Archive for June, 2008
Posted by admin on
June 27, 2008
2009 Acura TSX
Acura provided a one-two punch with the world debut of the all-new second-generation Acura TSX sports sedan along with the appearance of the redesigned RL luxury performance sedan at the New York International Auto Show today. With new engines, refined drivetrain, and Acura’s latest Keen Edge Dynamic styling, the all-new Acura TSX and RL highlight a new direction for Acura sedans.
“With powerful looks and performance, the debut of the new Acura TSX has taken an enthusiastic bite out of the Big Apple,” said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of sales. “Besides offering enhanced performance, the 2009 TSX has improved fuel economy, lower emissions, added safety features, and more technology than ever before.”
Producing 201 hp from a 2.4-liter engine, the DOHC VTEC® in-line 4-cylinder now delivers its power across a much wider rpm range. Along with more torque, the new 2.4L is also cleaner as it meets EPA TIER 2-BIN 5 and CARB LEV II Ultra Low Emission Vehicle standards.
Merging crisp, dynamic design with a bold new signature Acura grille, the 2009 Acura TSX is more distinctive and sporty. Due to its greater length and width, wider track, and longer wheelbase, the new Acura TSX provides additional interior room while new fully independent front and rear suspension with dual-stage dampers provides more agile handling.
The Acura TSX is equipped with an impressive list of standard equipment which includes a power glass moonroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather seats, power windows/mirrors/locks, a premium 7-speaker sound system (with CD, AM/FM and XM® Radio), Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, and USB port and AUX jack music interface.
The available Technology Package features leading-edge electronics including the AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System, Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, AcuraLink® Real-time traffic, Traffic Rerouting™ and AcuraLink® weather. Included in the Technology Package is an audiophiles dream in the form of a 415 watt, 10-speaker Acura/ELS™ Premium Surround Sound System with DVD-Audio designed by Grammy® Award winning producer/engineer Elliot Scheiner.
Designed with an emphasis on safety, the 2009 Acura TSX now makes use of Acura’s esteemed Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure. The 2009 Acura TSX, with ACE™ and a host of other safety features, is expected to achieve the highest ratings in both governmental (NHTSA)* and independent (IIHS) crash testing - including IIHS’s TOP SAFETY PICK.
Also making its first appearance in New York is Acura’s new 2009 RL luxury sedan which features bold new styling, an all-new 3.7-liter engine, chassis enhancements and numerous technological upgrades. Performance improves with the 2009 RL thanks to a new 300 horsepower V-6 that incorporates the first ever SOHC use of VTEC® valvetrain actuation for both the intake and exhaust valves. The top-of-the-line Acura furthers cutting edge technology with the addition of new high-tech items including AcuraLink® weather, AcuraLink® Traffic Rerouting™, a new Note function for XM® Radio, Active Sound Control, and Bluetooth® Audio to an already robust list of features found on the previous RL. To enhance handling, new chassis technology abounds in the form of enhanced Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™, a revised steering system, firmer coil springs, better performing shock absorbers, larger rear stabilizer bar, and larger wheels and tires.
Posted by admin on
June 27, 2008
2009 Acura RL
The redesigned 2009 Acura RL luxury sedan made its world debut at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show. Featuring bold, sleek exterior styling, an upgraded interior, advanced technologies and powerful new engine, the RL once again pushes the limits of performance, style, and luxury. The 2009 Acura RL will go on-sale this spring at Acura dealerships nationwide.
The 2009 Acura RL furthers cutting edge technology with the addition of new high-tech items including AcuraLink® weather, AcuraLink® Traffic Rerouting™, a new Note function for XM® Radio, Active Sound Control, and Bluetooth® Audio to an already robust list of features found on the previous RL. To enhance handling, new chassis technology abounds in the drivetrain in the form of improved Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™, a revised steering system, upgraded coil springs, better performing shock absorbers, larger rear stabilizer bar, and more aggressive wheels and tires. Performance improves with the RL thanks to a new, larger 3.7-liter V-6 that incorporates the first ever SOHC use of VTEC® valvetrain actuation for both the intake and exhaust valves.
