Acura
RL
Infiniti
Q45
Acura RL vs Infiniti Q45: 2009 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Infiniti Q45 comes out ahead of the Acura RL on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
RL
Overall
Positive to nostalgic sentiment for first-generation model, regarded as underappreciated luxury sedan offering exceptional comfort, refinement, and Honda reliability at affordable used prices. Praised for smooth 3.5L V6 engine delivering responsive performance, plush ride quality described as "cloud on greased rails," well-insulated quiet cabin, and generous standard features including heated seats, premium sound system, and memory controls. However, criticism centers on catastrophic parts availability making maintenance increasingly difficult, premium fuel requirement reducing economy, aging interior materials prone to deterioration (door handles peel, dash warps), and front-wheel-drive layout limiting sport sedan appeal versus rear-drive German competitors.
Best version to buy
3.5L V6 (2001-2004) The 2001-2004 model years with upgraded 3.5L V6 producing 225-228 hp represent most desirable specification offering best power delivery, refined features, and final-year production enhancements. Standard equipment generous across all trims including leather, heated seats, premium audio, memory functions.
Known issues
- ⚠• Catastrophic parts availability, suspension components, body panels, interior trim pieces increasingly impossible to source, Honda discontinued most parts, aftermarket support minimal, junkyard inventory depleted, specialist suppliers exp…
Q45
Overall
Sentiment is polarized and heavily dependent on the vehicle's age and condition. Long-term owner reports from the 1990s and early 2000s models praise the vehicles for their powerful V8 engines, exceptional comfort, quiet and refined cabins, and high-quality Bose sound systems. Many describe them as fantastic driving cars that were competitive with, or offered as an alternative to, contemporary Lexus LS models.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to designate a single "best" model year or trim. The first-generation (1990-1996) is noted for its "bubble era" technology and being a short-wheelbase Nissan President, but also for controversial styling.
Known issues
- ⚠Catastrophic depreciation and high repair costs: vehicles lose value rapidly and require very expensive repairs post-100,000 miles, with parts being costly and hard to find. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Aging electrical and sensor failures: numerous sensors fail causing stalling, rough running, and check engine lights; window regulators, key fobs, and HVAC system components are problematic. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Power steering system failures: pumps, racks, and high-pressure lines leak and fail, causing fluid expulsion from the reservoir and noisy operation. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Infiniti Q45 is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Acura RL, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Acura RL is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Not sure which one fits you?
Answer a few questions and get a personalized recommendation.
Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Acura RL or the Infiniti Q45?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Acura RL and the Infiniti Q45. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Acura RL or the Infiniti Q45?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Acura RL or the Infiniti Q45?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Acura RL or the Infiniti Q45?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Infiniti Q45 than the Acura RL. See the known issues comparison above.