And I would hardly call the LS a styling leap. It is sharp and a good looker but still has classic, refined styling. I would like it if the thing had some balls.
I think you need to reread my post. Nowhere, did I say the LS is a "styling leap". In fact, the car is DIRT! If I'm not mistaken, the car does have some balls, 275 hp and is marketed as a sport sedan for a younger generation than Lincoln is used to.
Well the RL is the ONLY Honda product that does appeal to older people.
This is exactly my point! Acura is known for its sport luxury and for the person who had a TL and would like a larger Acura with the same or similar road manners they have no choice but to go somewhere else. Looking at the two luxury marquis, BMW and Mercedes, you will find that if a consumer has brand loyalty (which Honda/Acura have a lot of) they have a car that will satisfy every need. For example, if an owner of a 328 came into a BMW showroom and he decided that he needed a larger car with the same fun and excitement that he experienced in the 3-series he could get a 525, 530, 540 or M5. Or if the guy drove a 5-series he could get a 7-series. Same with Mercedes C-class through S-class. Point is, the consumer has options and if he has brand loyalty he can find the car that fits his needs.
I hate to mention it but V8. Would I like one? Yes. Will Acura give me one? No. I know and heard everyone mention about how it won't sell and that the RL doesn't need it! Hey to each his own! Everyone mentions how the GS300 outsells the GS430 and how the 540 is outsold by the 530i/525i. Well of course it is, but it is an option!!!! An option, which creates choice for the consumer. People also mention IMA. No one wants a luxury car that tachs out at 8,000 and revs at 3,500 while cruising at 65mph. It's annoying and most likely has little low-end torque.