2007 Acura RL Press Kit

2007 Acura RL Press Kit

OVERVIEW

The 2007 Acura RL combines performance, technology, style and safety in an athletic luxury package that pushes the boundaries of automotive design on multiple fronts. No production car at any price has ever offered more advanced electronic technology or drive-system sophistication. And none has made its driver more connected-with real-time traffic information, personal assistance, phone communication and audio entertainment. True to form for Acura, the many advanced systems of the RL are engineered to function smoothly, efficiently and intuitively.

As part of its commitment to providing Safety Through Innovation, Acura debuts two all-new optional Technology Packages on the RL:

• RL with Technology Package includes Acura Satellite Navigation System and AcuraLink™ with Real Time Traffic, Active Front Lighting (AFL) and an upgraded wood interior
• RL with Technology Package plus CMBS™ and PAX® Tires include Acura's Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) and Michelin® PAX® Run-flat tires

CMBS uses a millimeter-wave radar unit mounted inside the front grille to detect vehicles ahead and monitor potential rear-end collisions, alert the driver when the likelihood of a collision increases, and help reduce the impact on front occupants by tightening the seatbelts and applying the brakes should a collision prove to be imminent.

The Michelin PAX System run-flat tire technology helps provide enhanced mobility and security with continuous mobility of up to 125 miles at 50 mph following a tire puncture.

RL with Technology Package plus CMBS and PAX Tires also adds the convenience of Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). Adaptive Cruise Control also uses the radar system mounted inside the front grille to measure the distance between the RL and the vehicle directly ahead. To compensate for varying traffic flow, ACC adjusts vehicle speed automatically by applying throttle and braking to maintain a consistent following interval.

The innovation built into the RL begins with the most powerful engine ever offered in a production Acura. The 3.5-liter VTEC™ V-6 engine develops 290* horsepower and 256 lbs-ft of torque. In addition to developing abundant power, the RL engine meets tough LEV2-ULEV emission standards and delivers excellent fuel economy of 18/26 mpg (city/highway).

*For the 2007 model year, all Acura horsepower and torque specifications have been updated to reflect revised Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) J1349 (Rev 8/04) net calculations that went into affect in January of 2005.

A 5-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift, F1®-style paddle shifters and Grade Logic Control sends power to the standard Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™) system, traction advantages of all-wheel drive, SH-AWD does something no other current AWD system can: increase the rotation speed of the outside rear wheel during aggressive cornering to help the car turn more effectively under power. This reduces the cornering load on the front tires to reduce understeer and improve handling balance and total cornering grip.

The RL exterior's aggressive style foreshadows the power beneath the hood. Its shape is taut and athletic, and its acceleration and cornering performance allow it to challenge the most capable German and Japanese sports sedans. Comfort, quietness and ride quality are also on a par with any competitor.

The extremely rigid Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure of the RL features extensive use of high-tensile steel and lightweight aluminum components to take construction beyond conventional safety protocols while keeping weight in check and providing a solid platform. Optimized independent front double-wishbone and independent multi-link rear geometry, large brakes and aggressive 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and tires work together to further enhance the reflexes of the RL.

The elegantly styled interior includes perforated leather-trimmed seats, fine wood accents and top-rate materials. These are complemented by the most advanced electronics available, including the Acura Satellite-Linked Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, the innovative AcuraLink™ satellite communication system with Real Time Traffic, Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), and a spectacular-sounding Acura/Bose® 10-speaker Surround Sound System. Safety is also enhanced with a standard passenger seatbelt reminder, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and side curtain airbags. These advances-and a lot more-combined in the RL make it the strongest, most powerful, best handling and most luxurious sedan Acura has ever built.

For 2007, the RL, like all Acura models will be covered by a new six year or 70,000 mile limited powertrain warranty in addition to the four-year or 50,000 mile standard bumper-to-bumper warranty.

Powertrain Features

• Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™)
• 5-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift, paddle shifters and Grade Logic Control
• 3.5-liter VTEC® V-6 engine
• 290 horsepower @ 6200 rpm
• 256 lbs-ft. of torque @ 5000 rpm
• VTEC™ (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) valvetrain
• Drive-by-wire throttle system
• Variable flow exhaust system
• 11.0:1 compression ratio
• High inertia dual-stage intake manifold
• Direct ignition system and detonation/knock control
• Computer-controlled Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
• Meets CARB LEV-2 ULEV standard
• 100,000 miles or more tune-up interval

Body and Chassis Features

• Unit body with extensive use of high-tensile steel and aluminum
• Lightweight aluminum front and rear subframes
• Heated outside mirrors with driver recognition, reverse gear tilt-down and integrated directional signals
• Independent double-wishbone front suspension
• Independent multi-link rear suspension
• Electronically controlled, speed-sensing, variable power-assist rack-and-pinion steering
• 17 x 8-inch aluminum-alloy wheels
• P245/50R17 98V high performance, all season tires
• Optional Michelin PAX Run-flat high performance, all-season tires (Included with the RL Technology Package plus CMBS and PAX Tires)
• 4-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and brake assist
• Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA®) with traction control
• Xenon High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights
• Active Front Lighting System (AFS) (Included with Technology Package)
• LED backlit gauges with progressive illumination
• Flush junction between side glass and B-pillars
• Power moonroof with tilt, auto-open/close, auto-reverse and key-off operation

Comfort & Convenience Features

• Standard rearview camera on models equipped with navigation (New for '07)
• MP3 auxiliary jack (New for '07)
• Acura/Bose® 10-speaker Surround Sound System with 6-disc CD, DVD-Audio, and DTS® changer and AM/FM tuner
• Acura Satellite-Linked Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ and Real Time Traffic (included with Technology Package)
• Optional Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) (Included with CMBS and PAX Tires)
• Active Noise Cancellation system
• Keyless Access System
• HandsFreeLink™ wireless telephone interface compatible with Bluetooth mobile phones
• Multi-information display
• GPS-linked, solar-sensing, dual-zone, dual-mode automatic climate control system
• Driver's 8-way power seat with power adjustable lumbar support
• Front passenger's 4-way power seat with power adjustable lumbar support
• Electronic tilt and telescoping steering column with driver recognition
• Power rear sunshade
• Rear side sunshades
• Remote retractable rear headrests
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel

Safety Features

• Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure
• Passenger seatbelt reminder (New for '07)
• Side impact door beams
• Optional Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) (available in the RL Technology Package with CMBS and PAX Tires)
• Impact-absorbing crumple zones (front/rear)
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with location and pressure indicators
• Driver's and front passenger's dual-stage, dual-threshold airbag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)
• Driver's and front passenger's side airbags with front passenger Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS)
• Side curtain airbags for front and rear outboard seats
• 3-point adjustable height seat belts with load limiters and front pretensioners
• 3-point seat belts at all seating positions
• Automatic Locking Retractor/Emergency Locking Retractors (ALR/ELR)
• Front head restraints adjustable for height and tilt
• Remote retractable rear seat head restraints
• LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) child-seat mounting system

MARKET SUMMARY

V-6 powered sedans are the highest volume sellers in the RL's segment. Because they represent the core of the market, Acura decided to build the best V-6 powered luxury performance sedan possible. Hence the 290-hp V-6 powered RL was created. Eschewing a
V-8, which accounts for only 15% of the vehicles sold in this market segment, meant not only that the RL would be lighter and more nimble, but also powerful and balanced.

Key 6-cylinder competitors in the RL segment include the BMW 530i, Audi A6, 3.2 Lexus GS 300, and Mercedes-Benz E350. With its SH-AWD™ system as standard equipment, the RL has a distinct advantage over each of them.

POWERTRAIN

Powering the RL is a compact aluminum-alloy 3.5-liter SOHC VTEC® V-6 that is mounted transversely. It produces 290 hp and 256 lbs-ft. of torque while meeting stringent CARB LEV-2 ULEV emissions targets. Fuel economy numbers are 18 mpg City/26 mpg Highway.

The RL comes standard with a 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift, paddle shifters and Grade Logic Control. Gears may also be shifted manually via a new multi-gate shifter located on the front center console.

The defining powertrain feature of the RL is Super Handling All-Wheel-Drive™, or SH-AWD™. The system continuously varies the torque split between the front and rear wheels, and left and right rear wheels. To help the RL arc through corners with better chassis balance and more total grip, in a turn SH-AWD™ also overdrives the outside rear wheel at a faster speed, using engine torque to help the car rotate into the turn.

BODY & CHASSIS

The RL body fits its role as a mid-luxury sports sedan perfectly with a muscular appearance and an aggressive, dynamic personality.

The unit body structure is stiff for superior handling precision, and utilizes a variety of steel grades in different areas where maximum strength is required. In addition, the hood, front fenders, trunk lid, frame, front and rear subframes, bumper beams and major suspension components are manufactured from aluminum to reduce weight. Some of these components are formed using an advanced "blow forming" process that allows intricate shapes to be created without increasing the weight of the part.

Careful attention was paid to smoothing airflow over, under and around the body, across the flush side glass and across the windshield wipers. A cowl garnish was installed at the lower part of windshield to reduce air turbulence, while an advanced exterior-mirror design also contributes to improved quietness inside the car.

The independent front double-wishbone and independent multi-link rear suspension use aluminum arms and mount on aluminum subframes. Vehicle Stability Assist® (VSA®) with traction control, large 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS and 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and tires set new standards for RL dynamic performance.

The RL features the Active Front Lighting System (AFS) (available in the RL with Technology Package). To help the driver see around corners or intersections, the left or right low beam headlight can swivel automatically up to 20 degrees outboard when certain steering angle and speed conditions are met. Xenon HID low-beam headlights, LED mirror-integrated directional signals in the exterior mirror housings and a Center High-Mounted Stop Lamp dramatically brighten visibility. Daytime running lights are standard, as is the Keyless Access System.

INTERIOR

The interior of the 2007 Acura RL is more than just luxurious, sporty, and fully equipped with comfort and convenience features. That's because its available AcuraLink™ satellite communication system includes the first ever U.S. application of real time traffic information. That means that in 44 U.S. metro areas, the RL driver can to see traffic tie-ups on major freeways in a graphic onscreen representation in real time. This allows drivers to re-route themselves to clearer traffic corridors without relying on ambiguous radio traffic reports.

Other RL interior features are equally appealing. For 2007, the innovative Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system is offered as part of the optional RL Technology Package plus CMBS and PAX Tires. When cruise control is activated, this innovative system uses radar to allow the driver to set and maintain a following interval between the RL and the car directly in front of it.

The RL interior features luxurious styling, perforated leather-trimmed seats, and dramatic LED backlit gauges with progressive illumination. Premium technologies define the interior just as it does the powertrain and chassis. These technologies include a GPS-linked, solar-sensing, dual-zone, dual-mode automatic climate control system, an Acura/BOSE® 10-speaker surround sound system with DVD-AUDIO 6-disc changer that provides 500 times the clarity of a typical CD system, MP3 and DTS capability and standard XM® Satellite Radio.

Premium features continue with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), which neutralizes low-frequency booming sounds in the interior, and HandsFreeLink™, a hands-free phone interface that is compatible with many Bluetooth® phones for a seamless cellular communication experience-in the car or away from it. Other technologies include a Multi-information display, a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with location and pressure indicators, and the Maintenance Minder system.

SAFETY

The RL earned the highest possible ratings (5-star) awarded during frontal (NCAP) and side (SINCAP) crash tests for outboard positions and rollover resistance tests conducted by the U.S. Department of Transportation's Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The RL is one of only a handful of vehicles in the history of the program to receive such high ratings in all three categories.

With the RL, Acura embraces active as well as passive safety as essential goals. Active safety features that can help a driver avoid an accident include SH-AWD™, Vehicle Stability Assist® (VSA®) with traction control, and 4-wheel disc brakes. ABS and Brake Assist also help contribute to greater driver control. HID Xenon plasma-arc low-beam headlights and the available Active Front Lighting System (AFS) contribute to superior nighttime visibility.

For 2007, a new optional RL Technology Package plus CMBS and PAX Tires adds the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) and Michelin PAX Run-flat tires. Components of this package and are not available separately.

The RL also features the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure. It is designed to help dissipate collision forces in frontal crashes, while enhancing crash protection for occupants and passengers in other vehicles.

The RL features a driver's and front passenger's dual-stage, dual-threshold airbag Supplementary Restraint System (SRS). Side curtain airbags that provide head protection for all outboard seating positions are also standard equipment. The RL also has seat sensors that monitor the weight on the front passenger's seat. These automatically turn off the passenger's front side airbag if they detect an occupant weight less than 65 lbs.

