2012 Acura RL Performance

Reviewers love the 2012 Acura RL’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), which makes the RL surprisingly nimble.

While the RL lacks the sporty aspirations of cars like the BMW 5-Series, it’s just as powerful as many of its six-cylinder rivals. Still, the lack of a V8 option means that power-hungry shoppers will probably want to look elsewhere.

• "RL's ride is comfortable and composed, without float or wallow." -- Consumer Guide 
• "Thanks to the SH-AWD system, the RL is one of the more entertaining choices in the segment." -- Edmunds 
• "For everyday driving, the … 300-horsepower V6 performs admirably, matches the EPA's fuel economy estimates, and delivers plenty of refined momentum for mingling with lead-footed commuters." -- Kelley Blue Book

Acceleration and Power

The RL is not the quickest luxury large car, but reviewers generally note that its 300-horsepower, 3.7-liter V6 provides enough power to remain competitive with V6-powered rivals. Power delivery is smooth, and reviewers love the RL’s standard all-wheel drive system. Still, rivals like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, BMW 5-Series and Infiniti M all offer V8 engines if you want more power.

While some competitors have more gears, critics don’t complain about the RL’s six-speed automatic transmission. According to the EPA, the 2012 Acura RL gets 17/24 mpg city/highway.

• "Could use more power." -- Car and Driver 
• "From a stop, and under way, RL is acceptably eager, but never thrilling. The available power is augmented by excellent throttle response and a smooth, responsive transmission." -- Consumer Guide 
• "The RL's V6 engine revs smoothly and provides respectably quick acceleration." -- Edmunds 
• "Power is on par with cars such as the Lexus GS 350 but arrives at higher rpm and, as a result, makes the RL feel relatively sluggish when starting from a standstill. ... Serving to offset any engine and transmission deficiencies is Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), technology that makes the RL sure-footed in inclement conditions and a delight on twisty roads.” -- Kelley Blue Book 

Handling and Braking

The Acura RL’s all-wheel drive system gives it impressive road grip, which reviewers appreciate. Many say that the RL strikes a nice balance between comfortable and sporty handling, but if you’re looking for a four-door sports car, the RL may come up a bit short. Additionally, a handful of reviewers dislike the RL’s speed-sensitive steering, which gets mixed reviews for its lack of road feel. Its wide turning circle can also make the RL tricky to maneuver in tight places like parking lots.

• "The strong, fade-free brakes offer controlled stops." -- Consumer Guide 
• "The ride quality is balanced between luxurious compliance and sporty agility." -- Edmunds 
• "SH-AWD vectors torque front-to-back and side-to-side when throttle is applied, providing a sporty feel and confident handling, particularly in bad weather.” -- Motor Trend 
• "Braking is usually a worry-free endeavor, though we did notice a slight loss in effectiveness after an afternoon of spirited driving.” -- Kelley Blue Book