2002 Acura RL Road Test - Consumer Guide Automotive

Our road test for the 2002 Acura RL includes a full evaluation of the 2002 Acura RL from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 Acura RL, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 Acura RL help you decide if a 2002 Acura RL is right for you.

2002 Acura RL Road Test

Pros	Cons

Acceleration	Navigation-system controls

Steering/handling

Ride

Build quality

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

Base	Base w/nav. sys.	Class Average
6	6	6.2

Fine power, lacking only V8-style midrange punch. Test '02 RL did 0-60 mph in 8 sec, virtually the same as our test 2001 RL.

Fuel Economy

Base	Base w/nav. sys.	Class Average
4	4	4.6

Recent test RLs averaged 15.9-19.8 mpg, depending on driving conditions. Acura requires premium fuel.

Ride Quality

Base	Base w/nav. sys.	Class Average
9	9	7.2

Firm yet supple, despite this year's tauter chassis and wider higher-speed tires. Still impressively solid-feeling over bad roads, too.

Steering/Handling/Braking

Base	Base w/nav. sys.	Class Average
7	7	6.7

An even more-agile luxury sedan now, though the difference isn't huge. RL belies its size and mass with minimal body lean, responsive steering. Great brakes.

Quietness

Base	Base w/nav. sys.	Class Average
9	9	6.8

Little noise from any source at most any speed, save a pleasant-but-muted V6 growl in full acceleration.

Controls

Base	Base w/nav. sys.	Class Average
8	7	6.3

Handsome, intelligent design, though a few minor switches not ideally placed. Optional navigation system no longer absorbs some climate controls and thus simplifies routine adjustments somewhat.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

Base	Base w/nav. sys.	Class Average
8	8	7

Well planned, easily tailored driving position and clear all-around visibility. Ample space for adults. Comfortable seats.

Room/Comfort (rear)

Base	Base w/nav. sys.	Class Average
7	7	5.4

Roomy enough for the class but not vast. Leg and knee room just OK with a front seat pushed right back, and head room limited for 6-footers.

Cargo Room

Base	Base w/nav. sys.	Class Average
3	3	4.2

Sets no class standard here either, but trunk is usefully shaped, easy to load, though navigation-system hardware cuts into luggage space.

Value within Class

Base	Base w/nav. sys.	Class Average
9	9	5.1

A 5-speed automatic transmission would be more up-to-date, but RL's road manners are luxury-class competitive and acceleration--admittedly not as strong as that of V8 rivals--is fine. Bottom line: A Best Buy becomes more entertaining for '02 while keeping its terrific refinement, quality, and value, plus strong reliability record.

Total Score