As Honda and Acura continue to grope around in the dark, trying to find their way back to their former position of design leadership, the 2011 models are basically treading water: the ZDX, priced earlier to day, stays unchanged, while the mid-cycle RL adds a few updates but is largely the same as it has been since 2004. Pricing for 2011 starts from $47,200 and runs as high as $55,150.

Three tiers are available: the standard RL, the RL with Technology Package, and RL with Advanced Package. Pricing jumps $4,150 to $51,350 for the tech package and another $3,800 to $55,150 for the "advanced" gear.

Those prices mark a rise of $370 for the base and $900 for the Technology and Advanced packages. What do you get for your extra cash in 2011? All models get a new grille, new wheel designs, a new interior color and wood trim option, and better stitching on the steering wheel. Other upgrades include the addition of available back-up sensors, a revised back-up camera angle, and better hands-free Bluetooth dialing.

Check out our preview for the full skinny on the 2011 Acura RL.

[Acura]