sorea rea blog: 2011 Acura Rl

2011 Acura Rl

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The first-generation Acura RL was a similarly rebadged version of the third-generation Honda Legend, and was first introduced into the North American market in 1996 to replace the second-generation Acura Legend. Previous to the 1996 introduction of the first generation Acura RL was the second-generation Acura Legend (1991–1995), equivalent to the second-generation Honda Legend, which in turn was preceded by the first-generation Acura Legend (1986–1990), equivalent to the first-generation Honda Legend.

2011-Acura-RL

2011 Acura RL
The current second-generation Acura RL is a rebadged version of the fourth-generation Honda Legend and was introduced into the North American market in September 2004 as a 2005 model. This iteration of the RL received an extensive mid-generational facelift for the 2009 model year.

2011 Acura RL Front Left Side

In 1996, Acura introduced the Acura 3.5RL, replacing the Legend. Known internally as "KA9", Acura dropped the Legend name when market research showed that consumers knew Acura products by their model names, "Legend" and "Integra", and did not necessarily associate the names with the manufacturer, Acura.

2011 Acura RL

The 3.5RL's longitudinally mounted V6 engine had its center-line mounted in-line with the car's axis, and not transversely (i.e., 90 degrees offset from the vehicle axis) like most other front-wheel drive cars. This longitudinal placement allowed for a smaller turning radius and easy in-town maneuverability, as well as 56/44 front/rear weight distribution.

2011 Acura RL Gets Some Small

New Acura RL 2011 Pictures

In 1999, the 3.5RL received a front and rear facelift with xenon HID headlamps, integrated foglights, bumpers hood — as well as driver and front passenger side airbags. The suspension and chassis were stiffened, and new alloy wheels were offered.

2011 Acura RL Spy Shots

2011 Acura RL Picture

New Acura RL 2011 Pictures
In 2000, a larger navigation system screen was added. Along with that larger screen was the conversion to easy-to-replace DVD map databases. In 2002, another change was given to the 3.5RL with painted lower trim and mudflaps along with redesigned alloys and a newer, sportier suspension setup. Perhaps more important was the engine which now was upgraded to produce 225 hp (168 kW) and 231 lb·ft (313 N·m) of torque along with more insulation in the engine compartment as well as the fact that OnStar was added in 2002. The 2003 and 2004 RL's received clear turn signals in the rear lights, another new wheel design, as well as various interior upgrades including new color schemes. For 2004, the navigation system came as standard as well as a redesigned center console and chrome door lock pulls.

2011 Acura RL Airbags

2011 acura rl

The 1996–2004 3.5RL's engine was the last in the Honda and Acura lineup not to use VTEC, Honda's variable valve timing system. This 3.5 L 90 degree V6 engine was internally designated as the C35A, and the last of the Honda C engine V6 engines used in Honda and Acura lineups, being replaced by the newer Honda J engine 60 degree V6 engines. The 2004 RL was also the last Acura to use the numeric designator (i.e., 3.5) for its engine displacement.