lines and sharp edges of the Legend have been replaced by a more formal

profile, and the extra inch and a half in height yields a more traditional

shape reflecting a sober elegance.

The new front-drive sedan is about the length of a Lexus LS 400, with

a little more headroom and a little less legroom in the rear. The average-sized

trunk has a packable square shape, with a handy niche molded into the side

to keep briefcases from skidding. A narrow pass-through in the center of

the rear seats lets you fit skis in the trunk. (The uplevel RL Premium

includes a ski sack at the pass-through.)

One of the hallmarks of luxury is quietness, and Acura has gone to great

lengths to create the hushed environment that you'll find inside the RL.

The exceptionally rigid body helps reduce noise and vibration, and several

clever exterior bits do the same. The side mirrors have tiny spoilers that

deflect air downward, reducing wind noise. Another spoiler below the front

bumper diverts air to flow more quietly and has the added benefit of reducing

front end lift at high speeds.