Beneath the skin, the RL's body structure is designed to minimize flex and vibration. Vibration dampening devices in the chassis, including hydraulic mounts for the rear suspension, ensure occu-pants ride in silky serenity.

Acura's side-impact airbags are among the most sophisticated in production. They deploy from the seat bolster, rather than the door panel. Seven electronic sensors measure the size and position of passengers; if a youngster in the front seat is leaning against the door, for example (a situation where the airbag might do more harm than good), the airbag will not deploy. Furthermore, the front passenger airbag deploys with less force in light contact or at a lower speed than it would in a heavy impact or at higher speeds.

This is a comfortable, luxurious car. From any of its seats, the 3.5 RL has the look and feel of an expensive car. Camphor wood trim is polished to a satin luster. Plastic finished with pearlescent flecks and mica provides a rich, durable finish. Leather surfaces are supple, with the appropriate, no-doubt-it's-leather scent. The RL's cabin seats five in comfort, with interior dimensions that are competitive with the Lexus LS430 and current Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The front seats are firm enough for good support, but never hard on the backside. Computer-designed seat springs dampen vibration. There's adequate rear headroom.
Rear passengers can adjust the register on the back of the center console to direct airflow toward their feet or face. A pass-through portal to the trunk accommodates long items such as skis. A compartment on the left side of the trunk is useful for holding a bottle of wine or other small grocery items that tend to roll around on the way home. The CD changer is located in the trunk instead of in the dash where it's more convenient.

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All the amenities are there, including an automatic day/night rear-view mirror and driver-position memory that links the seat, steering wheel and side mirrors. The driver looks at electroluminescent gauges that are crisp and easy to read, even in bright sunlight. Switches are easy to find and adjust. The dash-mounted ignition switch is easier to use than a column switch. To shift into Reverse from Neutral or Drive, you have to push the shifter down as well as forward, which we found awkward and annoying when in a hurry. We were not enamored with center console armrest that extends upward.

The optional navigation system features big graphics that are easy to follow. It's easy to program destinations and there's an all-important Cancel button, though turning it off takes too many steps. The menu is easy to use with a little practice. Punch in an address and in seconds the system calculates a route to get you there. Deviate from the prescribed route and it quickly recalculates. The display shows both a route map and directions for turns, with plenty of warning. The voice prompt, which can be turned on or off, has advantages, though it takes some getting used to. Detailed maps and instructions for the entire U.S. are available on a single disk.