2003 Acura RL: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Revamped last year as a more driver-focused car, Honda's luxury-brand flagship sedan gets only cosmetic updates for 2003. The 3.5 RL comes with V6, 4-speed automatic transmission, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, antiskid/traction-control system, and front side airbags. Also standard are General Motors' OnStar service, leather/wood interior trim, power tilt/telescopic steering wheel, heated front seats with driver-seat memory, and a trunk-mounted CD changer. A touch-screen navigation system is the sole option and is priced as a separate model. 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.

COMPETITION

With wide price ranges and numerous body configurations, this diverse segment has two clear Best Buy choices--the refined Lexus LS 430 and the unique Audi A6. The LS 430 can't be beat for comfort and features at around $55,000, while the A6 earns Best Buy status for its blend of space, performance, design sophistication, powertrain choices, and workmanship at prices below those of most rivals.

We Recommend the Acura RL--a steal at around $45,000 fully equipped. Though it is a front-drive V6 in a field of V8 rear-drive models, it has a great ride, plenty of power, and is quite luxurious. If you are looking for something a bit more sporting, we Recommend BMW 5-Series. If your taste ranges more toward the luxury end, then take a look at the roomy Cadillac DeVille.