2007 Acura RL - Powertrain

POWERTRAIN OVERVIEW

The RL powertrain features a 3.5-liter V-6 engine, VTEC®, a 5-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift, paddle shifters and Grade Logic Control and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive. The crankshaft of the RL is positioned transversely (side to side) instead of longitudinally (front to rear), which allows the RL to be packaged more tightly for better handling agility, without sacrificing interior comfort.

The advanced VTEC® engine develops 290 horsepower and 256 lbs-ft of torque. Fuel economy is 18/26 estimated City/Highway and meets CARB LEV-2 ULEV requirements.

While it is as powerful as some competitive V-8 engines, the high output V-6 in the RL is lightweight for better acceleration and more nimble handling. To put the power to the ground with a high level of efficiency, smoothness and driver control, the RL comes standard with a 5-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift and paddle shifters to allow finger-tip manual operation.

To maximize available traction and to provide exceptional handling balance and responsiveness, the RL comes standard with Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™), the first and only all-wheel drive system that distributes the optimum amount of torque not only between the front and rear wheels but also between the left and right rear wheels. The system's direct yaw control makes the cornering character of the RL exceptionally neutral under power.

POWERTRAIN AT A GLANCE

Engine

• 3.5-liter, SOHC, VTEC® V-6 engine produces 290 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 256 lbs-ft. of torque at 5,000 rpm
• VTEC® (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control)
• 11.0:1 Compression ratio
• Two-piece, dual-stage intake manifold
• Direct ignition system and detonation/knock control
• Variable flow exhaust system
• Drive-by-wire throttle system
• Computer-controlled Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
• Maintenance Minder System optimizes service intervals
• 100,000 miles or more tune-up interval

Emissions/Fuel Economy

• High flow close-coupled catalytic converters plus under floor catalytic converter
• High capacity 32-bit RISC processor emissions control unit
• Meets CARB LEV-2 ULEV standard
• EPA estimated 18/26 mpg (City/Highway)

Noise, Vibration & Harshness (NVH)

• 60-degree V-angle for inherently smooth operation
• Automatically tensioned, maintenance free serpentine accessory drive

5-speed Automatic with Sequential SportShift, Paddle Shifters and Grade Logic Control

• Quick-response Sequential SportShift allows semi-manual operation
• Steering-wheel mounted manual-mode F1®-style paddle shifters
• Coordination between drive-by-wire throttle system and transmission makes for quicker, smoother shifts
• Wide gear ratio spacing for strong acceleration and good fuel economy
• Advanced shift-hold control limits upshifts during spirited driving
• Advanced Grade Logic Control System reduces gear "hunting" when driving on steep hills

Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™)

• Fully automatic, full-time traction and handling enhancing system
• Distributes torque between the front and rear wheels and between the left and right rear wheels to directly control the yaw moment of the vehicle
• Understeer is reduced when cornering
• Outer wheel capable of being overdriven during cornering by up to five percent

ENGINE ARCHITECTURE

The 3.5-liter VTEC® V-6 in the RL is the most powerful production engine in Acura's history and incorporates many of the refinements and improvements that have been developed in other Acura powerplants. The RL engine has a smooth-firing 60-degree V-angle and compact overall dimensions. Aluminum alloy construction saves weight and improves cooling, while free-breathing VTEC® cylinder heads operate four valves per cylinder.

A high inertia intake system, increased compression ratio, close-coupled catalytic converters and high flow exhaust help make the RL engine the most powerful normally aspirated 6-cylinder engine in its class.

ENGINE BLOCK

The lightweight, heat-treated die-cast aluminum-alloy block has cast-in-place iron cylinder liners. These thin-wall, centrifugal-cast iron liners help reduce the block's overall length and weight. With their rough outer surfaces, these liners bond securely to the surrounding aluminum during the manufacturing process, enhancing liner-to-block rigidity and heat transfer. The block also incorporates a deep-skirt design for rigid crankshaft support and minimized noise and vibration.

CRANKSHAFT / PISTONS / CONNECTING RODS

The forged crankshaft of the RL is equipped with revised counterweights to accommodate the weight of higher compression pistons. With their taller, reinforced crowns, these new pistons raise the compression ratio from 10.0:1 to 11.0:1. Part of the reason this elevated compression ratio is possible is an oil jet system that sprays cooling oil on the underside of the piston crowns to keep temperatures in check. New steel connecting rods are forged in one piece and then the crankshaft ends are broken, creating a lighter and stronger rod with a perfectly fitted bearing cap.

CYLINDER HEADS / VALVES

Like the TL, the RL uses cast alloy single overhead camshaft cylinder heads that incorporate tuned exhaust manifolds as an integral part of the casting. Made of pressure-cast, low-porosity aluminum, these lightweight components improve overall packaging, enhance exhaust flow and allow the optimal positioning of a primary close-coupled catalytic converter on each cylinder bank. To ensure positive sealing, the RL has a three-layer type head gasket like that of the TL. A single Aramid-fiber reinforced belt drives the overhead camshafts. The RL cylinder heads have 36mm diameter intake valves and 30mm diameter exhaust valves.

VTEC® (VARIABLE TIMING AND LIFT ELECTRONIC CONTROL)

Acura VTEC® (Variable Timing and Lift Electronic Control) is a major contributor to the engine's large gains in horsepower and torque. The system operates the 12 intake valves in two distinct modes, so that the operation of the intake valves changes to optimize both volumetric efficiency and combustion of the fuel-air mixture. At low engine speeds, the intake valves have low lift and are open a comparatively short period of time during cylinder filling. At high engine speeds where breathing is critical, the valves switch to high-lift, long duration mode to deliver the best volumetric efficiency. The VTEC™ changeover point is undetectable to the driver and occurs at 4950 rpm.

The RL uses a 3-rocker VTEC® system similar to that of the all-new MDX and TL. This configuration allows each of a given cylinder's intake valves to be controlled by its own low-speed cam lobe, allowing for staggered valve opening and lift. (By comparison, with 2-rocker VTEC, a single low-speed cam lobe controls both intake valves for each cylinder). Better mixing in the cylinders improves both combustion speed and combustion stability. When the engine reaches 4950 rpm, the powertrain control module (PCM) triggers the opening of an electric spool valve that routes pressurized oil to small pistons in the intake valve rocker arms. These pistons slide into position to lock together the three intake rockers in a given cylinder, which then follow a single high-lift, long-duration cam lobe. The intake and exhaust valve timing and duration is unique to the RL.

TWO-PIECE DUAL-STAGE INTAKE MANIFOLD

The RL uses a dual-stage intake manifold that is designed to deliver maximum airflow, to the cylinders. The 2-piece cast-aluminum manifold is also very light and saves the RL 2.6 lbs.

Working in concert with the VTEC® valve train, the induction system significantly boosts torque across the engine's full operating range. Internal passages and two butterfly valves commanded by the powertrain control module provide two distinct modes of operation.

These valves are closed at lower rpm. In this mode, the three cylinders on each bank draw air from only the nearer half of the manifold's internal chamber, or plenum. The volume of the plenum and the length of inlet passages are tuned to maximize the resonance effect, wherein pressure waves are amplified within each half of the intake manifold at certain rpm ranges. The amplified pressure waves significantly increase cylinder filling and the torque produced by the engine throughout the lower part of its rpm band. Funnel-shaped intake ports-similar to those used on racing engines-are built in at the uppermost end of each intake runner to improve airflow.

As the benefits of the resonance effect lessen with rising engine speed, the butterfly valves open at 4000 rpm to interconnect the two halves of the plenum, increasing its volume. An electric motor, commanded by the powertrain control module, controls the connecting butterfly valves. Now each cylinder draws intake air from the full plenum chamber. The inertia of the mass of air rushing down each intake passage helps draw in more charge than each cylinder would normally ingest. This phenomenon is the same effect produced by a low-pressure supercharger. The inertia effect greatly enhances cylinder filling and the torque produced by the engine at higher rpm.

DIRECT IGNITION AND DETONATION/KNOCK CONTROL

The RL power afforded by the 11.0:1 compression ratio is made possible by a powertrain control module (PCM) that monitors engine functions to determine the best spark timing. An engine block mounted acoustic detonation/knock sensor "listens" to the engine; and based on this input, the PCM retards the ignition timing incrementally to prevent potentially damaging detonation. The RL has iridium alloy-tipped sparkplugs, each with a coil unit positioned above it in the access bore.

PROGRAMMED FUEL INJECTION (PGM-FI)

The Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) system monitors the exact state of the exhaust gas and tracks multiple engine inputs including throttle position, intake air temperature, coolant temperature, intake manifold pressure, etc. Based on these inputs PGM-FI continuously adjusts and optimizes the amount of fuel delivered to each cylinder.

DRIVE-BY-WIRE THROTTLE CONTROL SYSTEM

The RL utilizes a drive-by-wire throttle system that eliminates the need for a conventional throttle cable. The system monitors various parameters like throttle pedal position, throttle valve position, road speed, engine speed and gear position, then adjusts the moment-to-moment relationship between pedal position and throttle opening. By altering the amount of "gain" between the pedal and butterfly valve, significant improvements in drivability and acceleration linearity are possible.

For smooth launches from a standing start the system has relatively little gain, so that engine response is smooth and progressive. At higher speeds, the gain increases to provide responsive acceleration for passing and hill climbing. The Sequential SportShift automatic transmission and Vehicle Stability Assist® (VSA®) with traction control are fully integrated with drive-by-wire.

CLOSE-COUPLED CATALYZERS AND VARIABLE FLOW EXHAUST SYSTEM

The exhaust manifolds of the RL are cast directly into the alloy cylinder heads to reduce weight and to put the engine's two primary catalytic converters as close as possible to the combustion chambers. The 600-cell per-square-inch, high-efficiency converters mount directly to the exhaust port of each cylinder head for extremely rapid converter light off after the engine starts. By eliminating traditional exhaust header pipes, this arrangement results in a significant weight savings.

A hydroformed 2-into-1 collector pipe carries exhaust gases to a single 350 cell-per-inch secondary converter under the passenger cabin. To balance the engine's need for proper exhaust backpressure at low speed and free flow at high speed, the exhaust system incorporates a variable flow rate feature. An exhaust pressure-operated valve in the system has two operating modes. The low speed mode has a flow rate of 130 liters per second; when the engine reaches about 4000 rpm, the exhaust pressure rises enough to open the valve, which increases the flow to 150 liters per second.

EMISSIONS CONTROL

Although the new RL powerplant has made large power advances, it has also gotten much cleaner. It now meets the tough CARB LEV-2/ULEV emissions standards, and is certified to this level of emissions performance for 120,000 miles (20,000 more than required by the current LEV standard).

Many advanced technologies contribute to this emissions performance. The cylinder head-mounted close-coupled catalysts light off quickly after engine start up, and a 32-bit RISC microprocessor in the powertrain control module (PCM) boosts computing power to improve the precision of spark and fuel delivery. Particularly right after startup, better fuel atomization is provided by high-efficiency multi-hole fuel injectors; these deliver fuel to each cylinder and direct fuel around the intake valve stems.

Current Carb* Emission Standards (gram/mi.)
Standard	NMOG*	CO	NOx	Vehicle
LEV-I LEV @ 100k	0.090	4.200	0.300	'04 3.5 RL
LEV-I ULEV @ 100k	0.055	2.100	0.300	-
LEV-2 LEV @ 120k	0.090	4.200	0.070	-
LEV-2 ULEV @ 120k	0.055	2.100	0.070	'05-'07 RL
LEV-2 SULEV @ 150k	0.010	1.000	0.020	-
ZEV	0.0	0.0	0.0	-

*California Air Resources Board

NOISE, VIBRATION AND HARSHNESS (NVH) CONTROL

With its 60-degree V-angle and compact, rigid and lightweight die-cast aluminum-alloy block assembly, the new RL powerplant is exceptionally smooth. Other factors that reduce noise and vibration are a rigid forged crankshaft, die-cast accessory mounts, and a stiff, cast aluminum-alloy oil pan.

100,000 MILES OR MORE TUNE-UP INTERVALS

The RL requires no scheduled maintenance for 100,000 miles or more, other than periodic inspections and normal fluid and filter replacements. This first tune-up includes water pump inspection, valve adjustment, and replacement of the cam-timing belt and sparkplugs.

MAINTENANCE MINDER SYSTEM

To eliminate unnecessary service stops while ensuring that the vehicle is properly maintained, the RL has a Maintenance Minder system that automatically monitors the vehicle's operating condition. When maintenance is required, the driver is alerted via a message on the Multi-information display.

