2002 Acura 3.5 RL Press Kit

2002 Acura 3.5 RL Press Kit

The flagship sedan in the Acura lineup, the 3.5 RL reflects its manufacturer's unrelenting pursuit of automotive excellence. For 2002, the RL boasts significant enhancements in power, handling, NVH isolation, and security, allowing it to duel easily with the Mercedes E Class, BMW 5 Series, Audi A6, and Lexus GS 300.

The 3.5-liter V-6 engine is one of the biggest engines that has ever powered an Acura sedan. Thanks in part to the addition of a new variable silencer, the engine now generates 225 horsepower, a significant improvement over the previous model's 210-hp output. At the same time, this potent powerplant delivers impressive fuel efficiency and low tailpipe emissions. The RL is classified by the EPA as a Low Emission Vehicle (LEV).

A firmer, more enthusiast-oriented suspension enhances the RL's handling responsiveness and stability for 2002. Wider wheels and tires enhance cornering grip, while a retuned, speed-sensitive, power-steering system improves handling feel. For superb control in all driving situations, the RL is equipped with Acura's highly sophisticated Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system, which helps provide both traction control and stability assistance.

Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) have been significantly reduced through added insulation in the engine compartment and under the dash.

A new OnStar® system provides drivers with 24-hour voice access to a live OnStar advisor, who can help with emergency assistance. An available OnStar route guidance concierge and a Virtual Advisor feature allow the driver to obtain news updates and sports scores and even listen to e-mail using a hands-free, voice-activated Internet connection.

Outside, the 2002 Acura 3.5 RL wears subtly enhanced bodywork, including new body colored lower side sills, splash guards and roof molding as well as redesigned alloy wheels.

The 3.5 RL comes in one fully equipped trim level. Standard features include the HomeLink® remote control system, heated front seats and door mirrors, leather seating surfaces, a power moonroof, an Acura/Bose Music System with six-disc CD changer, and an Automatic Climate Control system.

Also available is the DVD-based Acura Satellite-Linked Navigation System, which offers route guidance to almost any destination in the continental United States and information on more than 3.7 million points of interest.

The '02 RL has significant improvements in the following areas:

• Increased Engine Performance
  - 225 hp @ 5200 rpm, up 15 hp from 2001 model
  - Revised air intake improves flow
  - Variable silencer reduces back pressure
  - Optimized ignition timing for better combustion
  
• New Sport Suspension
  - Firmer spring and damping rates
  - Larger stabilizer bars
  - Wide and low profile all-season performance tires
  - Firmer front suspension bushings
  
• Enhanced Braking
  - New dual-diaphragm master cylinder
  - Greater braking with reduced pedal effort
  
• NVH
  - Improved insulation materials
  - New dual-chamber door seals
  
• Convenience
  - OnStar Safety and Security Package added as standard equipment
  - OnStar Premium Package is available
  - OnStar Personal Calling and Virtual Advisor

GENERAL CONCEPTS AND GOALS
The high-performance, advanced-technology 2002 Acura 3.5 RL provides:

• A potent, refined, four-valve-per-cylinder engine, delivering 225 horsepower
• A revised suspension system for improved handling precision
• The sure-footed control of a Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system
• Improved noise isolation
• A spacious interior feel and sophisticated amenities, including a state-of-the-art Acura/Bose® Music System, an Automatic Climate Control system, and other best-in-class amenities
• OnStar in-vehicle communications system
• An extremely rigid and durable unit-body structure, using a high percentage of two-sided galvanized steel for excellent corrosion protection
• The latest in safety advances and technology, including a dual-stage front-passenger's air bag, driver's and front passenger's side air bags with occupant height and position sensors in the front passenger's seat, and front seat belt pretensioners
• A bold exterior style, using a prominent, pentagonal grille and high, wide "shoulder lines" for a distinctive Acura look and feel, coupled with excellent aerodynamic performance, created, in part, by lower side sills that help reduce lift and provide stability in gusty wind conditions and at high speeds.

OVERVIEW
The Acura 3.5 RL, available exclusively as a four-door sedan in a single-trim level, combines engineering excellence with an array of state-of-the-art standard luxury features and amenities.

The 2002 model is powered by an all-aluminum, 3.5-liter, single-overhead-camshaft, V-6 engine with four valves-per-cylinder. Thanks in part to a variable silencer and modified intake, output has been boosted to 225 horsepower (compared with 210 hp for the 2001 model engine). Direct ignition, Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI), a three-stage Variable Induction System, and the new variable silencer combine to enhance drivability, low- and high-end response, and overall performance. A balancer shaft is used to eliminate primary couple vibration, resulting in extremely smooth engine operation at any rpm. The V-6 burns so efficiently it qualifies the RL for Low Emission Vehicle (LEV) status.

Complementing the powerplant is an electronically controlled, 4-speed automatic transmission that uses Acura's innovative Grade Logic Control system to provide exceptional shifting smoothness. Grade Logic Control greatly reduces gear "hunting" when driving uphill and enhances engine braking on downhill slopes. A gated shifter gives the driver an intuitive sense of shifter position.

The front-wheel-drive powertrain design provides lighter weight, enhanced packaging efficiency, and handling stability. The four-wheel independent double-wishbone suspension has been carefully revised for enhanced handling quickness and stability without sacrificing the RL's renowned ride quality. Special low-friction suspension joints and dampers provide superb ride compliance while hydraulic bushings are used in the rear suspension for reduced road noise.