“RL represents the very best we have to offer in terms of engineering, technology, performance, luxury and safety”, said Dick Colliver, executive vice president, sales. “It’s designed for a new generation of performance-luxury buyers looking to travel more quickly, more efficiently and more connected to the world around them.”
For 2009, the RL will be offered in three different trim levels including RL, RL with Technology Package and RL with Technology Package Plus CMBS™. All RL’s receive a potent new 3.7-liter V-6 engine, Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™, a Bose® Surround Sound audio system, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® connectivity and a GPS-based solar-sensing climate control system. The Technology Package includes the satellite-linked Acura Navigation System with Voice Activation™ with rearview camera, AcuraLink® Real-time traffic, AcuraLink® weather, Traffic Rerouting™, a rear view back-up camera, Active Front Lighting System (AFS), ventilated front seats, and a wood/leather steering wheel and shift knob. The top RL package is the Technology Package with CMBS™ which also includes Acura’s acclaimed Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), and genuine wood instrument panel trim.
Powertrain
The innovation built into the new RL begins with the most powerful engine ever offered in an Acura sedan. An all-new 3.7-liter V-6 engine develops 300 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque thanks to an innovative new VTEC™ valvetrain system for both the intake and exhaust valves, a higher compression ratio, along with a special dual-stage magnesium intake manifold that enables the intake to function as a single- or dual-plenum manifold design based on engine operating parameters. In addition to developing improved power and torque, the RL engine meets tough CARB ULEV-2 emission standards and delivers good fuel economy. The RL’s engine bay appears more upscale thanks to a new surround panel assembly that reduces visual distractions and focuses attention directly on the all-new 3.7-liter V-6 engine.
To handle the higher power of the 3.7-liter engine, a new version of the Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission is fitted to the 2009 Acura RL. Featuring new “smart” F1®-style steering wheel mounted paddle shifters and a new straight-gate
console mounted gear selector, the RL driver now has more gear control than ever before.
The RL’s acclaimed Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™) system returns for 2009, but is now quicker responding and better performing.
There are numerous traction advantages of all-wheel drive, yet SH-AWD™ does a key function that is not available with traditional AWD systems– SH-AWD™ utilizes torque vectoring to increase the rotation speed of an outside rear wheel during aggressive cornering to help the car turn more effectively while under power. This “yaw” function reduces the cornering load on the front tires to minimize understeer, to improve handling balance, and to escalate total cornering grip.
Body and Chassis
To further enhance handling and ride comfort, the new RL retains a fully independent suspension system with front double-wishbone and rear multi-link architecture. For 2009 the RL features higher rate coil springs, larger diameter stabilizer bars, stiffer subframe mount bushings and improved design steering rack components. To further improve handling and looks, new 18-inch diameter 7-spoke aluminum wheels are matched with more aggressive tires (replacing the previous 17-inch wheel/tire offering).
Exterior/Interior
The 2009 Acura RL’s new exterior styling is not only more aggressive, but delivers excellent aerodynamics and reduced rear lift at higher speeds. The RL’s more athletic style foreshadows the power concealed by the new power plenum front grille and blow-formed aluminum hood. The RL’s shape is taut and athletic, and its acceleration and cornering performance allow it to challenge the most capable German and Japanese sports sedans. Comfort, quietness and ride quality are also on a par with performance sedan competitors. For 2009, eight exterior colors are available–5 of which are new–including a new pearl pigment process that improves luster and shine.
Inside, the 2009 Acura RL features a more elegantly styled interior that includes more room for rear seat passengers, easier-to-use front seat belts, door-mounted pull pockets, softer arm rests, redesigned vents, larger/clearer lettering for HVAC controls, and easier actuation of climate control functions. A revised steering wheel with available genuine wood trim (included with the CMBS package) and metal-look accents is now fitted to the RL along with a matching wood-trimmed transmission shift knob. Complementing the steering wheel are upgraded gauges that incorporate brushed metal accents for enhanced appearance. For 2009, additional insulation, a more high-tech design of Acura’s acoustic glass windshield, and a new Active Sound Control (ASC) noise abatement system team to further reduce the RL’s already quiet cabin.
