2005 Acura RL
Manufacturer: Acura Part number: 100444153
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- The 2005 Acura RL offers one of the richest blends of technologies in a car today.
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CNET editors' review
2005 Acura RL price range: $49,670.00
- Reviewed by: Brian Cooley
- Edited by: Lindsey Turrentine
- Reviewed on: 05/11/2005
The good: Navigation system shows live traffic conditions; sophisticated digital audio system; voice recognition covers many functions; Bluetooth hands-free system; all of the above come standard.
The bad: Hard-to-learn center console screen interface; no backup camera or DVD video.
The bottom line: The 2005 Acura RL offers one of the richest blends of technologies in a car today.
The star of the Acura RL is its GPS navigation system with NavTraffic live traffic data in 20 major U.S. metro areas. Instead of showing you the same route you probably travel all the time, the RL displays accidents, road repair, and other impediments ahead live on the nav screen, making this navigator much more compelling than systems that just show you a map. Versions of this system that will actively reroute around traffic problems are still in the offing, but at least know why you're stuck in traffic. Given the fact that consumer uptake of conventional GPS nav systems in cars has been pretty abysmal, we think this could be what consumers are waiting for to make GPS a must-have.
The RL's navigation screen layout typically shows an overview map on the left 60 percent of the display and turn-by-turn directions on the right-hand 40 percent. Especially nice are "bird's-eye" animations of your next turn, merge, or exit. The system also gives you the usual verbal prompts. The NavTraffic data service is included for one year with a new RL; after that, you can either add it to an XM Radio subscription for $3.99 per month or get NavTraffic alone, without XM service, for $9.99 per month. The first year of XM satellite radio is also included with the purchase of a new RL.
The RL's LCD is a bright, eight-inch unit, mounted vertically and recessed slightly at the top end of the center console. This placement seems to keep the display from washing out in sunlight or under bright lights, and it keeps glare to a minimum. Image quality is very good, with fewer jaggies and less pixelation than we've seen in other cars of this class.
Unfortunately, the RL's unique--and uniquely frustrating--user interface mars its otherwise appealing tech package. Six buttons and a multifunction knob on the console guide you through the RL's menus. With those controls, you navigate an onscreen interface unlike anything found on computers, cell phones, or even ATMs, and that isn't a good thing. We spent three days with this car and never felt comfortable clicking around. It might help if the LCD were a touch screen, but it sits too far back in the dash for that to be ergonomically practical.
One antidote to this Achilles' heel is the RL's pervasive voice-recognition system, which lets the driver control navigation, climate, audio, and other settings by voice. In our tests, the system generally performed well and became our preferred method of inputting map destinations.
The Acura RL's Bluetooth setup for hands-free calling is straightforward, but oddly, you can perform the setup via voice command only. As with all Bluetooth-equipped cars, we recommend you talk to the dealership service department to check compatibility with your specific wireless phone before buying the car. Once paired to the car, your phone will show various status messages on a minidisplay embedded below the speedometer, rather than interrupting the main LCD information. This is a smart interface choice by Acura. In fact, that same ergonomic idea is seen in the small helper display above the main LCD, which shows useful information such as the time, the radio frequency, and the thermostat setting, all without having to interrupt the main LCD, which is probably busy with navigation information.
The 2005 Acura RL's audio system embraces the new DVD-Audio trend in car audio. Incorporating Bose CenterPoint technology, the system lets you play 5.1 DVD surround sound with excellent spatial positioning. There are 10 speakers onboard, driven by a 280-watt, six-channel amp.
In the invisible tech department, Acura's active noise-cancellation system is particularly intriguing. The RL samples road noise via two headliner-mounted microphones, then uses the sound system to cancel the same frequencies. This system works the same way noise-canceling headphones do, and Acura says that the system allowed it to the cut back on the amount of heavy, bulky sound deadening material the company had to stuff into the doors and the body panels of the RL.
