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Acura’s flagship RL is a car that works; it’s as simple as that. From the engineering of its meticulous powertrain to the integration of its myriad electronic driver- and passenger-assists, Acura’s RL is very close to a latter-day magic carpet. And nothing brings this notion into evidence better than Acura’s simple redefinition of the humble car key: There isn’t one—not in the traditional sense, that is. Instead, there’s a transmitter fob that hides in pocket or purse, never craving the light of day. Yet the RL knows when the fob is near; and with one touch of the door handle, the car is unlocked. With one twist of the starter knob, the engine comes to life. A departing touch of the door handle discreetly locks the car again. What a freedom it is never to fumble for keys in deep purses or under heavy overcoats.

Keyless operation may seem microscopically self-indulgent, but when all of Acura’s many small civilities add up, their impact is dramatic. A voice-recognition system can command virtually every cockpit operation, from dual-zone climate levels to radio channel selection to Bluetooth telephone calling. All-time all-wheel-drive is standard and uniquely engineered with cornering abilities that improve not only traction (as expected) but also handling (an exclusive technological advance). A standard surround-sound system with CD and XM Satellite audio couples with built-in GPS navigation and XM’s real-time traffic service (for major metros) to create an exotic aural cocoon around driver and passengers alike.

Acura’s 290-hp, 3.5-liter V6 is extremely capable in a vehicle whose rivals usually boast V8s. Its performance can hardly be faulted, although its fuel-economy, using premium, is lackluster by typical Honda/Acura standards (18 mpg/city, 26 mpg/highway). The automatic transmission, with its uncanny ability to up- and down-shift in anticipation of road conditions and driver preference, is a marvel.

But if anything, the Acura RL may be too helpful for some. It acknowledges, by voice, every change of radio channel or heater fan speed. And for 2006, a new optional $4,000 “Tech” package incorporates a collision-avoidance system that analyzes an impending crash and can even wrest braking control from the driver to minimize impact. It’s the butler who won’t take “no” for an answer when he stoops to lace the master’s shoes. For some, the RL’s vigilant solicitude provokes outbursts of “enough already.” As for me? I say, “Carry on, Jeeves.”