For 2002, the RL comes with wider and lower profile P225/55R16 tires for outstanding all-season grip. To enhance the sense of security in all driving conditions, the RL is also equipped with a standard Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system that monitors for signs of deviation from the driver's intended path. For secure stopping power during maximum-effort stops, the standard 4-wheel, 4-channel, Anti-lock Braking system (ABS) automatically pulses the brakes to help retain steering control in slippery conditions.

The steel unit-body chassis of the 3.5 RL is lightweight yet extremely rigid, offering superb resistance to vibrations while also providing a firm platform on which to maximize the performance of the suspension system.

The RL offers the very latest in safety advances and technology, including a dual-stage, front-passenger's air bag, driver's and front passenger's side air bags with occupant height and position sensors in the front passenger's seat, and front seat belt pretensioners.

The OnStar system offers the latest in in-car communications and service.

The available Acura DVD-Based Satellite-Linked Navigation System - which incorporates a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver, an on-board inertial guidance system, and a detailed mapping database that stores route information for the continental United States on a single high-density DVD - can guide the driver to virtually any destination with ease and precision. The 7-inch liquid crystal display (LCD) screen is mounted in the upper section of the center console for easy viewing.

The 3.5 RL comes equipped with an unusually long list of standard luxury features, including an interior trimmed with soft leather and burled camphor wood; an acoustically tuned, eight-speaker Acura/Bose® Music System (including a six-disc, trunk mounted CD changer), a HomeLink™ remote control system; an automatic climate control system; and a slide and tilt power moonroof.

2002 Acura 3.5 RL - Powertrain

OVERVIEW
The 3.5 RL is powered by an all-aluminum, 3.5-liter, single-overhead-camshaft, 90-degree V-6 engine that produces 225 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 231 lb.-ft. of torque at 4700 rpm. Four valves-per-cylinder, a three-stage variable induction system, a sophisticated PGM-FI fuel-injection system, and a new variable silencer and revised air intake help to provide both high torque at lower engine speeds and excellent breathing at higher engine speeds. The 3.5 RL meets LEV (Low Emission Vehicle) standards. It is also designed to run for 105,000 miles before its first scheduled tune-up.

The engine is located longitudinally, moving weight to the rear of the car for the 60/40 weight distribution deemed optimum for a front-wheel-drive sedan. The longitudinal mounting also yields reductions in noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH), because it allows the use of softer, optimally positioned engine and transmission mounts.

An electronically controlled, 4-speed automatic transmission, with Grade Logic Control is standard on every 3.5 RL.

ENGINE BLOCK
Like all Acura engines, the block of the RL engine is of cast aluminum with cast-in iron cylinder liners, a design emphasizing light weight, rigidity, and outstanding long-term durability. Designed with deep skirts and extensive webbing for added rigidity, the crankcase minimizes noise and vibration. The RL engine, a slightly undersquare design with a bore of 90.0 mm and a stroke of 91.0 mm, yields a displacement of 3474 cc.

The generous main bearing journal supports add rigidity and significantly reduce vibration in the 300-to-800 Hz range. By optimizing stiffness, the resonant frequency of the engine block is an impressive 20 Hz -- meaning that this engine transmits very little vibration through the rest of the vehicle.

PRIMARY COUPLE BALANCER
The rotating balance shaft, mounted to the right side of the engine block, further reduces vibration transmitted to the passenger cabin. The belt-driven balancer counteracts the rocking tendency inherent in 90-degree V-6 designs.

CRANKSHAFT
To reduce friction and enhance durability, the forged steel crankshaft is microfinished, an extremely precise finishing process developed originally for the Honda Formula One engine program. The sophisticated metallurgy of the main bearings is another benefit gained from the Honda Formula One program. The surface of the bearings has a unique, pyramidal structure, allowing space for enhanced oil retention, reduced friction and improved long-term durability.

BLOCK-FORGED CONNECTING RODS
The 3.5 RL has connecting rods forged using a unique, advanced-technology process, called block-forging, that results in parts of unprecedented strength and uniformity. The RL engine is the first automobile engine in the world to be produced using this advanced technology.

Because of the imprecise nature of the conventional forging process, the connecting rods in other manufacturer engines must be sorted according to weight, with rods of approximately equal mass assigned to each particular engine to achieve proper reciprocating balance. Even in rods that happen to have equal overall mass, the distribution of metal density throughout conventional rods can vary enough to affect strength and engine balance.

In marked contrast, the rods of the RL are forged with a "block-forging" system in which the steel blank is struck, at extremely high pressure, from five directions at once. This process has no allowance for excess metal; giving it nowhere to go in the ultra-precise block-forging dies. Accordingly, the blanks that will be forged into RL rods are machined before the forging process, to exacting mass tolerances. In other words, the material that will become an RL connecting rod has been precisely measured and balanced before it ever enters the forging dies.

As a result of this process, RL connecting rods are among the most precisely balanced of any rods found in a production-automobile engine.

FULL-FLOATING PISTON PINS
To reduce engine noise caused by contact between the pistons and piston pins, the RL engine uses a full-floating piston pin design that reduces the clearance between them. Typically, a piston pin is a press fit in the rod, and a larger clearance between the pin and the aluminum piston allows the piston to rock freely. In the more innovative RL design, the pin moves freely in the rod and the piston rocks freely on the pin; the piston pin is essentially free to "float" between the piston and the rod. This advanced design results in a significant 5 db noise reduction.

