Beyond the cutting-edge technology, the TL provides all of the luxury and convenience features expected in a premium automobile. There's nothing to disappoint or displease even the fussiest "Felix Ungers" among us, with niceties that include dual-zone climate control and memory settings that detect key 1 or 2 and automatically set the seat, mirrors and steering wheel to the driver's preference.
The TL can be obtained in three different trim levels, which actually pertain more to whether you choose a navigation system or a 6-speed manual transmission. The basic TL, which is anything but basic, has all the options save and except for the navigation system, voice command and HandsFree Link. The Navi package adds the navigation system, voice command and HandsFree Link. The Dynamic package adds the 6-speed manual transmission, Brembo brakes, high performance summer tires and HandsFree Link.
With the new TL, Acura has put purified water and premium Columbian coffee into the percolator. How long it will take the competition to wake up and smell this java is anyone's guess, but I can assure you of one thing - it won't take as long for savvy premium car buyers. Acura's aggressive price point will guarantee this, with the entry car starting at $40,800.
Competition in this segment is fierce and customers demand value. With the TL, that's exactly what they'll get, along with a huge dose of motoring inspiration. I have no doubt it will make quite an impression on those who experience it. Even standing still it draws attention. When a duo of university students passing by in a competing brand slowed, nodded their heads and in unison yelled "nice car," it added more ammunition to what I already understood. Acura has a sure winner in the TL.
Specifications:
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| The TL provides all of the luxury and convenience features expected in a premium automobile. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
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| Competition in its segment is fierce, but Acura has a sure winner in the TL. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
Competition in this segment is fierce and customers demand value. With the TL, that's exactly what they'll get, along with a huge dose of motoring inspiration. I have no doubt it will make quite an impression on those who experience it. Even standing still it draws attention. When a duo of university students passing by in a competing brand slowed, nodded their heads and in unison yelled "nice car," it added more ammunition to what I already understood. Acura has a sure winner in the TL.
Specifications:
- Price Range (MSRP): $40,800 - $44,000 (not including all options)
- 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: 5-spd auto with manual mode (opt 6-spd manual)
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS (Brembo brakes on Dynamic package)
- Curb Weight: 1,626 kg (3,585 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) (auto)
- 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 / I35, Jaguar X-Type, Lexus ES 300 / IS 300, Lincoln LS, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Mitsubishi Diamante, Nissan Maxima, Oldsmobile Aurora, Pontiac Bonneville SSE, Saab 9-3, Volkswagen Passat, Volvo S60
- Web Site: www.acura.ca
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