The bargain luxury car
Only real enthusiasts will know that the TL has been in Acura showrooms since 1992. The first generation TL was a very obscure automobile and very few were sold. There were two engine choices: an inline-5 cylinder 2.5L and a 3.2L V6. It is so rare that you would be hard-pressed to find one on the streets today. In 1995, Honda made a few changes but not enough to bring it into the limelight. It was in 1999, that Acura put the 3.2TL on the map with its elegant styling and a more powerful 225 hp V6. Demand began to climb and one of the reasons was that this vehicle was basically the only sporty Japanese alternative to a 3-series BMW or and Audi A4. It was larger, more powerful as well as being more reliable and less expensive. To boost the sporty image, Acura introduced two athletic all-dressed versions: the 3.2TL-S and TL-S A-spec. They boasted 260 hp, larger wheels and, in the case of the A-spec, a full skirt kit and spoiler.
For 2004, Acura completely revamped the TL. Its new look removed the TL from the clump of regular near-50k luxury cars. Standing out as it does drew more attention and the new TL has never been more desirable.
The price range of the TL begins at $41,000 and reaches $45,300. The tester was a top-of-the-line Dynamic with Navigation for $45,300.
Exterior styling
The styling of the present TL is by far edgier than the previous model. The
flat wedge front end is distinctive and muscular. The hood and fender lines are crisp and perfectly matched to the thick prominent rockers. There are side indents that run from the front to the rear side-markers while crossing the door handles. It reminds me of the previous generation of BMW's 5-series that sported very similar markings.
This next comment has to do with my failure to understand some manufacturer's thinking: Why does the TL not have any fog lights? In day-to-day driving, they serve no real purpose but I find them cool, pardon the expression. The EL sports them but the TL does not. This is not unusual for Honda though; take the Accord for example. I find that the fogs would complete the sculpted front-end beautifully and put the last touches to the already extensive list of features. As a side note, they are standard on a Dodge SX 2.0.
Interior styling
The interior materials are of the same quality as any Audi or BMW, that is to say exceptional. The assembly is impressive, except for the small gap where the glove compartment meets with the dash; however I am just being difficult. The headliner is also a sign that Acura is striving to exceed expectations: the material is Alcantara-like and looks and feels expensive. Only the sunroof visor is cheapish and does not fit or slide very well.
The front seats are very supportive, well bolstered and contoured. They cradle the front passengers supremely. The rear seats receive a similar level of attention with some small seat-cushion bolsters. The leather is rich and supple and should stand the test of time. Interior room, especially legroom, is plentiful for both front and rear passengers. One of the nice touches aimed at making life a little easier for the drivers of the TL are the opening door pockets; there is nothing that I hate more than not being able to get my hands on an item because it does not fit in the gap.
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For 2004, Acura completely revamped the TL. Its new look removed the TL from the clump of regular near-50k luxury cars. Standing out as it does drew more attention and the new TL has never been more desirable.
The price range of the TL begins at $41,000 and reaches $45,300. The tester was a top-of-the-line Dynamic with Navigation for $45,300.
Exterior styling
The styling of the present TL is by far edgier than the previous model. The
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This next comment has to do with my failure to understand some manufacturer's thinking: Why does the TL not have any fog lights? In day-to-day driving, they serve no real purpose but I find them cool, pardon the expression. The EL sports them but the TL does not. This is not unusual for Honda though; take the Accord for example. I find that the fogs would complete the sculpted front-end beautifully and put the last touches to the already extensive list of features. As a side note, they are standard on a Dodge SX 2.0.
Interior styling
The interior materials are of the same quality as any Audi or BMW, that is to say exceptional. The assembly is impressive, except for the small gap where the glove compartment meets with the dash; however I am just being difficult. The headliner is also a sign that Acura is striving to exceed expectations: the material is Alcantara-like and looks and feels expensive. Only the sunroof visor is cheapish and does not fit or slide very well.
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