Between the RL's stellar all-wheel drive system and its powerful engine is a 5-speed Sequential SportShift automatic transmission that not only allows a driver to gear up and down via a lower console mounted shift lever but also sports F1-type paddle shifters attached to the steering wheel. Being that Acura's parent company Honda is doing especially well in its 2004 F1 campaign with BAR, with Jacques Villeneuve no longer at the wheel unfortunately, the tie to motorsports' premiere league is all the more relevant.
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| Drivers will be able to shift the RL's 5-speed Sequential SportShift automatic transmission by using F1-type paddle shifters attached to the steering wheel. (Photo: Acura Canada) |
Keeping the RL's bodyweight down is a large dose of aluminum components, including its hood, trunk, front fenders, sub-frame, and suspension. The latter is of the 4-wheel independent double-wishbone variety, of course, said to deliver a "linear cornering feel," with optimal "cornering traction and a smooth ride." If it's at all related to the TL this should come as no surprise.
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| The RL will feature an Adaptive Front Lighting System, to help drivers see around approaching corners. (Photo: Acura Canada) |
The prototype's 5-spoke 20-inch alloy rims, wrapped in 255/35R20 Michelin high-performance rubber won't help smooth out the bumps, however, but they look sensational and will no doubt aid the RL through the slalom. Behind the wheels reside large diameter slotted rotors clamped down on by 4-piston calipers for what should be impressive braking capabilities.
Additional technical goodies include Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS), part of a headlight cluster that incorporates a "bending" beam to help the driver see around corners - an option currently available on new Lexus models and others.