2008 Acura RL

The RL cruises at the top of the Acura lineup, representing the summit of Honda-produced automobiles. The Acura definition of luxury involves a heavy dose of technology - of the microprocessor kind.

A 3.5-liter, SOHC, 24-valve, 290-hp V6 equipped with VTEC variable valve timing provides seamless, smooth power. Some reviewers, however, feel it's just a bit underwhelming in a two-ton luxury cruiser. Accordingly, while the five-speed adaptive automatic transmission flawlessly provides power transitions through its paddle-shifters, the competition employs six and even seven-speed transmissions.

Acura's "Super-Handling All-Wheel-Drive" system, an engineering tour de force, intelligently directs power to the RL's four wheels. This system not only distributes power between the front and rear wheels, but also evaluates the situation at each wheel in order to direct torque accordingly. This makes for great traction control. Add Acura's stability control system into the mix, and the RL virtually locks onto the safest course.

Top-of-the-line Acura luxury envelops the interior with fine leather and wood trim in tasteful abundance. Generous legroom and a quiet environment add to the comfort. Some reviewers, however, found fault with seat support and the overflow of buttons and controls on the dash.

The optional $3,620 "technology package" includes the "Collision Mitigation Braking System." This incorporates a radar system to warn a driver of an approaching frontal collision. Once the system determines a crash is impending, it activates a warning system. At the third stage, sensing an unavoidable crash, the system tightens the front seatbelts and applies the brakes to reduce impact.

Acura technology rewards the driver with smooth, safe, competent handling under all conditions. The RL receives very high scores in the various crash tests. Some criticize its steering numbness, but the car provides precise directional control. Acura's top-of-the-line luxury car embodies all the fine engineering synonymous with that marque.