2009 Acura RL

The 2009 Acura RL is a midsize car that can seat up to five people. It’s meant for small families that need a midsize sedan with great crash-test scores or drivers who want a car that’s packed with standard features. The RL is one of the sportier cars in the segment with good handling thanks to an advanced all-wheel-drive (AWD) system and a firm suspension that allows limited body roll. With excellent build quality and premium interior features, the RL also has an upscale cabin that cocoons passengers in luxury. And Acura sells this car with advanced tech features that are intuitive and easy to use.

The RL stands out in the midsize segment because of its standard AWD system, great crash-test scores, lengthy list of standard features, advanced tech features, and upscale cabin. Keep in mind, though, it trails key rivals when it comes to engine performance, fuel economy, and cargo capacity. Unlike a lot of its competitors, the RL is only available with a 3.7-liter V6 engine. While the V6 brings a good amount of performance, some rivals are available with more powerful V8 engines. With a combined fuel economy rating of up to 18 mpg combined, it also trails rivals that are available with more efficient engines. Lastly, the RL’s trunk has 13.1 cubic feet of cargo space, which is a low figure for the segment.

Acura RL Changes for 2009

• More powerful V6 engine.

• Revised suspension.

• Refreshed exterior styling.

Where the RL Sits in the 2009 Acura Lineup

Acura’s vehicle lineup includes cars and SUVs such as the RDX. The RL is the largest car in Acura’s lineup, sitting above the TSX and TL.

2009 Acura RL vs. the Competition

A midsize sedan such as the RL is an ideal choice for shoppers who need a car that has advanced tech features, a premium cabin, and a comfortable ride. The RL competes with these rivals:

• Lexus ES: Plush ride, lavish interior, well-equipped trims, smooth V6 engine, and great crash-test scores.

• BMW 5 Series: Athletic handling, roomy wagon body style, comfortable seats, premium interior materials, and an available 360-horsepower V8 engine.

• Infiniti M35: Muscular exterior styling, sporty handling, roomy seats, lengthy list of luxury features, and a standard 303-horsepower V6 engine.

What’s the Best 2009 Acura RL Trim for You?

Which Trim Is the Best Value

With features such as a moonroof, heated exterior mirrors, automatic headlights, a 10-speaker Bose audio system, and a 6-disc CD changer, the base RL is well-equipped with modern features. Its list of standard equipment also includes satellite radio, dual-zone automatic climate control, power windows and door locks, keyless entry, Bluetooth, cruise control, a tilt-and-telescoping steering column, ambient interior lighting, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather upholstery, and 10-way power-adjustable front seats.

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Best Trim for Fuel Economy

The RL has a 3.7-liter V6 engine that makes 300 horsepower, a 5-speed automatic transmission, and AWD. It can get up to 18 mpg combined in this configuration.

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Best Trim for Cargo Space

The RL has up to 13.1 cubic feet of cargo space in its trunk.

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Top-of-the-Line Trim

The range-topping RL Technology Package with CMBS is the best option for maximum luxury. It has forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, wood trim, Bluetooth, satellite radio, heated and ventilated front seats, adaptive headlights, dual-zone automatic climate control, navigation, a 10-speaker Bose audio system, a 6-disc CD changer, a moonroof, heated exterior mirrors, ambient interior lighting, leather upholstery, and 10-way power-adjustable front seats.

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Should I Buy an Older Acura RL Instead?

The 2009 RL is in its second generation, which was introduced with the 2005 model. Any older second-generation model (2005-2012) will be broadly similar to the 2009 RL. You could therefore save money by purchasing a used RL that’s older than the 2009 model.

You can find a used Acura RL with Carfax used car listings. Each used car comes with a free Carfax vehicle history report.

Research the RL from other model years