Acura RL: Specs, 2005 Model, Performance, Price & Reliability in Canada
The Acura RL was once the flagship luxury sedan of the Acura brand, combining Japanese engineering, cutting-edge technology, and all-wheel-drive confidence. Produced from 1996 to 2012, the RL offered refined performance and advanced features, making it a great option in Canada’s used luxury car market. Whether you’re looking for a reliable winter-ready sedan or a budget-friendly luxury cruiser, the RL still holds strong appeal today.
Acura RL
The Acura RL (short for “Refined Luxury”) replaced the Acura Legend in 1996 and went on to serve as Acura’s flagship sedan for over a decade. The second generation (2005–2012) introduced bold styling and the revolutionary Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®), which gave it an edge in Canadian winters.
Though it was eventually succeeded by the Acura RLX, the RL remains a popular choice among buyers looking for high-end comfort and all-weather capability on the used market.
Acura RL for Sale
Used Acura RLs from 2005 to 2012 are still widely available across Canada. Provinces like Ontario, Quebec, Alberta, and British Columbia tend to have the largest selection. Platforms like AutoTrader.ca, Kijiji, and Facebook Marketplace list various RL models, many of which include detailed service histories.
When shopping, prioritize models with low mileage, complete maintenance records, and no signs of rust—especially for buyers in provinces with heavy winter salt exposure.
Acura RL Price
- 2005–2008 RL: ~$5,000–$9,000 CAD
- 2009–2012 RL: ~$9,000–$14,000 CAD
- Original MSRP (2005): ~$69,000 CAD
Given the luxury features and AWD performance, the RL represents excellent value in the used market. It’s common to find well-maintained examples for under $10,000.
Acura RL Review
The Acura RL earned praise for its comfort, smooth ride, and cutting-edge tech (for its time). Canadian drivers especially appreciated the standard SH-AWD system, which offered secure traction during harsh winters.
Pros:
- ✔ Powerful and smooth V6 engine
- ✔ Excellent build quality
- ✔ Standard SH-AWD on all trims
- ✔ Quiet and luxurious interior
Cons:
- ✘ Smaller rear-seat space compared to rivals
- ✘ No V8 option
- ✘ Limited aftermarket support
Acura RL Specs
| Model Year | Engine | Horsepower | Drivetrain | Fuel Economy (Combined) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2005–2008 | 3.5L V6 | 300 hp | SH-AWD | 11.2 L/100km |
| 2009–2012 | 3.7L V6 | 300 hp | SH-AWD | 11.5 L/100km |
Acura RL Reliability
One of the Acura RL’s strongest assets is its long-term reliability. Built with Honda’s proven engineering, RL models are known for reaching 300,000+ km with minimal issues if properly maintained.
- ✔ Timing belt should be replaced around 160,000 km
- ✔ SH-AWD system requires occasional fluid changes
- ✔ Electronics and navigation screens may need updates or replacements
Canadian owners report low operating costs compared to European luxury sedans, making the RL a great long-term investment.
Acura RL Interior
The RL’s cabin offers timeless luxury, even by today’s standards. Soft leather seating, woodgrain accents, and advanced sound insulation create a serene driving environment.
Standard features included:
- ✔ Power-adjustable heated front seats
- ✔ Navigation with voice control (2005+)
- ✔ Bluetooth hands-free (2007+)
- ✔ 10-speaker Acura/ELS premium audio system
Though the rear-seat space isn’t as generous as in rivals like the Lexus GS or BMW 5 Series, the comfort and refinement remain top-notch.
Acura RL 2005
The 2005 Acura RL introduced a full redesign and set the tone for modern Acura sedans. It was the first to feature SH-AWD, which enhanced performance and safety. The 2005 RL also came fully loaded—Acura offered only one trim, making it one of the most feature-rich sedans of its time.
