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Acura RL: KA9 and KB1 generations, engines, and what to check when buying
Acura RL — Acura's flagship sedan, produced from 1996 to 2012 and sold in two generations. It was based on the Honda Legend, so in Europe, a similar car was called the Honda Legend. We'll look at the generations, engines, and what's important to check when buying a used RL.
RL in brief
RL stands for 'Refined Luxury'. The model replaced the Acura Legend, and in 2013, it was replaced by the Acura RLX. All Legend, RL, and RLX models are based on the Japanese-market Honda Legend.
In Lithuania, the RL most often arrives from the USA or Canada, so before buying, check if the car meets European requirements (headlights, speedometer, emissions).
Generations — what's the difference
The first generation (KA9, 1996–2004) was a rebadged third-generation Honda Legend with a longitudinally mounted V6. The 1999 model was refreshed: it got new bumpers, headlights, side-impact airbags, a stiffer suspension, and HID headlights.
The second generation (KB1, from 2005) was based on the fourth-generation Honda Legend. Its main feature was the all-wheel-drive system SH-AWD, which can distribute torque not only between the axles but also between the rear wheels. The car received a major update in 2009 and additional changes in 2011.
Engines and transmissions
The first-generation RL had a 3.5-litre V6 (C35A), a four-speed automatic transmission, and front-wheel drive. In 2002, power increased to around 225 hp. This engine was the last in the Acura lineup without the VTEC system.
The second-generation RL features a 3.5-litre V6 with VTEC (J series), which initially produced around 300bhp. Later, due to changes in measurement standards, this was revised to around 290bhp. The gearbox is a five-speed automatic with paddle shifters, and the drivetrain is all-wheel drive SH-AWD.
What to check when buying a used RL
Check the service history: Honda V6 engines have a timing belt that needs replacing along with the water pump. Ask for proof of when this was done and the oil change history.
In second-generation models, check the operation of the SH-AWD system and the gearbox. In first-generation models, look for signs of corrosion and check the navigation and electrical systems. Test all comfort features: heated seats, navigation, climate control.
Trim levels
We list the US market trim levels, as that's where most RLs are imported to Lithuania.
Base
first generationThe base trim level of the first-generation RL.
- 3.5-litre V6, four-speed automatic gearbox
- Electric sunroof (standard on all versions)
- Often — leather interior
Premium
first generationBetter-equipped version of the first generation.
- Often — more comfort features
- Often — navigation and a better sound system
- The same engine as the Base
Special Edition
1998One-year special edition.
- Two-tone paint job
- Seven-spoke light-alloy wheels
- One-year offer
RL (KB1)
2005–2012Second-gen RL with SH-AWD.
- 3.5-litre V6 with VTEC, around 290–300 hp
- Five-speed automatic and SH-AWD
- Keyless entry and start
Comparing RL generations
| Pirmoji karta (KA9) | Antroji karta (KB1) | |
|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For the budget-conscious luxury sedan | For the dynamic and modern car |
| Engine | 3.5 V6, around 225 HP (from 2002) | 3.5 V6 VTEC, around 290–300 HP |
| Gearbox | Front-wheel drive | All-wheel drive SH-AWD |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic | 5-speed automatic |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | € | €€ |
Most buyers prefer the second generation for its power and SH-AWD, but the first generation is cheaper. Both require a check of service history.
Pros
- Comfortable and quiet interior
- Powerful V6 engine
- SH-AWD all-wheel drive in the second generation
- Lots of kit for its era
Cons
- Imported from the US, so it needs to be adapted to European standards
- High running costs, especially in the city
- Navigation and electronics in older cars are outdated
Frequently asked questions
Is the Acura RL the same as the Honda Legend?
Essentially, yes. The RL is the Honda Legend, sold under the Acura badge in North America. In Europe, a similar car was called the Honda Legend.
Which RL generation is better?
The second generation (from 2005) is more powerful and features the SH-AWD all-wheel-drive system, making it more dynamic. The first generation is cheaper and simpler, but older.
How much power does the Acura RL have?
The first generation's 3.5-litre V6 had around 225hp (from 2002), while the second generation had around 290–300hp.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
