2007 Acura RL - Interior

INTERIOR OVERVIEW

The RL interior is designed to integrate richly elegant luxury and cleanly efficient design, to create an environment in tune with the car's clearly defined sporting character. At the same time, the interior makes the most advanced technology ever built into an Acura easy to use and intuitive to operate. Careful integration of the many advanced systems ensures that they add to the driver's comfort, control and understanding of the driving situation, and never detract from it. The finest interior materials and exacting attention to detail and finish highlight the quiet interior. Stylish and highly supportive perforated leather-trimmed seats are designed to provide a sporty, yet refined driving experience.

For 2007, the RL features a list of standard equipment, including the Acura/Bose DVD-Audio system that delivers surround sound in all seating positions, and XM® Satellite Radio, an all-new MP3 auxiliary jack and passenger seatbelt reminder.

With the available Acura HandsFreeLink™ wireless phone connectivity allowing the driver to dial a Bluetooth®-enabled mobile phone by voice, and satellite-based AcuraLink™ that allows communication between the RL owner and Acura, there's never been a more "connected" vehicle than the RL. The RL is also the first Acura equipped with the Keyless Access System, which allows owners to lock and unlock doors, open the trunk, and start the car without having the keyless remote in the hand.

For 2007, models equipped with the optional RL Technology Package plus CMBS™ and PAX® Tires feature the innovative Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) System, which can maintain a consistent following interval between the RL and the vehicle directly in front of it.

Interior at a Glance

• Luxurious cockpit designed for performance driving
• Perforated leather-trimmed seats
• Upgraded wood interior (Included in the RL with Technology Package)
• LED backlit gauges with progressive illumination
• Leather-wrapped 4-spoke steering wheel with illuminated fingertip controls
  and paddle shifters
• Electronic tilt and telescoping steering column with driver recognition
• Performance-oriented heated front seats
• Driver's 8-way power seat with power adjustable lumbar support
• Solar-sensing, dual-zone, dual-mode automatic climate control system
• Multi-information display allows access to multiple electronic functions and customizable feature settings
• Available Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ and rearview camera (available in the RL with Technology Package)
• AcuraLink™ satellite communication system with real time traffic allows communication between Acura and the vehicle (available in the RL with Technology Package)
• Cruise control
• Optional Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system (available in the RL with Technology Package plus CMBS™ and PAX® Tires)
• HandsFreeLink™ wireless telephone interface is compatible with many Bluetooth mobile phones
• Acura/Bose® 10-speaker Surround Sound System with 6-disc CD, DVD-Audio and DTS® changer and AM/FM tuner.
• Active Noise Cancellation™ system (ANC)
• Interface Dial provides quick, intuitive access to navigation, audio, climate control and other features
• Keyless Access System eliminates fumbling for keys or keyless remote
• Power moonroof with tilt, auto-open/close, auto-reverse and key-off operation

STYLING AND MATERIALS

The quality of materials, fit and finish have received close attention to reflect the spirit of the RL. The large, bright navigation system display is positioned up high, in the center of the instrument panel within easy line of sight of the driver and passenger. Below the navigation system screen, the satin metal finish of the climate, audio and navigation controls has a clean, technical look. And an available upgraded wood interior sweeps across the instrument panel.

DRIVER-ORIENTED COCKPIT

Acura interior design has always made intuitive functionality a priority. All important systems and controls are within easy reach of the driver. The systems used most frequently-audio, cruise control, HandsFreeLink™, Satellite-Linked Navigation System and Multi-information display-have controls positioned on the steering wheel. The main instrumentation is easy-to-read analog, supplemented with digital and graphic displays. Even though the RL gives its driver access to many electronic features and conveniences, the interface is simple and welcoming. Sight lines are clear with important items placed within easy view.

Typical of Acura interior design, the soft-touch switchgear of the RL is engineered to deliver a quality feel and positive action. Helpful features make driving easier, like power rearview mirrors that can be set to automatically tilt-down when reverse is engaged to make parking simpler. There is also a bottom-hinged throttle pedal to provide a linear feel and natural motion. A large dead pedal in the driver's foot well provides extra support for the driver in aggressive driving.