CYLINDER HEAD/VALVETRAIN
The RL engine features a four-valve-per-cylinder valvetrain with pentroof combustion chambers. A flexible, toothed belt drives a single camshaft for each cast-aluminum cylinder head. Hydraulic lash adjusters are used for quieter running and reduced maintenance.

The combustion chamber is designed with a generous "squish" area formed by the piston and cylinder head - promoting rapid and complete combustion by increasing the turbulence of the fuel air mixture around the centrally located platinum tipped spark plug.

VALVE TIMING
Conventional high-performance engines typically use a substantial amount of valve overlap to achieve better breathing at higher rpm, with the intake and exhaust valves opening simultaneously at top dead center between the exhaust and intake strokes. At low rpm, however, this allows blowback of the fuel-air mixture, with exhaust gas creating a pressure wave that reverses the flow of the fresh incoming charge. To prevent the resulting unstable combustion-and relatively rough running - at low rpm, the RL camshaft timing has considerably reduced valve overlap, resulting in smoother low-speed running and improved low-rpm torque. The advanced four-valve-per-cylinder design, and the Variable Induction System intake tract, combine to maintain excellent high-rpm power output.

TIMING BELT
To further reduce noise, the resonant frequency of the timing belt has been tuned by altering both its width and its material. The position of the belt tensioner was also optimized as part of the intensive effort to reduce overall engine noise.

VARIABLE INDUCTION SYSTEM
To tune the intake system volume and length for optimum torque at any rpm, the RL uses a three-stage intake manifold. To enhance cylinder charging by making use of resonance effects in the intake tract, the engine uses a longer intake tract at low rpm, transitions to a mid-length tract in the mid-range, and then is opened completely for high-rpm running - allowing the inertia effect of the moving column of air in the system to enhance cylinder filling at higher engine speeds. The system has been designed and tuned for the special low-rpm/high-torque tuning emphasis of the RL engine.

VARIABLE-SILENCER
The 2002 RL achieves a 15-horsepower increase over the 2001 model in part thanks to a new variable silencer. A special valve in the first exhaust chamber within the muffler is able to route the exhaust as needed for quiet operation and, when applicable, reduced back pressure for improved power output. Under normal driving conditions, the valve is closed - channeling exhaust flow through the entire muffler tract for maximum noise reduction. During hard acceleration, however, at 3500 rpm the valve opens - allowing exhaust to flow directly to the muffler's dual exit chambers for improved flow and enhanced engine output.

REVISED AIR INTAKE
In addition to its variable silencer, the 2002 RL V-6 engine benefits from a revised air intake-joint shape and a larger intake-opening size for enhanced airflow to the intake manifold. The increase in intake airflow allows for a proportionate increase in fuel delivery, with a corresponding increase in ignition timing for enhanced engine power and response.

PROGRAMMED FUEL INJECTION (PGM-FI)
Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) compensates for varying driving and atmospheric conditions, providing enhanced drivability and engine efficiency in a wide variety of conditions. Data on coolant temperature, air temperature and density, manifold vacuum, engine rpm, throttle position, crankshaft position, and exhaust oxygen content is interpreted by the Electronic Control Module (ECM), which determines fuel injector duration and timing as well as ignition timing and transmission operation. To reduce the pulsing noise emanating from the fuel injectors, a special sound-dampening unit is mounted at the junction of the fuel delivery tube and each individual injector.

4-SPEED GRADE LOGIC CONTROL AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
The result of an extensive development program, the advanced, computer-controlled automatic transmission of the RL underscores Acura's unwavering commitment to automotive refinement, efficiency, and responsiveness.

The 4-speed transmission uses the innovative Grade Logic Control system to enhance uphill and downhill powertrain smoothness. When driving on steep grades, the Electronic Control Module automatically holds the transmission in the proper gear, even if a reduction in throttle position would otherwise dictate an upshift. This all but eliminates unnecessary shifts and "gear hunting." Also, on downgrades, the transmission holds third gear instead of automatically shifting to fourth, letting engine braking help prevent unwanted velocity.

A refined, lock-up torque converter enhances performance and acceleration while optimizing fuel efficiency and engine braking. Developed to reduce the "creeping" effect at idle, the converter makes the vehicle extraordinarily easy to hold with the foot brake at a stop.

LIQUID-FILLED SUBFRAME MOUNT
To reduce engine noise under acceleration, the subframe mounts between the engine/transmission/suspension assembly are filled with hydraulic fluid of a specifically tuned viscosity. The resulting softer damping rate further isolates the passenger compartment from engine and road noise.

ELECTRONIC/HYDRAULIC ENGINE MOUNTS
To reduce vibration at idle, the RL uses hydraulic engine mounts with two different damping rates: a soft rate that allows the engine/transmission unit to move more freely at idle and a stiffer rate that positions the powertrain more firmly during driving. Between 820 rpm and 850 rpm, the damping characteristics of the mounts change automatically; a small solenoid valve closes, restricting the flow of fluid from chamber to chamber thus increasing the damping rate.

