2010 Acura RL: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2010 Acura RL is largely a carryover, with no meaningful mechanical, styling, safety, or technology updates. The main year-over-year change is to the trim lineup: the Base trim was added, while the prior 3.5 trim was dropped.
About the 2010 Acura RL
2nd gen (2005-2012), second year of the refreshed 2009-2012 version
The RL is Acura’s top sedan for shoppers who want a roomy luxury car with standard AWD and a long standard-equipment list. Acura markets it as a technology-led sedan, using its advanced AWD system, voice-controlled features, and a quiet leather-trimmed cabin to stand apart. The draw is not flashy styling; it is the mix of confident bad-weather traction, comfort, and many upscale features already built in.
The 2010 RL is a luxury sedan with a 300-hp 3.7-liter V6, a 5-speed automatic, and an AWD system that can move power from side to side across the rear axle. The Base trim is well equipped, with perforated leather, heated power front seats, keyless entry and start, Bluetooth audio, USB connectivity, and a 10-speaker Bose sound system.
What changed, by category
2010 Acura RL specs and features by trim
| Feature | |
|---|---|
| Engine | V6, VTEC, 3.7 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive & SportShift |
| Drivetrain | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| MPG City | 16 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 22 mpg |
| Horsepower | 300 hp |
| Torque | 271 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 2000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 13.1 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 36.3 in |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | |
| Alarm System | |
| Automatic Emergency Braking | |
| Rear View Camera | |
| Alloy Wheels | |
| Fog Lights | |
| Power Moonroof | |
| Rear Spoiler | |
| Bluetooth | |
| Navigation System | |
| Premium Audio | |
| Smartphone Interface | |
| USB Ports | |
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |
| Heated Front Seats | |
| Leather Seats | |
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |
| Remote Start | |
| Ventilated Front Seats | |
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2010 Acura RL redesigned?
No. The 2010 RL is the second year of the refreshed 2009–2012 version of the second-generation model, with no new body, chassis, suspension, or exterior redesign for 2010.
What changed from the 2009 Acura RL to the 2010 RL?
The trim lineup changed: the Base trim was added and the 3.5 trim was dropped. The 300-hp 3.7-liter V6, 5-speed automatic, AWD system, styling, safety equipment, and technology carried over.
Did the 2010 Acura RL get a new engine or transmission?
No. The 2010 RL kept the 300-hp 3.7-liter V6 and 5-speed automatic used for 2009. The switch to a 6-speed automatic came for 2011.
Is the 2010 Acura RL meaningfully different from the 2009 model?
No, not in its major hardware or features. Both years use the refreshed design, 300-hp V6, 5-speed automatic, and AWD system; the clear 2010 difference is the revised trim lineup.