Acura RL prices spiralling downward
07-06-2006, 12:08 PM
#21
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The TL and the RL are on the same lot- the TL looks more aggressive, is faster, lighter, has pretty much the same features, is the same size, and stickers for $15k less.
That's why they can't sell the RL. The world doesn't seem to be impressed by SH-AWD.
Put a C Class next to an E class, or a 3 series next to a 5 series, and you will come to an entirely different conclusion.
That's why they can't sell the RL. The world doesn't seem to be impressed by SH-AWD.
Put a C Class next to an E class, or a 3 series next to a 5 series, and you will come to an entirely different conclusion.
07-06-2006, 12:18 PM
#22
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Originally Posted by aggie,Jul 6 2006, 08:17 AM
True, most of the RL's competition offers a V8, but most people still opt for the V6. I think the RL has too much in common with the TL and Accord that makes the extra $15k-$25k hard to understand.
07-06-2006, 12:47 PM
#25
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Not really on the 3 vs 5 series. When my wife and I shopped for a sedan we considered the 5 but ended up with a 3. We didn't need the extra rear seat space and the driver & front passenger comfort was no different. So, to me, the 5 is a hard sell.
If the RL had dipped below $40K I would have had to consider it more strongly (despite my wanting rear wheel drive). As it was, it was too close to S4 pricing (and no friggin' way would we have taken the RL over the S4).
I'd agree the TL is the RL spoiler for most people. I dig everything about the TL except its FWD and it seems a little narrow.
If the RL had dipped below $40K I would have had to consider it more strongly (despite my wanting rear wheel drive). As it was, it was too close to S4 pricing (and no friggin' way would we have taken the RL over the S4).
I'd agree the TL is the RL spoiler for most people. I dig everything about the TL except its FWD and it seems a little narrow.
07-06-2006, 01:28 PM
#27
When we drove the RL and TL back to back, there was no way to justify to us the difference in price. I loved the RL, but I felt we got just about the same thing from the TL for a lot less.
07-06-2006, 02:30 PM
#29
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The current TL needs a total redesign to be competitive in the luxury market. The luxury segment is a very competitive market, to compete in it you have to go all out and compete feature for feature. Acura tried to just put a foot in the door and tried to offer value instead of feature and that is not going to do it. Just look at their competitors (GS, M, E-class, 5-Series) They all look more aggresive, more rear leg room and both offers a V8 as an option. Those are 3 simple formula for success in this market and the RL has neither.
07-06-2006, 02:39 PM
#30
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I think the following things are needed to make the RL a success:
1) Dedicated RWD platform with SH-AWD as an option.
2) V8 engine option
3) Longer wheelbase, more aggresive and distinctive styling
4) Ventilated seats (currently available in Canada only)
1) Dedicated RWD platform with SH-AWD as an option.
2) V8 engine option
3) Longer wheelbase, more aggresive and distinctive styling
4) Ventilated seats (currently available in Canada only)