Sporty or sensible?
Our tester was at the very top of the TL model range. Among other things, it had inherited the superb Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system, or SH-AWD, also found on the RDX, MDX and RL. The system is a marvel of precision, leaving the driver in very nearly complete control in all conditions.
In fact, even during the winter the SH-AWD is indomitable, maintaining the best possible traction even in difficult weather conditions.
Under the hood slumbers a stunningly vivacious 305-hp V6 engine. It’s made even more so for 2010, as Acura has coupled it with a 6-speed manual transmission calibrated to be one of the sportiest in the class. Thankfully, some detractors will say, as the 5-speed autobox almost seems to run out of juice when it’s time to get up and go.
Note also the exceptional quality of the Acura TL’s braking system. Though it wasn’t on my road test schedule, I had to execute an emergency braking manoeuvre that gave me a first-hand glimpse at the system’s efficiency.
On the down side, the ultra-precise electronic steering doesn’t give much feedback. Little to no feedback, in fact, especially at low speeds.
Conclusion
Physically, other than a few questionable appendages, the Acura TL presents no major flaws. When you consider the quality of the car, its lively driving dynamics and the slew of technological gadgets included for an all-in-all very reasonable price, the TL offers far greater value than its average competitor.
Though it might never measure up to the German rides in terms of driving enjoyment, the Acura TL is certainly a sexy Japanese number.
Our tester was at the very top of the TL model range. Among other things, it had inherited the superb Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system, or SH-AWD, also found on the RDX, MDX and RL. The system is a marvel of precision, leaving the driver in very nearly complete control in all conditions.
In fact, even during the winter the SH-AWD is indomitable, maintaining the best possible traction even in difficult weather conditions.
Under the hood slumbers a stunningly vivacious 305-hp V6 engine. It’s made even more so for 2010, as Acura has coupled it with a 6-speed manual transmission calibrated to be one of the sportiest in the class. Thankfully, some detractors will say, as the 5-speed autobox almost seems to run out of juice when it’s time to get up and go.
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| Under the hood slumbers a stunningly vivacious 305-hp V6 engine. (Photo: Bertrand Godin/Auto123.com) |
Note also the exceptional quality of the Acura TL’s braking system. Though it wasn’t on my road test schedule, I had to execute an emergency braking manoeuvre that gave me a first-hand glimpse at the system’s efficiency.
On the down side, the ultra-precise electronic steering doesn’t give much feedback. Little to no feedback, in fact, especially at low speeds.
Conclusion
Physically, other than a few questionable appendages, the Acura TL presents no major flaws. When you consider the quality of the car, its lively driving dynamics and the slew of technological gadgets included for an all-in-all very reasonable price, the TL offers far greater value than its average competitor.
Though it might never measure up to the German rides in terms of driving enjoyment, the Acura TL is certainly a sexy Japanese number.
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