| paul123 |
2004 Acura 3.5 RL Debuts at Chicago Auto Show
Date: February 13, 2003 14:13
Source: Honda Press Release
Credibility Rating: N/A
Acura Flagship Features XM(R) Satellite Radio and Enhanced Navigation System as Standard
Chicago, IL. 02/13/2003 -- The 2004 Acura 3.5 RL luxury sedan made its debut at the Chicago Auto Show today. Already one of the most comprehensively equipped vehicles available, the RL becomes the first luxury sedan to feature XM Satellite Radio and a navigation system as standard* equipment. For 2004, the RL also receives many interior enhancements, including an upgraded sound system and driver's side power lumbar support, that build on the car's already unparalleled level of craftsmanship and quality.
"We pride ourselves on selling comprehensively equipped vehicles that feature the latest technology both under the hood and in the cabin," said Dennis Manns, assistant vice president, Acura sales. "With the addition of XM Satellite Radio and the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition(TM) as standard equipment, the RL sets new standards in the luxury sedan segment."
The addition of XM Satellite Radio lets RL drivers choose from over 100 coast-to-coast digital channels, many of which are commercial-free. Programming includes 70 music channels, 30 channels devoted to sports, talk, children's programming and entertainment, and one premium channel which is available for an additional fee. XM hardware is embedded in the car's audio system. When XM is being played, a display shows the current station, song title or artist's name. A three-month subscription to the XM Satellite Radio service is included with purchase and customers are able to continue the service or cancel any time after.
While the RL has offered a DVD-based navigation system as a factory-installed option on previous models, the 2004 RL features the new, Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition as standard equipment. One of the most sophisticated, yet easy-to-use navigation systems on the market today, the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition provides mapping coverage of the continental United States, and features an easy to read 7-inch, color LCD display. The 2004 version features a variety of new features and greatly enhanced capabilities including a newly developed voice recognition system with 130 commands, upgraded graphics and an expanded database with more than seven million points of interest.
The RL's elegant cabin environment boasts abundant interior room, hand-selected leather-trimmed seating, an 8-way power adjustable driver's seat, which for 2004 adds power lumbar support. Also for 2004, the RL receives several trim enhancements including a redesigned center console, meter panel and steering wheel, brushed metal and chrome interior accents and a wood-pattern shifter knob. Both the instrument panel and the navigation system screen are trimmed in premium burled camphor wood.
To complement the addition of XM Satellite Radio, the Acura/Bose(R) Music System receives a 6-disc in-dash CD changer, two additional speakers (bringing the total number to 10) and retuned amplifiers for even better sound reproduction. A long list of standard comfort and convenience features includes an Automatic Climate Control System with air-filtration system, a HomeLink(TM) system (which allows the driver to operate a garage door or house lights with a press of a button), heated front seats, an auto-down/ up driver's side window and a power glass moonroof. Pushing a button on the key fob locks or unlocks the door from up to 30 feet away, while another button activates a panic feature, which remotely activates a security alarm and flashes the car's headlights. A standard engine immobilizer system prevents the engine from being started without the proper electronically coded key.
The handsome exterior of the RL, with a long, sloping front hood and short rear deck, reflects Acura's attention to detail and craftsmanship. A sharply chiseled front end, Acura's signature grille and wrap-around headlamps clearly display an aggressive nature. Subtle chrome trim accents the understated, yet decidedly elegant styling.
The RL's 24-valve, 3.5-liter V-6 engine delivers 225 horsepower and a broad, flat torque curve, which peaks at 231 lbs-ft at 2800 rpm for quick response at any speed. It utilizes a 4-valve-per-cylinder configuration, a three-stage variable induction system, and a sophisticated Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) system to increase fuel efficiency and help the RL meet Low Emission Vehicle (LEV) standards. Complementing the powerful engine is a sophisticated, computer controlled, 4-speed automatic transmission with Grade Logic Control for exceptionally smooth shifts.