In addition, the main engine mounts have been located very close to the center of mass of the engine/transmission unit, more effectively isolating the primary inertial couple effect at idle. This change has resulted in significantly reduced vibration felt at the front seat in the critical 500 to 1200 rpm idle and off-idle range.

2002 Acura 3.5 RL - Chassis

OVERVIEW
The 3.5 RL is equipped with 4-wheel, independent double-wishbone suspension with coil springs, 4-wheel disc brakes with ventilated front rotors, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and stabilizer bars at both front and rear. For 2002, the suspension has been made firmer, using stiffer springs and firmer shock absorber damping rates that help increase overall cornering ability. Coupled with the 2002 RL's added power and improved braking, the firmer suspension further enhances the vehicle's performance.

LOW-FRICTION DOUBLE-WISHBONE SUSPENSION
The RL's double-wishbone suspension layout has been carefully revised for 2002 to optimize handling quickness and stability without sacrificing ride quality. Increasing the spring and damping rates and utilizing larger front and rear stabilizer bars and firmer front suspension bushings gives the car a sporty feel. The front suspension uses unequal-length upper and lower control arms and a tubular stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension combines a longitudinal trailing arm, three lateral links and a tubular stabilizer. For excellent stability and improved ride quality, added anti-squat and anti-dive geometries were built into the RL suspension.

To achieve a compliant ride without compromising handling response or cornering capability, the RL suspension also uses a number of innovations to reduce friction throughout suspension travel. The stabilizer bars use highly efficient ball joints at either end, as well as self-lubricating bushings at the sub-frame mounts. The upper arms of both the front and rear suspension have low-friction ball-joint bushings where they attach to the main structure, reducing overall friction while enhancing rigidity of the suspension assembly. Dampers have an advanced Progressive Valve design for increased damping control at low damper speeds while retaining quick, fluid response to large impacts. Special Teflon seals within all four damper units reduce friction even further for improved ride quality.

LOW ROLL CENTER
To give the RL a stable, predictable feel during hard cornering while improving overall lateral-acceleration capability, the suspension geometry was designed with a low roll center. The roll center is 59 mm above ground level for the front suspension and 70 mm above ground level for the rear suspension.

LIQUID-FILLED REAR TRAILING ARM BUSHING
To reduce road noise and harshness, the bushing at the front of the rear-trailing arms is a liquid-filled design, instead of the more conventional rubber-damped bushing.

VEHICLE STABILITY ASSIST (VSA) SYSTEM
The standard, state-of-the-art Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system provides a heightened sense of stability in all driving conditions. Developed in cooperation with Bosch, this 4-channel system orchestrates the throttle and each of the RL's four disc brakes independently to seamlessly integrate traction control, Anti-lock braking, and stability enhancement processes under widely divergent road and driving conditions.

By monitoring input from vehicle sensors, the VSA can calculate a predicted range of vehicle response while constantly monitoring the vehicle's actual response and the driver's control inputs. If the actual response is outside of the predicted response range - as when cornering forces exceed tire performance, for example - VSA automatically intervenes with corrective action. In the case of oversteer during hard cornering, VSA applies braking to the outside front or rear wheel to help counter the unintended yawing tendency. If understeer occurs, VSA applies braking to the inside front or rear wheel to help turn the RL back onto the intended course.

Unlike some vehicle stability systems, which can seem intrusive to enthusiast drivers, the Acura VSA is calibrated to add stability and predictability without stifling the driving enjoyment of the RL's carefully engineered chassis and double wishbone suspension. An indicator light flashes on the instrument panel while the system is actively stabilizing the vehicle. A cockpit switch is provided to disable the vehicle stability and traction control aspects of the system while leaving the ABS system fully functional.

TRACTION CONTROL
The traction control aspect of the VSA system works just as seamlessly. When wheel slip is detected under acceleration, differential braking and engine controls modulate the amount of power put to the ground. In situations where the drive wheels are on surfaces with different friction properties, such as when one drive wheel is on wet pavement while the other is on dry pavement, the system applies pulsed braking action to the wheel that is slipping, allowing the tire with better grip to move the vehicle. In addition to taking independent control of the front wheel brake, the system can also reduce total engine power output to keep wheel spin in check.

BRAKING SYSTEM
Large, power-assisted, 4-wheel disc brakes are standard, with ventilated rotors in front for minimal fade and excellent heat dissipation. By fine-tuning the leverage ratio of the brake pedal and the response characteristics of the power-brake vacuum diaphragm for 2002, the RL engineering team achieved reduced stopping distances while making brake response more linear and intuitive. Combined with the "low-creep" torque converter, these refinements also help make it easier to hold the RL at a stop.

ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM (ABS)
The 3.5 RL has a 4-wheel, 4-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) that works independently of and in concert with the VSA system as needed. The ABS system operates in 3-channel mode during straight-line braking (apportioning braking power to the front wheels independently and the rear wheels in tandem), but automatically switches to 4-channel mode when the VSA system senses high cornering forces. This allows the ABS system to take advantage of weight transfer to the outside of the turn during cornering and apply higher brake pressure to the outer rear wheel for enhanced braking performance.

The ABS enhances steering control during hard braking. Speed sensors at each wheel send signals to the ABS control module; if the system detects impending wheel lockup, it first holds, then reduces hydraulic pressure to the affected wheel, letting it regain traction before full braking resumes. The ABS function is also highly effective on split-friction surfaces, in which one side of the vehicle has significantly less traction than the other.

