Verdict
B
← Acura RL · 2005-2012 · KB1/KB2
Acura RL 2nd Gen (KB1)
World's first car with active torque-vectoring AWD. Technically important, commercially obscure.
BHP
290-300 bhp
0–60
6.7 s
Top speed
145 mph
MPG
20.0 mpg
Used
$5,000-$15,000
The 2005 RL is genuinely historically important: it introduced SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive), the world's first all-wheel-drive system with active rear torque vectoring — a technology now found across Acura's lineup. The J35 V6 made 290 hp in early cars, rising to 300 hp from 2009. Six-speed automatic from 2009. Standard adaptive cruise control with collision mitigation, 8-speaker Bose audio, real-time AcuraLink traffic. The technology was ahead of its time, but the RL never sold well — the styling was conservative, the price was steep, and luxury buyers had stronger badges to choose from. Production ended in 2012, replaced by the RLX. Now an interesting used buy if you appreciate the SH-AWD pioneer.
Strengths
- World's first AWD with active rear torque vectoring
- SH-AWD genuinely improves cornering and traction
- Reliable J35 V6
- Loaded standard equipment for the era
- Cheap to buy used now
Weaknesses
- Conservative styling failed to compete with German flagships
- Heavy at 4,100+ lb
- Pre-2009 cars have only a 5-speed automatic
- Nav system now obsolete
- Limited used aftermarket support
Notable tech
- World's first SH-AWD with active rear torque vectoring (2005)
- J35 V6 (290-300 hp)
- 6-speed automatic from 2009 onwards
- Standard adaptive cruise + collision mitigation
- Real-time AcuraLink traffic data
- 8-speaker Bose audio
Common issues
- VCM oil consumption on later cars
- Front control arm bushings wearing
- Power steering pump whine
- Rear differential service required regularly
- Suspension air spring leaks (some 2009+ cars)
Used-market budget
$8,500
2009+ cars preferred for the 6-speed automatic and updated styling. Verify SH-AWD service history (rear differential fluid changes are critical).