2008 Acura RL: Road Test
2008 Acura RL ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $46,280 -$53,700
- Invoice: $41,560 -$48,212
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Acura RL
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2008 Acura RL includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Acura RL from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Acura RL, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Acura RL help you decide if a 2008 Acura RL is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 7 |
Despite being a somewhat heavy sedan that only has a V6 engine, our test RL did 0-60 mph in 7.0 seconds. That's almost on par with some V8 rivals, but RL can't quite match their highway passing punch. The transmission shifts smoothly and responds quickly, particularly with the manual shift paddles.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.7 |
In Consumer Guide testing, an RL averaged 17.0 mpg in mixed city/highway use that included gas-eating performance tests. Another example averaged 19.3 mpg with more highway driving. Acura recommends premium-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.6 |
Remarkably supple. Only the sharpest bumps filter through.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 7.1 |
Assured and reassuring, with accurate steering, firm suspension, strong brakes, and traction-enhancing AWD. The last behaves like other AWD setups in normal driving but feels a touch more stable in aggressive maneuvers.
QUIETNESS
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 7.1 |
All noise sources are well controlled in the RL. Its stiff body structure provided squeak- and rattle-free driving.
CONTROLS
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 6.2 |
The gauges are large and clearly lit. The 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 the responsive, accurate voice control simplifies navigation use.
DETAILS
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 7.5 |
RL provides the top-notch cabin decor and assembly quality expected in this class of vehicles.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 7.4 |
The seats are all-day comfortable and very supportive in spirited cornering. Most adults will find sufficient headroom and legroom. Some shorter drivers may feel a bit "buried," but ample seat adjustments and a standard tilt and telescopic steering wheel help compensate.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 5.4 |
Enough head clearance for all but the very tall. There's fine kneeroom and foot space unless the front seats are moved well aft. The bench seat is unusually supportive, but the center floor hump compromises three-abreast comfort.
CARGO ROOM
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 3 | 4.1 |
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. The rear seatback has a small pass-through but doesn't fold. Cabin storage is unexceptional.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.5 |
RL shines for its sporty demeanor and smart, efficient engineering, plus standard all-wheel drive, a handsome interior, and Acura's reputation for reliability and resale value. The Technology Packages add worthwhile safety and convenience features, but like-priced rivals offer the V8 power and higher nameplate prestige that resonate more with many buyers in this class.
Total Score
| Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 71 | 69.6 |
Total Score: 71
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.