ROTARY-VALVE, VARIABLE POWER-ASSISTED, RACK-AND-PINION POWER STEERING
The speed-sensitive, variable power-assisted, rack-and-pinion steering uses a rotary valve that senses torque applied to the steering wheel and a vehicle speed sensor to vary power assist accordingly. The system adjusts steering assist for easy steering at low speeds and quick, precise steering at high speeds. For 2002, the system has been tuned for enhanced road feel at cruising speeds and during cornering maneuvers. The RL utilizes a cast-magnesium steering wheel for lighter steering feel, and a dynamic damper in the steering shaft for reduced wheel vibration.

WHEELS AND TIRES
The 2002 Acura 3.5 RL is equipped with wide P225/55R16 Michelin tires (up from 215/60R16 Michelin in 2001) on newly designed aluminum alloy wheels. The wider tires help provide outstanding all-season grip and performance, while maintaining outstanding ride characteristics and helping achieve optimal fuel mileage. The tires are an all-season design for enhanced traction on wet roads as well as on dry pavement.

2002 Acura 3.5 RL - Structure

OVERVIEW
The 3.5 RL has a stamped-sheet-steel unit-body structure that contributes greatly to an overall feeling of solidity and poise. Created with the same NASTRAN stress-analysis software used to design the space shuttle, this lightweight yet extremely rigid structure offers a high level of overall rigidity in both bending and torsion. The chassis is made even more rigid by a rear support gusset, a large bulkhead bracket and a rear crossbeam stabilizer.

The high rigidity of the 3.5 RL unit-body structure offers superb resistance to vibration while providing a firm platform on which to maximize the performance of the suspension system. Insulation has been added at critical points to reduce vibration and noise. Lightweight honeycomb panels in the floor provide additional structural stiffness and help absorb road noise. A high proportion of galvanized panels are used in the 3.5 RL structure and body panels for enhanced corrosion protection and overall longevity.

OVAL-SECTION FRONT TOWER BAR
Instead of a conventional tubular steel front brace between the firewall and the upper front-suspension locating points, the RL uses an oversized, oval-section tower bar brace, as well as a reinforced plate that ties the firewall to the front cowl section. This design increases rigidity as much as 12 times over a conventional round tube design, reducing cowl shake on rough roads and in spirited driving, while increasing steering precision.

FOAM-FILLED A-, B- AND C-PILLARS
For reduced cabin-noise transmission, the A, B- and C-pillars are filled with a special heat-expanding, rubberized foam material that expands to fill the hollow pillar during the baking cycles of the painting process.

HONEYCOMB FLOOR PANELS
Special lightweight honeycomb panels are used in the floor structure to increase rigidity and reduce noise and vibration. These panels are composed of a resin-impregnated fiber matrix bonded on top and on bottom to thin-gauge galvanized steel sheets.

2002 Acura 3.5 RL - Body

OVERVIEW
The 3.5 RL body design has been honed to perfection. While displaying a muscular stance and dynamic appearance, it maintains an enduring elegance and sophistication. The body of the 3.5 RL provides generous interior space and headroom, especially in the rear seats, coupled with a more substantial exterior appearance. With new body-colored lower side sills, splash guards, and roof strips, the 3.5 RL has a strongly masculine appearance, with an efficient, aerodynamic front grille/fender/bumper area.

With an extremely low drag coefficient of 0.32 and a lift coefficient of 0.102, the RL offers impressive high-speed stability and a quiet interior environment.

PRECISE FIT AND FINISH
The RL is engineered and painstakingly assembled to have a level of fit and finish second to none in the luxury sedan class. Panels have been combined and integrated, wherever possible, to eliminate gaps and seams.

VISIBILITY
The tall, spacious-feeling greenhouse of the RL is designed to give the driver and passengers a clear, panoramic view of the road ahead and the surroundings to the sides and rear for enhanced safety. The driver's front, side and rear views are largely unobstructed, due to slim, yet highly rigid, roof pillars. The body is designed to give the driver a clear sense of the boundaries of the car, for more secure maneuvering and parking.

UNDER-CHASSIS SPOILER
A special spoiler, located immediately behind the front bumper, streamlines airflow under the RL, thereby reducing the high-pressure air under the front of the body and diverting it to flow around the sides and over the top of the vehicle. This reduces drag and front-end lift and also reduces wind noise, helping to give the RL a remarkably quiet interior, even at high speeds.

PAINT PROCESS AND CORROSION PROTECTION
The RL is built with a high proportion of galvanized steel panels, most of them galvanized on both sides for superior corrosion protection. All visible surfaces are protected by a 23-step, 4-coat, 4-bake paint process, with special antichip primer and chip-resistant paint used in areas that are likely to be struck by stones or other debris. The paint process is so precise and exacting that painting personnel wear special contamination-free clothing while working and are regularly checked for colognes or other cosmetic chemicals that might cause the slightest contamination of the painting environment. Chassis panels are protected by corrosion-resistant undercoating material, and body cavities are injected with an oil-based anticorrosion wax that displaces moisture for even better protection.

The 2002 RL is available in eight colors: Indigo Blue Pearl, Nighthawk Black Pearl, Premium White Pearl, Firepepper Red Pearl, Satin Silver Metallic, Vermont Green Pearl, Quantum Grey, and Shoreline Mist.