LEATHER-WRAPPED STEERING WHEEL

The leather wrapped steering wheel incorporates the most commonly used controls, allowing the driver to keep their hands on the wheel while using them. Audio system controls are on the upper left spoke, while cruise control buttons are on the right upper spoke. The lower left spoke is reserved for navigation system controls, including a push-to-talk button to activate the voice recognition system which provides voice control of the navigation system, as well as many climate control and audio system features.

Also on the left, between the spokes, are controls for HandsFreeLink™, while on the right between the spokes are controls for the Multi-information display. Tucked out of view, but within fingertip reach, is a pair of paddles that upshift and downshift the Sequential SportShift transmission when it is in manual mode.

On models equipped with the optional RL with Technology Package plus CMBS™ and PAX® Tires, control buttons for the Adapative Cruise Control and Collision Mitigation Braking System are located on the upper and lower right-hand spokes.

INTERFACE DIAL

Most of the commonly used electronic functions have dedicated controls positioned on the instrument panel or on the steering wheel. Voice control of navigation, climate control, audio and communications functions is likewise available, while an Interface Dial positioned just ahead of the front center console-mounted shift lever provides another avenue of control. The Interface Dial is rotated and rocked like a joystick to select among function menus displayed on the navigation screen. A push of the controller selects the highlighted item. Functions controlled by the Interface Dial include:

• Audio
• Navigation
• Climate Control System
• AcuraLink™ satellite communications system

SEATING

Given the performance capabilities and luxury mission of the RL, its passenger seating required extensive engineering development. The front seats in particular had to blend long-trip comfort with the secure lateral support needed, given the cornering potential afforded by the advanced SH-AWD™ system. As a result, the front seats are taller and wider than in the past, which also allows them to accommodate a wide range of body types. The RL seat cushions use a special urethane with high damping coupled with a new wider "S" spring design for better support of the urethane padding. These features work together to reduce the amount of road and engine vibration transmitted to the passenger.

The driver's seat is 8-way power adjustable and includes a power-adjustable lumbar support mechanism. The smooth shape of the articulated lumbar mechanism matches the human spinal curvature to provide solid support for the torso and pelvis. All driver's seat power adjustments except power adjustable lumbar support are included in the Keyless Access System, which stores a pair of user profiles, one for each of the two fobs that come with the RL.

The front passenger seat is 4-way power adjustable with power adjustable lumbar support. In the rear seat area, the outer seating positions are carefully engineered-complete with side bolsters-to combine luxurious comfort on long trips with solid lateral support.

In front, 4-way headrests are adjustable for height and tilt. In back, all of the three headrests have a remote retractable feature that allows the driver to lower them with a touch of an overhead button for better rearward visibility when there are no rear-seat passengers. When carrying rear passengers, the headrests can be raised manually for use.

MULTI-INFORMATION DISPLAY AND MAINTENANCE MINDER

A highly functional instrument panel gives the RL driver instant access to critical information. It also provides important vehicle information via an LCD Multi-information display positioned in the lower speedometer face. The Multi-Information display shows vehicle mileage and trip mileage. Controls positioned at the 4 o'clock position of the steering wheel hub allow the driver to cycle the display through multiple screens of information from sources including CMBS and ACC on models equipped with the available RL with Technology Package plus CMBS™ and PAX® Tires.

Trip computer functions include average and instantaneous fuel economy, average speed, fuel range, and elapsed time. The system also can display outside air temperature, engine oil life as a percentage, SH-AWD™ torque distribution, and tire pressures. The Maintenance Minder System alerts the RL driver of upcoming maintenance needs via the Multi-information display; should a fault occur with the vehicle, warning information also appears (see Engine section for more information).

INTERIOR LIGHTING

The theme of efficient driver control and easy to read components carries on after dark in the RL. The analog instruments are LED backlit, with high-contrast markings and a subdued blue accent hue. The progressive self-illuminating gauge package gives the car a "welcoming" feel. When the door is first opened, the instrument lighting comes to life, and then brightens progressively to 100 percent when the ignition is switched on. The illuminated instrument needles and enunciator lights then come alive, indicating that the car is ready to go. At the end of the drive, the instrument lighting dims progressively.

All the interior switches are illuminated to make them easy to locate at night, including those on all four doors and the steering wheel. In addition to front and rear overhead interior lights and map lights, the RL also has a complement of low-level interior ambient cabin lighting. Blue front and rear low-level ambient lighting in the ceiling illuminates the front center console and the rear flip-down armrest. The front foot wells also have low-level ambient lighting that brightens substantially when the doors are opened.