The system monitors operating conditions such as oil and coolant temperature and engine speed to determine the proper service intervals. Depending on the operating conditions, oil change intervals can be extended to a maximum of 10,000 miles, potentially sparing the owner considerable money and inconvenience over the life of the car. The owner-resettable system monitors all normal service parts and systems, including oil and filter, tire rotation, air-cleaner, automatic transmission fluid, spark plugs, timing belt, coolant, brake pads and more.To prevent driver distraction, maintenance alerts are presented when the ignition is first turned on, not while driving.

5-SPEED AUTOMATIC WITH SEQUENTIAL SPORTSHIFT, PADDLE SHIFTERS AND GRADE LOGIC CONTROL

To maximize acceleration performance, fuel economy and driver control, the RL has a standard 5-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift, paddle shifters and Grade Logic Control. Mechanically related to the extremely compact transmission that made its debut in the 2003 MDX, the RL unit has upgrades and enhancements to suit the greater engine output and higher engine speeds of the RL.

Designed for low maintenance and a high level of durability, the RL transmission requires no scheduled service until 120,000 miles when operated under normal conditions. To provide strong off-the-line acceleration coupled with a relaxed, fuel-efficient cruising rpm, the unit has the widest ratio spread of any 5-speed automatic transmission in the class.

Automatic Mode

The Sequential SportShift transmission can be operated in conventional fully automatic mode via a front center console-mounted gated shifter. When in automatic mode, the transmission incorporates an advanced Grade Logic Control System and Shift Hold Control, both of which work to reduce gear "hunting" and unnecessary shifting.

Shift Hold Control keeps the transmission in its current (lower) ratio when the throttle is quickly released and the brakes are applied (as might be the case when decelerating to enter a corner). Shift Hold Control leaves the chassis undisturbed by excess shifting, ensuring that abundant power is immediately available without a downshift.

Grade Logic Control alters the 5-speed automatic's shift schedule when traveling uphill or downhill, reducing shift frequency, and improving speed control. Throttle position, vehicle speed and acceleration/deceleration are continuously measured, then compared with a map stored in the transmission computer. The Grade Logic Control System then determines when the car is on a hill; if this is the case, the shift schedule is adjusted to automatically hold the transmission in a lower gear for better climbing power or increased downhill engine braking.

Manual Mode

The Sequential SportShift transmission can be shifted into manual mode by moving the front center console-mounted selector lever laterally to a special gate to the left of the "Drive" position. The RL offers two ways to change gears when in manual mode: either by a push or pull of the shift lever, or via F-1®style paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel. A digital display in the tachometer face indicates which gear the transmission is in. To heighten control and driver involvement, special shift logic in manual mode delivers quicker, firmer shifts than in fully automatic mode.

To help protect the engine and drivetrain from damage, an array of preventative features are active when the transmission is in manual mode. In second, third and fourth, the logic changes, and the transmission ECU cuts off fuel flow to the engine if there is a possibility of over revving.

In the rare situation where the fuel cutoff alone is unable to prevent engine over revving (as could happen on a steep downhill) the transmission will upshift itself to prevent engine damage. And finally, when downshifting, the transmission won't execute a driver-commanded downshift that would send the engine beyond redline in the lower gear. The

Sequential SportShift transmission will automatically downshift to first gear as the vehicle comes to a stop, to prevent lugging away from a stop in a high gear.

5-POSITION SHIFT GATE

The RL benefits from an innovative 5-position shift gate that simplifies the operation of the transmission. It features a quiet linkage and a speed-controlled reverse lockout solenoid to prevent transmission damage. When operated in automatic mode, the transmission lets the driver choose D (1st through 5th gear) or D3 (1st through 3rd gear). Engine braking can be provided easily by moving from D to the D3 position, downshifting from 5th, 4th or 3rd gear, depending on the vehicle speed.

COOPERATION BETWEEN 5AT AND DRIVE-BY-WIRE

Both shift speed and smoothness are improved by cooperation between the drive-by-wire throttle system and the electronically controlled automatic transmission. The engine can be throttled by the engine management system during upshifts and downshifts, the function of the engine and transmission can be closely choreographed for faster, smoother shifting. As a result, the peak g's (or "shift shock") are reduced significantly during upshifts and downshifts.

SUPER HANDLING ALL-WHEEL DRIVE SYSTEM™

Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™) is an innovative all-wheel drive platform that distributes the optimum amount of torque not only between the front and rear wheels but also between the left and right rear wheels. SH-AWD™ goes a step beyond conventional all-wheel drive by actively controlling the torque delivered to each rear wheel during corning. The result is neutral, accurate steering when cornering under power that front-drive, rear-drive or conventional all-wheel-drive can't equal.

Torque splits are as follows:

• During straight-line cruising and moderate cornering below about half throttle, up to 70 percent of the torque is delivered to the front wheels.
• In full-throttle straight line acceleration, up to 40 percent of the power is sent to the rear axle.
• In hard cornering, up to 70 percent of available torque goes to the rear wheels for enhanced chassis balance. Up to 100 percent of this torque can be applied to the outside rear wheel and that wheel can be overdriven up to five percent by the acceleration device if the situation dictates.

SH-AWD™ ingeniously varies the amount of torque to the left and right rear wheels. When cornering, a planetary gear set overdrives (or accelerates) the rear wheels while individual right and left clutch packs direct torque to either or both rear wheel, faster than the average of the front wheels to dramatically enhance the cornering, steering feel, overall handling and stability of the RL. The result is class leading cornering precision as well as enhanced traction.

Direct Yaw Control System Theory

SH-AWD™ counters understeer under power with the Direct Yaw Control System. Spinning the outside rear wheel faster than the average speed of the two front wheels allows the system to use engine power to yaw the vehicle while turning. By relieving the front tires of some of the work of turning the car, the system reduces understeer and the vehicle stays balanced and controllable. In addition, with the cornering load more evenly distributed between the front and rear tires, the total cornering grip is increased. In conventional cars, cornering is created almost entirely by the steering angle of the front tires; In the RL, cornering is created by steering angle of front tires combined with the extra drive torque supplied by the outside rear tire.

This is a significant advance over conventional drive systems. To deal with high power output, front- or rear-drive systems generally use some type of limited-slip device to maintain traction under power. The linking effect of the inside and outside drive wheels in these systems resists turning, however. This is a factor that works against the front tires as they attempt to turn the car. Conventional AWD systems have a similar linking effect between the inboard and outboard tires and front and rear axles, causing a similar resistance to turning. This is part of the reason why traditional AWD systems typically lack the more nimble feel of the best two-wheel drive systems. By using drive torque to actually help turn the car, the RL can be more responsive, neutral and predictable, while simultaneously offering all of the usual benefits of all-wheel drive.

Electronic Controls and Parameters

The logic and control of SH-AWD is integrated with the RL Engine Electronic Control Unit (ECU), and Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) ECU. The Engine ECU provides engine rpm, intake manifold pressure, and transmission gear ratio data. The VSA ECU provides data on lateral g, yaw rate, wheel rotation speed and steering angle. The SH-AWD ECU monitors the status of the acceleration device and the right and left Direct Electromagnetic Clutch torque. Traction is calculated based on the information from the engine ECU. During an acceleration situation, lateral g and steering angle are used to set the torque split between the right and left rear wheels. At the same time, this data is used to control the acceleration device.

SH-AWD™ System Layout

SH-AWD™ is a full-time all-wheel drive system that requires no driver interaction for operation. A torque transfer unit is bolted directly to the front-mounted transaxle. Attached to the front wheel differential's ring gear is a helical gear that provides input torque to the transfer unit. A short horizontal shaft and a hypoid gear set within the case turn the propeller shaft ninety degrees and move it to the vehicle center line. A lightweight carbon fiber reinforced composite propeller shaft carries power to the reardrive unit.

The rear drive unit of the RL contains three planetary gear and clutch sets. Torque from the propeller shaft passes through the first clutch/planetary gearset, which is as a unit called the Acceleration device.

Output torque from the Acceleration device is carried a short distance rearward to a hypoid gear that turns the output 90-degrees and drives the rear axle shafts. A matched pair of Direct Electromagnetic Clutch systems, one on each side, send power to each rear wheel. These clutch systems can be controlled as a pair to alter the front/rear torque split; depending on the situation, the rear wheels receive between 30 and 70 percent of the total engine output. The right and left Direct Electromagnetic Clutch systems can also be controlled independently, to allow up to 100 percent of the total rear axle torque to go to only one rear wheel.

Acceleration Device

Positioned at the front of the RL rear drive unit, the Acceleration device typically passes torque rearward to the rear axle at very close to a one-to-one ratio. In cornering, however, the Acceleration device's output shaft spins faster than its input shaft.

The Acceleration assembly uses a compact planetary gearset to achieve its speed increase. Hydraulic actuators operate clutch packs that control the planetary gearset. When the input shaft is locked with the planetary gear carrier, there is no ratio change (this is the straight-line mode). During cornering, the carrier is coupled with the case, and the output shaft speed increases up to five percent. A speed sensor at the hypoid gear, downstream of the Acceleration device provides a feedback loop to the SH-AWD Electronic Control Unit to ensure that the system is working properly.

Direct Electromagnetic Clutch Systems

Located on either side of the hypoid gear that drives the rear axle, two identical Direct Electromagnetic Clutch systems control the amount of drive torque that reaches each rear wheel, and provide limited-slip differential function. An electric coil controls the pressure applied to a clutch, which slows the sun gear in a planetary gearset to modulate the torque that is sent to the wheel. The amount of torque transmitted to each rear wheel can vary continuously, between zero and 100 percent, depending on the conditions.

Under deceleration (throttle closed) while cornering, torque to the outside rear wheel is varied to change from an inward to an outward yaw moment, helping vehicle stability. A search coil sensor allows the ECU to estimate the clutch plate coefficient of friction (which changes with heat,) and then adjusts voltage sent to the electromagnetic coil that controls the clutch to compensate. To ensure that the amount of torque transmitted remains optimized as miles and wear accumulate, a coil provides a feedback loop that the ECU uses to adjust voltage to the electromagnetic clutches to compensate for potential clutch wear.

2007 Acura RL - Body

BODY DESIGN & STRUCTURE

The 2007 Acura RL combines its dynamic exterior and interior design with advanced body and chassis engineering. The result is distinctive and appealing styling, together with super maneuverability on the road. To ensure that the RL has exceptional dynamic capabilities and driving quality, it is outfitted with a lightweight and highly rigid body structure that makes extensive use of both high-tensile steel and aluminum components, and features 4-wheel independent suspension.

DESIGN CONCEPT

Acura designers wanted to create a taut and athletic shape that conveyed the performance capabilities of the RL without sacrificing comfort and capability.

To create an exhilarating, athletic sedan, the designers targeted superior dynamic performance, superb maneuverability, distinctively appealing styling, and a high level of active safety. The result is a top-flight luxury performance sedan able to compete with the Audi A6, BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E Class and others.

Design Image

Acura designers set out to give the RL a pronounced sporting persona. To help craft his image, styling cues included the following:

• Taut, athletic body design with European influence
• Aerodynamic design with low drag and high stability
• Low hood line for increased forward visibility and reduced aerodynamic drag
• Flush side glass for reduced wind noise
• Short tail for reduced aerodynamic drag and improved maneuverability

Aero Sculpture

The aerodynamic properties of the RL complement the styling, safety, dynamic performance, stability, human factors and other considerations. To achieve this high-performance exterior, the RL designers created a strong wedge shape that begins its "momentum" with the hood, continues it with a forward-mounted windshield, and finishes with a short rear overhang. Aerodynamic cabin has flush side glass for reduced drag and wind noise. Along with outstanding aero performance, it is designed to look like it moves fast.

Packaging

	2007 Acura RL	2006 Audi A6 3.2 with AT	2007 BMW 530i with A/T	2007 Infiniti M35	2006 Lexus GS 300 Sedan	2007 Mercedes-Benz E320
Drive system	SH-AWD	AWD	RWD	RWD	RWD	RWD
AWD system	Std.	Std.	Opt.	Opt.	Opt.	NA
Length, in.	193.6	193.5	191.1	192.6	190	189.7
Width, in.	72.6	71.3	72.7	70.8	71.7	71.7
Height, in.	57.1	57.5	57.8	59.4	56.1	57.0
Wheelbase, in.	110.2	111.9	113.7	114.2	112.2	112.4
Track, Front/Rear, in.	62.0/62.4	63.5/63.7	61.3/62.3	60.2/60.8	60.4/60.6	61.4/61.1
Curb weight, lb.	4,012	3,957(AWD)	3,461 3,671 (AWD/AT)	4,004 (AWD)	3,759 (AWD)	3,955 (AWD)
Weight distribution, %, F/R	58/42	57/43	52/48	55/45	55/45	51/49

The packaging goal for the RL was to create a taught body with short overhangs and wide interior dimensions for enhanced comfort and convenience.

