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Review of the 2009 Acura RL

2009 Acura RL

Price Range $46,680 to $54,100

suitable for: Diapers
School
Teens

16
City MPG

22
Hwy MPG

5 Seats
2 Rows
2 Latch Connectors
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Interior

The RL’s interior is a subtle blend of neutral colors and textures that creates a peaceful haven. At least until the kids get into it. Wood trim and brushed metal adorn the dash and instrument panel, and the rich leather seats are both heated and cooled, and they adjust in 10 directions at the touch of a button. The steering wheel has controls for cruise control, Bluetooth and the audio system. The voice-recognition system allows you to get directions from the navigation system and adjust the climate controls. Of course, you can also do that with a knob on the center stack, too. The systems are really easy to figure out, especially considering all the options that are available. A USB input allows you to listen to music from an iPod or “memory stick,” and the Bose stereo system sounds great whether you’re using the six-disc CD changer, XM Satellite Radio or an MP3 player.

In the front, there are two cupholders. A two-level center console houses the AUX and USB inputs as well as a charging point, so all your electronics and cords are kept out of sight. Of course, that means you won’t have room for a purse or much else but a pack of wipes up front. The interior is quiet, with some noticeable engine noise but very little noise from the road. Which is all the better to listen to the great stereo, right?

The backseat of the RL is roomier than last year’s and fit three kids in booster seats with no problem. In the outboard seats especially my booster seats fit perfectly with no tilting or sliding. While my 8-year-old had no issues at all with the seat belts, my 5-year-old struggled with finding just the right angle to push his belt into the receptor. I had to turn around more than a few times to get it for him, and it required some hand strength to do. Still, most things were a breeze in the back of the RL. A fold-down armrest provides two pop-out cupholders but no additional storage. There’s a power sunshade on the rear window and manual, retractable sunshades in the rear doors. Vents in the back of the center console cool the folks in back. The Latch connectors are a bit buried, but not completely unreachable.

IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS THAT COUNT

Storage Compartments (Puny, Fair, Ample, Galore): Ample
Cargo/Trunk Space (Puny, Fair, Ample, Galore): Fair

shopping around: At cars.com

key interior: Features

    ● Acura Navigation System with voice control and rearview camera
    ● Heated and ventilated front seats
    ● USB audio interface
    ● Power rear sunshade and retractable rear-side window sunshades
    ● LED backlit gauges

available interior: Colors

  • Ebony

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