Not only does the A-SPEC showcase racy bodywork, enhanced performance and a seriously sporty cabin, but Acura took the opportunity to pull the curtain back on a few future possibilities. First on the list is Adaptive Cruise Control, a feature that controls the accelerator and brakes to speed up or slow down the car based on integrated laser sensors targeting the car ahead, always keeping a safe distance.
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| With the A-SPEC concept, Acura took the opportunity to pull the curtain back on a few future possibilities. (Photo: Acura Canada) |
The A-SPEC's rearview camera might be considered less controlling by some drivers, but either way its one of the best new safety features currently available with some of Acura's competitors' products. The camera, concealed within the trunk lid, immediately transmits a video feed to the car's navigation screen on the center stack when the reverse gear is selected. It doesn't replace the sideview mirrors, but works in unison to completely eliminate blind spots. I've tried this feature in Infiniti and Lexus models, among others, and find it really useful.
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| A camera, concealed within the trunk lid, immediately transmits a video feed to the car's navigation screen on the center stack. (Photo: Acura Canada) |
What is most impressive about the A-SPEC is the ability to get the navigation system and 6-speed manual transmission in the same package, amazingly not currently a possibility. I really hope this combination, more of a marketing decision rather than a particular logistics problem, makes it to production.
Each of these features is now showing up on more and more top-tier sport/luxury car competitors, and being that the brand's new TL has escalated Acura's image farther up the food chain such accessories would certainly be welcome.