Controlling the weight of the RL was important to ensure maximum acceleration, road holding and braking performance so lightweight materials and weight-saving design were key.

BODY STRUCTURE

Light Weight

Producing a lightweight and rigid unit body was essential to making the RL a premium luxury sport sedan.

This is because light weight improves every aspect of dynamic performance and fuel economy, and a rigid structure improves ride and handling.

Specific RL strategies that were employed to reduce body mass include:

• Aluminum hood, fenders, trunk lid, and trunk lid frame
• Aluminum front and rear subframes, suspension arms and bumper beams
• Magnesium cylinder head covers and seat frames
• Carbon fiber reinforced composite drive shaft

Structural Solidity

The Acura RL was also designed with the goal of creating an automobile body, which provides world-class safety. It was engineered to comply with the latest FMVSS 208 occupant crash protection standard and FMVSS301 fuel system integrity standard.

One of the most difficult test modes to achieve is the side collision that models the impact of a RL being struck from the side by an SUV or a pickup. To meet these important benchmarks, engineers increased the side section of the frame to comply with new collision regulations (see Safety section for more information). They also chose different material specifications to provide the desired level of stiffness and strength for critical areas, without adding unnecessary weight.

The use of aluminum for the front and rear bumper beams, hood, trunk lid and front fenders saves 40 lbs compared to steel

• Extremely strong Grade 80 high-tension steel is used for the side sills, under-floor spars, and in the impact-absorbing crumple zones at the front of the side frames
• Strong high tension Grade 45 steel is used on the front shock mounts, areas of the front passenger-compartment bulkhead, areas of the front subframe mounts, and rear structure
• 31 percent of the body is constructed with Grade 60 steel

The overall result is a high level of bending and twisting rigidity for the unit body combined with enhanced crashworthiness with no additional weight penalty.

ALUMINUM COMPONENTS

The lightweight aluminum hood, front fenders, trunk and trunk frame are formed with an innovative process called blow forming to achieve complex and pleasing shapes with a high level of quality, low cost and light weight. First the raw aluminum panels are placed in a heated mold and warmed to 500 degrees Celsius. Then they are forced into the mold with a high-pressure gas. The result is perfectly formed complex shapes that are not possible with traditional stamping methods.

For rigidity, the trunk lid is composed of an inner structural panel and an outer body panel. This 2-piece aluminum structure is crimped together with a self-piercing rivet that makes the lid highly durable.

DOOR CONSTRUCTION

Safety in side collisions, along with the pursuit of a quality door-closing sound, drove engineers to design all-new door structures. Beams were applied for side-impact safety in both the front and rear doors.

There is no mistaking the quality sound a well-engineered door makes as it is closed. By positioning door's center of gravity (the height at which its weight is centered) at the same height as the latch, audible vibration and thus the closing sound can be improved. For improved entry and exit the rear doors now open 80 degrees.

TRUNK OPENING

The trunk opening is reinforced to retain rigidity while providing a large, low opening for easier loading. Inside, the opening is finished to hide the hinges and to cover the rain gutters (see Interior section for more information).

WINDSHIELD WIPERS

To decrease wind noise levels and improve appearance, the RL incorporates hidden pivots and wiper arms for its speed-sensing, variable intermittent windshield wipers. The pivots are hidden underneath the trailing edge of the hood line to reduce noise levels and enhance appearance.

The use of a hidden windshield wiper pivot is a world's first. The hidden pivot improves aerodynamic efficiency and reduces visual distraction when the wiper reverses direction. A new cowl garnish below the windshield wipers also reduces wind noise, contributing to a significant reduction in wind noise.

Another advantage of hiding the wiper pivot is enhanced outward visibility. Hiding the pivot increases the passenger's forward visibility.

AERODYNAMICS

The highly efficient aerodynamic drag figure of 0.29 for the Acura RL pays dividends in the form of lower wind noise, improved fuel economy, increased performance, and enhanced stability on the highway. An air dam reduces front lift force. An engine undercover and floor undercovers further smooth airflow, as do muffler covers and a rear diffuser, which help rear differential's cooling and result in rear lift force reduction.

ACTIVE FRONT LIGHTING SYSTEM

Models equipped with either RL with Technology Packages feature an Active Front Lighting System (AFS). It also has Xenon High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights, 55-watt fog lights, and daytime running lights.

In the Active Front Lighting System, the left low-beam unit can swivel left, and the right low beam can swivel right, to improve illumination while cornering, or to illuminate around the corner of an intersection. This allows the driver advance warning if a pedestrian, object or animal is in the way. Each light can swivel up to 20 degrees outboard, with the amount determined based on the vehicle speed and steering input.

The system uses the following components:

• Steering angle sensor
• Vehicle speed sensor
• Reverse switch (cancels AFS when car is backing up)
• Control switch (turns off AFS at driver's discretion)
• Instrument panel warning light (illuminates when AFS is turned off)
• Control unit swivels the headlight low beam projector unit via a gearbox and step motor

AFS swivels either the left or right headlight (not both together) when the following conditions are met:

• Steering angle is over 12 degrees
• Vehicle speed is 5 mph or higher (left-hand turns only)
• Right-hand headlight will swivel even if vehicle is stopped
• Swivel cancels when speed drops to 3 mph (left-hand turns only)

XENON HIGH-INTENSITY DISCHARGE (HID) HEADLIGHTS

Traditional headlight bulbs illuminate a tungsten filament inside a sealed bulb containing halogen gas. Xenon HID low-beam bulbs, however, use a high voltage current that passes between two electrodes to create a plasma arc. This accounts for their brightness and "daylight-like" illumination.

They are also superior to tungsten-halogen bulbs in lumens, or lighting power. The Xenon HID bulbs on the RL provide a lighting pattern that is both longer and wider than that of traditional non-Xenon bulbs In addition, the tungsten-halogen high beams provide a wide illumination spread. The low beams on the RL have a brightness of 825 lumens. For the driver, these advances mean greater illumination for enhanced confidence.

Additionally, the Xenon HID low-beam headlight bulbs have a projected life span of 1,500 hours compared to 1,000 hours for a normal bulb.

LED LIGHTING

The RL also features advanced Light Emitting Diode (LED) lighting systems. These include LED mirror integrated directional signals, each of which features bright LEDs to alert motorists who are alongside when the RL driver is planning to change lanes or make a turn.

Each taillight/brake light assembly has an array of 28 LEDs. The taillights use 14 LEDs, arranged as the perimeter of a circle, and the brake lights use an additional 14 LEDs. When the brakes are applied, all 28 LEDs light up, illuminating the entire area.
The center high-mounted stop lamp (CHMSL) also uses LEDs. The projected service life of the RL LEDs is 2,000 hours.

DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHTS

Similar to the all-new 2007 MDX, the RL features Daytime Running Lights (DRL).

5 MPH BUMPERS

To minimize repair costs in minor, low-speed collisions, the RL has 5-mph bumpers front and rear.

NOISE VIBRATION AND HARSHNESS (NVH) CONTROL

The elimination of undesirable noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) was of primary concern to development engineers. Virtually everything that could be the source of these traits was scientifically reviewed and modified during the planning and prototype phases.

Acura wanted to provide RL clients with outstanding horsepower, an innovative all-wheel drive system and large-diameter high-performance tires for advanced handling characteristics. At the same time, they wanted the car to remain refined and nearly silent for highway cruising and have a stirring high-performance engine sound during acceleration. These attributes, along with low NVH and light overall vehicle weight, were achieved through the application of innovative technology.

The new RL dramatically reduces high frequency and middle-frequency noise attenuation. Road noise attenuation is also significantly improved over both smooth and rough roads. As part of the mission to control weight, Acura used lightweight materials wherever possible in the sound-absorbing package, including lightweight sound insulators instead of traditional heavier materials. In addition, the RL represents Acura's first use of an Active Noise Cancellation system® (ANC®). See Interior section for more information.

Main RL NVH advancements:

Drivetrain

• Engine mounting system including a hydraulic lower transmission mount
• Variable volume mufflers
• Hood insulator
• Engine cover and undercover

Body

• Acoustic roof lining
• Acoustic front and rear inner fender insulator with high-frequency damping materials

Flooring

• Lightweight floor insulator
• Floor undercover

Subframes

• Floating front and rear subframes with four mounting points

Interior

• ANC system for noise control (see Interior section for more information)
• Lightweight instrument panel damping materials
• Thinsulate insulation in selected areas

Trunk

• Acoustic design with side, front and lid linings

POWER WINDOWS

The side power windows on the RL are made of glass that is 5 mm thick to reduce cabin noise. Each window features an auto-open and auto-close function as well as an anti-pinch safety feature and key-off operation.

FLUSH GLASS

The Acura RL is the first car in the world to have totally flush side glass where it meets the B-pillars. Normally, a gap of about 5 mm exists between side glass and the B-pillar. But on the RL, the window guide is on the glass instead of the window frame, which allowed the gap to be eliminated. This means there is one continuous uninterrupted plane running along the front side window, across the B-pillar and all the way to the trailing edge of the rear side window. The benefit is a further reduction in wind noise and an even cleaner, high quality appearance.

EXTERIOR MIRRORS

To reduce wind rush and turbulence, exterior mirror housings need to be small and aerodynamic, without unnecessarily reducing the mirror area. On the RL, the power mirror element is precisely sized to fit inside a compact housing that reduces these unwanted characteristics.

The airflow between the mirror housing and the side window glass is likewise crucial for reducing turbulence and noise. Engineers designed this gap as an expanding V-shape, with the gap narrower at the front and wider at the rear. This helps the airflow decelerate as it flows across the glass, instead of accelerating as it would if the V-angle were to decrease. The result is smoother airflow and less mid- and high-frequency noise.

EXTERIOR PAINT

The exterior paint on the Acura RL uses an environmentally conscious water-based process. The painting procedure begins with an electrodeposition (ED) primer, which is electrically charged in the paint bath. After the ED primer is applied, it is cured at high temperature to improve corrosive durability.

Next comes a primer-surfacer (PS) that is hand sanded to ensure a smooth surface for better appearance. After a waterborne color basecoat (BC) is applied, a pair of clear coats provide depth while helping to protect the base coat from air pollution, acid rain and fog.

For 2007, eight different exterior colors are available, including three metallic colors and five pearl colors. An all-new color - Platinum Frost Metallic - replaces Celestial Silver and Meteor Silver. All eight colors are selectively available with three different interior colors. The chart below shows the available exterior/interior color combinations (see Interior section for more information).

2007 RL COLOR OPTIONS

EXTERIOR COLOR	INTERIOR COLOR
	Parchment	Ebony	Taupe
Premium White Pearl	X	X
Opulent Blue Pearl		X	X
Redondo Red Pearl	X	X
Carbon Gray Pearl		X	X
Platinum Frost Metallic (replaces Celestial Silver and Meteor Silver)		X	X
Nighthawk Black Pearl	X	X
Lakeshore Silver Metallic		X	X
Desert Mist Metallic	X	X

2007 Acura RL - Chassis

CHASSIS OVERVIEW

Quick handling response, nimble performance, high dynamic capabilities, outstanding ride comfort and a fun-to-drive character aptly describe the 2007 Acura RL chassis. The RL features a highly rigid unit body that provides an excellent platform for the four-wheel independent suspension (independent front double-wishbone with independent multi-link rear). Aluminum suspension components front and rear cut unsprung weight to allow for more supple and responsive suspension action and more consistent traction and handling on rough roads. The optimized suspension geometry of the RL works with the electronically controlled power steering, large wheels and tires and the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system to give the RL exceptional handling balance in virtually every driving condition. Ride quality and road noise isolation were also the focus of substantial engineering effort, so even with its elevated sporting performance, the RL remains quiet and composed.

CHASSIS CONCEPT

The RL was designed to compete squarely with the best luxury sedans from Germany and Japan in dynamic performance interior luxury appointments, features and quality.

The new suspension works with the SH-AWD™ system to provide superb handling precision. The suspension's optimized geometry provides linear cornering feel, outstanding dry and wet weather cornering capabilities, a flat ride, and a high level of controllability at all times. It also results in an increased feeling of precision and security for the driver and passengers alike.

