Honda Legend

   The Honda Legend is produced since 2005. In the United States and some other countries it is sold as the Acura RL.

   It received a new 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 300 hp. However currently it is the only unit available for the Honda Legend. It is coupled with a 5-speed automatic gearbox. Unfortunately it never feels as it's developers claim, and some extra power would be appreciated.

   Perhaps the best thing about this car is it's new advanced all-wheel-drive transmission, that apportions power to each wheel depending on the road surface and driver input. Such set-up is optimized for better cornering and peerless traction on slippery roads. Handling is surprisingly sporty. However the ride can be a bit unsettled though.

   The new engine is pretty refined. It is rarely heard more than a background burble. Wind and road noises are well kept away. The Honda Legend is a suitable long range cruiser, although you have to work the engine hard to get the best from it.

   Legend is expensive to buy. The petrol engine is thirsty on fuel and there is no diesel option to keep the running costs low. Legend's resale values are uncertain, furthermore it is most likely to be a rear car. Consequently servicing also might hit you hard. However there should be no reliability concerns, as Honda is famous for making well-built and reliable cars.

   Inside the car everything feels well put together. Some of the plastics do not correspond with the car's class though. All the instruments and major controls are logically positioned and are easy to read and to use.

   Driver's seat has eight-way electric adjustments as standard. Steering wheel also moves at the touch of a button. These features allow for drivers of all shapes and sizes to get themselves comfortable.

   There is plenty of space for the front and the rear passengers. In fact the Legend is even larger than the Honda Accord. Although a big transmission tunnel limits foot space for a third rear passenger, so it is the most comfortable for four adults only. The boot could be larger for a car of this class, furthermore it's shape is rather awkward.

   Another strong area of the Legend is it's safety equipment. It comes with six airbags and head restraints. Furthermore it has automatic driver's warning and braking aids in case of an unavoidable collision.

   Standard equipment is also generous. The Honda Legend has everything you would expect from an executive car. Dual-zone climate control and leather interior are standard. On the option list there is an intelligent cruise control, that steers the car automatically to keep it in your lane on the motorway.

   Production of the Honda Legend still continues.

   Advantages: Sharp handling and generous equipment level. There's also plenty of high-tech gadgets.

   Disadvantages: No diesel in the engine line-up. The Honda Legend is expensive to buy and residual values are uncertain.

   Verdict: Still far from the prestige-badged rivals.

   Also consider: Audi A6, BMW 5-series.