Front and rear interior door handle areas are also illuminated to make them easy to find, and the front door storage compartments, glove compartment and the front armrest compartment are all internally illuminated. All four doors have courtesy lights that are illuminated when the doors are open. The RL interior lights feature "theater dimming," which can be set by the driver to any of several rates via the Multi-information display. The trunk has interior lighting, plus the trunk lid has lighting that illuminates the bumper and sill area when the lid is opened.

INTERIOR CONVENIENCE

The RL interior offers plenty of storage and convenience features for driver and passengers. The front center armrest has a unique dual lid, which allows the padded armrest to be used on one side, while the lid on the other side is opened. The armrest upper portion can also be swiveled up to allow access to a large lower storage compartment. The front double beverage holder has an adjustable bottom tray that allows it to accommodate a wide range of container sizes.

Inside the glove compartment is a separate document box that allows the RL User Manual and important registration and insurance papers to be stored safely. This arrangement also frees up storage space in the main glove box compartment.

In the rear seating area, the rear folding armrest has a padded top. A pullout dual beverage holder is built into the rear armrest.

CARGO CARRYING VERSATILITY

The RL has a generously sized 13.1 cubic-foot trunk that is fully finished, with all wiring concealed and the rear parcel shelf speakers and navigation unit fully protected. The acoustic properties of the trunk and the three rear deck speakers were engineered together to create the best possible sound performance out of the Acura/Bose DVD-AUDIO system. To allow room for longer items, a locking trunk pass-through is provided. A standard cargo net and a network of anchor points help keep cargo securely in position. The spare tire is located under a folding cover in the trunk floor.

For a cleaner appearance and to avoid damage to luggage, the aluminum trunk lid is supported by fully concealed hinge mechanisms. The trunk can be opened via a remote release mounted on the driver's door panel, by pulling the exterior release on the lid when carrying the Keyless Access fob, or with a manual release accessible through the locking trunk pass-through. There is also an emergency trunk opener inside, near the latch. For security, the trunk main switch is located in the glove box, which can be locked to prevent access by valets. A valet key is provided that will allow a parking attendant to operate the ignition, but will not to open the glove box, trunk, or locking trunk pass-through if it is locked by the driver.

SOLAR-SENSING, DUAL-ZONE, DUAL-MODE AUTOMATIC CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM

The RL has a solar-sensing, dual-zone, dual-mode automatic climate control system that lets the driver and front passenger set temperature modes to their individual liking. A pair of large adjustable vents in the rear of the center console keep the rear seat area comfortable. Large, simple to use system controls are positioned within easy reach, just below the center instrument panel vents. The system can also be controlled by voice, and some seldom-needed custom settings can also be accessed through the Interface Dial. The climate control system's control logic is designed to provide smooth operation with subtle changes in airflow.

With its position-sensing ability, the navigation system contributes to overall passenger comfort with 3D solar sensing. Based on its continuously updated vehicle position information, the navigation system determines the position of the sun relative to the driver and passenger. Combining this information with input from a solar sensor located on top of the instrument panel, the climate control system automatically adjusts the temperature and airflow from side to side as needed to compensate for asymmetrical solar heating.

System operation can be customized to suit the preferences of the driver and front seat passenger. Using the navigation screen and the Interface Dial, the temperature of the air flowing through the upper vents can be fine-tuned relative to that of the air flowing from the footwell vents.

REAR SUNSHADES

For greater passenger comfort on sunny days, the RL has a power operated rear-window sunshade, plus manually operated sunshades for each rear side window.

ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION™ (ANC™)

The 2007 RL features Active Noise Cancellation™ (ANC™), which is designed to dramatically reduce low frequency exhaust booming noise in the interior. The system operates whenever the car is running, regardless of whether the Acura/Bose® audio system is on or off.

There are two microphones in the headliner, one just behind the front overhead console, and another just ahead of the overhead rear light module. The microphones capture low-end drivetrain frequencies entering the cabin, and send a signal to the Active Noise Cancellation unit. The control unit then creates a precisely timed reverse phase audio signal that is sent to an amplifier, which powers the door speakers and the subwoofer positioned on the rear deck.