The RL’s perforated leather front seats now incorporate six levels of heated/cooled ventilation. Moreover, just like the driver’s seat, the passenger front seat now has 10-way power adjustability. For 2009, the center panel controls are now more intuitive and are surrounded by a new background color along with improved quality wood patterned panels. These interior upgrades are complimented by advanced electronics that include a satellite-linked Acura Navigation System with Voice Activation™ along with the innovative AcuraLink® satellite communication system with Real-time traffic, AcuraLink® Traffic Rerouting™ and (new for 2009) AcuraLink® weather. The RL is the first vehicle on the market to feature in-dash integrated, continually updated real-time weather information in a single-screen format. The spectacular Acura/Bose® 10-speaker Sound System with DVD-Audio returns but is now upgraded to include Bluetooth® Audio, even richer audio sound, a new Note function for XM® Radio, improved button legibility, and a USB connectivity port.
Safety
The 2009 Acura RL retains Acura’s extremely rigid Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure that features extensive use of high-tensile steel and lightweight aluminum components to take vehicle construction beyond conventional safety protocols while keeping overall vehicle weight in check. The ACE™ structure’s front-mounted polygonal main frame is designed to help prevent cabin deformation by distributing frontal impact forces through multiple load bearing pathways–and away from the passenger compartment. For 2009, to enhance safety a new Active Head Restraint System is built into the front seats to help improve neck and head protection in the event in a rear impact collision. To further aid in safety, the RL includes as standard a passenger seatbelt reminder, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and six airbags. These advances team to make the 2009 Acura RL the strongest, most powerful, best handling, safest and most luxurious sedan Acura has ever built.
The RL earned 5-star ratings (the best possible) for frontal and side crash tests, and for rollover resistance, from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The RL is the fourth vehicle in the history of the program to earn the top rating of “5-star” in all three test categories. Government star ratings are part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) New Car Assessment Program. In addition, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the RL its top rating of GOOD in Side Impact Collision Evaluation (SICE) along with a GOOD rating for IIHS’ frontal offset crash test. With a new Active Head Restraint System for front seat passengers, the 2009 Acura RL is anticipated to receive a GOOD rating in IIHS rear crash protection evaluation.
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June 27, 2008
Acura TSX Sports Sedan Features Winning Blend of Performance, Style and Technology
The Acura TSX is one of the hottest luxury sedans on the road today, setting sales records month after month since its introduction and winning over enthusiasts customers and automotive press with its blend of outstanding performance, nimble handling and sporty styling. The TSX continues to distance itself from the competition by offering class-leading technology and the latest standard safety features, including a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) new for 2007 model year.
“The TSX has already clearly established itself as a beacon of consistency for the Acura brand,” said Dick Colliver, executive vice president, sales. “TSX’s unique combination of performance, style and leading edge technology make for a uniquely Acura driving experience, and put it ahead of the competition.”
The 2007 TSX is equipped with a 2.4 liter DOHC i-VTEC(TM) 4-cylinder engine, generating 205 horsepower and 164 lb-ft of torque*, giving the TSX engine overall performance comparable to many 6-cylinder powerplants. The i-VTEC “intelligent” valve-control system delivers enhanced performance across a broad power band, superior fuel economy and reduced exhaust emissions. A direct ignition system with knock control helps optimize power and fuel efficiency by ensuring a properly timed spark at all engine speeds.
The TSX engine is equipped with a drive-by-wire throttle control system that eliminates the need for a mechanical connection between the accelerator pedal and the engine, which continuously adjusts the sensitivity of the accelerator pedal to match current driving conditions. It also incorporates throttle control into the car’s Vehicle Stability Assist(R) (VSA(R)) system, the vehicle’s cruise control function and modulates the throttle to help make automatic transmission shifts even smoother.
Platinum-tipped spark plugs and a self-adjusting cam chain help the TSX run for 100,000 miles or more before requiring a major scheduled tune-up.
Since many performance enthusiasts prefer shifting gears, the TSX comes with either a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission or a compact 5-speed Sequential SportShift automatic transmission as standard equipment. The lightweight 6-speed gearbox features short shift throws and multi-cone synchronizers on all gears for quick, light shifting action. The transmission case is made from magnesium alloy, a material typically reserved for racing applications. This case weighs 6.6 pounds less than a comparable aluminum unit and is extremely rigid to damp out noise and vibration.
