The 2006 Acura RL

The VIPS Scale - Value - Image - Performance - Safety

VALUE -  At around 50K, the Acura RL is a little pricey..but you do get a lot of car for the money.  All added features are standard at no extra cost, including moonroof, 6 year/70 thousand mile powertrain and 4 year/50 thousand mile vehicle warranties, 1-year On-Star service and 1-year free XM Satellite radio.

IMAGE - Nothing says "success" like Acura...and the RL has some of the best looks in it's class....whether at the office, school, favorite restaurant, health club, golf course or supermarket.  It's not a major head-turner...but it definitely sends a clear message.

PERFORMANCE - The model I drove was powered by a 290horsepower, 3.5 liter V-6 that got 18mpg in the city, 26 on the highway...o.k, but not great.  Super premium recommended.  The 5-speed automatic transmission was wonderful and you could pop it into semi-automatic for a more sporty feel.  The ride was smooth, the car handled like a fifty-thousand dollar ride should.  The interior was cozy and comfy.  Lots of head and legroom and the drivers seat adjusted anyway you wanted it to adjust.  All the bells and whistles on the steering wheel and dash were easy to reach and read.  I have to say, the entertainment system was a little complicated and hard to decipher.  I asked 3 other adults to play with the controls and one of the three also was puzzled by some of the steps to turn on the heater and fan and change channels on the radio.  Note to Acura engineers: It's just a radio and a heater - MAKE IT SIMPLE.  The backseat was O.K...a little short on legroom.  I loved the trunk...lots of room.

SAFETY - Front and side airbags for both driver and front passenger..anti-lock brakes and government 5-star crash ratings for FRONT and REAR drivers and passengers.  When Acura says "keyless" access, it means key-less.  There's no key.  Instead of a key, you get a plastic fob.  Remember to keep it with you at ALL times..or you won't be able to turn on the ignition.

NEXT:  The 2006 Subaru Outback