"A Technology Package of driving aids highlights 2006 for Acura's flagship sedan. The RL has a 290-hp V6 and a 5-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel paddles for manual shifting. It also comes with Acura's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), which apportions power between the rear wheels to enhance cornering stability. Front side airbags and head-protecting curtain side airbags are standard. So are ABS, traction/antiskid system, and steering-linked xenon headlamps. Keyless entry/ignition and satellite radio are included, as is a voice-activated navigation system that can display real-time traffic conditions. An integrated AcuraLink system provides OnStar assistance and other real-time vehicle status and maintenance information. The Technology Package includes run-flat tires and adaptive cruise control, plus Acura's Collision Mitigation Braking System, which signals of approaching objects and applies the brakes and tightens the front seat belts if it determines a collision is unavoidable.

"Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Midsize Cars sport interior dimensions similar to Midsize Cars. Premium Midsize Cars offer more luxury, performance, and prestige when compared to Midsize Cars. This segment is one of the industry's fastest-growing categories.
Our Best Buys include Acura TL, Cadillac CTS, and Infiniti M. Our Recommended picks include the Acura RL, Infiniti G35, Lexus ES 330, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
New or significantly redesigned models include Lexus GS, Lincoln Zephyr, and Mercedes-Benz CLS.

Acceleration
"We timed 0-60 mph at a brisk 7.0 sec. That's almost on par with some V8 rivals, but RL can't quite match their highway passing punch. Transmission shifts smoothly, responds quickly to convenient manual-shift paddles."

Value
"RL is a Recommended pick for its sporty demeanor and smart, efficient engineering, plus standard all-wheel drive, handsome interior, and Acura's reputation for reliability and resale value. The new Technology Package adds worthwhile safety assets, but like-priced rivals offer the V8 power and high nameplate prestige that resonate more with many buyers in this class."

Ride
Remarkably supple. Only the sharpest bumps filter through. No opportunity to evaluate fully with Technology Package.

Economy
"Test RLs averaged 17.0 mpg in mixed city/highway use that included gas-eating performance tests, 21.0 mpg with more highway driving. Acura recommends premium-grade fuel."

Noise
"One of the quietest cars around. Solid structure free from squeaks, rattles."

Comfort - Front
"Adult head, leg room. Seats all-day comfortable, supportive in spirited cornering. Some shorter drivers may feel a bit ""buried,"" but ample seat adjustments, tilt/telescope steering wheel help compensate."

Comfort - Rear
"Enough head clearance for all but the very tall. Fine knee room, toe space unless front seats are moved well aft. Bench seat unusually supportive, but center floor hump compromises three-abreast comfort."

Controls
"Legible gauges, mostly sensible controls. But center dash is awash in buttons, many duplicating functions accessible from a ""master"" knob for display on the large, clear dashboard screen; sorting it all out takes patience. At least responsive, accurate voice control simplifies navigation use. Real time accident/traffic info a boon for commuting. Stereo plays great-sounding audio DVDs. Top-notch cabin decor, assembly."

Cargo Room
"Wide trunk extends well forward, but lacks height for really big cargo. Sickle-shape trunklid hinges are covered, but eat up space; most rivals have compact strut-type hinges. Rear seatback has small pass-through but doesn't fold. Average cabin storage."