I've been following the Acura lineup for years. Personally, I like the appearance/aesthetics of the outgoing Gen 2 RL better than the new one. IMO, I find the contrasting metal strip across the width of the car distracting. Simply, the earlier model had a classy & elegant appeal to it.The RL has been Acura's biggest 'sleeper' car...and it's one of their best developments. It hasn't sold well not for lack of styling, but because at its price, it competes with a lot of true 'sport' sedan models. And until 2012, when the auto industry will be forced to meet serious fuel economy standards, the down & dirty marketing ploy by many remains to keep selling horsepower big V8 engines. The RL certainly is not underpowered, but can't compete head-head alongside beefy V8 powered Lexus GS430, or BMW 550i sedans in the power department. IMO, the new RL should be equipped with Honda's J37, the 3.7L, 300 hp V6 (perhaps even add the RDX's variable flow turbocharger), and Acura should make SHAWD optional. Offer a RWD-only option...it will be quicker, lighter, and cheaper.