Acura has taken a high-tech approach to maintenance and customer support via a system called AcuraLink. Using the same XM satellites that deliver audio and traffic data, your RL can receive diagnostic support, intelligent maintenance reminders, and on-demand tutorials to help you learn the car's various systems. Since AcuraLink is integrated with the car's Bluetooth hands-free system, the driver can respond to service prompts and messages with one-touch dialing either to reach an Acura dealer to schedule service or to get Acura roadside assistance--providing they've set up a Bluetooth phone with the car.
On top of AcuraLink, the RL also comes standard with OnStar telematics and a one-year complementary subscription to its Safe & Sound service, which includes remote door unlocking, air bag deployment notification, stolen vehicle locator assistance, and emergency roadside assistance. The RL's bumper-to-bumper and power train warranties both cover four years/50,000 miles--somewhat skimpy coverage compared to the power train warranties on competing Lexus and Infiniti vehicles.
User reviews
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Amazing technology in a superb performance vehicle
by pcmendy on May 14, 2005
Pros: keyless entry memorizes customized driving environment, spectacular sound system, ease of use for technology
Cons: back seat and trunk a tad smaller than competitors
Summary: I spent a huge amount of time comparing the competitors in this category (Audi A6, BMW5, Mercedes E350, Lexus GS) and the Acura RL wins hands down. The value (it ...
Summary: I spent a huge amount of time comparing the competitors in this category (Audi A6, BMW5, Mercedes E350, Lexus GS) and the Acura RL wins hands down. The value (it comes without options fully loaded) is excellent and the technology integrates seamlessly into your "drive-flow". The interface is easy to use and it is rare that there isn't a dash button for what you need. You rarely have to joy-stick down into deep menu levels (only to customize settings). The ability to customize seat settings, mirrors, sound system and climate preferences and then have them implemented when you enter the car keylessly is delightful, especially if your tastes differ from those of your wife. The navigation system is right-on and the ability to "see" the traffic situation for your entire trip to work before you pull out of your garage is extraordinarily helpful. The 10 speaker Bose sound system with 5.1 channel DVD audio is impressive. The salesman described the car as a perfect sound chamber that drives and he wasn't far off the mark. I haven't gotten my blue tooth phone yet, so I can't comment first hand, but the capabilities for phone integration are impressive. Couple all this with an amazing performance vehicle (see Road and Driver for these details) and legendary Acura/Honda reliability and this car is the clear winner in the category of luxury performance sedan.
13 out of 13 users found this user opinion helpful.
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A Tech Work Of Art
by DCRider on May 21, 2005
Pros: Everything but the price.
Cons: The price, the price, and, uh, the price!
Summary: Since day one (middle of last October), this car has been a winner. Not one problem. Not one disappointment. A technological masterpiece and a crowd gatherer, this is the vehicle ...
Summary: Since day one (middle of last October), this car has been a winner. Not one problem. Not one disappointment. A technological masterpiece and a crowd gatherer, this is the vehicle that has a new BMW owner who parks near me crying over his lease.
Wouldn't trade it for 2 Lexus' and an Infiniti. Acura's best vehicle yet.3 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Definitely a Geekmobile!
by imani_technology on May 15, 2005
Pros: The SH-AWD really provides impressive cornering ability. The NavTraffic system is very useful in the DC area. Bluetooth-based Handfree Link works as advertised.
Cons: I would like a slightly bigger trunk. Turning radius is a little large. Seats that cool as well as heat would be nice.
Summary: It has been a pleasure owning this car for the past month. I haven't had an ounce of trouble from it. I'm still impressed with the level of ...
Summary: It has been a pleasure owning this car for the past month. I haven't had an ounce of trouble from it. I'm still impressed with the level of standard features for the price. Of course, the SH-AWD system makes the car somewhat heavy and it increases fuel consumption, so people should be warned about that when considering this car.
When it comes to the technological goodies in the car, the user interface is not perfect, but it is much more user-friendly than on some other cars. The iDrive-type Interface Dial is more of an option than a necessity. Voice commands work well, as do the "old-fashioned" buttons for turning on the climate control, radio, etc. Anyone who has driven a recent Honda or Acura should have an easy transition to this car.
As far as the drive is concerned, the RL is somewhere between the quiet-as-death Lexus GS and the aggressively sporty Infiniti M. Don't expect this RL to feel cushiony soft and smooth like its predecessor.