The double-wishbone suspension is tuned to deliver maximum handling responsiveness and stability while maintaining excellent ride quality. For enhanced cornering grip, the RL features P225/ 55R16 Michelin all-season tires on aluminum-alloy wheels. To maximize the driver's enjoyment of the car's chassis, the advanced, speed- sensing, variable power-assisted steering system is tuned to provide maximum road feel and handling control.
For enhanced stopping power, the standard front and rear disc brakes are equipped with a 4-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) is also standard.
To provide the latest in safety and driver confidence, the RL is equipped with OnStar"service. RL owners can choose to sign up for any of three service plans, all of which are available with Personal Calling and Virtual Advisor Internet at an additional cost. The Safe and Sound Plan service is included free of charge for the first year.
Like all Acura models, the 3.5 RL is covered by a comprehensive 4-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty. Additional ownership benefits include Acura Total Luxury Care (TLC), which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service and trip routing. |
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| hockeyplayer |
| looks great...noticing some crossover materials from its big brother...the MDX. Steering wheel and nav stick out right off the bat. |
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| AcuraMDX2002 |
| I thought they were going to redesign the exterior for '04 --- I guess I'll have to wait another model year for that! I don't particularly like the boring, stodgy look of the RL, but I'd love to own one. |
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| 2002 Acura MDX! |
| OK, Acura really have to redesign the RL. That look has been around for quiet a while. When I was in the 2001 Vancouver Auto Show, they showed the 2002 RL (don't think there are much different) and now in the 2003 Auto Show , they showed the 2004 RL (not much different neither). Here are some larger images. |
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| wmquan |
Agreed. Acura missed the mark on the RL, and it badly needs a total redesign. The 2004's interior and electronics improvements won't cut the mustard.
I don't always agree with Edmunds reviewers, but these comments sum the "new and improved" 2004 pretty well:
http://www.edmunds.com/news/autosho...90/page014.html
Typically, auto show introductions are reserved for cars that have received substantive mechanical or structural changes. However, Acura's press conference for the 2004 dismissed that line of reasoning. What's new for the RL, the tepid flagship of a proud company, a car that really needs a V8, rear-wheel drive or at least a 260- horsepower V6 on par with the entry-level TLs? Satellite radio, voice-recognition technology for the navigation system and, wonder of wonders, a revised center console and steering wheel.
Unless you're a determined RL buyer, go ahead and hold your enthusiasm until Acura comes up with a more appealing way for you to spend upwards of $40,000. |
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| TYP |
Yeah.. the RL really need a new look..
And that metal trim is what I want for my X..
sigh..
For the pirce.. it should have power folding mirrors.. memory seats and memory mirrors (all 3) and side airbag for all..
:1: |
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| MK23666 |
Looks like the front head rests tilt forward in the RL ... if true can they be swapped with the MDX's? Hmmm
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| xcel |
Hi All:
___Not that I would ever consider a $40K sedan myself, the RL’s front end looks as if it were pulled off a Buick or Mercury sedan? Until Acura fixes this appearance problem, they are going to run into trouble selling the brand from the RL anyway … I did like the interior leather appearance but why did they not include a Plood look steering wheel given the Burlwood shift knob is included?
___Good Luck
___Wayne R. Gerdes
___Hunt Club Farms Landscaping Ltd.
___Waynegerdes@earthlink.net |
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| MonsterDX |
| Agree with having to redesign it but I would like to see more than 225HP. Our 2001 TL has 225HP. Let's get with the program here!!! |
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| wmquan |
Yes, that's one of the big beefs with the RL. The TL, and especially the TL-S, both have more power than Acura's "flagship sedan." Honda/Acura is traditionally stubborn about going to a V8, but jeez, at least put a more powerful V6 in there!
There are just a number of better alternatives to the RL in the marketplace. Hopefully the next-gen one will have the success of the TL and MDX. |
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| mlkeller |
| Sat in the new RL at the auto show - interesting thing is with the new navi system and steering wheel, it felt just like sitting in the 'X (looks very much like it inside). I agree, it needs to be updated...:rolleyes: |
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