Acura's flagship sedan, the RL has failed to meet expectations. There are rumors circulating that Acura is going to unveil a heavily revised version of the sedan at the Chicago Auto Show next month.
Now according to Temple of VTEC, Acura is going to unveil the revised 2009 RL at the show next week. It is rumored that the flagship sedan will get more power thanks to a more powerful 3.7L V6, which should push it over the 300 horsepower mark. In addition the RL will recieve heavily revised exterior styling and improved technological features.
In addition to the rumors about the RL, there is more info on the next TSX. The 2009 TSX is rumored to be in showrooms on April 24th of this year (the 2009 RL will be about the same time). It is still not known if the TSX will feature Acura's SH-AWD system and if it will get a V6 engine. There are rumors that there will be two versions a FWD 4-cyl and a V6 with the SH-AWD system. There have also been rumors that the TSX could get the same turbocharged 4-cylinder from the RDX.
Guess we will have to wait until next month.
Here's the info from Temple of VTEC:
This MOVE allocation will include March production with March arrival of the 2008 TL, 2008 RDX and 2008 MDX and March production with April arrival of 2009 TSX and 2009 RL models.
2009 TSX
Designed and engineered to reaffirm its place as a desirable and affordable entry point for the Acura sedan range, the all-new redesigned second-generation 2009 TSX will be offered in two different packages
Standard Package:· The standard model will be similar to RDX’s and 08MY TSX’s standard features with new luxury amenities and audio capabilities that all contribute to the new TSX’s added appeal.
Technology Package:
The technology package is similar to the RDX’s technology packaging and will continue to “Advance” the image of Acura. The Technology Package includes:
· Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition with new functionality
· AcuraLink Satellite Communication System
· Acura/ELS Surround Premium 10 Speaker Sound System
2009 RL
The substantial redesign of the 2009 Acura RL combines added performance, improved technology, more aggressive exterior styling and even greater safety to a top-tier luxury performance sedan.
Three packages will continue to be offered:
Standard Package:· Improvements include better functionality for the HVAC, HandsFreeLink and audio system
Technology Package:· The Technology model will be similar to the 08MY RL with new luxury amenities. The Technology Package will continue to “Advance” the image of Acura by adding more functionality to the Acura Navigation System.
CMBS Package:
MBS will be available as a stand-alone option.
Full Story:
Temple of VTEC
Related Stories:
Honda Releases Teaser Images of the 2009 European Accord (Acura TSX)
2009 Acura RL Will Get a Major Makeover...Will it Help?
Comments (9)
I hope it's exterior isn't so bland and that it will hit 60mph in around 5.5sec or better (what is it now...like 6.5sec?).
Posted by Noya | January 30, 2008 6:53 AM
Posted on January 30, 2008 06:53
If it's a balanced car with rearward bias for 'SH-AWD' then I'll consider it an improvement. If it's still 90% front bias with horrible weight distribution then the update won't even matter.
All of their supposed competition from EVERY automaker (including Hyundai now) is RWD. Honda will never get the message.
300hp is enough for a luxury car. I don't really think a v8 is necessary, but I and the rest of the automotive world would love to see one.
I don't really know of any competition for the RL. It's a midsize boring luxury cruiser. It should either be a midsize sporty car or a big luxury cruiser. It's such an oddball.
Posted by Cheap Car Lover | January 30, 2008 8:32 AM
Posted on January 30, 2008 08:32
It's average-looking, underpowered, and has sub-par FWD handling and weight distribution. At this price point there are much better choices.
Posted by Kell | January 30, 2008 9:54 AM
Posted on January 30, 2008 09:54
@Kell:
Spot on. Unfortunately most Acura's are this way lately. The TL is about the only car that isn't underpowered and over priced.
Posted by Gary | January 30, 2008 11:00 AM
Posted on January 30, 2008 11:00
@ Kell
Name one for me please and keep in mind the TL is the size of a 5 series bmw and e-class merc, GS lexus, M35 infinity, i own one and test drove all of the competition and i felt that fwd was a sensible choice in a daily driver in chicago where it snows. i paid 32K for my 06 tl and its fully loaded, you would be hard pressed to find a maxima for that price with navi and all the goodies... yes i baught mine new.
Posted by dennisil | January 30, 2008 3:55 PM
Posted on January 30, 2008 15:55
I was wrong i have no idea what im taking about when i get on this board dont mind me im in the process of getting professional help. i smell like soup and my father/husband is from kazakshan.
Posted by kell | January 31, 2008 10:04 AM
Posted on January 31, 2008 10:04
Chicago sucks, I feel sorry for you having to drive an FWD car every day. I'd move.
Posted by Cheap Car Lover | January 31, 2008 11:57 AM
Posted on January 31, 2008 11:57
Snowy Chicago sucks.
I'm sorry you have to drive an FWD car every day on account of the weather.
I'd move. You're missing out on a lot of great driving cars.
Posted by Cheap Car Lover | January 31, 2008 12:00 PM
Posted on January 31, 2008 12:00
That's Kazakhstan. Nice try, but I stand by what I said.
A 2008 TL Type-S (really, what else) is over $40K optioned out. That puts it into the $40K sports sedan arena. Their new revised model will be, guess what, "more sporty". Acura knows their flagship vehicle is mid-pack at best, and performance sells in this price range. Look at the picture. It wants to be a sports sedan. You know it, I know it, let's move on.
@dennisil
You stated that your criteria was winter traction, and that's fine if you're happy with it. I simply have different criteria for a $40K sports sedan.
Posted by Kell | January 31, 2008 12:13 PM
Posted on January 31, 2008 12:13