CRYSTAL-FACETED TAILLIGHT ASSEMBLY
The ultra-high quality appearance of the RL is enhanced by a special crystal structure cast into the inner surface of the RL rear outer-lens assembly.

SIDE-MIRROR AIR DEFLECTORS
RL rearview mirrors underscore the extraordinary lengths taken to reduce wind noise. The outside rearview mirrors are designed with a small wind deflector, or spoiler, that directs oncoming air down and away from the mirror assembly. By separating or breaking up the airflow under the mirror, the deflector reduces the pressure between the air rushing around the mirror housing and the still air behind the mirror, eliminating the "whistling" effect that has been identified as a cause of wind noise in the wind tunnel.

AUTO-OPEN POWER MOONROOF
The RL's innovative power moonroof consists of an outer moonroof panel with one-touch tilt or open controls. Heat-rejecting privacy glass is used, and the moonroof is programmed to pause at the 130 mm position during closing to help ensure passenger safety.

2002 Acura 3.5 RL - Interior

OVERVIEW
Because it is the flagship in the Acura line, the RL's interior received a great deal of attention - from major issues such as control location and passenger head, hip, and shoulder room to smaller details such as extra-large beverage holders and a special compartment intended specifically for the driver's sunglasses. The overall design objective is to give the interior a very open, relaxed ambience, much like the comfortable living room of an elegant, yet casual, contemporary luxury home.

MATERIALS
Only the finest materials have been chosen for the RL cabin. The glove-soft, hand-selected leather seating surfaces that give the RL its luxurious look and feel are American hides tanned with an innovative process that helps the leather retain its soft, supple feel and resilient strength far longer than conventional automobile interior leather. Oils in conventional leather tend to slowly evaporate - especially when the car is parked in the bright summer sun - causing leather to prematurely age and dry out over time or form deposits on the rear window and windshield glass when the interior cools, eventually causing a persistent and hard-to-remove "fogging" effect. The leather used in the RL is specially treated to resist this phenomenon, and reduces window fogging 90 percent better than conventional leather.

The camphor wood that adorns the cockpit is of similar unparalleled quality. It comes from Tendo - a woodworking firm so esteemed its work is displayed in the New York Museum of Modern Art.

SEATING
The driver and front passenger seats are the products of extensive research and development. Designed to absorb vibrations and bumps, they provide outstanding comfort without sacrificing the firm support needed during enthusiastic driving.

In testing, the RL seats decreased the upward force felt by test subjects by 50 percent over conventional seats; that is, the subjects felt the jarring of irregular road surfaces only half as strongly as with a conventional design.

Human factors research revealed that the human body has its own resonant frequency; that is, the vibration frequency at which the internal organs of the body pick up an outside vibration and resonate with it. If felt strongly, vibration in this frequency range is very unpleasant, and human test subjects generally gauge the vibration felt in a moving car on the level of vibration felt in this narrow range, between 5 and 10 Hz or cycles per second.

To damp out as much of this vibration frequency as possible, the configuration of the springs in the RL seat cushions were analyzed using the NASTRAN finite-element analysis program. Six different designs were tried before one was found that performed to Acura's exacting standards. Both front seats incorporate an advanced suspension system that helps isolate occupants from road harshness.

Every attempt is made to maximize comfort. Gently rounded thigh bolsters at the front avoid digging into driver and passenger thighs. The front lateral seam, which often runs across the seat under the thighs, is positioned forward and down, eliminating this possible source of discomfort.

The front seats are designed to also make rear-seat passengers more comfortable. The backs of the seats are concave, giving rear seat passengers nearly an inch of extra knee room. The seat rail structure was designed to give rear-seat passengers nearly an inch more horizontal foot room, while the underside of the seat is carpeted to prevent shoe scuffs.

The driver's seat is eight-way power adjustable. Linked by a memory system with the outside mirrors and with the electronic tilt and telescoping steering wheel, it permits one of two preset configurations to be accessed at the touch of a button. The front passenger's seat is four-way power adjustable. Both front seats are also heated.

The rear seats are designed and built to fit full-sized adults in total comfort as well. A fold-down center armrest incorporates its own dual beverage holder, and a pass-through to the trunk allows long objects to be carried without soiling or marring the interior.

INTERIOR COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE
Advances in soundproofing throughout the RL make its interior extremely quiet and vibration-free. With added insulation under the hood, in the engine compartment, and under the dashboard, every effort has been made to ensure that no unnecessary sound or vibration intrudes on the driving experience.

The RL is the most lavishly equipped Acura ever built. Nearly everything is standard, including cruise control, individual reading lights, power windows and door locks, a power moonroof, and remote keyless entry. The center console features an adjustable, two-position armrest and an illuminated storage area with a 12-volt accessory power outlet and a tray designed to hold a cellular phone.

SPEED-SENSITIVE INTERMITTENT WIPERS
The RL is equipped with an automatic, speed-sensitive intermittent wiper system that slows down the wipers when the RL is stopped or moving slowly and increases their speed when vehicle velocity increases. Acura designed the wipers to be as quiet as possible while in operation.

AUTOMATIC HEADLIGHT SYSTEM
In the RL, a sensor at the front of the instrument panel senses outside illumination levels; when darkness occurs during automatic mode, the headlights, taillights, and instrument panel lighting are automatically turned on for nighttime convenience. When the vehicle is parked at night, the lights remain lit after the ignition switch is turned off, but extinguish automatically when the driver's door is opened.

