2002 Acura RL: Road Test
Archived Review
2002 Acura RL ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $43,150 -$45,150
- Invoice: $38,421 -$40,200
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Acura RL
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
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.
Advertisement
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
| Base | Base w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 70 | 69 | 59.5 |
Total Score: 70
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
