Acura RL returns for 2009 with new 3.7-litre V6 and advanced tech
The 2009 Acura RL gains a more powerful engine, sharper styling and an expanded suite of driver assistance and connectivity features, strengthening its position in the luxury saloon segment.
Acura has updated its flagship RL saloon for 2009, introducing a new 3.7-litre V6 engine, revised styling and a suite of new technology features aimed at keeping pace with established luxury rivals. The changes are designed to reinforce the RL’s position at the top of Acura’s range, with a focus on performance, connectivity and safety.
New powertrain and performance upgrades
The centrepiece of the 2009 RL is the all-new 3.7-litre SOHC V6, producing 300 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque. This marks the largest and most powerful engine fitted to an Acura saloon, and introduces a VTEC system operating on both intake and exhaust valves. The engine is paired with a revised Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission, now offering steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters and a straight-gate gear selector for more direct control.
Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system returns with quicker response and enhanced torque vectoring. The system can increase the rotation speed of the outside rear wheel during cornering, reducing understeer and improving agility. Suspension updates include a revised steering rack, stiffer coil springs, improved dampers and a larger rear stabiliser bar, all intended to sharpen handling without sacrificing ride quality.
Technology and safety enhancements
The RL’s technology package expands on its predecessor’s offerings. Standard equipment includes a Bose surround sound audio system, Bluetooth HandsFreeLink and solar-sensing climate control. New for 2009 are features such as AcuraLink weather, Traffic Rerouting and a Note function for XM Radio. The voice command system now recognises over 700 commands with improved accuracy, and Bluetooth audio streaming is supported.
Buyers opting for the Technology Package receive Acura’s satellite navigation with voice recognition, real-time traffic and weather, a rear-view camera, ventilated front seats and a wood/leather steering wheel. The top-tier package adds Acura’s Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) and Adaptive Cruise Control, using a millimetre-wave radar in the grille to monitor traffic and pre-empt potential collisions by tightening seatbelts and applying the brakes if needed.
Styling and trim options
Exterior changes for 2009 include a more aggressive front end, blow-formed aluminium bonnet and new wheel designs. The RL is offered in eight paint colours, five of which are new, featuring a revised pearl pigment process for greater lustre. Inside, the cabin gains new wood trim options and a redesigned instrument panel on higher trims.
- Base RL: 3.7-litre V6, SH-AWD, Bose audio, Bluetooth, solar-sensing climate control
- RL with Technology Package: adds navigation, real-time traffic, weather, rear-view camera, ventilated seats, wood/leather trim
- RL with Technology Package plus CMBS: adds Collision Mitigation Braking System, Adaptive Cruise Control, additional wood trim
Positioning in the luxury saloon market
With the 2009 update, Acura aims to keep the RL competitive against established luxury saloons from Germany and Japan. The combination of a more powerful engine, advanced all-wheel drive and a comprehensive technology suite is intended to appeal to buyers seeking a blend of performance, safety and connectivity. The RL continues to serve as Acura’s technology flagship, with features filtering down to other models over time.
