Acura RL: Difference between revisions

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[[File:2009-2011 Acura RL -- 06-06-2011.jpg|thumb|right|2009–2010 Acura RL (USA)]]
 
For the 2009 model year, the RL received aan extensive [[facelift (automobile)|mid-model change]] (MMC), and made its introduction at the [[Chicago Auto Show]] on February 6, 2008, billed as "the most extensive Acura MMC ever". The new sedan was designated KB2 in the VIN codes, differentiating it from the 2005–2008 KB1 chassis VIN code. The revised sedan was released on July 1, 2008, to dealerships. The engine wasis upgraded to 3.7 liters with {{cvt|300|hp|kW|0}}. While on paper, the engine may seem to be the same unit as shared with the [[Acura MDX]], it is actually a variant that introduces, for the first time ever on an SOHC Honda [[V6]], an implementation of the Honda [[VTEC]] variable valve train technology on both intake and exhaust for improved horsepower and torque. Heretofore, Allall previous SOHC Honda [[V6 engine|V6]] engines with VTEC used the technology on the intake side only.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://acuranews.com/channels/acura-automobiles/archive/2009/releases/2009-acura-rl-powertrain?query=rl|title=Acura Media Newsroom: 2009 Acura RL - Powertrain|publisher=Hondanews.com|access-date=2009-04-28|archive-date=2014-11-01|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141101013029/http://acuranews.com/channels/acura-automobiles/archive/2009/releases/2009-acura-rl-powertrain?query=rl|url-status=dead}}</ref> Engine emissions were reduced to meet the stricter [[United States Environmental Protection Agency|U.S. Environmental Protection Agency]] (EPA) TIER 2 – BIN 5 and [[California Air Resources Board]] ULEV-2 standards. Implementation of the SH-AWD was adjusted for earlier intervention and a greater rear-wheel bias for better handling dynamics.
 
The MMC RL suspension was upgraded with higher-rate coil springs, larger diameter anti-sway bars and stiffer bushings all around.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hondanews.com/categories/757/releases/4410 |title=Acura Media Newsroom: 2009 Acura RL - Chassis |publisher=Hondanews.com |access-date=2009-04-28 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080720042343/http://www.hondanews.com/categories/757/releases/4410 |archive-date=2008-07-20 }}</ref> The MMC RL was equipped with a new larger front anti-sway bar of hollow construction, 30&nbsp;mm diameter overall with a 6.5&nbsp;mm wall thickness, and a larger rear solid anti-sway bar, 19&nbsp;mm in diameter.<ref name="categories1">{{cite web|url=http://www.hondanews.com/categories/759/releases/4414 |title=Acura Media Newsroom: 2009 Acura RL - Specifications |publisher=Hondanews.com |access-date=2009-04-28 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080704052658/http://www.hondanews.com/categories/759/releases/4414 |archive-date=2008-07-04 }}</ref> The pre-MMC models sported a solid 29&nbsp;mm front and 17&nbsp;mm rear sway bar.<ref name="categories2006">{{cite web|url=http://www.hondanews.com/categories/759/releases/2715?archive=2006 |title=Acura Media Newsroom: 2006 Acura RL Specifications |publisher=Hondanews.com |date=2005-08-17 |access-date=2009-04-28 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100213033822/http://hondanews.com/categories/759/releases/2715?archive=2006 |archive-date=2010-02-13 }}</ref>
 
Standard 18- x 8-inch seven-spoke alloy wheels with 245/45-18 tires replaced the previous years' 17- x 8-inch five-spoke offerings for not only the Base and Tech package models, but also for the highest trim level, the ACC/CMBS equipped model. Previous years' ACC/CMBS equipped models were equipped with [Michelin PAX System] run-flat tires on 18-inch equivalent (460 mm diameter) five-spoke wheels.
 
TheInside, the front seats were revised for greater comfort and to allow a slight increase in rear leg room. The driver and passenger front seat received the same full 10-way power controlscontrol as the driver's seat. Both front seats featured active head restraint systems, and the existing seat-heating feature was supplemented by six levels of cooling ventilation. Controls for heating and air conditioning were simplified, and additional individual vent controls were added for the driver and passenger. The shift gear no longer had a gated sequence, but moved straight fore and aft like the ones in the [[Acura TSX]] and [[Acura TL]]. Simulated woodgrain trim was added to the steering wheel and the top of the shifter, to emphasize the RL's upscale aspirations compared to its less costly TL and TSX siblings.
 
Additional insulation, improved acoustic isolation windshield design, and a new implementation of the Active Noise Cancellation system (ANC) combined to make the 2009 RL's interior quieter in a variety of conditions. TheWhereas the former ANC was set to cancel out only low frequency boominess from the engine and exhaust, the MMC system, called Active Sound Control, was expanded in its range to cancel some higher frequency road and tire noise as well. Unlike its predecessor ANC, Active Sound Control was now linked to throttle position and engine RPM to provide a quieter cockpit during normal cruising, yet allowed more of the new 3.7 L engine's "muscular sound" to be heard at higher engine speeds and higher velocities.
 
An additional microphone as well as some switchable directionality was added to the HFL (Hands Free Link) and Voice Activated Navigation and Convenience controls. When the system was in "accept commands" mode, the new microphone system provided more accurate system "understanding" of the driver's voice. Extraneous sounds, such as other voices in the cabin and wind noise, were better distinguished and filtered out by the dual microphone system. Directionality was removed when an HFL voice call was established, so that all passengers could still participate in a phone call as in the pre-MMC model. The new dual microphone system used real estate in the overhead console that was previously used in the 2005 and 2006 models for OnStar control electronics. The number of voice recognition commands was increased to over 700,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hondanews.com/categories/757/releases/4409 |title=Acura Media Newsroom: 2009 Acura RL - Interior |publisher=Hondanews.com |access-date=2009-04-28 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080906203808/http://www.hondanews.com/categories/757/releases/4409 |archive-date=2008-09-06 }}</ref> up from 560<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hondanews.com/categories/757/releases/2075 |title=Acura Media Newsroom: 2005 Acura RL Interior Part 2 |publisher=Hondanews.com |date=2004-08-31 |access-date=2009-04-28 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100709212433/http://www.hondanews.com/categories/757/releases/2075 |archive-date=2010-07-09 }}</ref> previously.