FRONT DOUBLE-WISHBONE SUSPENSION

The front suspension is a double-wishbone type with a large subframe mount and compliance bushing. In addition, the dampers feature rebound springs that reduce chassis attitude changes to ensure a flat ride during acceleration and cornering.

Specific performance goals for the RL suspension included better response over rough roads, improved steering feel, optimized geometry, and overall component toughness. The steering knuckle (or upright), upper arm, lower arm and subframe are all lightweight aluminum.

REAR MULTI-LINK SUSPENSION

The rear suspension is a multi-link type with a new enlarged subframe mount and a longer upper arm design. As a result the roll center is optimized for better turning response, cornering stability and control in extreme conditions.

The optimized geometry results in linear toe and camber changes during suspension travel. Improved roll stiffness also enhances the RL's cornering capabilities. It also has anti-lift characteristics to reduce the pitching motion of the body during braking.

Harshness and road noise are also significantly reduced, and ride comfort is also measurably improved, thanks to these changes and a new compliance bushing.

Lightweight aluminum is used for weight savings in the control arms and subframe. The components are also stiffer to withstand the higher side loads that SH-AWD, larger tires and a stiffer unit body create.

ALUMINUM HYBRID SUBFRAMES

The RL front and rear aluminum subframes are composed with members made by high temperature bulge forming and high vacuum die casting. Both manufacturing techniques result in significantly lighter units than would be possible with either aluminum hydroform or steel hydroform processes.

To bulge-form these components, an aluminum tube is heated and pressurized with air inside a specially shaped die. The ability to shape the component under both heat and pressure means that less material can be used, lowering the overall weight of the finished component.

The aluminum hybrid subframes on the RL save more than 40 lbs compared to comparable steel hydroformed subframes.

TIRES

Buyers of premium sport luxury sedans expect them to deliver superior cornering precision. Since tires directly affect cornering loads, the RL is equipped with the largest tires ever offered on a production Acura sedan. Original equipment is a Michelin P245/50R17 98V high performance, all season tire that delivers outstanding cornering and is M+S (Mud and Snow) rated. The tire's capability is further enhanced by the standard SH-AWD™ system (see Engine & Powertrain section for more information).

The RL spare tire is a temporary T155/70D17. An 18-inch accessory wheel and summer tire package will be available as a dealer-installed item. Models equipped with the optional RL Technology Package plus CMBS™ and PAX® Tires will feature P245/680R 460A 102V Michelin® PAX® Run-flat tires. A spare tire is included in the CMBS/PAX Package.

WHEELS

The RL wheels are 17 x 8.0-inch cast aluminum alloy. The spare wheel is a 17 x 4T unit. Models equipped with the optional RL Technology Package plus CMBS and PAX Tires will feature special 18.0 x 8.0-inch aluminum alloy wheels.

ELECTRONICALLY CONTROLLED, SPEED-SENSING, VARIABLE POWER ASSIST RACK-AND-PINION STEERING

Precise steering performance is an essential facet of the RL. The goals were to combine a light, but linear steering feel at low speeds with a solid steering feel at high speeds. Together with the neutral handling characteristics of the chassis, the RL is engineered to feel like a smaller car than it actually is to the driver.

Compared to traditional mechanically controlled hydraulic power steering, the speed-sensing steering assist unit in the RL is controlled electronically. As a result, it provides a very linear and direct steering feel regardless of vehicle speed. In particular, the on-center feel is very precise and linear, with no discernible "dead spot."

Vehicle Stability Assist® with traction control

Vehicle Stability Assist® (VSA®) is standard equipment on the RL. It uses electronic traction control and ABS functions, combined with a yaw and longitudinal/lateral acceleration sensors to quickly detect if the vehicle is about to understeer or oversteer. It then reduces engine output and applies one or more individual brakes, to stabilize the vehicle-often before the driver is even aware of the instability.

4-WHEEL VENTILATED DISC BRAKES WITH ABS AND ELECTRONIC BRAKE DISTRIBUTION (EBD)

In keeping with the athletic capabilities of the RL, Acura designers upgraded the 4-wheel disc brakes to create a true high-performance system. They targeted the braking performance of top-level competitors from Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz as the benchmark to meet and exceed.

12.6-inch cast-iron ventilated front rotors use aluminum 4-piston calipers. These multi-piston calipers are extremely rigid, and are derived from racing applications. In back, 12.2-inch cast-iron ventilated discs attach to their hub with lightweight aluminum collets and are gripped by one-piston aluminum calipers.

The RL includes Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), which automatically adjusts the front/rear brake pressure to suit conditions, while an anti-lock braking system (ABS) helps the driver retain directional control in hard braking situations. Also included is 4-channel Vehicle Stability Assist® (VSA®).

BRAKE ASSIST

Brake Assist helps drivers apply full braking pressure in an accident avoidance situation. To do so, a microprocessor continually analyzes and "learns" the driver's normal braking habits-monitoring both the rate of pressure applied and the total pressure that the driver normally applies to the brake system.

If the driver suddenly applies the brakes, Brake Assist brings the system to full ABS activation to help stop the vehicle in the shortest distance possible. It is only activated when the microprocessor detects that certain brake pedal speed and pressure thresholds are reached.

Importantly, Brake Assist assists the driver in obtaining full braking performance in an emergency. The Brake Assist system deactivates when the driver releases pressure on the brake pedal.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

The onboard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with location and pressure indicators warns the driver when the air pressure lowers in any tire. This helps reduce the chance of losing control of the vehicle due to low air pressure. This is important because a slow leak, such as might be caused by a nail embedded through the tread, might not be detectable immediately but would, in time, cause significant air loss, loss of grip and potentially a blowout.

A sensor mounted on each wheel continually monitors tire pressure and sends a coded signal to an initiator located inboard of the tire on the chassis. The information is then sent to an electronic control unit that compares the values of each tire against an acceptable set of values.

When a tire's pressure drops significantly below the proper specification, a "CHECK TIRE PRESSURE" alert appears on the MID alert screen. The system can display the air pressure in all four tires simultaneously via the MID, making it simple to locate a low tire.

At the driver's preference the display can continually show the air pressure in all four tires. Regardless of whether the driver chooses to monitor the pressures, a warning will still occur if a tire drops below specification.

2007 Acura RL - Interior

INTERIOR OVERVIEW

The RL interior is designed to integrate richly elegant luxury and cleanly efficient design, to create an environment in tune with the car's clearly defined sporting character. At the same time, the interior makes the most advanced technology ever built into an Acura easy to use and intuitive to operate. Careful integration of the many advanced systems ensures that they add to the driver's comfort, control and understanding of the driving situation, and never detract from it. The finest interior materials and exacting attention to detail and finish highlight the quiet interior. Stylish and highly supportive perforated leather-trimmed seats are designed to provide a sporty, yet refined driving experience.

For 2007, the RL features a list of standard equipment, including the Acura/Bose DVD-Audio system that delivers surround sound in all seating positions, and XM® Satellite Radio, an all-new MP3 auxiliary jack and passenger seatbelt reminder.

With the available Acura HandsFreeLink™ wireless phone connectivity allowing the driver to dial a Bluetooth®-enabled mobile phone by voice, and satellite-based AcuraLink™ that allows communication between the RL owner and Acura, there's never been a more "connected" vehicle than the RL. The RL is also the first Acura equipped with the Keyless Access System, which allows owners to lock and unlock doors, open the trunk, and start the car without having the keyless remote in the hand.

For 2007, models equipped with the optional RL Technology Package plus CMBS™ and PAX® Tires feature the innovative Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) System, which can maintain a consistent following interval between the RL and the vehicle directly in front of it.

Interior at a Glance

• Luxurious cockpit designed for performance driving
• Perforated leather-trimmed seats
• Upgraded wood interior (Included in the RL with Technology Package)
• LED backlit gauges with progressive illumination
• Leather-wrapped 4-spoke steering wheel with illuminated fingertip controls
  and paddle shifters
• Electronic tilt and telescoping steering column with driver recognition
• Performance-oriented heated front seats
• Driver's 8-way power seat with power adjustable lumbar support
• Solar-sensing, dual-zone, dual-mode automatic climate control system
• Multi-information display allows access to multiple electronic functions and customizable feature settings
• Available Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ and rearview camera (available in the RL with Technology Package)
• AcuraLink™ satellite communication system with real time traffic allows communication between Acura and the vehicle (available in the RL with Technology Package)
• Cruise control
• Optional Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system (available in the RL with Technology Package plus CMBS™ and PAX® Tires)
• HandsFreeLink™ wireless telephone interface is compatible with many Bluetooth mobile phones
• Acura/Bose® 10-speaker Surround Sound System with 6-disc CD, DVD-Audio and DTS® changer and AM/FM tuner.
• Active Noise Cancellation™ system (ANC)
• Interface Dial provides quick, intuitive access to navigation, audio, climate control and other features
• Keyless Access System eliminates fumbling for keys or keyless remote
• Power moonroof with tilt, auto-open/close, auto-reverse and key-off operation

STYLING AND MATERIALS

The quality of materials, fit and finish have received close attention to reflect the spirit of the RL. The large, bright navigation system display is positioned up high, in the center of the instrument panel within easy line of sight of the driver and passenger. Below the navigation system screen, the satin metal finish of the climate, audio and navigation controls has a clean, technical look. And an available upgraded wood interior sweeps across the instrument panel.

DRIVER-ORIENTED COCKPIT

Acura interior design has always made intuitive functionality a priority. All important systems and controls are within easy reach of the driver. The systems used most frequently-audio, cruise control, HandsFreeLink™, Satellite-Linked Navigation System and Multi-information display-have controls positioned on the steering wheel. The main instrumentation is easy-to-read analog, supplemented with digital and graphic displays. Even though the RL gives its driver access to many electronic features and conveniences, the interface is simple and welcoming. Sight lines are clear with important items placed within easy view.

Typical of Acura interior design, the soft-touch switchgear of the RL is engineered to deliver a quality feel and positive action. Helpful features make driving easier, like power rearview mirrors that can be set to automatically tilt-down when reverse is engaged to make parking simpler. There is also a bottom-hinged throttle pedal to provide a linear feel and natural motion. A large dead pedal in the driver's foot well provides extra support for the driver in aggressive driving.

LEATHER-WRAPPED STEERING WHEEL

The leather wrapped steering wheel incorporates the most commonly used controls, allowing the driver to keep their hands on the wheel while using them. Audio system controls are on the upper left spoke, while cruise control buttons are on the right upper spoke. The lower left spoke is reserved for navigation system controls, including a push-to-talk button to activate the voice recognition system which provides voice control of the navigation system, as well as many climate control and audio system features.

Also on the left, between the spokes, are controls for HandsFreeLink™, while on the right between the spokes are controls for the Multi-information display. Tucked out of view, but within fingertip reach, is a pair of paddles that upshift and downshift the Sequential SportShift transmission when it is in manual mode.

On models equipped with the optional RL with Technology Package plus CMBS™ and PAX® Tires, control buttons for the Adapative Cruise Control and Collision Mitigation Braking System are located on the upper and lower right-hand spokes.

INTERFACE DIAL

Most of the commonly used electronic functions have dedicated controls positioned on the instrument panel or on the steering wheel. Voice control of navigation, climate control, audio and communications functions is likewise available, while an Interface Dial positioned just ahead of the front center console-mounted shift lever provides another avenue of control. The Interface Dial is rotated and rocked like a joystick to select among function menus displayed on the navigation screen. A push of the controller selects the highlighted item. Functions controlled by the Interface Dial include:

• Audio
• Navigation
• Climate Control System
• AcuraLink™ satellite communications system

SEATING

Given the performance capabilities and luxury mission of the RL, its passenger seating required extensive engineering development. The front seats in particular had to blend long-trip comfort with the secure lateral support needed, given the cornering potential afforded by the advanced SH-AWD™ system. As a result, the front seats are taller and wider than in the past, which also allows them to accommodate a wide range of body types. The RL seat cushions use a special urethane with high damping coupled with a new wider "S" spring design for better support of the urethane padding. These features work together to reduce the amount of road and engine vibration transmitted to the passenger.

The driver's seat is 8-way power adjustable and includes a power-adjustable lumbar support mechanism. The smooth shape of the articulated lumbar mechanism matches the human spinal curvature to provide solid support for the torso and pelvis. All driver's seat power adjustments except power adjustable lumbar support are included in the Keyless Access System, which stores a pair of user profiles, one for each of the two fobs that come with the RL.

