Name: 2003 Acura RL
Brand: Acura

Acura RL

EPA MPG: 20 mpg

Owner Reported MPG:

EPA MPG: 20 mpg

Owner Reported MPG:

RECALL ALERT: There is 1 recall on this vehicle. Learn More.

There is 1 recall on this vehicle. Learn More.

2003 Luxury midsized cars Ratings

2003 Acura RL

$3,950 - $4,000

EPA MPG 20 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Acura TL

$3,575 - $4,225

EPA MPG 22 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Audi A6

$3,125 - $4,250

EPA MPG 20 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 BMW 5 Series

$3,975 - $5,100

EPA MPG 21 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Cadillac CTS

$3,175

EPA MPG 21 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Infiniti M

$3,975

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Jaguar S-Type

$3,275 - $4,700

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Jaguar X-Type

$3,075 - $3,575

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Lexus ES

$4,775

EPA MPG 24 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Lexus GS

$5,125 - $5,200

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Lincoln LS

$3,250 - $3,600

EPA MPG 22 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

$3,975 - $8,200

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Volvo S80

$3,175 - $4,375

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Volvo V70/XC70

$ NA

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

See All Luxury midsized cars Ratings

Features & Specs

sedan

2 front, 3 rear

Front

3.5-liter V6 (225 hp)

4-speed automatic

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

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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.

Acura RL

2003 Sedans & Hatchbacks Reliability

Crash and Rollover Tests

Crash and Rollover Tests

Acura vs. Other New Car Brands

Owner Reports

Acura vs. Other New Car Brands

Acura vs. Other New Car Brands

Crash and Rollover Tests

2003 Luxury midsized cars Ratings