2004 Acura 3.5 RL

For 2004, the RL receives a variety of interior enhancements that lengthen its list of standard features. The most notable of these is the addition of XM(r) Satellite Radio. While some of its competitors are beginning to offer XM Satellite Radio as optional equipment, the RL is the only luxury sedan to include XM as standard equipment. To complement the addition of XM Satellite Radio, the RL's standard Acura/Bose Music System has been enhanced, with two additional, door-mounted speakers and retuned amplifiers to provide even better sound reproduction. The 6-disc CD changer has been moved to the dash from the trunk for added convenience. A standard OnStar communications system provides drivers with 24-hour voice access to a live OnStar advisor, who can provide emergency assistance. An available OnStar route guidance concierge and a Virtual Advisor feature allow the driver to obtain news updates and sports scores and even listen to email using a hands-free, voice-activated Internet connection.

The 2004 RL comes standard with leather seating surfaces, heated front seats and more.

And while the RL has offered the Acura satellite-linked navigation system as a factory-installed option on previous models, 2004 marks the first year that it will be included as standard equipment on all models sold in the 48 contiguous states. This system features a variety of new and improved features, the foremost being a new voice recognition system that recognizes 130 commands. Other enhancements over the previous generation system include quicker calculation speeds, enhanced graphics and a larger database that now includes over 7 million points of interest. We put it to the test and it does seem to be one of the most able nav systems we've used to date.


In addition to the new technology, the 2004 RL receives a host of interior trim enhancements including a redesigned steering wheel, gauge panel and center console, along with new brushed metal and chrome interior accents, and a wood shifter knob.


The body carries over from 2003 with styling that dates back several years and features a prominent, pentagonal grille and high, wide shoulder lines for a distinctive Acura appearance. Although the car is starting to look a little dated, if not generic, we still find it attractive in a conservative "I'm a 52 year-old dentist" sort of way. Again, boring is certainly better than stupid in the luxury arena.


In the end, we'd like the RL better if it had a V-8 whose power was routed to the rear wheels. But, it doesn't have these traits and that's all right. The RL remains a good value in the luxury sedan market with every appointment that one would need in a car of this size. (www.acura.com)