INSTRUMENTS AND CONTROLS
Acura automobiles have always been known for their high level of ergonomic design and control harmony; however, the RL aspires to a whole new level of human engineering. The cockpit, for example, is based on a "trinocular" design. A large central speedometer and associated gauges monitor driving functions. A left-side, slightly smaller circle of gauges contains the tachometer while a symmetrical right-side circle includes the fuel gauge and less-used, yet important indicators. The large display and illuminated instruments provide easy recognition. Significant time and effort have been expended to design displays that require only quick monitoring glances, making each switch and control nearly as easy to use the first time as it will be after years of familiarity.

AUTOMATIC CLIMATE CONTROL
The RL is equipped with a state-of-the-art automatic climate control system. Not only powerful in terms of cooling capacity and efficiency, it is also extremely quiet, even when quickly cooling the interior on a hot Death Valley day. Rear-seat passengers have personal control over the direction of heating or cooling air coming their way. Every effort has been taken to ensure cooling uniformity from front to rear, and an innovative subcondenser improves the efficiency of the unit substantially. In controlled testing, the A/C system cooled the interior from 100 degrees to 70 degrees Fahrenheit in 15 minutes - quicker than any competitor in its class.

MICRON AIR FILTRATION
A state-of-the-art air-filtration system removes pollen and other contaminants from the interior environment. The filter element is fine enough to trap all particles of three microns or larger, including almost all pollen and dust, and inhibit the passage of bacteria as small as 0.5 microns as well as some components of cigarette smoke and particulates in diesel exhaust. The filter has two layers. Both are composed of felt-like, nonwoven fabric fibers, and one layer is electrostatically charged to help attract and trap dust and other airborne particles.

HEAT-REJECTING GLASS
In the RL, special, solar-energy-absorbing, green-tinted glass is used, minimizing the effects of the hot sun on the interior and its occupants. This reduces the load on the climate control system for better cooling efficiency, delays the temperature rise in the interior when the vehicle is parked, and further protects the interior leather and other materials from the effects of heat.

AUDIO SYSTEM
The RL Acura/Bose® Music System is the most impressive sound system ever designed for an Acura automobile. Developed and tuned at the esteemed Bose Corporation for the RL, the highly sophisticated music system is an integral element of the RL cabin design, delivering musical reproduction of truly dazzling power and clarity. Using state-of-the-art tools such as microphone-equipped mannequins to analyze every facet of the RL interior, Bose engineers were able to design a sound system perfectly matched to the RL cabin.

The system is driven by custom-equalized, 225-watt amplifiers. From the easily accessible, dash-mounted control unit, audio output is sent to the auxiliary power amplifier unit located in the trunk. Separate amplifiers are provided inside the unit for each of the eight precisely positioned Bose speakers. Two 6.5-inch, single-cone, full-range speakers, and two 2.5-inch tweeters are positioned in the lower front door panels. Two 5.25-inch, full-range speakers are mounted in the rear-door panels, and two 6 x 9-inch low-frequency drivers are located in the rear package shelf also positioned high in the front doors. Each tweeter is powered by a 12.5-watt amplifier, each of the four full-range speakers has its own 25-watt amplifier, and the two rear speakers, which act in concert as subwoofers, share a 100-watt amplifier.

For convenience, the RL is equipped with a standard 6-disc CD changer. The changer unit is mounted securely and discreetly in the car's trunk.

The antennae for the various receiver systems are all built into the rear window. These include the AM/FM antenna and the antenna for the radio-based keyless entry system. The elimination of antenna masts lessens complexity and reduces wind noise for the rear-seat passengers.

ACURA SATELLITE-LINKED NAVIGATION SYSTEM
The only factory-installed option on the RL, the Acura Satellite-Linked Navigation System is designed to make finding almost any destination as easy as touching a screen. It features a 7-inch, matte-finish, touch-screen LCD display that resists fingerprinting and is easy to read. The display has a picture-in-picture capability, so you can see the "big picture" map and get detailed turning instructions simultaneously. The system will also display current position coordinates at any time, and a balloon function instantly shows the address of any location selected on the map.

Smart logic allows you to type in your destination with only a few keystrokes, and route calculation time is very fast. You can also preprogram a route with up to five destinations, or have the moving map display icons for gas stations, restaurants, or ATMs. A Digital Video Disc (DVD) on-board database contains the continental United States on a single disc.

The Acura Navigation System unit uses Global Positioning System (GPS) data received from satellites, as well as its own inertial guidance system, to precisely pinpoint the location and velocity of the car. When asked to guide the driver from one location to another, the system provides both audio and visual cues, helping the driver find the proper destination quickly and easily and with minimal distraction. Verbal instructions such as "Keep right" or "Next exit on the right" give the driver the basic direction, and a visual LCD moving map with a directional arrow, located high on the center console, provides detailed information on street names, turning instructions and driving distances. The navigation system also provides information and directions to 3.7 million local restaurants, theaters and points of interest.

Selected points of interest can be found by simply by inputting its phone number. The voice guidance control has 11 different volume settings and automatically mutes the audio entertainment system front speakers momentarily when direction instructions are given.

