A bit of name and badge switching here. Don’t be surprised if this is the first time for young US car enthusiasts to might have heard of the “Honda Legend.” Well, for those stateside, it’s just the Acura RL. Yup, the RL has been the Legend elsewhere, particularly in Europe.

Power figures are just the same since it sports the same 3.7L v6 that dishes out 300 horses and 271 lb-ft of torque mated to a 5-speed transmission complete with the new SH-AWD system found in the Acura RL and the TL. Performance figures: 0 to 62 mph in 7.1 seconds.

So what’s different aside from the badge? Well, amazingly the Legend has taken off the Acura grille and now has a straightforward three-line grille slapped on. And I might have to agree with other takes that this looks better than what the Acura has.

In addition, one of the features Honda is just so proud of in their press release is the Active Noise Cancellation system that promises that the Legend will be a quiet ride and makes it play well with the other comforts include a Bose Audio system, Bluetooth and USB connectivity for audiophiles.

Source: Honda

Chicago is buzzing with all the cars featured in the Chicago Motor Show. Even with a few unveilings, it’s quite interesting to take a look at what new things these people have to offer. Like Honda for example, unveiling the new 2009 Acura RL.

While you might say that the RL is just a redesigned MDX, this car gets a sleek-aggressive exterior. And oh, you also get some shades of the 2008 Accord with the fascia which does hurt its sportiness factor. But that doesn’t mean that the Acura has sedan-ish performance.

It gets a 3.7L V6 under the hood that propels the car with 300hp and 271 lb-ft of torque. The engine’s mated to a new Sequential SportShift 5-speed auto tranny. These, combined with an upgraded Super Handling All-wheel Drive makes the RL a better performing car. Honda also three in some flappy-paddle shifters to give it a more sporty feel.

If you want one, you will have to wait until the snow clears as the 2009 Acura RL will hit dealerships this spring.