2005 Acura RL Published 05/12/2005

Is the 2005 Acura RL the best sedan under $50,000?

If it is not, then it is certainly at the top of the list. This long awaited redesign of the flagship Acura sedan comes on the heels of an all new TSX, and TL. Acura's powerful lineup makes the premium car division of Honda dominate in multiple segments. But it is the full size luxury sport sedan market that defines this carmaker.

Everything about this new vehicle is an exciting adaptation of emerging technology, unlike the previous aging Acura RL model. The all-new 2005 Acura RL is not just a luxury vehicle; it is a combination of the best in luxury with the best of performance. For those who actually enjoy driving, true luxury must bring performance and sport to the privileged world of automotive excellence. Nothing about the new 2005 Acura RL invokes a stodgy old fashion view of luxury. Instead all lines rake toward the front like an arrow in flight. High intensity headlamps, which incidentally turn with curves, frame dramatic sculptured hood lines. Chrome accents, sweeping rear "C" pillar, and short deck make this a sporty but luxurious look.

It is the interior that takes your breath away. Graceful curved horizontal wood accent is just the right amount to accent the technology based dashed. I did find the center stack to be a bit busy and the multi-function interface dial sure reminds me of BMW's infamous "I" drive. Yet in reality there is no simple way to include a multitude of controls without a "learning curve" or some confusion. One of the best eight-inch color navigation screens in the industry can be controlled by over 550 voice commands for added convenience. Few vehicles have both Bluetooth connectivity and OnStar together. For major cities with real traffic challenges, the standard satellite based XM radio works in conjunction with GPS navigation to provide real time traffic information along your chosen route. But you will have to leave Kansas City for more congestion to take advantage of the AcuraLink system. XM radio however, is a treat anywhere.

Keyless Access System recognizes the transponder and allows the driver to open the door and start the vehicle without physically removing the key from pocket or purse. The one time this function failed it allowed me in the door but would not start the car. Furiously flipping pages to the owner's manual I sought instructions on how to disassemble the ignition switch so I could use the backup mechanical key. Clear instructions allowed me to override the system but the experience gave me pause to consider how much we rely on technology.

However technology is really what sets this car apart from the competition. The basis is a lightweight 300 horsepower 3.5 liter 24 valve V-6 engine mated to an advanced 5-speed Sequential Sportshift automatic transmission. I prefer the automatic mode but for aggressive driving use either the 5-position shift gate or wheel mounted paddle shifters.

We often think of "All Wheel Drive" as a safety crutch for winter or off-road driving. But Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive platform is designed for more than the occasional winter storm. The system constantly varies torque between all four wheels to deliver class leading corning performance on either dry or wet pavement. With 300 horsepower and all wheel drive the 2005 Acura RL may be one of the best handling and best performing vehicles on the road today.

This is a full size sport sedan with a comfortable 42.4 inches of rear seat legroom yet only a trim 16 feet long. With major suspension components and much of the sub-frame forged from aluminum the 2005 Acura RL weighs slightly less than 4,000 pounds and performs like a nimble sports car rather than a four-door sedan.

This 2005 Acura RL is a complete car. Unlike competing luxury brands, Acura does not make the buyer wade through a list of options, which often drive the price up several thousands of dollars just to get a fully equipped vehicle. Many even make simple pleasures like heated seats part of a "cold weather package." Acura however offers a fully equipped vehicle at a very fair price. The $49,650 delivered price makes this my current choice for the best sedan under $50,000

2005 Acura RL

All Wheel Drive Luxury Sport Sedan

300 horsepower 3.5 Liter V6
5 Speed Automatic Sportshift Transmission

$49,670. MSRP as driven

MPG 18/26 (City/Highway)

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