To some of us here at RTM, it's a marvel that the sleepy RL luxury sedan continues to sell next to Acura's bargain-priced, equally powerful TL sibling. After all, the stellar TL is nearly identical in size, and is laden with lots of luxury features and a $10K-lower base price.

So what does the RL have that justifies such a premium? Well, objectively speaking, not a whole lot, save an anti-skid system as well as standard connection to GM's nifty OnStar system. Then again, both of those feature are available on the TL as options, so again, what gives? Well, subjectively speaking, the RL is undeniably a better luxury car, going about its tasks in a more relaxed, more isolating manner. It is a thoroughbred luxury vehicle, not pretending to be a sport sedan, but fully intending to coddle its occupants with high-quality leather, rich wood and loving craftsmanship.

Powering the RL is a competent 225-hp V-6 powering the front wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission. There's no V-8 available, nor is there a five-speed automatic or a manual-shifting automatic. However, the standard setup is so good that it begs the question; why would you want such frivolities? Truly, only the most aggressive of drivers will find fault with the RL under the hood.

Other standard niceties include Xenon lights, traction control, front and rear automatic climate control and side air bags. As for options, there's only one: a Navigation System that continues to stand out on account of the intuitive operation of its touch-screen setup. Prices are $43,150 for the RL, $45,150 for the RL with Navigation.