A dealer-installed A-Spec performance package is new for 2006. It includes a sport-tuned suspension that lowers the car by nearly three-quarters of an inch, along with 18-inch alloy wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport tires, a rear spoiler and other aggressive-looking exterior trim.
The current-generation RL is sportier and more stylish than the model it replaces. But being that it only comes with all-wheel drive and a V6 engine, it struggles to match the performance and handling of competing luxury sport sedans, such as the Audi A6, BMW 550i and Infiniti M45, all of which have potent V8 engines.
That said, the RL’s 290-hp 3.5-liter V6 packs plenty of punch and is one of the most sophisticated, efficient and smooth six cylinders available. However, with only 256 pound-feet of torque, this V6 can feel slower than competing sedans with torquey V8 engines when accelerating from a standstill and when overtaking vehicles on the highway. Click here to read more.. »