Along with its impressive 205 horsepower output, the TSX with manual transmission delivers 22 mpg city/30mpg highway, while the TSX with automatic transmission delivers 22 mpg city/31 mpg highway. Air-assisted fuel injectors, an underfloor catalyzer and a high-flow, low-heat mass exhaust manifold help the TSX achieve EPA Tier 2-Bin 5,Carb Low Emission Vehicle-2 (LEV-2) emissions status.
To complement its high-adrenaline powertrain with sports car-like handling, the TSX features an extremely rigid unit body structure and a race-bred, 4-wheel-independent double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension. The suspension is track-tuned to reduce lift, dive and body roll and boasts gas-pressurized shock absorbers and large front and rear stabilizer bars. A quick-ratio, variable power assist rack-and-pinion steering system provides outstanding feel and responsiveness and features an anti-kickback valve for reduced kickback on rough roads.
Handling is further enhanced by a Vehicle Stability Assist(R) (VSA(R)) that works in concert with the braking and drive-by-wire throttle systems to provide enhanced control during acceleration, braking and cornering. This 4-channel system also orchestrates the throttle and each of the vehicle’s four disc brakes to seamlessly integrate traction control, anti-lock braking and stability enhancement for increased driver control. The electronically controlled Brake Assist feature helps the driver apply full brake pressure during accident avoidance situations.
To provide stability and offer superb stopping power, the TSX is equipped with 4-wheel disc brakes with 4-channel ABS, 17-inch alloy wheels and P215/50R17 Michelin all-season high-performance tires.
The body of the TSX offers crisp lines and dynamic curves. In front, styling cues include a signature 5-sided Acura grille, angular side markers and bumper-integrated fog lamps. In the rear, the taillights slope to meet a short, high trunk lid, which terminates sharply to help air separate cleanly off the back of the car at top speeds. Stylish nine-spoke alloy wheels finish the TSX’s sporty appearance.
The TSX is available in nine exterior colors: Premium White Pearl, Alabaster Silver Metallic, Carbon Gray Pearl, Nighthawk Black Pearl, Artic Blue Pearl, Royal Blue Pearl, Glacier Blue Metallic, Deep Green Pearl, and Milano Red.
The five-passenger interior of the TSX is sporty yet refined with modern LED- illuminated instrumentation and intuitive controls. Like the RL and TL sedans, the TSX comes equipped with standard Bluetooth(R) enabled hands-free phone system. The system, called HandsFreeLink(TM), enables a Bluetooth(R) wireless interface with mobile phones allowing calls to be made and received using the TSX’s voice recognition and audio interfaces. To make a call, drivers push the steering wheel-mounted HandsFreeLink(TM) button, which connects their phone to the system. The HandsFreeLink(TM) system can be programmed to accept up to six different phones and up to 50 numbers may be stored in the system’s phone book.
The comprehensively equipped TSX features deeply bolstered, perforated leather seating surfaces, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power moonroof, power windows and door locks and keyless entry. The leather-wrapped three-spoke sport steering wheel provides a sporty feel, features wheel-mounted audio and cruise control as well as voice recognition and HandFreeLink switches.
The TSX comes equipped with a 360-watt Acura Premium Sound System with standard XM(R) Satellite Radio and an auxiliary jack located in the center console for playing MP3 and other digital music devices. The standard 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat features two-position memory, so when the driver enters the car with the key fob, the TSX automatically adjusts the driver’s seat to their preferred position. In addition, tilt and telescopic steering wheel allows the TSX to accommodate a wide range of drivers. A 4-way adjustable power passenger seat increases passenger comfort and convenience.
The only factory option (other than transmission choice) on the TSX is the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition (TM). This easy to use navigation system features a menu of 560 voice commands, an 8-inch display, and a comprehensive destination guide with over 7 million points of interest including the Zagat Survey(TM) Restaurant Guide, 3-D graphics for freeway interchanges including on and off-ramps and turn-by-turn voice guidance. In addition, 1.7 million U.S. cities and street names can be accessed through the voice recognition system. The navigation system can be controlled through the steering wheel-mounted voice recognition button or by using the menu on the touch screen.
