2009 Acura RL Elite & TL Technology

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The Acura RL and TL occupy the high-end echelon in the Acura sedan line-up. For the 2009 model year, both the RL and the TL have received extensive changes along with the rest of the Acura line-up. The TL Type-S has been replaced by the TL SH-AWD model, which has received the Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. For both the RL and TL SH-AWD, the engine power has been bumped over the 300 hp mark. The 3.7-liter engines are a little bit on the high side of gas consumption.

The RL Elite is Acura's statement on how to build as much convenience and comfort into an executive-class vehicle in the $46,000 - $54,000 price segment. The TL SH-AWD is the embodiment of raw Acura driving emotion, packaged nicely in a matching level of luxury. Both vehicles have received drastic makeovers to the exterior for the 2009 model year, along with the rest of the Acura line-up. The new Acura fascia design with more aggressive sweeping lines and the solid-piece chrome grill, eliminates some cluttered lines and results in a clean, bold, and elegant image. I much prefer the new look for the RL over the previous design.

This aggression and boldness theme is pushed further in TL's new look. This drastic change, however, has drawn criticisms here and there. It may just take some time to get used to the new TL; it reminds me of my initial reaction when I first saw the current Toyota Camry design.

Except for the suspension, everything about the RL is described by words like "soft," "smooth," "cushy," and "fine." In contrast, words that describe the TL are "firm," "rigid," "bold," and "solid."  Two cars built with very similar specs, but two different philosophies have shaped them far apart.

The interior of the RL is spacious, classy, and comfortable. The quality cushy leather seats are bordered in by gentle lines and wood trim. In contrast, the TL interior pursues the more modern and energetic perception with very firm and supportive leather seats, enclosed by aggressive curves and metal trim. Even the steering wheels demonstrate these differences: The RL is equipped with a wood-trim steering wheel with leather grips, while the TL is equipped with an extra-thick all-leather steering wheel.

It's a given that both cars would be loaded with all the electronic wizardry one would expect in a luxury car. GPS navigation system (with voice recognition), Bluetooth connections, reverse camera, dual-zone climate control, auto-dimming mirrors, keyless entry, moon-roof, and premium audio system with USB connectivity and various audio format supports. The RL standard feature set and the TL Technology package further up the ante with GPS-linked sun-sensing climate control, and a comprehensive keyless access system, which links driver’s seat, mirror, steering wheel, and climate control settings to individual keys. Being Acura's pinnacle in luxury features, RL Elite tops it off with even more features like cooling front seats, power rear sunshade, Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), and Active Noise Cancellation. CMBS uses radar to determine the speed of and distance from the vehicle ahead, and applies braking if the closing speed exceeds the programmed threshold.

Weighing in at 4,090 lb., the RL isn't light, but this is expected for luxury sedans in its class. This weight can be felt when accelerating and braking. The 300 horsepower engine does have the power to accelerate this car quickly, especially in Sequential Shift mode, but you would have to push on the gas pedal like you meant it. Driving casually in city traffic, the car accelerates in an easy and smooth fashion. To maintain this smooth ride, gently apply brakes early as well. The driver has a very good sense of the weight through various feedbacks, and the car corners fairly well thanks to the taut, sporty suspension and the SH-AWD drivetrain.
The SH-AWD is a very sophisticated mechanism that distributes torque over the four wheels independently. Accelerate lightly while turning, and the SH-AWD system kicks making it feel like the car is gliding along the curve. It is an interesting sensation. Even though it's no speed demon, the ride is smooth, refined, easy, and well-controlled. This ride complements the sheer comfort in the cabin.

The TL doesn't drive like it weighs 3,975 lb. kg. In contrast to the RL's highly cushioned and gentle feel, everything about the TL feels firm and solid, without feeling heavy. The leather seats are really firm and offer good support. The extra thick leather-wrapped steering wheel gives the driver a direct and linear connection to the drivetrain. The feedback from the automatic gearbox through the gas pedal is one of solidity. The taut suspension holds the car up around corners; and the brakes firmly clamp down on the rotors when you press the pedal.

The TL charges forward with power from the V6 engine. Step on the brake pedal, and the calipers firmly clamp down on the rotors, bringing the car to a stop in a linear and well-controlled manner. There is little body lean around corners, and the SH-AWD also improves cornering, although you don't get the same "gliding" sensation as the RL.

I was really intrigued when I first read about the 2009 TL receiving the SH-AWD option, putting the specs really close to the new RL. Built on top of SH-AWD and marginally different engine power, Acura's philosophies for different purposes in different price segments have produced two drastically different vehicles. The RL experience bathes the occupants in an exceptional level of ease and comfort, while the TL is the manifestation of the Acura driving spirit. Both are very solid entries to compete in their respective price ranges.

2009 RL Elite
3.7-liter V6 engine
300bhp@6300rpm, 271lb-ft@5000rpm
Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM)
5-speed automatic with paddle shifters
Curb weight: 4,090 lb.
Fuel economy (mpg): 18 city / 26 hwy
Price as tested: $54,100

2009 TL SH-AWD Technology
3.7-liter V6 engine
305bhp@6300rpm, 273lb-ft@5000rpm
Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM)
5-speed automatic with paddle shifters
Curb weight: 3,975 lb.
Fuel economy (mpg): 19 city / 29 hwy.
Price as tested: $45,990