The front passenger seat is 4-way power adjustable with power adjustable lumbar support. In the rear seat area, the outer seating positions are carefully engineered-complete with side bolsters-to combine luxurious comfort on long trips with solid lateral support.

In front, 4-way headrests are adjustable for height and tilt. In back, all of the three headrests have a remote retractable feature that allows the driver to lower them with a touch of an overhead button for better rearward visibility when there are no rear-seat passengers. When carrying rear passengers, the headrests can be raised manually for use.

MULTI-INFORMATION DISPLAY AND MAINTENANCE MINDER

A highly functional instrument panel gives the RL driver instant access to critical information. It also provides important vehicle information via an LCD Multi-information display positioned in the lower speedometer face. The Multi-Information display shows vehicle mileage and trip mileage. Controls positioned at the 4 o'clock position of the steering wheel hub allow the driver to cycle the display through multiple screens of information from sources including CMBS and ACC on models equipped with the available RL with Technology Package plus CMBS™ and PAX® Tires.

Trip computer functions include average and instantaneous fuel economy, average speed, fuel range, and elapsed time. The system also can display outside air temperature, engine oil life as a percentage, SH-AWD™ torque distribution, and tire pressures. The Maintenance Minder System alerts the RL driver of upcoming maintenance needs via the Multi-information display; should a fault occur with the vehicle, warning information also appears (see Engine section for more information).

INTERIOR LIGHTING

The theme of efficient driver control and easy to read components carries on after dark in the RL. The analog instruments are LED backlit, with high-contrast markings and a subdued blue accent hue. The progressive self-illuminating gauge package gives the car a "welcoming" feel. When the door is first opened, the instrument lighting comes to life, and then brightens progressively to 100 percent when the ignition is switched on. The illuminated instrument needles and enunciator lights then come alive, indicating that the car is ready to go. At the end of the drive, the instrument lighting dims progressively.

All the interior switches are illuminated to make them easy to locate at night, including those on all four doors and the steering wheel. In addition to front and rear overhead interior lights and map lights, the RL also has a complement of low-level interior ambient cabin lighting. Blue front and rear low-level ambient lighting in the ceiling illuminates the front center console and the rear flip-down armrest. The front foot wells also have low-level ambient lighting that brightens substantially when the doors are opened.

Front and rear interior door handle areas are also illuminated to make them easy to find, and the front door storage compartments, glove compartment and the front armrest compartment are all internally illuminated. All four doors have courtesy lights that are illuminated when the doors are open. The RL interior lights feature "theater dimming," which can be set by the driver to any of several rates via the Multi-information display. The trunk has interior lighting, plus the trunk lid has lighting that illuminates the bumper and sill area when the lid is opened.

INTERIOR CONVENIENCE

The RL interior offers plenty of storage and convenience features for driver and passengers. The front center armrest has a unique dual lid, which allows the padded armrest to be used on one side, while the lid on the other side is opened. The armrest upper portion can also be swiveled up to allow access to a large lower storage compartment. The front double beverage holder has an adjustable bottom tray that allows it to accommodate a wide range of container sizes.

Inside the glove compartment is a separate document box that allows the RL User Manual and important registration and insurance papers to be stored safely. This arrangement also frees up storage space in the main glove box compartment.

In the rear seating area, the rear folding armrest has a padded top. A pullout dual beverage holder is built into the rear armrest.

CARGO CARRYING VERSATILITY

The RL has a generously sized 13.1 cubic-foot trunk that is fully finished, with all wiring concealed and the rear parcel shelf speakers and navigation unit fully protected. The acoustic properties of the trunk and the three rear deck speakers were engineered together to create the best possible sound performance out of the Acura/Bose DVD-AUDIO system. To allow room for longer items, a locking trunk pass-through is provided. A standard cargo net and a network of anchor points help keep cargo securely in position. The spare tire is located under a folding cover in the trunk floor.

For a cleaner appearance and to avoid damage to luggage, the aluminum trunk lid is supported by fully concealed hinge mechanisms. The trunk can be opened via a remote release mounted on the driver's door panel, by pulling the exterior release on the lid when carrying the Keyless Access fob, or with a manual release accessible through the locking trunk pass-through. There is also an emergency trunk opener inside, near the latch. For security, the trunk main switch is located in the glove box, which can be locked to prevent access by valets. A valet key is provided that will allow a parking attendant to operate the ignition, but will not to open the glove box, trunk, or locking trunk pass-through if it is locked by the driver.

SOLAR-SENSING, DUAL-ZONE, DUAL-MODE AUTOMATIC CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM

The RL has a solar-sensing, dual-zone, dual-mode automatic climate control system that lets the driver and front passenger set temperature modes to their individual liking. A pair of large adjustable vents in the rear of the center console keep the rear seat area comfortable. Large, simple to use system controls are positioned within easy reach, just below the center instrument panel vents. The system can also be controlled by voice, and some seldom-needed custom settings can also be accessed through the Interface Dial. The climate control system's control logic is designed to provide smooth operation with subtle changes in airflow.

With its position-sensing ability, the navigation system contributes to overall passenger comfort with 3D solar sensing. Based on its continuously updated vehicle position information, the navigation system determines the position of the sun relative to the driver and passenger. Combining this information with input from a solar sensor located on top of the instrument panel, the climate control system automatically adjusts the temperature and airflow from side to side as needed to compensate for asymmetrical solar heating.

System operation can be customized to suit the preferences of the driver and front seat passenger. Using the navigation screen and the Interface Dial, the temperature of the air flowing through the upper vents can be fine-tuned relative to that of the air flowing from the footwell vents.

REAR SUNSHADES

For greater passenger comfort on sunny days, the RL has a power operated rear-window sunshade, plus manually operated sunshades for each rear side window.

ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION™ (ANC™)

The 2007 RL features Active Noise Cancellation™ (ANC™), which is designed to dramatically reduce low frequency exhaust booming noise in the interior. The system operates whenever the car is running, regardless of whether the Acura/Bose® audio system is on or off.

There are two microphones in the headliner, one just behind the front overhead console, and another just ahead of the overhead rear light module. The microphones capture low-end drivetrain frequencies entering the cabin, and send a signal to the Active Noise Cancellation unit. The control unit then creates a precisely timed reverse phase audio signal that is sent to an amplifier, which powers the door speakers and the subwoofer positioned on the rear deck.

Since the system is designed to cancel low-frequency sound, it doesn't use any of the audio system's tweeters. The ANC dramatically reduces the booming sound of the exhaust, front and rear. In the frequency range below 100 hertz, ANC results in an impressive 10 dB reduction in noise level.

OVERHEAD CONSOLE

The overhead console incorporates a variety of useful features. Controls for the standard HomeLink® system and other overhead console features include controls for interior lighting, power sunroof, power rear sunshade and remote retracting rear head restraints.

ACURA/BOSE® 10-SPEAKER SURROUND SOUND SYSTEM WITH 6-DISC CD, DVD-AUDIO AND DST® CHANGER AND AM/FM TUNER

Like the TL, with its innovative and widely heralded audio system, the RL comes standard with a DVD-Audio system that is engineered to advance the state of the art in production car audio. The ultra-sophisticated system of the RL provides the driver and passengers with a new level of audio enjoyment utilizing the Bose® Cabin Surround® sound system.

Engineered specifically for the RL, the Acura/Bose 10-speaker Surround Sound System with 6-disc CD, DVD-Audio and DTS changer and AM/FM tuner delivers surround sound to all seating positions and features standard XM® Satellite Radio. XM® Satellite Radio provides more than 120 channels (all music channels are commercial-free) of digital program material with near-CD quality sound. A text display on the navigation screen provides information text on the program material. XM® provides virtually uninterrupted coverage of the 48 contiguous states, and a one-year subscription is
included with the RL. (Note XM® Satellite Radio is not installed on RL models sold in Alaska and Hawaii-service for these states does not exist at this time)

The RL has a 6-disc in-dash changer that can play DVD-Audio, CD, and MP3 media. DVD audio is the next step in audio reproduction technology. Many new releases are being issued in this new format, and many older recordings are being re-mastered and reissued to take advantage of the superior sound that DVD audio offers. With over 500 times higher resolution than CD audio, DVD audio delivers smoother, fuller and far more accurate sound. (The system will not play DVD movies, DVD-Video or DVD-R/RW.)

To improve sound quality when playing CDs, the system includes Centerpoint® logic, which creates simulated surround sound from the two channels of CD data. Another feature, Audiopilot®, automatically adjusts the audio signal in response to exterior noises. Audiopilot monitors the sound in the RL cabin using the same microphone used for the Active Noise Cancellation system (ANC), then the system adjusts the audio system output to compensate. Centerpoint, Audiopilot, balance, fader and other functions can be accessed via the Interface Dial. Controls for key audio system functions are positioned within fingertip reach on the RL steering wheel. Select audio system functions can also be accomplished via voice commands.

For precise audio imaging and impressive sound for listeners in the front and rear seats, the 10 speakers are strategically located throughout the RL cabin. Each front door has a 6.5-inch full-range speaker and a separate 1.5-inch tweeter. A 2.5-inch twiddler is centered on the top of the instrument panel. Each rear door has a 6.5-inch full-range speaker; the rear parcel shelf has a 2.5-inch twiddler on each side, with a big 9-inch woofer centrally located beneath the back glass. A total of 260 watts drives the 10-speaker system.

HANDSFREELINK™ WIRELESS TELEPHONE INTERFACE

The RL has a standard HandsFreeLink™ hands free phone interface that is designed to work with many recently manufactured Bluetooth®-enabled mobile phones (sold separately). Bluetooth is a radio frequency-based cable replacement technology that lets portable devices like mobile phones PDAs, laptops and other devices communicate wirelessly. The RL system is compatible with Bluetooth enabled cell phones that have the Hands Free Profile (HFP). Some early Bluetooth-enabled phones do not have this communications protocol, but any newly released phones should have the HFP. After the driver completes a one-time "pairing" process, the RL can communicate wirelessly and securely with the driver's cell phone when it's within about 10 feet of the car. The phone needs to be on, but can be stowed in a pocket, briefcase or purse-or anywhere inside the RL cabin.

HandsFreeLink™ allows the driver to send or answer calls without taking his or her hands from the steering wheel. When a call comes in, the number of the incoming caller is displayed on the Multi-information display located in the speedometer face. The phone ring tone is also played over the audio system. If the driver chooses to answer the call, a press of the steering wheel-mounted "Pick up" button mutes the audio system and the incoming caller is heard over the audio system speakers. An overhead microphone picks up the driver's voice. Algorithms built into the HandsFreeLink system cancel "echo effect" and reduce background noise to improve the transmission quality of the driver's speech.

To send a call hands free, the driver can dial the number by voice, again using fingertip controls mounted on the steering wheel to activate the system. The driver also can store frequently called numbers with voice tags in the system's memory. Up to six different compatible mobile phones can be paired with the HandsFreeLink system at one time.

Additional information can be found at www.acura.com/handsfreelink or www.handsfreelink.com

ACURALINK™ SATELLITE COMMUNICATION SYSTEM WITH REAL TIME TRAFFIC

RL models in the 48 contiguous states feature the AcuraLink™ satellite communication system with Real Time Traffic (when equipped with the RL with Technology Package). AcuraLink™ allows for two-way communication between Acura and the vehicle, providing customers with the latest information specific to their vehicle. In cases where communication to and from the Acura Telematics server is needed, the owner's Bluetooth cell phone is used (once the owner has enabled its data-transmission function).

AcuraLink messages consist of a limited amount of text plus expanded details via Text-To-Speech. Each message is prioritized by importance. High priority messages are displayed immediately upon receipt. Other messages trigger an icon on the RL navigation display. Some low priority messages show up only on vehicle start-up to avoid distraction. In all cases, the RL owner can choose to read or listen to the message immediately, or archive it to be retrieved later.

A wide variety of messages can be sent to the RL, including Maintenance Minder (detailed information regarding your next required maintenance), Quick Tips (information to help you maximize the benefit and enjoyment of RL features), Feature Guide (supplements to the Owner's Manual), Diagnostic Info (detailed information and instruction should an onboard system issue arise), and information regarding a service or repair required. The RL owner has complete control over the types of messages they receive. All AcuraLink™ preferences can be set via the Owner Link web site.

