2010 Acura RL Delivers Top Level Luxury and Performance
08/31/2009
Acura
Featuring bold looks, a powerful V-6 engine and Acura's acclaimed Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) (SH-AWD(TM)) system, the 2010 RL demonstrates that refined luxury is complemented perfectly by advanced technology and performance adrenaline. In addition to delivering luxury, style and performance, Acura's top-of-the-line sedan keeps drivers more connected to their world, and the world around them, by featuring the latest in intuitive, easy-to-use, state-of-the-art technology.
"If a customer is looking for the perfect blend of luxury, performance and safety, then look no further than the 2010 Acura RL", said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. "It would be hard to find a production car at any price that offers more advanced technology or drive system sophistication."
The 2010 RL is available in three variations: RL, RL with Technology Package and RL with Technology Package Plus CMBS(TM). All RL's feature as standard a potent 3.7-liter VTEC(R) V-6 engine, Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM), leather trimmed interior, power front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control system, power moonroof, power windows, leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel, Multi-Information Display (MID) that allows access to multiple electronic functions, Acura/Bose(R) Surround Sound audio system and Bluetooth(R) HandsFreeLink(R) connectivity.
The available Technology Package includes the satellite-linked Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition(TM), AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting(TM), AcuraLink Real-Time Weather(TM), rear view back-up camera, Active Front Lighting System (AFS), ventilated front seats, and a simulated wood accented steering wheel and shift knob. The top RL package is the Technology Package with CMBS(TM) which adds Acura's acclaimed Collision Mitigation Braking System(TM) (CMBS(TM)), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and genuine maple wood instrument panel trim.
Powertrain
The technology built into the 2010 RL includes a highly refined 3.7-liter V-6 engine that develops 300 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque thanks to an innovative VTEC(R) valvetrain system for both the intake and exhaust valves, a high compression ratio, along with a special dual-stage magnesium alloy intake manifold that enables the intake to function as a single- or dual-plenum manifold design based on engine operating parameters. In addition to generating excellent power and torque, the RL engine meets the latest EPA TIER 2 - BIN 5 and CARB LEV II ULEV emissions standards.
To handle the output of the 3.7-liter engine, a Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission is fitted that can be shifted via an easy-to-use straight gate shifter or by racing-inspired steering wheel mounted paddle shifters.
The RL's acclaimed Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) (SH-AWD(TM)) system helps provide an exhilarating driving experience as well as peace of mind- regardless of weather conditions. There are numerous traction advantages of all-wheel drive, yet SH-AWD(TM) does a key function that is not available with traditional AWD systems: SH-AWD(TM) utilizes torque vectoring (the increase the rotation speed of an outside rear wheel) to create a "yaw moment" to help the RL turn more effectively while under power. Such a yaw moment reduces the cornering load on the front tires to minimize understeer, to improve handling balance and to escalate total cornering grip.
Body and Chassis
To complement the high-performance powertrain, Acura engineers gave the RL a highly rigid yet lightweight Advanced Compatibility Engineering(TM) (ACE(TM)) body structure. A strong body was critical for achieving the engineers' high targets for steering and handling precision, outstanding ride quality, isolation of undesirable road inputs along with excellent safety.
The RL's body is constructed primarily of high tensile strength steel, while the hood, trunk lid, front fenders and bumper beams are made of lightweight aluminum. A sophisticated four-wheel independent suspension system with double-wishbone (front) and multi-link (rear) architecture, isolated front and rear subframes, large diameter stabilizer bars and heavy-duty steering rack components work in concert with the rigid unit body construction to complete the RL's chassis layout. Subframes and suspension components made of aluminum reduce the RL's weight for improved performance, more supple suspension action and better fuel economy.
To provide excellent handling and looks, 18x8-inch diameter 7-spoke aluminum wheels are matched with performance-minded Michelin Pilot all-season tires. Powerful, responsive and predictable braking action is supplied by a four-wheel disc brake system utilizing aluminum 4-piston front calipers matched with 12.6-inch diameter ventilated front brake rotors and 12.2-inch solid rear rotors with large single-piston calipers. Braking is further aided by the latest advancements in safety technology including a four-channel ABS system with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist.
The RL with Technology Package plus CMBS(TM) includes Acura's Collision Mitigation Braking System(TM) (CMBS(TM)). Using millimeter-wave technology, CMBS(TM) monitors the distance and closing rate between the RL and the vehicle directly in front of it. CMBS(TM) then uses the information to continuously calculate the likelihood of a frontal collision as well as to alert the driver in different stages of urgency. If the likelihood of a collision significantly increases, CMBS(TM) will take actions such as to apply the brakes and pre-tension the front seatbelts.