Since the system is designed to cancel low-frequency sound, it doesn't use any of the audio system's tweeters. The ANC dramatically reduces the booming sound of the exhaust, front and rear. In the frequency range below 100 hertz, ANC results in an impressive 10 dB reduction in noise level.

OVERHEAD CONSOLE

The overhead console incorporates a variety of useful features. Controls for the standard HomeLink® system and other overhead console features include controls for interior lighting, power sunroof, power rear sunshade and remote retracting rear head restraints.

ACURA/BOSE® 10-SPEAKER SURROUND SOUND SYSTEM WITH 6-DISC CD, DVD-AUDIO AND DST® CHANGER AND AM/FM TUNER

Like the TL, with its innovative and widely heralded audio system, the RL comes standard with a DVD-Audio system that is engineered to advance the state of the art in production car audio. The ultra-sophisticated system of the RL provides the driver and passengers with a new level of audio enjoyment utilizing the Bose® Cabin Surround® sound system.

Engineered specifically for the RL, the Acura/Bose 10-speaker Surround Sound System with 6-disc CD, DVD-Audio and DTS changer and AM/FM tuner delivers surround sound to all seating positions and features standard XM® Satellite Radio. XM® Satellite Radio provides more than 120 channels (all music channels are commercial-free) of digital program material with near-CD quality sound. A text display on the navigation screen provides information text on the program material. XM® provides virtually uninterrupted coverage of the 48 contiguous states, and a one-year subscription is
included with the RL. (Note XM® Satellite Radio is not installed on RL models sold in Alaska and Hawaii-service for these states does not exist at this time)

The RL has a 6-disc in-dash changer that can play DVD-Audio, CD, and MP3 media. DVD audio is the next step in audio reproduction technology. Many new releases are being issued in this new format, and many older recordings are being re-mastered and reissued to take advantage of the superior sound that DVD audio offers. With over 500 times higher resolution than CD audio, DVD audio delivers smoother, fuller and far more accurate sound. (The system will not play DVD movies, DVD-Video or DVD-R/RW.)

To improve sound quality when playing CDs, the system includes Centerpoint® logic, which creates simulated surround sound from the two channels of CD data. Another feature, Audiopilot®, automatically adjusts the audio signal in response to exterior noises. Audiopilot monitors the sound in the RL cabin using the same microphone used for the Active Noise Cancellation system (ANC), then the system adjusts the audio system output to compensate. Centerpoint, Audiopilot, balance, fader and other functions can be accessed via the Interface Dial. Controls for key audio system functions are positioned within fingertip reach on the RL steering wheel. Select audio system functions can also be accomplished via voice commands.

For precise audio imaging and impressive sound for listeners in the front and rear seats, the 10 speakers are strategically located throughout the RL cabin. Each front door has a 6.5-inch full-range speaker and a separate 1.5-inch tweeter. A 2.5-inch twiddler is centered on the top of the instrument panel. Each rear door has a 6.5-inch full-range speaker; the rear parcel shelf has a 2.5-inch twiddler on each side, with a big 9-inch woofer centrally located beneath the back glass. A total of 260 watts drives the 10-speaker system.

HANDSFREELINK™ WIRELESS TELEPHONE INTERFACE

The RL has a standard HandsFreeLink™ hands free phone interface that is designed to work with many recently manufactured Bluetooth®-enabled mobile phones (sold separately). Bluetooth is a radio frequency-based cable replacement technology that lets portable devices like mobile phones PDAs, laptops and other devices communicate wirelessly. The RL system is compatible with Bluetooth enabled cell phones that have the Hands Free Profile (HFP). Some early Bluetooth-enabled phones do not have this communications protocol, but any newly released phones should have the HFP. After the driver completes a one-time "pairing" process, the RL can communicate wirelessly and securely with the driver's cell phone when it's within about 10 feet of the car. The phone needs to be on, but can be stowed in a pocket, briefcase or purse-or anywhere inside the RL cabin.

HandsFreeLink™ allows the driver to send or answer calls without taking his or her hands from the steering wheel. When a call comes in, the number of the incoming caller is displayed on the Multi-information display located in the speedometer face. The phone ring tone is also played over the audio system. If the driver chooses to answer the call, a press of the steering wheel-mounted "Pick up" button mutes the audio system and the incoming caller is heard over the audio system speakers. An overhead microphone picks up the driver's voice. Algorithms built into the HandsFreeLink system cancel "echo effect" and reduce background noise to improve the transmission quality of the driver's speech.