Since the system allows two-way data communication between the RL and the Acura Telematics Server, AcuraLink™ can provide the owner with vital information that previously has been unavailable. For example, if a warning light should appear on the RL instrument panel, AcuraLink™ can be configured to automatically send a trouble code along with the sensor data associated with the fault to the Acura Telematics Server, which analyzes the code, then sends a message back to the RL, such as "A software issue has been detected. It is OK to continue driving. The repair is currently being developed, so you do not need to visit your dealer at this time." You will receive another AcuraLink™ message when it is time to visit your dealer to have the system repaired. This way, the owner knows if a particular fault is serious enough to cancel a trip, if it can be dealt with later or if it requires special driving techniques. An icon on the RL navigation display screen indicates an incoming message. Some low priority messages show up only on vehicle start-up to avoid distractions.

A wide variety of messages can be sent to the RL, including Maintenance Minder, Quick Tips, Feature Guide and Diagnostic Info. The RL owner can set their preferences for the types of messages they receive in their RL via the Owner Link Website.

Since the system allows two-way data communication between the RL and the Acura Telematics Server, AcuraLink can provide the owner with vital information that previously has been unavailable. For example, if an ABS/BRAKE warning light should appear on the RL instrument panel, AcuraLink will automatically send a trouble code to the Acura Telematics Server (if the customer selects this preference), which interprets the code, then sends a message back to the RL, such as "ABS and EBD shut down! Drive slowly. Avoid sudden hard braking." This way, the owner knows if a particular fault is serious enough to cancel a trip, if it can be dealt with later or if it requires special driving techniques. The data connection is enabled even if the monthly XM® service package is not in effect.

REAL TIME TRAFFIC INFORMATION

The navigation screen can display up-to-the-minute traffic information including flow (traffic speed where available), accidents, incident, construction and weather on freeways in 44 major metro areas. The information is aggregated by NAVTEQ™ from multiple sources including police and highway patrol accident reports and transportation departments and then transmitted by XM satellites to the RL where it is graphically displayed on the navigation system from ?? to 5 mile scale.

The RL owner can click on an icon on the map to see incident details or select "Traffic Incidents" by pushing "enter" on the Interface Dial. Traffic information is continuously updated, allowing drivers to avoid congestion en route and choose the fastest path to their destination.

With the average rush-hour commuter spending over 50 hours a year sitting in traffic, the system gives RL owners a useful timesaving tool on freeways. Unlike radio or television traffic reports, the real-time traffic system provides a constant flow of relevant information reflecting conditions along a driver's chosen route. Real-time traffic data services are offered on a subscription basis for a nominal fee following the 3-month free trial period. In addition to the on-screen traffic information, RL owners who maintain their XM® Satellite Radio service also receive more general audio traffic information that runs on a 2-3 minute loop in selected metropolitan areas.

44 major metropolitan markets (Traffic flow data and incident reporting coverage vary by market)
Atlanta Austin Baltimore Boston Buffalo-Niagra Falls Charlotte Chicago Cincinnati Cleveland Columbus Dallas/Ft. Worth Denver-Boulder Detroit Houston Hartford-New Britain-Middletown Indianapolis	Los Angeles Kansas City Las Vegas Los Angeles Memphis Miami/Ft. Lauderdale Milwaukee-Racine Minneapolis/St. Paul Nashville New York City Norfolk-Virginia Beach/Newport News Orlando Philadelphia Phoenix Portland Pittsburgh	Providence-Warwick-Pawtucket Sacramento San Antonio San Francisco/Oakland San Diego San Jose Sarasota-Bradenton Seattle St Louis Tampa Washington D.C. West Palm Beach-Boca Raton Wilmington, DE

ACURA NAVIGATION SYSTEM WITH VOICE RECOGNITION™

RL models equipped with either RL with Technology Packages offer the latest generation Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ with rearview camera (available in the 48 contiguous states and Hawaii).

Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition features summary:

• 8-inch screen for convenient viewing
• Interface Dial simplifies control of the system and is accessible to driver and front seat passenger
• Robust voice recognition function with over 560 navigation commands minimizes the need for manual character entry
• Voice recognition system recognizes city and street names as spoken words
• Seven million points of interest are stored on an updatable DVD
• Business and recreation directory of virtually the entire continental United States complete with phone numbers
• Audio system automatically mutes for turn-by-turn voice guidance in either male or female voice (which can be turned off at any time)
• Destination memory recalls current trip addresses, previous destinations and user address books
• Directory categories include restaurants (searchable by type of cuisine), lodging, shopping, airports, hospitals, recreation areas and much more
• Zagat Survey™ restaurant guide provides detailed information and reviews on restaurants in database, which can be read on-screen or spoken over the audio system by a synthesized voice
• Split-screen mode features a simultaneous "map view" and selective "3-D" route visualization
• Voice Recognition operates key audio and climate control functions
• Make calls to on-screen points of interest with HandsFreeLink
• User selectable Day/Night screen or display off modes
• Trip routing can include up to five user-chosen way points
• Trip routing can avoid user-selected areas
• Exit list shows what businesses are available at a given highway exit
• On-screen picture of highway interchanges indicates which lane to use to stay on route

System Operation

Based on positioning data from up to 12 orbiting Global Positioning Satellites (GPS), the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition tracks the vehicle's position. If the GPS antenna is blocked by a tunnel, tall building or parking garage, an internal gyroscopic system and a speed sensor track the location of the vehicle to keep the mapping information current and reliable until satellite reception is restored. A DVD is located in the trunk in the system's ECU. Updated DVD data discs are available on an annual basis on-line or by calling a toll-free number.

The system can be controlled by voice, or by the Interface Dial. For voice operation, the driver simply presses the "Talk" button on the steering wheel and says any of a number of preset command phrases. The system responds to over 560 command phrases, as well as to spoken city and street names.

When the "Talk" button is pressed, the audio system is automatically muted, and an overhead microphone receives the command from the driver. Commands can be given in plain English, like "Display gas stations, "Find nearest hospital" or "Find nearest Chinese restaurant." You can choose to display points of interest on the map (like restaurants, or grocery stores, for example), or have the system provide turn-by-turn navigation-all by voice. The extensive point-of-interest database includes phone numbers, which can be dialed easily by using the HandsFreeLink™ system and the driver's cell phone.

The Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition can also be controlled via the Interface Dial by choosing menu options or spelling out a word (e.g., an address, business name or place) using the Interface Dial much like a computer mouse to select characters from an on-screen keypad. The onboard database includes a Zagat Survey Restaurant Guide. The Interface Dial makes it easy to operate the system, and to find and select destinations. Voice recognition capability saves time and simplifies operation of the system. Sophisticated voice recognition technology allows the RL owner to simply speak city and street names aloud, and the system responds by displaying matches available in the database.

ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL (ACC)

For 2007, Acura offers an optional Technology Package with CMBS™ and PAX® Tires for the RL which includes Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). This new vehicle speed and distance control system uses a grille-mounted millimeter-wave radar unit to monitor the distance between the RL and the vehicle directly ahead and relative vehicle speeds. Like a conventional cruise control system, the RL's ACC can maintain a pre-set speed. But in addition, by combining radar data with data from speed sensors, ACC can regulate the RL's speed to maintain a pre-set following interval (measured in seconds) between it and the vehicle directly ahead. The system is designed for use on open highways and works only when the RL is traveling over 25 miles per hour.

The system is activated by pressing the "ACC" button on the upper right-hand spoke of the steering wheel. When this button is pushed, "ACC" will appear on the Multi-information display directly below the speedometer indicating that the system has been turned on. To select the ACC cruising speed, the driver accelerates to that speed and presses the "Decel/Set" button, which is also located on the upper right-hand spoke of the steering wheel. Once it is selected, the chosen cruising speed is shown on the Multi-information display.

The following interval is selected by pressing the "Distance" button on the lower right spoke of the steering wheel. Using this button, the driver can choose one of three following intervals: approximately one second, approximately 1.5 seconds or approximately two seconds, based on the speed of the RL and the following distance the driver wants to maintain from the car directly ahead. Each time the button is pressed, a "vehicle-shaped" icon on the Multi-information display changes to reflect the chosen following interval:

• One bar representing approximately a one-second interval
• Two bars representing approximately a 1.5 second interval
• Three bars representing approximately a two-second interval

Once the system is activated, the system's electronic control unit (ECU) applies light braking and adjusts the throttle to maintain the chosen following interval between the RL and the car directly in front of it. If a vehicle from another lane cuts in front of the RL, between it and the car it has been following, the system will beep and the "vehicle" icon will flash on the Multi-information display to alert the driver that a new vehicle has been detected. The system then adjusts the throttle and applies light braking to maintain the pre-set following interval between the RL and the new vehicle. The vehicle icon will appear each time a vehicle moves into the ACC system's range. Conversely, when a vehicle moves out of the system's range, the icon changes to an "outlined" image.

If the vehicle directly ahead brakes suddenly, a series of beeps will sound and the word "BRAKE" will appear on the Multi-information display warning the driver to apply the brakes.

If the vehicle directly in front of the RL accelerates out of the radar's detection zone or moves to another lane, and another vehicle is not within the system's range, ACC will gradually accelerate the RL until the pre-set cruising speed is achieved. When a vehicle moves out of range, the "vehicle icon" on the Multi-information display will change from solid to outline.

The driver can switch between ACC and conventional cruise control by using the "Distance" button located on the steering wheel. Cruise control system status is displayed continuously on the Multi-information display.

Because the ACC system's millimeter-wave radar can be affected by rain, snow, fog and other types of inclement weather, the ACC system should not be used during these conditions.

KEYLESS ACCESS SYSTEM

The RL features a Keyless Access System with driver recognition for driver's seat, steering wheel, outside mirrors, climate control, audio system settings and presets, and select navigation system settings. This feature allows the RL owner to gain access to the car without ever having to unlock it with the remote transmitter or key. The keyless remote has an electronic unique digital identity. The car can be unlocked when the driver grasps one of the front doors with the keyless remote in his/her possession.

Once the driver has opened the door and been seated, the Keyless Access System allows him or her to start the RL by pushing and rotating the ignition switch, without inserting a key into the ignition.

To unlock the door, the driver must have the keyless remote in their possession. The remote can remain in a pocket or briefcase; it isn't necessary to have it in hand. The driver simply approaches the car and grasps the door handle to the door.

To lock the doors upon leaving the car, simply touch the raised dimple on outside of the door handle. Alternatively, you can press the Lock button on the keyless remote. All doors will lock simultaneously.

Approaching the driver's side allows the opening of the driver's door only; when approaching the passenger's side, all four doors can be opened. Via the Multi-information display's selectable unlocking feature, the RL owner can preset a preference to have all four doors unlock when the driver's door is engaged.

To open the trunk, simply approach with the remote and pull the lever, and it will automatically unlock so you can open the lid. Note that the system will not allow the recognized transmitter to be locked in the trunk.

Preferences

The Acura RL comes with two keyless remotes. Each keyless remote can be set with a unique preference, for instance to accommodate the preferences of a husband and wife. The preferences include driver's seat, steering wheel and mirror positions, and select HVAC. Other preferences include turning entry lights on or off, audio pre-sets, air conditioning, and navigation system settings. In the event both owners plan to use the car at the same time, the RL will recognize the keyless remote that approaches first.

Built-in Key

A built-in mechanical key is provided as a back up in the event that the keyless remote battery should fail, although the vehicle will signal the driver when the remote battery is low. In this case the RL can be started with the built-in key. For security purposes when using a valet parking service, you can push a trunk lockout switch inside the glove box, and then lock the glove box and the trunk pass-through with the key. Take the built-in key from the keyless remote and keep it, then give the keyless remote to the attendant. The Valet will be unable to unlock the glove compartment or trunk using the keyless remote only.

2007 Acura RL - Safety

SAFETY OVERVIEW

The RL is equipped with a comprehensive array of the latest technologies to enhance active safety (accident avoidance) and passive safety (crash safety performance). Features like Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with traction control, heightened handling agility, SH-AWD and ABS enhance accident avoidance capability in the RL. Should a collision prove unavoidable, the Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure of the RL is designed to provide a protective cocoon for passengers in the event of a collision with a different sized vehicle (a truck or SUV, for example). Inside, side, side curtain and dual-stage front air bag systems work together with sophisticated restraint systems to minimize injury to passengers in sufficient impacts.

As part of its commitment to providing safety through innovation, Acura debuts two all-new optional Technology Packages on the RL:

• RL with Technology Package includes Acura Satellite Navigation System and AcuraLink™ with Real Time Traffic and rearview camera, Active Front Lighting (AFL) and an upgraded wood interior
• RL with Technology Package plus CMBS™ and PAX® Tires include Acura's Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) and Michelin® PAX® Run-flat tires
  • Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), which monitors the following distance and closing rate between the RL and the car directly in front of it, warns the driver when a collision is likely and helps reduce impact when a collision becomes unavoidable
  • Michelin PAX Run-Flat tires, which provide enhanced mobility and security with continuous mobility of up to 125 miles at 50 mph following a tire puncture

From a safety standpoint, these new Technology Package features help make the 2007 RL one of the most comprehensively equipped vehicles in North America.

