1996-2004 Acura RL: Year-to-Year Changes
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1996-2004 Acura RL. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1996-2004 Acura RL.
Year to Year Changes
1997 Acura RL:
The 3.5RL saw no change for its second season.
1998 Acura RL:
Suspension revisions for 1998 promised sportier handling, without loss in ride quality. Standard alloy wheels displayed a new design, and a 3-point rear-center safety belt replaced the prior lap belt.
1999 Acura RL:
Acura claimed "more than 400 modifications" for 1999. None substantially changed the V6/automatic powertrain, but side airbags arrived as a new standard feature, along with brighter high-intensity-discharge headlamps; suspension retuning claimed to provide sportier handling, and larger brakes. There were also minor cosmetic alterations inside and out.
2000 Acura RL:
All RL models got a Vehicle Stability Assist system, which applied individual brakes to keep the car on course in changes of direction. Seven sensors in the front passenger seat measured the size and position of the occupant to determine whether to deploy the side airbag. Acura's optional in-dash navigation system got a larger (7-inch) touch screen with matte finish designed for easier reading, plus a digital-video-disc (DVD) database.
2001 Acura RL:
An in-trunk emergency opener was added, along with no-cost carpeted floormats for 2001.
2002 Acura RL:
RL gained 15 horsepower and a standard General Motors OnStar assistance system in 2002. Other changes included wider tires, larger brakes, and more sound deadening.
2003 Acura RL:
Changes for 2003 include clear-lens taillamps, new-design wheels, revised color choices for paint and interior, and adoption of LATCH-system child-seat anchors.
2004 Acura RL:
No significant changes as Acura prepared to take the wraps off a completely new flagship in 2005.
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