What transmission does the Acura RL use?

[DelErin]

Acura RL uses a 5-speed automatic transmission with manual mode. The function of the transmission is to change the transmission ratio to expand the variation range of driving wheel torque and speed, adapt to frequently changing driving conditions, and enable the engine to operate under favorable working conditions. Taking the 2010 Acura RL as an example, it is a mid-to-large-sized car with body dimensions of: length 4985mm, width 1847mm, height 1450mm, and a wheelbase of 2800mm. The 2010 Acura RL is equipped with a 3.7L naturally aspirated engine, with a maximum horsepower of 307ps, maximum torque of 370Nm, maximum power of 226kW, and is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission with manual mode.

[VonLaura]

As a former owner of an Acura RL from ten years ago, I have a deep impression of this car's transmission. The models from 2005 to 2009 were equipped with a 5AT automatic transmission featuring a torque converter, which provided smooth shifting for daily driving. Later, the 2010 facelift upgraded to a 6AT, adding SportShift manual paddle shifters, significantly improving downshift response. I drove an 11-model-year RL back then, changing the transmission fluid every 50,000 kilometers, and it ran 120,000 kilometers over seven years without any issues. However, nowadays, new cars come with nine or ten-speed transmissions, and the 6AT in the RL now feels noticeably higher in cruising RPM at highway speeds. By the way, this transmission is the same as the one in the MDX, so parts are relatively easy to find.

[MacJade]

In the repair shop, I've seen quite a few older Acura models, and the RL's transmission is relatively worry-free. The early 5AT models basically just need fluid and filter changes, rarely requiring major overhauls. The later models with the J-series V6 engine paired with the 6AT are even more durable, though the solenoid valves can sometimes cause minor jerking issues. It's recommended to change the transmission fluid around 80,000 kilometers, as sludge buildup can lead to rough shifting. There was an '08 model owner who neglected maintenance and ended up spending over 10,000 on a major repair - timely fluid changes could have prevented this. Nowadays, some new transmissions are over-engineered and less durable than the old RL's setup.

[LeLeah]

It's fascinating to observe the evolution of the Acura RL's configurations. From the first-generation 5AT in 2005 to the upgraded 6AT in the 2010 facelift, the number of gears increased while the physical size actually decreased. The parallel-axis design made power delivery more direct, especially when paired with the SH-AWD system during cornering - the combination provided exceptional stability. At that time, the contemporary Lexus GS was still using a 6AT, while the Mercedes-Benz E-Class employed a 7-speed transmission. This generation of 6AT could easily surpass 200,000 kilometers in mechanical lifespan, proving Honda's transmission technology was truly reliable.

[McMalachi]

Tested the old RL's 5AT transmission, it's smoother than expected in stop-and-go city traffic. Despite having only five gears, the gear ratio design is reasonable, maintaining under 1500 rpm at 60 mph cruising speed. The downside is the delayed downshift response when flooring the accelerator, requiring anticipation for overtaking. The 2010 model's upgrade to 6AT improved significantly, with closer gear ratios, and its paddle shift response was considered fast among luxury cars of that era. However, the shift logic tends to be conservative during aggressive driving, and the transmission fluid temperature rises easily, so it's advisable to let it idle to cool down after spirited driving.