The NavTraffic system works well if you are fortunate enough to live in one of the 20 supported metro areas. The adage, "a picture is worth a thousand words" applies to this system, if you are a visual person. It's convenient to be able to look at the screen for about 1 second and get an instant overview of the traffic.
The audio system in this car is phenomenal, especially considering that this is the standard system. There are systems in other cars out there that might be more capable, but this is an excellent standard-equipment system and it is well integrated into the other systems of the car such as the Handsfree Link.
Overall, the Acura RL is like a systems integration project on wheels, and those systems are integrated quite well. A true geekmobile, a gadget lover's delight.3 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Interior is too noisy.
by bobbidick on May 14, 2005
Pros: great for thoose who love gadgets. Steep learning curve, however.
Cons: Road noise excessive. OEM tires have low noise ratings and Acura refuses to replace them with tires which have a better noise rating.
Summary: Car is as advertised except for the noisy interior. Drives and handles well. Would like a shorter turn radius. Sound system is awesome. XM radio is great. No commercials. Never ...
Summary: Car is as advertised except for the noisy interior. Drives and handles well. Would like a shorter turn radius. Sound system is awesome. XM radio is great. No commercials. Never thought I'd love GPS so much. Will never buy another car without it.Voice commands are probably not worth the effort.
3 out of 4 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Great car; a techies delight!
by RBohl on May 13, 2005
Pros: Very good GPS and audio system. Comfortable, handles well in snow. Reasonably quick.
Cons: Could use slightly more room in rear. Turning circle too large. Low city MPG (so far)
Summary: I've owned an RL for six months and am very pleased with its features and performance. The car could use an inch or two extra in the rear seat, ...
Summary: I've owned an RL for six months and am very pleased with its features and performance. The car could use an inch or two extra in the rear seat, but I never sit there. Since I live in the Northeast the AWD was an important factor in my purchase, and it works well. I didn't find the GPS all that difficult to learn, but then, I'm into gadgets. One thing I don't like is that the turning circle is large and due to this the RL is difficult to parallel park, almost impossible if the space is tight. Although a rear view camera is not available, a back-up warning system is a dealer option. A three-year warrantee extension is also a reasonable (in my case) dealer option.
2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Why does CNET rate cars anyway
by hockeyfan4 on July 28, 2005
Pros: Style Comfort Engine
Cons: Can't think of many
Summary: Why does CNET rate cars. Go to the pros who know what they are talking about motor trend and car and driver. They bash great cars for there inability to ...
Summary: Why does CNET rate cars. Go to the pros who know what they are talking about motor trend and car and driver. They bash great cars for there inability to play MP3's and such, get off it.
3 out of 5 users found this user opinion helpful.
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$8000-$11000 price increase isn't justified
by crollert on May 17, 2005
Pros: NAV system, more horsepower, but the AWD is a big plus
Cons: NAV system! You have to hammer it to make power! Heavy! Needs a bigger motor! Confused identity. Soundproofing, interior "feel" seems cheap-ish.
Summary: The car is an improvement over the 04 model BUT FOR AN ADDITIONAL $8-11k (over the typical 04 deal)Acura could and should have done much more. Like stick a ...
Summary: The car is an improvement over the 04 model BUT FOR AN ADDITIONAL $8-11k (over the typical 04 deal)Acura could and should have done much more. Like stick a V-8 in there with some low-end power. The horsepower increase is nice but with the additional weight, there seemed to be no benefit in real world conditions. And you have to HAMMER this motor to make it accelerate, there's no sense of "effortlessness" about it. You shouldn't have to rev a car like this, it is out of character. AWD is a nice feature, software makes it unobtrusive while driving in the wet. Interior could be better, feels cheap in some areas. Nav system is overly complex although the traffic real time feature is very neat (at additional cost). The 2004 Nav system was easier to use.
Overall, the car's character is very confused. It can do many things well, but not as well as it should be able to do for the money. It is neither luxurious enough nor sporty enough to give it a personality. My money will probably go towards a new Cadillac.11 out of 25 users found this user opinion helpful.
