New Car Profile of the 2004 ACURA RL Full-Size Luxury Sedan

Description: Full-Size Luxury Sedan
Base MSRP Range: $43,150-$45,150
Invoice Price Range: $38,420-$40,200

Acura's full-size flagship sedan matches European machines with sophisticated yet understated exterior styling. Inside the spacious passenger compartment, luxurious appointments range from leather-clad bucket seats in front of a bench for three to rich hardwood trimmings and high-tech electronic controls.

The editions of 2004 gain cabin equipment, such as a premium audio system (the Acura/Bose Music System with in-dash CD changer for six discs) and power lumbar support in the driver's plush bucket seat. In addition, the XM satellite radio service and Acura's navigation system with voice recognition feature score as standard gear. New brushed metal and chrome accents decorate the cabin with a wood-pattern shifter knob applied plus burled camphor wood trimming the instrument panel and a dashboard video screen of the navigation system.

For power, the RL employs a single-cam 3.5-liter aluminum V6 that nets 225 hp. Sport-tuned suspension elements are included, plus big disc brakes and computer linkage to an anti-lock brake system (ABS). Additional standard safety equipment includes four air bags, with dual-stage inflation for the front passenger-side air bag and a smart side air bag that can figure out the size and position of the seat occupant before deciding to deploy the device. Acura's VSA anti-skid system is also included.