To send a call hands free, the driver can dial the number by voice, again using fingertip controls mounted on the steering wheel to activate the system. The driver also can store frequently called numbers with voice tags in the system's memory. Up to six different compatible mobile phones can be paired with the HandsFreeLink system at one time.

Additional information can be found at www.acura.com/handsfreelink or www.handsfreelink.com

ACURALINK™ SATELLITE COMMUNICATION SYSTEM WITH REAL TIME TRAFFIC

RL models in the 48 contiguous states feature the AcuraLink™ satellite communication system with Real Time Traffic (when equipped with the RL with Technology Package). AcuraLink™ allows for two-way communication between Acura and the vehicle, providing customers with the latest information specific to their vehicle. In cases where communication to and from the Acura Telematics server is needed, the owner's Bluetooth cell phone is used (once the owner has enabled its data-transmission function).

AcuraLink messages consist of a limited amount of text plus expanded details via Text-To-Speech. Each message is prioritized by importance. High priority messages are displayed immediately upon receipt. Other messages trigger an icon on the RL navigation display. Some low priority messages show up only on vehicle start-up to avoid distraction. In all cases, the RL owner can choose to read or listen to the message immediately, or archive it to be retrieved later.

A wide variety of messages can be sent to the RL, including Maintenance Minder (detailed information regarding your next required maintenance), Quick Tips (information to help you maximize the benefit and enjoyment of RL features), Feature Guide (supplements to the Owner's Manual), Diagnostic Info (detailed information and instruction should an onboard system issue arise), and information regarding a service or repair required. The RL owner has complete control over the types of messages they receive. All AcuraLink™ preferences can be set via the Owner Link web site.

Since the system allows two-way data communication between the RL and the Acura Telematics Server, AcuraLink™ can provide the owner with vital information that previously has been unavailable. For example, if a warning light should appear on the RL instrument panel, AcuraLink™ can be configured to automatically send a trouble code along with the sensor data associated with the fault to the Acura Telematics Server, which analyzes the code, then sends a message back to the RL, such as "A software issue has been detected. It is OK to continue driving. The repair is currently being developed, so you do not need to visit your dealer at this time." You will receive another AcuraLink™ message when it is time to visit your dealer to have the system repaired. This way, the owner knows if a particular fault is serious enough to cancel a trip, if it can be dealt with later or if it requires special driving techniques. An icon on the RL navigation display screen indicates an incoming message. Some low priority messages show up only on vehicle start-up to avoid distractions.

A wide variety of messages can be sent to the RL, including Maintenance Minder, Quick Tips, Feature Guide and Diagnostic Info. The RL owner can set their preferences for the types of messages they receive in their RL via the Owner Link Website.

Since the system allows two-way data communication between the RL and the Acura Telematics Server, AcuraLink can provide the owner with vital information that previously has been unavailable. For example, if an ABS/BRAKE warning light should appear on the RL instrument panel, AcuraLink will automatically send a trouble code to the Acura Telematics Server (if the customer selects this preference), which interprets the code, then sends a message back to the RL, such as "ABS and EBD shut down! Drive slowly. Avoid sudden hard braking." This way, the owner knows if a particular fault is serious enough to cancel a trip, if it can be dealt with later or if it requires special driving techniques. The data connection is enabled even if the monthly XM® service package is not in effect.

REAL TIME TRAFFIC INFORMATION

The navigation screen can display up-to-the-minute traffic information including flow (traffic speed where available), accidents, incident, construction and weather on freeways in 44 major metro areas. The information is aggregated by NAVTEQ™ from multiple sources including police and highway patrol accident reports and transportation departments and then transmitted by XM satellites to the RL where it is graphically displayed on the navigation system from ?? to 5 mile scale.

The RL owner can click on an icon on the map to see incident details or select "Traffic Incidents" by pushing "enter" on the Interface Dial. Traffic information is continuously updated, allowing drivers to avoid congestion en route and choose the fastest path to their destination.

