Acura RL Sales Figures

The Acura RL

The Acura RL was the flagship sedan for Honda’s luxury division from 1996 to 2012. Developed as the successor to the beloved Acura Legend, the RL debuted in 1996 as the 3.5RL. It offered refined styling, a spacious interior and a smooth V6 drivetrain. Across two generations, the RL combined comfort and innovation, serving as Acura’s top sedan until it was replaced by the Acura RLX after the 2012 model year.

Acura RL Sales Data & Trends

The RL enjoyed modest sales during its early years but struggled to compete with newer rivals as the market shifted toward crossovers. Its first generation remained front-wheel drive and focused on luxury, while the second generation introduced Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) and cutting-edge technology. Despite these improvements, demand for sedans waned and the RL’s production ended in 2012.

First Generation (1996–2004)

The original 3.5RL debuted for the 1996 model year with a 3.5‑litre all‑aluminium SOHC V6 producing around 210 hp and 224 lb‑ft of torque. Acura mounted the engine longitudinally to improve weight distribution (about 60/40 front-to-rear) and paired it with a 4‑speed automatic transmission. The first‑generation RL prioritised a quiet ride and reliability, using innovative block‑forged connecting rods and aluminium construction to reduce vibration and noise. In 1999 the 3.5RL received styling updates and minor equipment changes, but it remained a front‑wheel‑drive luxury sedan competing against the Lexus GS and Infiniti Q45.

Second Generation (2005–2012)

For 2005 Acura reinvented the RL on a new platform with a 3.5‑litre VTEC V6 developing about 300 hp and 260 lb‑ft of torque, mated to a 5‑speed automatic with paddle shifters. The big news was the introduction of Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), which actively vectorises torque between front and rear axles and side-to-side at the rear for improved handling. The second‑generation RL came fully equipped with luxury and technology features like AcuraLink real-time traffic navigation, a Bose surround‑sound system and advanced safety systems. A mid‑cycle refresh in 2009 brought a 3.7‑litre V6 and exterior updates, but sales continued to decline as buyers gravitated toward SUVs. Acura ended RL production in 2012, and the RLX took over as the brand’s flagship sedan in 2013.

Acura RL U.S. Sales Data & Charts

Annual Sales

Acura RL Canada Sales Data & Charts

Annual Sales

For further comparison of Acura sedans, see our pages on the Acura TL, Acura TLX, and the successor Acura RLX.