The materials used in the RL's cabin are top-notch too. The butter-soft stitched cowhide, genuine wood trim and
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| Much care has been taken to ensure that fit and finish are extraordinary. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
satin-finished metals are very Jaguar-like. Most impressive is the assembly quality of the many bits and pieces that make up a modern automotive interior, especially one as hi-tech and comprehensive as the RL's. A bold, three-dial cluster groups the tachometer, speedometer, fuel level and engine temperature gauges in full view of the driver. A uniquely-styled centre stack houses the climate controls, along with audio and navigation switchgear, all within easy reach of the driver and front passenger. It imparts a sense of sophistication that is more than just visual. A multi-function pod control, a la BMW I-Drive but not as complicated, manages navigational and audio functions through a large, dash-mounted interface screen. Some getting-used-to is needed before its multi-layered operation becomes second nature.
Adding to the latest technology aboard the RL is a tremendously powerful DVD-enabled audio system. With this
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| A uniquely-styled centre stack imparts a sense of sophistication that is more than just visual. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
concert-hall sound and the heated/ventilated power-adjustable front seats, driving it is a pleasurable activity. Much of the bliss is attributable to a smooth ride, accompanied by very little road or engine noise. Acura has taken special steps to ensure the rigid body structure is particularly mute when it comes to auditory annoyance by electronically canceling-out road noise with the use of 'white noise.' It seems to work. The cabin isn't silent by any stretch, but it's certainly hushed, which makes a great backdrop to the RL's dynamic audio system.
