But what I will say is that among the best of its attributes is the Acura dealer experience. Being that my test car still wore summer tires, not optimal considering the near freezing temperatures during my December drive; I took the opportunity to visit my local Acura dealer to switch to snow tires. Not only was I accommodated despite arriving at four in the afternoon, but the service manager was amiable, amenable and efficient.
A short while later another staff member came over to me while I was setting up my laptop at the convenient desk in the waiting area, to see if I needed help connecting to the internet - an added bonus that I didn't expect. Now that's service I can use! I was able to work away while my car was being serviced, with staff quietly buzzing around attending to their various duties.
The service counter and surrounding area was beautifully designed too, finished in light woods, glass and silver metallic surfaces with a comfortable and stylish living room style waiting area off to the side.
In the end the car was serviced with barely enough time to write these few paragraphs, further showing me why the Japanese brands are walking away from the domestics in owner satisfaction.
But don't feel sorry for the competition. If you're in the market for a midsize sport/luxury sedan, just do yourself a favor and experience just how good the segment can get. The new TL shames the majority of its rivals when it comes to driving dynamics, overall quality and the price you can get it all for. It will no doubt become even more popular than the outgoing model.
Specifications (6-speed Dynamic Package):
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| With white stuff on the ground, I took the opportunity to visit my local Acura dealer to switch to snow tires. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
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| The new TL shames the majority of its competition when it comes to driving dynamics, overall quality and price. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
In the end the car was serviced with barely enough time to write these few paragraphs, further showing me why the Japanese brands are walking away from the domestics in owner satisfaction.
But don't feel sorry for the competition. If you're in the market for a midsize sport/luxury sedan, just do yourself a favor and experience just how good the segment can get. The new TL shames the majority of its rivals when it comes to driving dynamics, overall quality and the price you can get it all for. It will no doubt become even more popular than the outgoing model.
Specifications (6-speed Dynamic Package):
- Price Range (MSRP): $41,800 (base model starts at $40,800)
- Body Type: 4-door sedan
- Layout: front engine, FWD
- Engine: 270 hp, 238 lb-ft of torque, 3.2-L (195 cu in), SOHC, 24-valve V6
- Transmission: 6-spd manual
- Brakes (front/rear): Brembo disc/disc, ABS
- Curb Weight: 1,585 kg (3,494 lbs)
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Cargo Volume (trunk): 354 L (12.5 cu ft)
- Fuel Economy EPA city/hwy: 11.7 / 7.7 L/100 km (24 / 37 mpg)
- Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 km comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
- Direct Competitors: Audi A4, BMW 3-Series, Cadillac CTS, Chrysler 300-Series, Infiniti G35, Jaguar X-Type, Lexus IS 300, Lincoln LS, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Mitsubishi Diamante, Nissan Maxima, Oldsmobile Aurora, Pontiac Grand Prix GTP / Bonneville SSE, Saab 9-3, Volkswagen Passat, Volvo S60
- Web Site: www.acura.ca
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