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STYLISH, SECURE CAR WITH GREAT MANEUVERABILITY IN CITIES, HILLS AND FREEWAYS
by professorhone on July 19, 2005
Pros: Maneuverability, comfortable seats, highest safety ratings, superb sound system combined with beautiful and well though out interior make this a car worth owing for the long run.
Cons: Low mpg in hilly city driving. No macho roar from 0 to 40 mph - why do I care? Can't fit 3 comfortably in back. High tech stuff takes time to learn, but is helpful. No back up video. Tire noise.
Summary: Next to Toyota (Lexus)Honda has best reliability rating (See Consumer Reports) In particular see their ratings on other luxury cars. Will upgrade tires when factory tires wear out. I ...
Summary: Next to Toyota (Lexus)Honda has best reliability rating (See Consumer Reports) In particular see their ratings on other luxury cars. Will upgrade tires when factory tires wear out. I would rate this car as somewhere between a 9 and a 10, but the rating wizard puts down a 9 - close enough.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Great car!
by lrennin on January 16, 2007
Pros: Love the bluetooth
Cons: Voice recognition not very good, upkeep more expesive than predecessor
Summary: Really wonderful upgrade to the original RL. Fast,comfortable, quiet, almost every gadget conceivable and completely user friendly. Pretty good on gas but regular dealer maintenance significantly more expensive than ...
Summary: Really wonderful upgrade to the original RL. Fast,comfortable, quiet, almost every gadget conceivable and completely user friendly. Pretty good on gas but regular dealer maintenance significantly more expensive than predecessor RL.
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The Best you can find
by superlowb on September 10, 2006
Pros: It is just perfect
Cons: A little bit pricey if you can't affort it.
Summary: So far, RL is the best I can see on the market. Just perfect with all the toys in this hot baby.
Summary: So far, RL is the best I can see on the market. Just perfect with all the toys in this hot baby.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Acura
- Part number: 100444153
- Bottom Line: The 2005 Acura RL offers one of the richest blends of technologies in a car today.
Basic car properties
- Body style sedan
- Trim levels Base
- Available Engine Gas
Safety Features
- Smart airbags Standard
- Antilock brakes Standard
- Traction control Standard
- Stability control Standard
- Back-up cameras Not available
- Heads-up display Not available
- Collision avoidance Not available
- Steerable headlights Not available
- Roadside assistance Standard
- Adaptive cruise control Standard
- Rain-sensitive wipers Not available
- Lane departure warning Not available
Entertainment
- 5 channel audio Not available
- HD radio Not available
- Satellite radio Standard
- Satellite video Not available
- Video entertainment system Not available
- Multizone entertainment Not available
- Connection for portable MP3 sound system Not available
- MP3 CD-enabled sound system Standard
- Media hard-disk MP3 sound system Not available
- Active noise cancelling Standard
- DIN-compatible bays Not available
- Memory card slot Not available
- USB connection Not available
Climate/convenience
- Multizone climate control Standard
- Smart (set-and-forget) climate control Not available
- Heated/cooled seats Standard
- Integrated interface (iDrive, for example) Not available
- Keyless entry Standard
- Keyless start Not available
- Remote start Not available
- Two-way security system Not available
- 120V power outlet Not available
- 12V power outlet Standard
Drivetrain Technology
- Drivetrain available all-wheel drive
- All-wheel steering Not available
- Steer by wire Not available
- Brake by wire Standard
- Drive by wire Standard
- Active suspension Not available
- Electronically controlled suspension Not available
Navigation
- GPS Navigation system - DVD data Standard
- Trip computer Standard
- Live traffic data Standard
- Touchscreen navigation Standard
- Voice activated navigation Standard
- DVD navigation system (non-GPS) Standard
Communication
- Bluetooth phone interface Standard
- Wi-Fi Not available
- Internet access - cellular Not available
- Internet access - satellite Not available
- OnStar or other roadside assistance system Standard
- Vehicle Web support Not available
- Home automation integration Standard
Manufacturer info
- Acura
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Acura products on Shopper.com
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- Website: http://www.acura.com
- Address:
Acura Client Services, Torrance, CA 90501-2746 - Phone: (800) 382-2238
- Fax: (310) 783-3535