With the average rush-hour commuter spending over 50 hours a year sitting in traffic, the system gives RL owners a useful timesaving tool on freeways. Unlike radio or television traffic reports, the real-time traffic system provides a constant flow of relevant information reflecting conditions along a driver's chosen route. Real-time traffic data services are offered on a subscription basis for a nominal fee following the 3-month free trial period. In addition to the on-screen traffic information, RL owners who maintain their XM® Satellite Radio service also receive more general audio traffic information that runs on a 2-3 minute loop in selected metropolitan areas.

ACURA NAVIGATION SYSTEM WITH VOICE RECOGNITION™

RL models equipped with either RL with Technology Packages offer the latest generation Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ with rearview camera (available in the 48 contiguous states and Hawaii).

Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition features summary:

• 8-inch screen for convenient viewing
• Interface Dial simplifies control of the system and is accessible to driver and front seat passenger
• Robust voice recognition function with over 560 navigation commands minimizes the need for manual character entry
• Voice recognition system recognizes city and street names as spoken words
• Seven million points of interest are stored on an updatable DVD
• Business and recreation directory of virtually the entire continental United States complete with phone numbers
• Audio system automatically mutes for turn-by-turn voice guidance in either male or female voice (which can be turned off at any time)
• Destination memory recalls current trip addresses, previous destinations and user address books
• Directory categories include restaurants (searchable by type of cuisine), lodging, shopping, airports, hospitals, recreation areas and much more
• Zagat Survey™ restaurant guide provides detailed information and reviews on restaurants in database, which can be read on-screen or spoken over the audio system by a synthesized voice
• Split-screen mode features a simultaneous "map view" and selective "3-D" route visualization
• Voice Recognition operates key audio and climate control functions
• Make calls to on-screen points of interest with HandsFreeLink
• User selectable Day/Night screen or display off modes
• Trip routing can include up to five user-chosen way points
• Trip routing can avoid user-selected areas
• Exit list shows what businesses are available at a given highway exit
• On-screen picture of highway interchanges indicates which lane to use to stay on route

System Operation

Based on positioning data from up to 12 orbiting Global Positioning Satellites (GPS), the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition tracks the vehicle's position. If the GPS antenna is blocked by a tunnel, tall building or parking garage, an internal gyroscopic system and a speed sensor track the location of the vehicle to keep the mapping information current and reliable until satellite reception is restored. A DVD is located in the trunk in the system's ECU. Updated DVD data discs are available on an annual basis on-line or by calling a toll-free number.

The system can be controlled by voice, or by the Interface Dial. For voice operation, the driver simply presses the "Talk" button on the steering wheel and says any of a number of preset command phrases. The system responds to over 560 command phrases, as well as to spoken city and street names.

When the "Talk" button is pressed, the audio system is automatically muted, and an overhead microphone receives the command from the driver. Commands can be given in plain English, like "Display gas stations, "Find nearest hospital" or "Find nearest Chinese restaurant." You can choose to display points of interest on the map (like restaurants, or grocery stores, for example), or have the system provide turn-by-turn navigation-all by voice. The extensive point-of-interest database includes phone numbers, which can be dialed easily by using the HandsFreeLink™ system and the driver's cell phone.

The Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition can also be controlled via the Interface Dial by choosing menu options or spelling out a word (e.g., an address, business name or place) using the Interface Dial much like a computer mouse to select characters from an on-screen keypad. The onboard database includes a Zagat Survey Restaurant Guide. The Interface Dial makes it easy to operate the system, and to find and select destinations. Voice recognition capability saves time and simplifies operation of the system. Sophisticated voice recognition technology allows the RL owner to simply speak city and street names aloud, and the system responds by displaying matches available in the database.

ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL (ACC)

For 2007, Acura offers an optional Technology Package with CMBS™ and PAX® Tires for the RL which includes Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). This new vehicle speed and distance control system uses a grille-mounted millimeter-wave radar unit to monitor the distance between the RL and the vehicle directly ahead and relative vehicle speeds. Like a conventional cruise control system, the RL's ACC can maintain a pre-set speed. But in addition, by combining radar data with data from speed sensors, ACC can regulate the RL's speed to maintain a pre-set following interval (measured in seconds) between it and the vehicle directly ahead. The system is designed for use on open highways and works only when the RL is traveling over 25 miles per hour.

The system is activated by pressing the "ACC" button on the upper right-hand spoke of the steering wheel. When this button is pushed, "ACC" will appear on the Multi-information display directly below the speedometer indicating that the system has been turned on. To select the ACC cruising speed, the driver accelerates to that speed and presses the "Decel/Set" button, which is also located on the upper right-hand spoke of the steering wheel. Once it is selected, the chosen cruising speed is shown on the Multi-information display.

