2001 Acura RL: Road Test
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2001 Acura RL ▼
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- MSRP: $42,150 -$44,150
- Invoice: $37,109 -$38,869
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Our road test for the 2001 Acura RL includes a full evaluation of the 2001 Acura RL from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2001 Acura RL, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2001 Acura RL help you decide if a 2001 Acura RL is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base | Base w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.4 |
Lacks the mid-range passing punch of V8 rivals, but hardly slow at 8 sec. in our 0-60 mph tests. Smooth, alert auto. transmission, but a 4-speed unit versus some rivals' more flexible 5-speeders.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base | Base w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4.3 |
Commendable for the class and available performance. We averaged 16.4-19.8 mpg depending on conditions. Premium fuel recommended.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base | Base w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 7.7 |
Firm and controlled, yet supple. Solid too: The RL sails over most bumps and dips with nary a shudder or rattle.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base | Base w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.1 |
Not sports-sedan agile, but highly competent, though steering could use more road feel. Antiskid/ traction system a wet-weather plus. Powerful brakes make short, drama-free stops.
QUIETNESS
| Base | Base w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 7.8 |
Low wind and tire noise. V6 muted when cruising, emits a modest, pleasant snarl in hard acceleration.
CONTROLS
| Base | Base w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 7 | 5.6 |
Hard to fault. Optional navigation system accurate, but not as intuitive as it could be, and its in-dash touch screen is prone to fingerprint smudges.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base | Base w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 7.7 |
Ample leg stretch but only average head room for 6-footers. Nice seats, easily tailored driving position, easy outward vision except directly aft.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base | Base w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.9 |
Leg and knee room more than adequate, but 6-footers heads brush the roof.
CARGO ROOM
| Base | Base w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 4.5 |
Flat-floor trunk is usefully shaped and roomy, though not tops in class. Cabin has plenty of stash spaces for bric-a-brac.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base | Base w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 4.9 |
Not a hot seller, but solid and luxurious, rewarding to drive, built with care, and blessed with a fine reliability record. That adds up to strong value and a Best Buy recommendation. Sales remain slow, so you should be able to work a good deal.
Total Score
| Base | Base w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 70 | 69 | 61.9 |
Total Score: 70
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