Acura RL 1st Gen (KA9)

Verdict

BHP

210-225 bhp

0–60

8.0 s

Top speed

130 mph

MPG

20.0 mpg

Used

$2,000-$6,000

Replacing the well-loved Legend was always going to be tough. The first RL went the soft, isolated luxury route, with a 3.5L SOHC V6 (initially 210 hp, bumped to 225 hp from 1999), 4-speed automatic, FWD only, and an emphasis on comfort over driver engagement. Reviewers found it competent but lacking character compared to its main target, the Lexus LS. The 1999 Coach Edition added Coach-branded leather upholstery and was Acura's first OEM partnership with a luxury goods brand. Genuinely reliable but unloved; even Acura's CEO publicly acknowledged the lineup needed a stronger flagship.

Strengths

Honda mechanical reliability
Smooth ride aimed at Lexus LS shoppers
Cheap to buy now
1999 Coach Edition has minor curiosity value
Generous standard equipment for the era

Weaknesses

FWD-only — heavy nose feel
4-speed automatic feels archaic
Forgettable styling
Outsold by Lexus LS by 4-to-1
Now 20+ years old

Notable tech

3.5L SOHC J-series V6
DVD-based navigation (early adopter)
Coach Edition with branded leather (1999)
First RL to wear Acura's alphanumeric name

Common issues

4-speed automatic torque-converter judder
Power steering pump leaks
Door lock actuators
Sunroof drains blocking
AC condenser corrosion

Used-market budget

$3,500

Few clean examples survive. Verify timing belt service. Most RLs of this era have been used hard as cheap luxury commuters.