ONSTAR® IN-VEHICLE COMMUNICATIONS AND ASSISTANCE SERVICE
Providing an extra level of security and convenience, the new OnStar system offers 24-hour emergency assistance, accident notification, air bag deployment, stolen vehicle tracking, door unlock command and vehicle tracking.

The OnStar activation button is located on the rearview mirror. Pressing the button provides quick access to a live OnStar Advisor, any time day or night. Thanks to input from orbiting GPS satellites, the OnStar advisor can easily pinpoint the location of the owner's vehicle to help provide assistance.

In the event of theft, subscribers need only contact the OnStar Center (after filing a police report) and provide a personal identification number. An OnStar Advisor can then track the car and direct authorities to its exact location.

RL owners can choose between the Safety and Security Plan, which includes safety and security features, the Premium Services Plan, which adds route support, concierge and convenience services and ride assist. The Personal-Calling Package, which includes wireless phone and "Virtual Advisor" Internet services, is available as part of both the Safety and Security Plan and the Premium Services Plan.

KEYLESS ENTRY/SECURITY/IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM
A remote keyless entry system is standard on the RL. The keyless entry system is radio-controlled - this gives much better range than a conventional infrared system - allowing the driver to unlock the RL or activate the "panic button" antitheft function while still a considerable distance from the car. A special electronically coded key prevents the car from being started, even if a mechanical duplicate of the proper key shape is used. A transponder, built into the key, signals the immobilizer control unit that the key is genuine. If the car is hot-wired, or an unauthorized key is used, the car simply will not start. This system is a substantial deterrent to theft.

2002 Acura 3.5 RL - Safety

OVERVIEW
Advances in strength and rigidity of the unit-body structure, as well as innovations in side-impact protection and air bag technology, make the 3.5 RL as safe and secure as it is comfortable and gratifying to drive. For increased driver control, standard equipment includes an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and a Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system that incorporates traction control functions.

DUAL AIR BAGS AND AUTOMATIC SEAT BELT PRETENSIONERS
Three-point lap-and-shoulder belts are provided at all seating positions. Front air bags help to protect the driver and front passenger in moderate to severe frontal impacts, and automatic seat belt pretensioners help keep front passengers firmly in position in order to take advantage of the protection afforded by the air bag system.

DUAL-STAGE FRONT PASSENGER'S AIR BAG
To enhance the protection of the front seat passenger during a moderate to severe frontal impact, varying air bag deployment power is used in the RL. The sophisticated system, which uses a dual-stage inflator, automatically adjusts the deployment of the front passenger's air bag to deploy at one of two rates based on the severity of the crash. During a less severe collision, the dual-stage inflator system for the dash-mounted air bag is triggered in sequence, resulting in slower overall air bag deployment with less initial force. During a more severe collision, both inflators operate simultaneously for full immediate inflation, to correspond with the greater impact force.

The air bag system logic also controls the operation of the seatbelt pretensioners, which automatically tighten the front seatbelts during a collision to help hold occupants in place.

SIDE AIR BAG SYSTEM
The RL features seat-mounted side air bags for the driver and front seat passenger. The front passenger's seat is equipped with an innovative system designed to deactivate the side air bag if a small child (or small-statured adult) leans into the side air bag deployment path. When the passenger returns to an upright seating position, the side air bag reactivates so it can deploy and protect the occupant in a side impact. The system utilizes seven sensors in the passenger seatback to determine the height and position of the occupant and determine if it is safe to deploy the side air bag.

SIDE IMPACT PROTECTION
Dual anti-intrusion beams in the front doors, as well as expanded polypropylene hip and shoulder pads, built into the door structure, help protect front- and rear-seat passengers in lateral collisions. Anti-intrusion door beams are also used in the rear doors. Innovative, expanded, polystyrene liners, installed above the front doors and inside the A-pillars, help give front-seat passengers added head protection in side-impact situations.

LATCH REAR CHILD SEAT TETHER ANCHORS
To allow a child seat to be securely positioned in any of the back seat positions, rear child seat tether anchors are standard in the RL. The LATCH system has also been fitted to help secure compatible child safety seats. The LATCH system features ready-to-use lower anchors at the bottom of the outboard rear seats in addition to the top tether allowing compatible child safety seats to be installed without using the vehicle's seat belt system.

FRONT AND REAR CRUMPLE ZONES
The RL's structure is designed to deform progressively in both front and rear impacts, letting the front and rear sections absorb the energy of a collision while helping to keep the highly rigid center-passenger section intact. Straight frame rails, front and rear, give the structure the strength necessary to help the RL withstand offset collisions at either end, with reduced possibilities for passenger injury.

EMERGENCY TRUNK OPENER
The RL is equipped with an emergency trunk opener located inside the trunk.

XENON HIGH INTENSITY DISCHARGE (HID) HEADLIGHTS
The RL features xenon high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights with double the total illuminating power of conventional halogen headlamps to enhance visibility. Standard fog lamps are integrated into the bumper fascia for improved performance in combination with the HID headlights. The HID headlight bulbs also last twice as long as halogen bulbs and require less energy to operate.

SECURITY/IMMOBILZER SYSTEM
A special electronic "rolling code" key prevents the car from being started, even if a mechanical duplicate of the proper key shape is used. A transponder, built into the key, signals the immobilizer control unit that the key is genuine. If the car is hot-wired, or an unauthorized key is used, the car simply will not start. This system is a substantial deterrent to theft.