Exterior/Interior
The 2010 RL's exterior styling is not only distinctive and upscale, but delivers excellent aerodynamics and a stable feel at higher speeds. The RL's athletic style gives indication of the power concealed by the Acura signature front grille. The RL's shape is taut and athletic, and its acceleration and cornering performance allow it to challenge the most capable German and Japanese sports sedans. Comfort, quietness and ride quality are also on a par with performance sedan competitors. For 2010, six exterior colors are available and a special pearl pigment process improves paint luster and shine.
RL models equipped with the Technology Package also feature the Active Front Lighting System (AFS) for the Xenon High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights that swivel up to 12 degrees laterally in response to vehicle speed and steering wheel input. When cornering, the inboard headlight swivels to illuminate a larger area of road surface throughout the corner, improving visibility and minimizing blind spots.
Inside, the 2010 RL features an elegantly styled interior that includes leather-trimmed heated front seats, comfortable space for rear seat passengers, plenty of storage areas and easy-to-use functionality. Moreover, just like the driver's seat, the passenger front seat has 10-way power adjustability. Generous use of insulation, an acoustic glass windshield and an Active Sound Control system team to further reduce noise in the RL's already quiet cabin. As part of the Technology Package, the front seats incorporate six levels of ventilation and steering wheel and shift knob are trimmed with simulated wood trim (the CMBS package adds genuine maple wood trim).
The RL interior features an assortment of leading-edge technologies to enhance driver control and information access. These technologies include Acura HandsFreeLink(TM) and Bluetooth(R)-based wireless telephone interface that allows calls to be made utilizing the RL's steering wheel-mounted HandsFreeLink(TM) controls.
Standard on all RLs is a spectacular Acura/Bose(R)10-speaker Surround Sound System with DVD-Audio, Bluetooth(R)Audio, XM(R) Radio and USB port/AUX jack connectivity.
A key component of the RL Technology Package is the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition(TM). The advanced system allows for easy control of key systems via voice control (with more than 700 commands) including voice guidance for turn-by-turn directions, over 7 million points of interest, Zagat Survey(TM) restaurant guide information, along with voice recognition to operate key audio and climate control functions.
The innovative AcuraLink(R) Satellite Communication System features driver relevant technologies such as AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting(TM) and AcuraLink Real-Time Weather(TM) with continuously updated radar maps.
Safety
The 2010 RL utilizes Acura's extremely rigid Advanced Compatibility Engineering(TM) (ACE(TM)) body structure that features extensive use of high-tensile steel and lightweight aluminum components to take vehicle construction beyond conventional safety protocols- all while keeping overall vehicle weight in check.
The ACE(TM) body structure's front-mounted polygonal frame design enhances occupant protection and crash compatibility in frontal crashes by utilizing a network of connected structural elements to distribute crash energy more evenly throughout the front of the vehicle- and away from the passenger compartment. To enhance safety the RL employs active head restraints built into the front seats to help improve neck and head protection in the event of a rear impact collision. To further aid in safety, the RL includes as standard six airbags and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
The RL earned 5-Star ratings (the best possible) from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA*) for frontal and side-impact crash tests, and for rollover resistance.
In addition, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the RL its top rating of GOOD in Side Impact Collision Evaluation (SICE) testing, a GOOD rating for IIHS' Frontal Offset crash test and (thanks in part to active head restraints for front seat passengers) the RL receive a GOOD rating in IIHS Rear Crash Protection evaluation.
Like all 2010 Acura models, the 2010 RL is covered by a comprehensive 4-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty and a 6-year/70,000 powertrain limited warranty. Additional ownership benefits include Acura Total Luxury Care(R) (TLC(R)), which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service and trip routing.
Acura
Acura offers a full line of technologically advanced performance luxury vehicles through a network of 270 dealers within the United States. The 2010 Acura lineup features six distinctive models including the RL luxury performance sedan, the TL performance luxury sedan, the TSX sports sedan, the turbocharged RDX luxury crossover SUV, the award-winning MDX luxury sport utility vehicle and the all-new ZDX four-door sports coupe.
For additional information and photos of the 2010 RL (or information on any Acura vehicle), please visit www.acuranews.com.
*Government star ratings are part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) New Car Assessment Program (www.safercar.gov). Model tested with standard side-impact air bags (SABs).