The new RL is a fantastic car, better in my opinion then its competition. I do not think Acura should start decontenting the RL just to make it cheaper. People in this class want the most for their money and decontenting will just give them less and forcing them to check expensive option packages. I like how Acuras come loaded with standard features that are expensive options in other brands. The RL problem is that it is not that well known and the previous model was pretty lackluster and not well received compared to its competition. The Legend has alot of respect and recognition but unless people are paying alot of attention to Acura they may not know the RL is the Legend and may just associate the new RL with the previous lackluster RL. That is the main reason the RL is not going to sell in huge numbers is that it does not have the same previous success and recognition as a Lexus GS, Mercedes E class, BMW 5 series. These cars have not changed their names for awhile and built respect and a loyal following over the years which will translate in alot of interest in new models. People will pay higher prices for them even though they are not as nice as the RL because they have a better history and people know what they are getting. People pay more for BMW 525 which sell in big numbers because of the name and history even though they get a inferior car. There is nothing wrong with Acura or its image they just need more time and success in this price range. The new RL is a start as it has got very good reviews and the car is very impressive but it may take another model or two to get the respect and following the other players have.

Putting the next RL model on its own rwd platform and offering a v-8 or even the new NSXs v-10 will be nice and will probrably help with some more sales but it will still probrably take a little time for people to recognize that the RL is just as good if not better then its more well known competition. Just because a car has rwd and a v-8 does not mean it will be a success in the luxury segment, look at the Infiniti Q45, original M45, Jag XJ, S type, Audi A6,A8, Lincoln Town Car, none of these cars have done or are doing that well yet they have the formula which most consider mandatory for succesful luxury cars. The Q45 has had a powerful v-8, rwd, and generally good build quality, reliabilty, and performance since its inception yet it has done poorly especially compared to the more conservative Lexus LS. Some blame that on a silly ad campaign when it was first released that never showed the car but the fact is just having strong v-8s and rwd will not ensure success.

I was very impressed when I sat in and test drove the RL. The interior is gorgeous and there is that solid vault like feeling and thunk in the doors. Interior quality and fit and finish is extrememly high. It is much better then my 2nd Gen Lexus GS430 and I felt it was better then the new LexusGS and much better then the M35, E class, and 5series. The exterior grows on you and looks very good in certain colors like black, grey, and silver. I don't think the Lexus GS or Infinit M look all that expensive or great either. The GS looks too much like a Altima or Maxima especially in the ugly rear and the M looks more like a Nissan and not upmarket although the M45 sport in dark colors looks pretty good.

The RL also only comes one way which is 6 cylinder awd and loaded where there are more variations with its competition that can make them look more attractive. A model without AWD might help for people who don't need it and it will be lighter, improve acceleration and gas mileage as well as lower the price. I also think alot of people who are looking at an RL might just get a TL since it is a little quicker and offers most of the RLs equiptment even though it is not as nice. Same thing happend with the previous RL where the TL just seemed like the better buy. If Acura keeps improving the RL like they have with this model and keep the price in check I think it will gain a bigger following like the Legend did. Decontenting it to make it a little cheaper will most likely have a negative effect on the car and the brand.