." Now regarding your comment that I “…just quoted some vague propaganda about magazines saying the RL "leads its category…" allow ... Read More

• no title

  Written by: robertsmx on Nov 15, 2004 3:36:17 PM

  Not sure if this has been mentioned in this thread yet... but Honda Legend (AKA Acura RL) obtained the Car Of The Year 2004-2005 award in Japan. It managed to get 425 votes. Among prime competitors, Nissan Fuga (AKA Infiniti M35/M45) finished third with 246 votes. The new Audi A6 was towards the bottom with 76 votes. Most Advanced Technology award went to the Legend as well.

• Re: Acura RL vs. Audi A6 - Same Price- hard to get [larry6]

  Written by: markcincinnati on Oct 29, 2004 7:40:46 AM

  Frustrating: Audi dealer is owned by several brothers -- they own geographically separate Acura, Audi, Cadillac, Chevrolet and Toyota stores. I test drove an Acura TL -- and got to look at but not keep an RL brochure (reason: salesperson only had one). No RL's to test, all presold. I get in a leftover last gen (but new) RL. I decide I like the TL a lot (but didn't care for ... Read More

• Re: mark ...... [prophet2]

  Written by: sacguy on Oct 26, 2004 10:49:34 PM

  #3012 of 3012 mark ...... by prophet2 Oct 27, 2004 (12:56 am) Just buy the Audi ............ Wow, that is a big statement??? Did you buy an Audi? If so what made the choice for you? I am caught between the Audi A6 and Acura RL.......

Acura RL Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Aren't they ALL loaded? :)

  Written by: kirstie_h on Oct 21, 2004 11:40:23 AM

  A journalist would like to interview an Acura RL driver who loaded his/her vehicle with lots of high-tech options. Please send your daytime contact info and a few words about your vehicle to jfallon@edmunds.com by Monday, October 25, 2004.

Acura RL

• And for those of you who've purchased

  Written by: kirstie_h on Oct 21, 2004 11:39:34 AM

  Help a gal out, here: A journalist would like to interview an Acura RL driver who loaded his/her vehicle with lots of high-tech options. Please send your daytime contact info and a few words about your vehicle to jfallon@edmunds.com by Monday, October 25, 2004.

• Accura RL

  Written by: dmartocci on Oct 20, 2004 8:25:48 AM

  I am interested in either the RL or Audi A6. I drove the rl over the weekend and liked the car. I currently own a 2004 a4 cabriolet and love the car. The Acura handles well and has a nice fit and finish. My concern is the usual about the first year out on such a drastic change for a model. Also is this the first awd system in a car ... Read More

• Re: [talon95]

  Written by: adam_kelley on Oct 17, 2004 3:22:14 PM

  Very interesting posts from those that have actually driven the new RL. I was fortunate enough to test drive one yesterday in Scarsdale, NY. Before I go into my review, I will say what surprised me most was the fact that they actually had on or two on the lot that weren't spoken for, and several more arriving in the next few weeks to month (this as opposed to several other ... Read More

• Re: [bodble2]

  Written by: adamar1 on Oct 15, 2004 10:11:48 PM

  You wrote "In Canada, the RL is $25,000 more than the TL-Navi. Factor in taxes (17.5% in BC), and the difference approaches $30,000. Can any TL owner reconcile/justify that difference to trade up? I think I would have trouble anteing up. Now, if they had included a V8 and 50 more ponies...." Even before the 2005 RL price shot up, I questioned the differential. I have test driven the 2004 TL ... Read More

• Great car, great drive

  Written by: shs111 on Oct 16, 2004 7:04:27 PM

  Checked out the 2005 RL today at Boston Acura. All it's been built up to be, and more. Now I have to come to terms with trading in my 2004 TL (which I have really loved, although have only put 6200 miles on it). Just hoping that I'll get a decent trade. Especially liked the way the car handles, very even and smooth. Also thought that the interior setup was great ... Read More

• 2005 RL Styling Features

  Written by: adamar1 on Oct 15, 2004 5:08:08 PM

  There is so much hype on this message board that I fear saying anything negative about the 2005 RL will make me an outcast! Out of curiosity and after reading this message board for months, I decided to stop by my Acura dealer for a quick look at the 2005 RL to see if the reality lived up to the hype! They had only one 2005 RL, which was being driven ... Read More

• Re: $54K for a Lexus ....... [ceric]

  Written by: autophile on Oct 7, 2004 6:59:56 PM

  "I'm talking about a 2004" Yes, this was in May for a 2004 that they would get in the color combo I wanted via dealer trade (so, not demo, unpopular color, etc.). I didn't do the deal because I just wasn't sure I wanted a LS430 with RWD in Michigan. We've had RWD and AWD vehicles and the next car we get will have AWD. The Grand Rapids Acura dealer has ... Read More