Why did they stop making Acura RL?

Why Acura Stopped Making the RL
Acura decided to discontinue the RL sedan in North America at the conclusion of the 2020 model year. The decision was made as Acura focused on making significant investments in its core models that represent Acura’s future, such as the RDX and MDX crossovers, as well as the upcoming performance-oriented 2021 Acura TLX. The company stated that it will concentrate on crossovers, the smaller ILX sedan, and the new TLX, along with introducing more Type S variants and a new turbo V6. The RLX, which was available as a front-wheel-drive V-6 or an AWD hybrid, did not fit into this plan, as it was not considered a niche performance car and was perceived as a dull drive, which did not align with Acura’s future direction.
The RL faced challenges in the market, as it trailed its German competitors in performance and did not offer the level of luxury and value that consumers expected at its price point. Additionally, the introduction of the new, larger, and more powerful fourth-generation Acura TL made it difficult to market the RL, leading to plans for a new generation RL in the future. However, the RL did not meet consumer expectations, as most consumers expected a V8 at its price point and did not perceive the Acura brand as being on par with its German rivals.
The RL’s discontinuation was also influenced by its sales performance. Despite attempts to address issues with the RL, such as power, styling, and handling, it received mixed reviews from the press and faced declining sales. The successor RLX also sold below expectations due to factors such as relatively tight interior space, the lack of a V8 performance engine option, and its relatively high price compared to its rivals.
In summary, Acura’s decision to discontinue the RL was driven by a strategic shift towards focusing on core models that represent Acura’s future, as well as the RL’s challenges in meeting consumer expectations and market performance.

What replaced Acura RL?

The Acura RLX is a mid-size flagship luxury car manufactured by Honda and sold under their Acura division, released in 2013, succeeding the RL.

Are Acura RL reliable cars?

These compact, midsized, and large models have high scores in CR’s road tests—and they’re reliable.

Which is more luxurious Acura or Lexus?

First off, Lexus is the luxury division of Toyota and Acura is the same for Honda. Lexus and Acura are different in a fundamental way. While both are luxury brands, Lexus tries to emphasize comfort, luxury, and reliability while Acura tends to go after a less luxurious, but more sporty type of vehicle.

Is the Acura RL fast?

The RL is not the fastest of the large luxury sedans, but it is surprisingly powerful and very smooth, even up to high speeds. Only a five-speed automatic (with manual shift capability) is offered. Most competitors offer six speeds, but Acura’s doesn’t seem to hold the car back.

What was the first year of the Acura RL?

1996
Making its first appearance in 1996, RL has served as the flagship sedan for Acura for 14 years. Replacing the Legend, the RL acronym stood for “Refined Luxury”. From 1996 to 2004, the vehicle was known as the 3.5RL based on its 3.5-liter V-6 engine.

What car did Acura discontinue?

ILX and NSX
Acura has declared that the ILX and NSX will no longer be available after the 2023 model year.

What engine is in 2000 Acura RL?

3.5 L V62000 Acura RL / Engine

Is Acura just a fancy Honda?

Acura is the luxury and performance division of Japanese automaker Honda, based primarily in North America. The brand was launched on March 27, 1986, marketing luxury and performance automobiles. Acura sells cars in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Panama, and Kuwait.

What car is Acura bringing back?

2023 Acura Integra
2023 Acura Integra Review
A small four-door hatchback that’s based on the latest-generation Honda Civic, the new Integra is an entry-level model in the Acura lineup that promises a bit of driving fun, some mild luxury and some nameplate cachet. Does it deliver?

What does RL stand for on Acura?

Refined Luxury
The model name “RL” is an abbreviation for “Refined Luxury.” Acura RL.