2004 Acura RL: Road Test
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2004 Acura RL ▼
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- MSRP: $43,255 -$45,600
- Invoice: $38,514 -$40,600
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Our road test for the 2004 Acura RL includes a full evaluation of the 2004 Acura RL from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2004 Acura RL, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2004 Acura RL help you decide if a 2004 Acura RL is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 6.4 |
Barely class-competitive power, and lacks V8-style midrange punch. Test car did 8.1 sec 0-60 mph.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.6 |
Test RL averaged 17.6 mpg in mostly highway driving. Acura recommends premium fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 7 |
Smooth and solid on unblemished pavement, but irregular surfaces and sharp ridges can trigger unexpected impact harshness.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.8 |
Agile for a luxury sedan, but a step behind most rear-drive rivals. No undue body lean in turns. Steering responsive, though overassisted.
QUIETNESS
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 6.7 |
Road noise, tire slap, detract from luxury-level ambience.
CONTROLS
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.7 |
Handsome, intelligent dashboard design puts most controls within easy reach. Navigation system independent of climate and audio functions, but screen placement forces some of their controls to inconvenient locations. System among easier ones to use, but still demands a learning process.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 7.2 |
Roomy, comfortable seating easy to tailor to individual tastes. Visibility good all around.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 5.6 |
With front seats pushed fully back, leg and knee room only adequate. Head clearance tight for 6-footers.
CARGO ROOM
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4 |
Trunk usefully shaped, easy to load. Good cabin storage space.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.8 |
The RL is among the oldest luxury-car designs, and shows its age. Most rivals have more power, a more isolated ride, and the improved response of a 5-speed automatic transmission. Absence of curtain airbags is another significant shortfall in this class.
Total Score
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 64 | 60.8 |
Total Score: 64
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars
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