Acura unveiled a new RL for the 2009 model year and onward. The design, clearly derivative of the previous model, features what Acura calls a "new signature look" to the front fascia. A matte-silver finish wide bar across the grille is repeated at the rear end in a lip that goes across the trunk above the license plate. A lighter finish silver trim surrounds the new grille. The tail lamps combine crystal clear lenses with traditional red.

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In-dash technology includes an updated version of Acura's AcuraLink satellite navigation system featuring traffic maps and, new for 2009, weather updates via a map. The weather system, called AcuraLink Weather, receives constantly updated weather information from XM. Acura also promises improved voice recognition.

An all-new 3.7 liter V6 engine highlights performance upgrades. The 300-horsepower, 271 lb-ft. of torque SOHC motor features Honda's VTEC system. Unlike on the old 3.5L powerplant, the 3.7L units uses VTEC on both the intake and exhaust. The new V6 meets ULEV-2 emissions standards. A five-speed Sequential SportShift automatic transmission is standard. It includes new "smart" F1-style steering wheel-mounted paddles and a new straight-gate console-mounted shift lever. Also new for the 2009 model year is the availability to use the paddle shifters when the shifter is in drive, not just manual mode. The system allows the driver to up or downshift on the fly -- such as for passing maneuvers -- but will revert back to automatic mode if it detects the driver is no longer shifting.

Suspension modifications and steering upgrades are also included. The RL continues to use Acura's SuperHandling all-wheel-drive, but has more of a rear-drive bias for 2009. Newly standard for 2009 are 18 inch, seven-spoke alloy wheels wrapped in Michelin tires. They replace 17 inch wheels. Acura says that the 2009 RL challenges "the most capable German and Japanese sports sedans."

The interior again follows the same basic design themes set by the previous model. A new Active Sound Control noise abatement system is standard. Perforated, heated and ventilated seats are standard and, for 2009, both front seats feature 10-way power adjustability.

On the safety front, active head restraints are also newly standard.