Is the Acura Rl front or rear-wheel-drive?
The Acura RL is built with a front-engine layout and is primarily front-wheel drive, with an optional Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) on certain models; there has never been a factory rear-wheel-drive RL.
Across its production years, the RL mostly used front-wheel drive as the standard configuration, while SH-AWD offered additional traction and handling benefits on specific trims. The RL was eventually replaced by the RLX, which continued with front-engine layouts and SH-AWD on select versions, but remained not a dedicated rear-drive model.
Drivetrain options by generation
Here is a quick overview of how the RL lineup was offered in terms of drivetrain across its production years:
- Front-wheel drive (FWD) — standard configuration on most RL models.
- Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) — available on various RL trims/years as an AWD option that enhances grip and handling.
- Rear-wheel drive (RWD) — not offered on the RL lineup.
In summary, the RL was not offered as a rear-wheel-drive model; the primary configurations were FWD and SH-AWD, with no RWD variant.
Key considerations for buyers
When evaluating an RL, buyers should weigh traction needs, maintenance implications, and fuel economy differences between FWD and AWD.
- Traction and handling — SH-AWD provides improved grip in poor weather and dynamic cornering performance by distributing power to the rear wheels.
- Maintenance and cost — AWD systems typically add weight and maintenance considerations compared to FWD.
- Fuel economy — AWD versions may have slightly lower fuel economy than FWD due to drivetrain losses.
Conclusion: For buyers prioritizing a traditional driving layout with predictable handling in dry conditions, FWD RLs are more economical; for those in variable climates, SH-AWD offers enhanced traction at a modest cost. The RL is not a rear-drive vehicle by design.
Summary
The Acura RL is not rear-wheel-drive; it is built as a front-engine, front-wheel-drive sedan, with the option of Super Handling All-Wheel Drive on certain models across its production span. The RLX successor continued similar drivetrain options. In practice, choose FWD for efficiency and simplicity, or SH-AWD for improved traction and performance, depending on your climate and driving needs.
How much is a 2005 Acura Rl worth?
The value of a used 2005 Acura RL ranges from $1,069 to $3,617, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options. Get a free appraisal here.
Is the Acura RL front wheel drive?
The 3.5RL's longitudinally mounted V6 gasoline engine had its center-line mounted in-line with the car's axis, and not transversely (i.e., 90 degrees offset from the vehicle axis) like most other front-wheel-drive cars.
Is the Acura RL RWD?
The Acura Rl Honda legend Honda/Acura's first car in Japan to break the 276hp gentleman's agreement with 300hp Naturaly Aspirated all-wheel-drive platform to distribute optimum torque between the front and rear wheels and between the left and right rear wheels.
What are the common problems with Acura RL?
Top Acura RL Problems
- Sensor Problems May Cause SRS Light To Turn On.
- Reprogram computer to fix shifting problem in automatic transmission.
- Check Engine Light for Running Rough and Difficulty Starting.
- Engine Stalls While Driving and WIll not Start.
- Acura extended automatic transmission warranty.
