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Acura RL

EPA MPG: NA
Average Retail Price
$3,600

RECALL ALERT:
There are 2 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

Road Test

The RL is roomy and refined though not very exciting. The powertrain is smooth and sophisticated, but acceleration is modest at best. On the other hand, the ride is quiet and composed, handling is secure and fit and finish are impeccable. Overall, the RL is a viable alternative for those who prefer their luxury cars humble with front-wheel-drive.

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2002 Sedans & Hatchbacks Reliability

No Data Available

Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap
Acceptable
IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver
NA
IIHS Side Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Side-Crash
NA

Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap
Acceptable
IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver
NA
IIHS Side Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Side-Crash
NA

Acura vs. Other New Car Brands

Acura vs. Other New Car Brands

Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap
Acceptable
IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver
NA
IIHS Side Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Side-Crash
NA

2002 Luxury midsized cars Ratings

$3,600
economy-icon
EPA MPG NA
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$3,225 - $3,600
economy-icon
EPA MPG 22 mpg
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$3,075 - $3,725
economy-icon
EPA MPG NA
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$3,725 - $4,825
economy-icon
EPA MPG NA
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$3,200 - $4,175
economy-icon
EPA MPG NA
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
Features & Specs
Body Style
    sedan
Seating
2 front, 3 rear
Drive Wheels
Front
Engines Available
  • 3.5-liter V6 (225 hp)
Transmissions Available
  • 4-speed automatic
Warranty
Coverage varies among versions of this vehicle

In most cases, automotive warranties are based on the vehicle identification number (VIN), and the warranty will be valid regardless of ownership. The dealership can tell you exactly how much warranty is left.

Read more about extended warranties
Model History
2005-
Current Generation

The second-generation Acura RL is very pleasant, but wasn't quite luxurious enough to justify its $50,000 as-new price tag. The 300-hp V6 engine delivers strong performance and decent fuel economy, impressive given the standard all-wheel-drive. A six-speed transmission arrived for 2011. Handling and ride quality is sound but doesn't measure up to equivalent German sports sedans; a 2009 update helped some on both fronts. Stability control is standard. Interior noise is relatively hushed, especially for a Honda product. Cabin fit and finish is impeccable, and the front seats are supremely comfortable. However, for such a large car, rear seat space is snug; the smaller Acura TL has almost as much interior room. Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking was optional beginning in 2006, making the RL one of the first cars to offer this safety technology.

1996-2004
1996 Redesign Year

Consider Acura's flagship RL sedan to be a good choice for those who prefer their luxury cars on the humble and understated side. It shares its front-wheel-drive platform with the Honda Accord and Acura TL. While quiet, spacious, and refined, the RL has always trailed its German competitors in performance. The 3.7-liter V6 and five speed automatic make for a smooth and sophisticated powertrain, but acceleration is modest compared to V8-powered rivals. Handling is competent but don't mistake the RL for a fun-to-drive sports sedan. On the other hand, the ride is quiet and composed, and fit and finish are impeccable. Controls are simple to use, including the touchscreen navigation system. Front seats are very supportive and comfortable but rear seat headroom is snug for tall adults. A 2005 redesign debuted in early 2004.