2006 Acura RL Road Test - Consumer Guide Automotive

Our road test for the 2006 Acura RL includes a full evaluation of the 2006 Acura RL from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2006 Acura RL, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2006 Acura RL help you decide if a 2006 Acura RL is right for you.

2006 Acura RL Road Test

Pros	Cons

Standard all-wheel drive	Rear-seat room

Ride/handling	Keyless locking/starting awkward

Quietness

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

Base	Class Average
7	6.7

We timed 0-60 mph at a brisk 7.0 sec. That's almost on par with some V8 rivals, but RL can't quite match their highway passing punch. Transmission shifts smoothly, responds quickly to convenient manual-shift paddles.

Fuel Economy

Base	Class Average
4	4.6

Test RLs averaged 17.0 mpg in mixed city/highway use that included gas-eating performance tests, 21.0 mpg with more highway driving. Acura recommends premium-grade fuel.

Ride Quality

Base	Class Average
7	6.7

Remarkably supple. Only the sharpest bumps filter through. No opportunity to evaluate fully with Technology Package.

Steering/Handling/Braking

Base	Class Average
8	7.1

Assured and reassuring, with accurate steering, firm suspension, strong brakes, and traction-enhancing SH-AWD. The last behaves like other AWD setups in normal driving, but feels a touch more stable in aggressive maneuvers. Optional new radar-based cruise control and auto-braking systems impressive in brief demo runs, seem worthy safety aids once experienced.

Quietness

Base	Class Average
8	6.8

One of the quietest cars around. Solid structure free from squeaks, rattles.

Controls

Base	Class Average
8	6.7

Legible gauges, mostly sensible controls. But center dash is awash in buttons, many duplicating functions accessible from a "master" knob for display on the large, clear dashboard screen; sorting it all out takes patience. At least responsive, accurate voice control simplifies navigation use. Real time accident/traffic info a boon for commuting. Stereo plays great-sounding audio DVDs. Top-notch cabin decor, assembly.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

Base	Class Average
8	7.4

Adult head, leg room. Seats all-day comfortable, supportive in spirited cornering. Some shorter drivers may feel a bit "buried," but ample seat adjustments, tilt/telescope steering wheel help compensate.

Room/Comfort (rear)

Base	Class Average
7	5.5

Enough head clearance for all but the very tall. Fine knee room, toe space unless front seats are moved well aft. Bench seat unusually supportive, but center floor hump compromises three-abreast comfort.

Cargo Room

Base	Class Average
3	4

Wide trunk extends well forward, but lacks height for really big cargo. Sickle-shape trunklid hinges are covered, but eat up space; most rivals have compact strut-type hinges. Rear seatback has small pass-through but doesn't fold. Average cabin storage.

Value within Class

Base	Class Average
7	5.9

RL is a Recommended pick for its sporty demeanor and smart, efficient engineering, plus standard all-wheel drive, handsome interior, and Acura's reputation for reliability and resale value. The new Technology Package adds worthwhile safety assets, but like-priced rivals offer the V8 power and high nameplate prestige that resonate more with many buyers in this class.

Total Score