The 2011 Acura RL is a stylish sedan to the conservative end of the great mid-size, high power, high-rpm V-6 transmission and a sophisticated four-wheel drive, and loaded with comfort, technology, information and entertainment functions. But simply in comparison with the marks of nearly every other luxury sport sedans from the competition, which is short.

On paper, the 2011 Acura RL luxury sedan is a very convenient medium size. It has a V6 engine of 300 horsepower, drive all four wheels, a long list of standard features, a stylish interior and high-quality construction. But when it comes to the timing of the real world, something is lost in the translation of the Acura badge.

Styling might have something to do with the lack of appeal RL. Overall, the exterior looks a little dated, and many of its rivals have fresher and more modern lines. Overall, this car is aging and needs a new face. The 2011 Acura RL receives a few changes here and there, and at least the odd grille was a bit tame.

The 2011 Acura RL also has replaced the previous five-speed automatic the new six-speed transmission. Fuel economy is as a result (another 2 mpg on the highway) and the acceleration would be a bit ‘faster. The management is still commendable attribute of RL, the car thanks to the Advanced Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system capable of distributing torque to the wheels as well as individuals to improve grip and handling balance.

Even with these changes, 2011 Acura RL, still struggles to be anything but a bench player in the segment of luxury cars. Hyundai Genesis R-Spec is fully competitive in terms of luxury, but still significantly lower rate RL. Meanwhile, more traditional (and newer) that the choice of the Audi A6, BMW 5 Series, Infiniti M37 and Mercedes E-class is either sports or prestige. Even 2011 Acura RL is much the same size as the RL, has a similar engine and yet it is more than $10,000 cheaper. With so many other cars to choose from, it’s really not so surprising that RL is lost in the mix.