Key features of the 2005 RL:
- ✔ 3.5L V6 with 300 hp
- ✔ Integrated navigation and real-time traffic (a first in Canada)
- ✔ Keyless access with push-button start
- ✔ Xenon HID headlights
Acura RL vs TL
| Feature | Acura RL | Acura TL |
|---|---|---|
| Position | Flagship luxury sedan | Mid-size performance sedan |
| Engine | 3.5L or 3.7L V6 | 3.2L–3.7L V6 |
| AWD | Standard (SH-AWD) | Available (SH-AWD) |
| Interior Space | More luxury-focused | More sporty, tighter cabin |
| Used Price (2025) | $6,000–$14,000 | $4,000–$12,000 |
The TL may be more popular with enthusiasts, but the RL offers a more luxurious, smoother driving experience—especially with its SH-AWD system in Canada’s winter months.
Acura RL Performance
The RL was never meant to be a sports car, but it delivered smooth, confident performance thanks to its V6 engine and SH-AWD. The torque vectoring system helped the RL handle corners better than many front-heavy sedans, especially on slippery roads.
Performance stats:
- 0–100 km/h: ~6.5 seconds (3.7L V6)
- Top Speed: ~210 km/h (electronically limited)
- Braking (100–0 km/h): ~40 meters
Acura RL 2005
In real-world Canadian conditions, the RL feels planted, predictable, and refined—ideal for long-distance drives or year-round commuting.
Conclusion: Should You Buy a Used Acura RL in Canada?
If you’re shopping for a luxurious, reliable, and winter-capable used sedan under $15,000, the Acura RL should be on your radar. It offers flagship-level features, proven reliability, and all-weather confidence. While it may not have the brand cachet of its German counterparts, the RL delivers quietly competent performance and long-lasting value.
Look for a 2009+ model for the refreshed design and 3.7L engine, or a well-kept 2005 for maximum luxury-per-dollar.
FAQs About the Acura RL in Canada
Q1: Is the Acura RL good in winter?
A: Yes. Every RL comes standard with SH-AWD, making it excellent for snow and icy conditions when paired with winter tires.
Q2: Does the RL require premium fuel?
A: Yes, Acura recommends premium fuel for optimal performance and efficiency in the RL’s V6 engine.
Q3: Is maintenance expensive on the RL?
A: Not compared to other luxury brands. Routine services like oil changes and brakes are affordable. The SH-AWD system needs fluid changes but is reliable long-term.
Q4: What’s the difference between RL and RLX?
A: The RLX replaced the RL in 2014 with updated styling, a hybrid powertrain (optional), and more rear passenger space.
Q5: Can I still get parts for the RL in Canada?
A: Yes. OEM and aftermarket parts are widely available through Acura dealers and trusted parts suppliers.
Explore more luxury sedans and Acura models with all-wheel drive inside our Car Brand section—covering every classic and current model made for Canadian drivers.
Complete Car Loan Guide for Canada & USA
Looking for the best auto loan rates? This guide covers car financing options in both Canada and the USA. Learn how to get low interest car loans, compare lenders, and apply online with ease.
Country-Specific Car Loan Guides
- Car Loan Guide – Canada (covers bank car loan offers and credit union car loans)
- Car Loan Guide – USA (includes auto loan refinancing and pre-approved auto loan tips)
Why Trust This Car Loan Guide?
We reference trusted resources like Ratehub’s Canadian car loan rankings and NerdWallet’s U.S. auto loan analysis. These comparisons provide real-time information on compare car loan rates and vehicle financing for bad credit.
How to Use This Guide
Step 1: Choose Your Country
Select Canada or USA for tailored details on online car loan application steps.
Step 2: Learn Eligibility
Check credit score requirements, down payment expectations, and loan terms for low interest car loans.
Step 3: Compare & Apply
Review lender offers, auto loan refinancing options, and repayment periods before applying.
Pro Tips for Smart Car Financing
- Check your credit score—higher scores unlock low interest car loans.
- Get a pre-approved auto loan—gives you more bargaining power.
- Compare car loan rates—across banks, credit unions, and online lenders.
- Watch out for markups—dealer financing may cost more than bank car loan offers.
Disclaimer: Loan terms and rates vary by lender, credit score, and location. Always confirm details directly with the financial institution before applying.
