But isn't this kind of domination the status quo with the majority of Japanese automakers' when it comes to build quality, reliability, and related owner satisfaction these days? I mean, how does a person justify purchasing a mediocre domestic competitor when something like the TL is available?
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| How does a person justify purchasing a mediocre domestic competitor when something like the TL is available? (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
I see only Chrysler standing a chance to make long-term inroads against its foreign rivals in the sedan market because of its bold RWD/AWD HEMI V8-powered LX cars, that also feature Mercedes-Benz components. It's possible Ford could put together an interior as good as its F-150 for a midsize car and come up smelling like roses, but GM, with its Pontiac Grand Prix or Bonneville, or Cadillac CTS, can't seem to hit the fit and finish quality target despite often charging thousands more than this TL while offering fewer features. As it seems, those that choose to buy the majority of domestic cars must be getting wooed more by sensational incentives than merely the competitiveness of the product. Of course there's styling to consider. But that's one area the new TL has covered from every angle. While its five-sided grille, similar in shape to a variety of Japanese competitors, hasn't changed in any radical way, the rest of the car is such a positive step forward that last year's midsize Acura looks totally passé in comparison.
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| The rear lights are finally distinctive, something the old car lacked, decorating one of the most attractive hind ends in the premium sedan segment. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
The 2004 model's shape is long, low and lean, with an intriguing profile character line reaching out from center to front and rear side-marker lights, just fore and aft of the fender arches. The door handle cutouts are round, effectively contrasting the sharper edges everywhere else. The new Acura's thinly slit wrap-around headlight clusters wink in a sly, almost sinister manner, boasting Xenon gas-filled lenses for improved visibility. The rear lights are finally distinctive, something the old car lacked, decorating one of the most attractive hind ends in the premium sedan segment. Most impressive is how close together Acura fits the panels. I'd put money on this car having the tightest gaps in the industry.