Following are the key standard passive safety features on the RL.

Passenger Seating

• Passenger seatbelt reminder (new for '07)
• 3-point adjustable height front seat belts with load limiters and pretensioners
• Front seat belt load limiters
• Front 4-way adjustable head restraints
• Driver's seat position sensor
• Driver's and front passenger's side airbags with front passenger Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS)
• Rear center three-point seat belt

Child Seating

• Automatic Locking Retractors/Emergency Locking Retractors (ALR/ELR)
• Tether anchors (all rear positions)
• LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) child-seat mounting system (rear outboard seats)

Airbags

• Driver's and front passenger's dual-stage, dual-threshold airbag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)
• Seamless airbag lid for the passenger airbag
• Driver's and front passenger's side airbags with front passenger Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS)
• Side curtain airbag system

OPTIONAL TECHNOLOGY PACKAGES

For 2007, two all-new Technology Packages are available for the RL:

• RL with Technology Package includes Acura Satellite Navigation System and AcuraLink™ with Real Time Traffic and rearview camera, Active Front Lighting (AFL) and an upgraded wood interior

• RL with Technology Package plus CMBS™ and PAX® Tires include Acura's Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) and Michelin® PAX® Run-flat tires

  • Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), which warns the driver of impending rear-end collisions and helps reduce impact when collisions are unavoidable

  • PAX Run-Flat tires, which provide enhanced safety and security with continuous mobility of up to 125 miles at 50 mph following a tire puncture

COLLISION MITIGATION BRAKING SYSTEM™ (CMBS™)

In 2006, the RL was the first Acura vehicle to offer an optional Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™). This revolutionary safety technology monitors potential rear-end collisions, uses audio, visual and tactile signals to alert drivers to the risk of collision, assists brake operation and tensions the front seatbelts to help reduce impact on occupants and vehicle damage should a collision become unavoidable. Unlike pre-collision systems on competitive vehicles, CMBS automatically applies the brakes to mitigate the severity of a collision.

Using a millimeter-wave radar unit located inside the front grille, the CMBS system monitors the distance between the RL and the car directly in front of it up to a distance of 300 feet and the rate of closure between the two vehicles. When that closing rate increases to a point where a collision is likely to occur (based on relative vehicle speeds and following distance) the system uses visual, and audible warnings to prompt the driver to take preventative action. If, based on the driver's response, the system determines that the likelihood of a collision has decreased to an acceptable level, the CMBS system will disengage. If, however, the driver's response does not sufficiently reduce the risk of a collision, the system will issue a secondary warning, consisting of audible, visual and tactile elements as well as light braking, to alert the driver to take action. If the closing rate increases so much that a collision becomes unavoidable, CMBS can initiate hard braking to reduce the vehicle's speed, and tension the driver's and front passenger's seatbelts to help reduce the severity of the crash.

1. Stage one: When there is a risk of a collision with the vehicle ahead or if the distance between the vehicles has dropped below the pre-set level, a buzzer sounds and the message "BRAKE" appears on the Multi-information display.
2. Stage two: If the distance between the two vehicles continues to diminish, CMBS applies light braking, and an electric motor activates the driver's seat belt E-pretensioner, retracting the seatbelt gently two or three times, providing the driver with a tactile warning. The buzzer sounds again and the word "BRAKE" appears again on the Multi-information display.
3. Stage three: If, after issuing the primary and secondary warnings, the system determines that a collision is unavoidable, the E-pretensioner retracts the driver's and front passenger's seatbelts with enough force to compensate for seatbelt slack or baggy clothing and activates the brakes forcefully to reduce the speed of impact and mitigate the effects of the collision on the RL and its occupants.

The CMBS system functions only when the RL is traveling at over 10 miles per hour and when the speed differential between the RL and the car directly in front it is 10 mile per hour or more. It can be turned off by depressing a switch located on the left hand side of the instrument panel.

MICHELIN PAX® SYSTEM

The 2007 RL offers Michelin's innovative PAX® System, an extended mobility tire-and-wheel system that allows drivers to continue driving in the event of a loss of air pressure. The Michelin® PAX® System (included with the RL with Technology Package plus CMBS™ and PAX® Tires) gives drivers the security to travel on a punctured or deflated tire for up to 125 miles at 50 mph. The PAX® System uses a unique wheel size of 18.0 x 8.0 and 245-680R 460A 102V Michelin PAX® Run-Flat high performance all-season tires. The PAX® Extended Mobility System is comprised of four components:

• A tire design that dynamically locks onto the wheel and will not come unseated during normal use, with a performance-enhancing structure and short sidewalls
• An inner support ring which carries the load of the vehicle if pressure is lost
• A specially shaped wheel to facilitate the inner support ring
• A tire pressure monitoring system with position indicator that warns the driver of pressure loss

The system offers owners the convenience and security of knowing that they will not be stranded with a flat tire while offering numerous benefits over conventional run-flat tires and radial tires. Unlike conventional runflat tires, the PAX® System uses an inner support ring instead of a heavy and stiff reinforced sidewall, allowing for improved overall ride quality as well as increased stability in run-flat situations.

Additionally, PAX® tires offer benefits over traditional radial tires including:

• As much as a 12-percent lower rolling resistance, benefiting fuel economy
• Sporty appearance and sporty handling capabilities with low-profile sidewall and increased wheel diameter
• In the event of a flat tire, drivers no longer run the risk of having to stop in dangerous or uncomfortable situations (night, rain, highways, etc.)
• In the event of tire pressure loss, the exclusive tire bead anchoring system securely locks the tire bead to the wheel
• No need for a spare tire

The PAX® System uses a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) that displays pressure status for each individual tire on the RL's Multi-information display screen. In the event of a puncture, the Multi-information display will alert the driver with a visual and audible warning. When the tire is deflated, the stability of the vehicle remains intact. In addition to electronic warnings, a deflated PAX® System tire makes a slight rumble noise and the ride quality of the vehicle changes. PAX® System tires are normally reparable after a puncture and after having been run in the deflated condition. A special bead system creates a physical interlock between the uniquely shaped wheel rim and the bead (or attachment surface) of the tire. Instead of air pressure alone creating a tight lock between tire and wheel, the tension in a PAX® tire pulls on a bead wire, tightening it into the wheel and preventing the tire from coming off the rim.

Detailed information regarding the PAX® system is available at www.michelinman.com. A 24-hour/365 day per year toll-free number has been established (located on a document included with the Owner's Manual) to assist customers with PAX® repair needs.

TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM (TPMS)

The onboard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with location and pressure indicators warns the driver when the air pressure lowers in any tire. This helps reduce the chance of losing control of the vehicle due to low air pressure. This is important because a slow leak, such as might be caused by a nail embedded through the tread, might not be detectable immediately but would, in time, cause significant air loss, loss of grip and potentially a blowout.

A sensor mounted on each wheel continually monitors tire pressure and sends a coded signal to an initiator located inboard of the tire on the chassis. The information is then sent to an electronic control unit that compares the values of each tire against an acceptable set of values.

When a tire's pressure drops significantly below the proper specification, a "check tire pressure" alert appears on the MID alert screen. The system can display the air pressure in all four tires simultaneously via the MID, making it simple to locate a low tire. If there is a fault in the system, a "check tpms system" alert appears. At the driver's preference the display can continually show the air pressure in all four tires. Regardless of whether the driver chooses to monitor the pressures, a warning will still occur if a tire drops below specification.

ADVANCED COMPATIBILITY ENGINEERING™ (ACE™) BODY STRUCTURE

The Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure on the 2007 Acura RL is designed to take vehicle front frame construction beyond conventional safety protocols such as the NHTSA NCAP 35 mph frontal barrier test or the IIHS 40 mph offset frontal crash. Its goal is to deliver significantly enhanced occupant protection in a variety of real-world crash conditions. These may include a frontal collision between vehicles of differing heights, weights and frame construction.

The ACE structure uses the engine compartment to efficiently absorb and disperse collision energy during a vehicle-to-vehicle collision. It features a new frame structure composed of a highly efficient energy-absorbing main frame, a bulkhead (upper frame) which absorbs the upper part of the collision energy, and a lower member that helps prevent misalignment of the frames of the vehicles involved. This design disperses collision forces over a larger frontal area, which enhances energy absorption of the engine compartment, reduces the chance of deformation of the passenger compartment and results in enhanced occupant protection. At the same time, the structure reduces the chance of vertical or lateral misalignment between the RL and other vehicle's safety structures.

During a frontal collision, a conventional body structure generally concentrates the loads from the impact through two pathways running longitudinally through the lower portion of the frame. The ACE structure's front-mounted polygonal main frame is designed to prevent cabin deformation by distributing forces through multiple major load bearing pathways - and away from the passenger compartment.

CRASH TESTING

The RL has received the highest ratings given (5 Stars) by NHTSA in frontal and side impact testing as well as rollover resistance. In addition, projected impact test results for the RL are excellent for Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) tests.

• In the 35 mph NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) full frontal barrier test, the RL earned Five Stars, the highest rating for both driver and front passenger
• In the 38.5 mph SINCAP side test, the RL earned Five Stars, the highest rating for both front and rear outboard passenger
• In the IIHS 40 mph frontal offset test, the RL is projected to return a GOOD rating
• In the IIHS 50km/h (31 mph) Side Impact Collision Evaluation (SICE) test, RL is projected to return a GOOD rating

DRIVER'S AND FRONT PASSENGER'S DUAL-STAGE, DUAL-THRESHOLD AIRBAG SUPPLEMENTARY RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS)

Dual-stage airbags for the driver and front passenger are designed to provide protection for the head and chest during a moderate to severe front collision, while simultaneously helping to reduce injuries. They do both through the use of a dual-stage, dual-threshold airbag technology. Each airbag inflator has two stages. During a severe collision both stages fire at the same time to provide immediate inflation of the airbag. But during a moderate collision the igniters fire in sequence, slowing the deployment rate of the airbags.

Besides the severity of the collision, the modules interpret a signal from the seat belt buckle switch that indicates whether the occupants are wearing their seat belts.

• If the front passengers are not wearing their seat belts, the inflators will activate simultaneously to make the airbag deploy more quickly.
• If the front passengers are wearing their seat belts, the airbags will inflate at a slightly higher threshold.

In the RL, the system also assesses the weight of the front passenger through a seat weight sensor. If the weight is less than a certain amount, the front passenger airbag is
shut off. The front passenger's airbag also features a seamless instrument panel cover over the airbag for a cleaner, more elegant look.

DRIVER'S AND FRONT PASSENGER'S SIDE AIRBAGS WITH FRONT PASSENGER OCCUPANT POSITION DETECTION SYSTEM (OPDS)

New larger size side airbags are mounted in the outboard area of each front seatback. They are designed to provide upper torso protection in the event of a sufficient side impact. The front passenger's seat is equipped with Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS), an innovative system designed to deactivate the side air bag if a small child (or small-stature adult) leans into the side air bag deployment path. When the passenger returns to an upright seating position, the side air bag reactivates so it can deploy and help protect the occupant in a side impact. The system utilizes sensors in the passenger seatback to determine the height and position of the occupant, and determine if it is safe to deploy the side air bag.

SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAGS

In a sufficient side impact, the side curtain airbags in the RL deploy from roof modules, providing head protection for front-seat as well as outboard rear-seat occupants in outboard positions. Side curtain airbags effectively cover the window area from the A-pillar back to the C-pillar. Tests show that the g forces acting upon an occupant's head are far lower with a side curtain airbag.

LATCH (LOWER ANCHORS AND TETHERS FOR CHILDREN)

The RL includes a LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) child-seat mounting system for the outboard rear seats. LATCH features built-in lower anchors and ready-to-use tether attachment points that allow compatible child safety seats to be installed without using the vehicle's seat belt system. The LATCH system simplifies child seat installation when an owner installs a LATCH-compatible child seat. The center rear seat has a tether point, but no lower anchors.

PEDESTRIAN SAFETY

Acura's safety interests extend beyond care for vehicle occupants. The RL hood area is designed to deform if contact is made with either an adult or a child pedestrian. Underneath the hood are energy-absorbing supports and fender mounts, and the windshield wiper pivots are also deformable in the event that a pedestrian contacts these areas. Research shows that features such as these dramatically improve a pedestrian's chance of survival if struck by a moving vehicle.