2012 Acura RL: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 13, 2026
The 2012 Acura RL is a true carryover with no major product changes from 2011. Its main historical significance is that it is the final RL model year before Acura replaced it with the RLX.
About the 2012 Acura RL
2nd gen (2005-2012), final year before the RLX replacement.
Acura positioned the RL as its flagship luxury performance sedan for buyers who wanted strong all-weather capability and a long standard-features list instead of a complex options sheet. The core appeal was a quiet leather-lined cabin, smooth V6 power, and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive for extra confidence in bad weather and on curvy roads. Compared with rivals, the RL stood out by making AWD and many comfort features standard instead of extra-cost upgrades.
Acura positioned the 2012 RL as a well-equipped flagship sedan, even in standard form. Every RL has a 300-hp 3.7-liter V6, a six-speed automatic, all-wheel drive, leather upholstery, heated power front seats, and Bose surround-sound audio; the Technology and Advance packages add features such as navigation and extra driver aids.
2012 Acura RL specs and features by trim
| Feature | |
|---|---|
| Engine | V6, VTEC, 3.7 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 6-Spd w/Sptshft |
| Drivetrain | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| MPG City | 17 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 24 mpg |
| Horsepower | 300 hp |
| Torque | 271 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 2000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 13.8 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 | |
| USB Ports | |
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |
| Heated Front Seats | |
| Leather Seats | |
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |
| Ventilated Front Seats | |
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2012 Acura RL compared with the 2011 model?
Nothing significant changed for 2012. The RL carried over its design, equipment, 300-hp V6, six-speed automatic transmission, and standard all-wheel-drive system from 2011.
Is the 2012 Acura RL the final model year?
Yes. The 2012 model is the last Acura RL and the final year of its second generation; Acura replaced the RL with the RLX for 2014.
Does every 2012 Acura RL have all-wheel drive?
Yes. Every 2012 Acura RL has Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system as standard equipment.
What engine and transmission does the 2012 Acura RL use?
The 2012 Acura RL uses a 300-hp 3.7-liter V6 paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Steering-wheel shift paddles let the driver select gears manually.
Is the 2012 Acura RL worth considering over the 2011 model for newer features?
Not specifically for newer features. The 2012 RL has no major product changes from 2011, so condition, mileage, service history, and equipment package matter more when comparing the two years.