The following interval is selected by pressing the "Distance" button on the lower right spoke of the steering wheel. Using this button, the driver can choose one of three following intervals: approximately one second, approximately 1.5 seconds or approximately two seconds, based on the speed of the RL and the following distance the driver wants to maintain from the car directly ahead. Each time the button is pressed, a "vehicle-shaped" icon on the Multi-information display changes to reflect the chosen following interval:

• One bar representing approximately a one-second interval
• Two bars representing approximately a 1.5 second interval
• Three bars representing approximately a two-second interval

Once the system is activated, the system's electronic control unit (ECU) applies light braking and adjusts the throttle to maintain the chosen following interval between the RL and the car directly in front of it. If a vehicle from another lane cuts in front of the RL, between it and the car it has been following, the system will beep and the "vehicle" icon will flash on the Multi-information display to alert the driver that a new vehicle has been detected. The system then adjusts the throttle and applies light braking to maintain the pre-set following interval between the RL and the new vehicle. The vehicle icon will appear each time a vehicle moves into the ACC system's range. Conversely, when a vehicle moves out of the system's range, the icon changes to an "outlined" image.

If the vehicle directly ahead brakes suddenly, a series of beeps will sound and the word "BRAKE" will appear on the Multi-information display warning the driver to apply the brakes.

If the vehicle directly in front of the RL accelerates out of the radar's detection zone or moves to another lane, and another vehicle is not within the system's range, ACC will gradually accelerate the RL until the pre-set cruising speed is achieved. When a vehicle moves out of range, the "vehicle icon" on the Multi-information display will change from solid to outline.

The driver can switch between ACC and conventional cruise control by using the "Distance" button located on the steering wheel. Cruise control system status is displayed continuously on the Multi-information display.

Because the ACC system's millimeter-wave radar can be affected by rain, snow, fog and other types of inclement weather, the ACC system should not be used during these conditions.

KEYLESS ACCESS SYSTEM

The RL features a Keyless Access System with driver recognition for driver's seat, steering wheel, outside mirrors, climate control, audio system settings and presets, and select navigation system settings. This feature allows the RL owner to gain access to the car without ever having to unlock it with the remote transmitter or key. The keyless remote has an electronic unique digital identity. The car can be unlocked when the driver grasps one of the front doors with the keyless remote in his/her possession.

Once the driver has opened the door and been seated, the Keyless Access System allows him or her to start the RL by pushing and rotating the ignition switch, without inserting a key into the ignition.

To unlock the door, the driver must have the keyless remote in their possession. The remote can remain in a pocket or briefcase; it isn't necessary to have it in hand. The driver simply approaches the car and grasps the door handle to the door.

To lock the doors upon leaving the car, simply touch the raised dimple on outside of the door handle. Alternatively, you can press the Lock button on the keyless remote. All doors will lock simultaneously.

Approaching the driver's side allows the opening of the driver's door only; when approaching the passenger's side, all four doors can be opened. Via the Multi-information display's selectable unlocking feature, the RL owner can preset a preference to have all four doors unlock when the driver's door is engaged.

To open the trunk, simply approach with the remote and pull the lever, and it will automatically unlock so you can open the lid. Note that the system will not allow the recognized transmitter to be locked in the trunk.

Preferences

The Acura RL comes with two keyless remotes. Each keyless remote can be set with a unique preference, for instance to accommodate the preferences of a husband and wife. The preferences include driver's seat, steering wheel and mirror positions, and select HVAC. Other preferences include turning entry lights on or off, audio pre-sets, air conditioning, and navigation system settings. In the event both owners plan to use the car at the same time, the RL will recognize the keyless remote that approaches first.

Built-in Key

A built-in mechanical key is provided as a back up in the event that the keyless remote battery should fail, although the vehicle will signal the driver when the remote battery is low. In this case the RL can be started with the built-in key. For security purposes when using a valet parking service, you can push a trunk lockout switch inside the glove box, and then lock the glove box and the trunk pass-through with the key. Take the built-in key from the keyless remote and keep it, then give the keyless remote to the attendant. The Valet will be unable to unlock the glove compartment or trunk using the keyless remote only.