Increased Horsepower and Sport-Tuned Suspension Enhances New 2002 Acura 3.5 RL
4 January 2001
Increased Horsepower and Sport-Tuned Suspension Enhances New 2002 Acura 3.5 RL
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 4 The Acura 3.5 RL, already one of the
most technologically advanced and luxurious automobiles on the market, sets an
even more impressive standard for 2002 with a significant increase in
horsepower, a sport-tuned suspension, and the addition of the OnStar(R)
communications system. The new model will be available in dealerships in
spring of this year.
"With its additional horsepower, more sporty suspension, improved
vibration isolation, and state-of-the-art amenities and safety systems, the
2002 RL is the finest flagship sedan we have ever created," said
Dick Colliver, Acura's executive vice president. "We believe the RL is
uniquely equipped to offer today's discerning buyers everything they've been
looking for in a premium luxury automobile."
Thanks in part to a new, variable exhaust system, the 24-valve, 3.5-liter
V-6 engine now delivers an exhilarating 225 horsepower and 231 lbs.-ft. of
torque (compared with 210 horsepower and 224 lbs.-ft. for the previous
RL V-6). As before, the engine utilizes a 4-valve-per-cylinder configuration,
a three-stage Variable Induction System, and a sophisticated Programmed Fuel
Injection (PGM-FI) system. For all of its power output, the RL V-6 is also
exceptionally fuel-efficient and clean burning. Indeed, the 2002 RL is
classified as a Low Emission Vehicle (LEV). Outfitted with platinum-tipped
spark plugs and a long-life timing belt, the engine is designed to run for
105,000 before requiring a scheduled tune-up.
Complementing the powerful engine is a sophisticated, computer-controlled
4-speed automatic transmission with Grade Logic Control. When driving on steep
grades, Grade Logic Control automatically holds the transmission in the proper
gear to all but eliminate unnecessary shifts and gear "hunting."
The race-bred, double-wishbone suspension -- the foundation for the
3.5 RL's renowned handling and smooth, comfortable ride -- has been carefully
revised for 2002 to deliver even greater handling responsiveness and stability
without sacrificing ride quality. For enhanced cornering grip, the 2002 RL
features wider, P225/55R16 Michelin all-season tires on redesigned, 16-inch
aluminum-alloy wheels. To maximize the driver's enjoyment of this athletic
suspension system, the advanced speed-sensing, variable power-assisted system
has been retuned to provide even more impressive road feel and handling
control.
For secure stopping power, the standard front and rear disc brakes are
equipped with a 4-wheel Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) that automatically
pulses the brakes during maximum-effort stops to help retain steering control
on slippery roads. To further enhance braking, power and feel, the system also
features a new dual-diaphragm master cylinder. Also standard is a
sophisticated Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system, which monitors traction
control functions. By constantly comparing the driver's inputs with how the
car is actually responding, the VSA system can, if it detects a skid,
automatically modulate the front brakes and/or retard the throttle to help
bring the car back onto the driver's intended path.
To deliver enhanced comfort for driver and passengers alike, the 2002 RL
offers significant improvements in noise and vibration isolation. New
insulation material under the hood, in the engine compartment, and under the
dashboard help make the 2002 edition the quietest RL ever built.
In the continuing quest for peerless convenience and luxury, the 2002 RL
is equipped with OnStar -- an advanced on-board communications system that
provides the driver with access to a vast array of available services -- from
emergency roadside assistance to route and location guidance and concierge
services. To speak with a live OnStar Advisor, the driver simply presses the
OnStar button on the rearview mirror. The Advisor can provide directions to
your destination, locate nearby service stations, and even book you a table at
your favorite restaurant. Also available is the OnStar Virtual Advisor, which
allows the driver to retrieve stock quotes, obtain news reports and sports
scores, and even listen to e-mail -- all using a hands-free, voice-activated
connection. The OnStar system is available nationwide, 24 hours a day, seven
days a week.
Occupant safety is of paramount importance at Acura, and thus the RL is
equipped with a truly comprehensive array of advanced safety features.
Complementing its highly rigid body structure and computer-designed front and
rear crumple zones are dual-stage front air bags with a patented dual-stage
front passenger's air bag. The dual-stage inflator automatically manages the
rate of inflation depending on impact severity. Side air bags for the driver
and front passenger provide an extra layer of protection in lateral
collisions. To further protect small front-seat passenger's, multiple sensors
in the front passenger seat determine the height and position of the occupant.
If a child or small statured adult is leaning into the air bag's deployment
path, these sensors are designed to prevent side air bag deployment.
The RL's handsome exterior and spacious, luxurious interior reflect
Acura's fastidious attention to detail and craftsmanship. For 2002, the RL's
lines are subtly enhanced with new body colored lower side sills, splash
guards and roof strips. Inside, the RL offers a soothing ambiance of rich
leather appointments and warm camphor wood accents. This elegant cabin
environment is further enhanced by a sweeping array of comfort and convenience
features, including an Acura/Bose(R) Music System with 6-disc CD changer, an
Automatic Climate Control system, a HomeLink(TM) system built into the sun
visor (which allows the driver to operate the garage door or house lights with
a press of a button), and a power glass moon roof.
The fully appointed Acura RL offers only one factory-installed option:
the DVD-based Acura Satellite Linked Navigation System. One of the most
sophisticated yet easy-to-use navigation systems on the market today, the
Acura Navigation System provides mapping coverage of the continental United
States and stores information on more than 3.7 million points of interest on a
single Digital Versatile Disc (DVD). The Navigation System's 7-inch color LCD
display is designed with a matte-finish touch screen that reduces glare and
fingerprinting, making it easy to read.
Like all Acura models, the 3.5 RL is covered by a comprehensive
4-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty. Additional ownership
benefits include Acura Total Luxury Care (TLC), which provides free 24-hour
roadside assistance, concierge service, and trip routing.
Acura offers a full line of premium performance vehicles through a
nationwide network of nearly 260 dealers. The Acura lineup features six
distinct models including the exotic NSX supercar, the 3.5 RL flagship luxury
sedan, the best-selling 3.2 TL luxury performance sedan, the 3.2 CL luxury
performance coupe, the fun-to-drive Integra, and the revolutionary MDX luxury
sport utility vehicle. For more information about Acura vehicles, please visit
http://www.acura.com.