The new RL jumps on the all-wheel drive bandwagon with one of the world's most technically advanced traction systems, or so the automaker says. Featuring a new rear differential with the world's first electromagnetic operated clutch, torque is distributed not only between the front and rear wheels, but between the left and right wheels as well. Several sensors located throughout the car gather information about steering angle, speed, lateral Gs and other information, which is then fed to the car's on-board ECU. This information is relayed to the car's SH-AWD, which then alters the ratio of power delivered to each of its four wheels. The ratio between front and rear axles is between 30:70 and 70:30, with left and right power distribution ranging from 0:100 to 100:0. With this system, torque does double-duty, first by assisting maneuverability and next by propelling the vehicle forward.
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| The RL's all-wheel drive system is one of the world's most technically advanced. (Photo: Acura Canada) |
Another all-new RL feature is a built-in rear axle acceleration device. A what? When cornering and accelerating, often times the rear track falls out of line as the outside wheels are not rotating fast enough. To compensate, the device alters the gearing to speed up the outside rear wheel. This in turn creates a constant neutral feel, reportedly extremely accurate in response to the driver's input.
The exterior styling of the new RL follows inline with Acura's latest wedgy and sharp design language, albeit slightly softened for the slightly more upscale customer the more expensive (about $50,000 USD according to Acura) car will attract. The same goes for the interior, which like the TL and TSX is among the best in their respective classes.
North American and European models will be powered by a 3.5-liter V6 that is said to produce up to 300 horsepower, while Japanese models will receive only 280-hp. Keep your eyes peeled, the RL should be on sale in North America this fall.