To ensure proper maintenance intervals and reduce the number of service visits, the TSX features a Maintenance Minder system that automatically monitors the vehicle’s unique operating profile and alerts the driver via the Multi-Information Display when certain types of routine service, including oil and filter replacement and tire rotation, are needed.
The TSX is also equipped with standard dual-stage, dual-threshold driver’s and front passenger’s airbags, and side airbags for the driver and front passenger. The passenger’s side airbag uses seven sensors in the seatback and side bolster to determine the height and position of the occupant. If the sensors detect that a child or small-stature adult is leaning into the deployment path of the side airbag, the bag will not deploy.
To further enhance safety, side curtain airbags help protect vehicle occupants from head and neck injuries in the event of a significant side impact. Additionally, the 2007 TSX is now equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Like all Acura models, the TSX is covered by a comprehensive 4-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty, and a 6-year / 70,000 mile powertrain limited warranty. Additional ownership benefits include Acura Total Luxury Care (TLC), which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service, and trip routing.
Posted by admin on
June 27, 2008
2007 Acura TL Type-S
Body
For 2007, the Acura TL’s exterior has been updated to enhance its emotional and athletic impact. With the introduction of the Type-S, visual cues were incorporated to distinguish it from other TLs. All the updates were done while maintaining the high build quality, durability and resale value that Acura buyers expect.
The TL was designed to embody aggressiveness and power, agility and endurance. Designers began with the stance of the vehicle-how it looks and sits on its suspension. They worked towards a look of poise, with a promise of agility and power. The contrast of muscular tension and angular lines flows through the sheet metal, with its long wheelbase, short front and rear overhangs and wide track setting the tone.
The 2004 TL design team were, in part, influenced by “Bauhaus” styling themes. Founded in 1919, Bauhaus was the first and most famous German design house. Bauhaus set a template for European design with the now-famous maxim, “Form follows function.” That classic design logic meshes well with already established Acura design philosophies.
With the updates for 2007, the style could more accurately be called “Bauhaus with attitude.” Careful attention was paid to give the Type-S its own distinctive and even more aggressive look. Black chrome trim used around the car is an excellent example of the difference between the TL and the Type-S.
The design features and changes include:
Front
Aggressive front fascia, a new larger grille opening, larger “A” mark and honeycomb mesh
Redesigned bumper with satin chrome crossbar and horizontal trim
New headlight clusters with daytime running lights (DRL) on innermost lens
New auto-on and auto-off headlights (previously auto-off only)
Fog lights repositioned from headlight cluster to lower valance
Side
New, split 5-spoke alloy wheels in Blade Silver finish
New exterior mirrors with integrated turn signal lights
Rear
New rear bumper design
Redesigned LED taillight clusters
New italicized TL logo
Type-S Exclusive Features
Black chrome grille trim (satin chrome on TL)
Redesigned bumper with black chrome crossbar and horizontal mesh trim
Pronounced “splitter” lip on front valance
10-spoke alloy wheels in Dark Euro Silver
Smoked rear side marker lights
Wider, more aggressive side sill moldings
Exclusive rear bumper with trunk lid spoiler diffuser
Redesigned and unique lower valance
Large diameter quad exhaust finishers
Black chrome taillight trim
New Type-S logo
Interior
The Acura tradition of interior prestige and tailored function continues with an elegant and sporty interior for the TL. The instruments and controls are arranged to create an intimate and functional driver’s cockpit that offers a feeling of connection and control. With its higher belt line, the TL has a substantial look and feel. Fine interior materials such as leather trimmed seats and real metal trim combine with close attention to detail and finish to give the TL a tangible feeling of elegance. The large interior has stylish and highly supportive seating and generous front and rear headroom.
The long TL standard feature list includes items like the first North American application of a standard Sound System with 6-disc CD, DVD-Audio, DTS(R) and Dolby(R) Pro Logic(R) II audio system that takes advantage of the latest technology to deliver sound resolution that’s 500 times higher than conventional CD audio. XM(R) Satellite radio is also on the standard equipment list, as is a new MP3 player jack in the center armrest storage bin. The standard Acura HandsFreeLink(TM) system lets the driver dial a Bluetooth(TM)enabled mobile phone by voice, while a new, higher-resolution Multi-Information Display (MID) shows mobile phone data, tracks the car’s maintenance needs, displays warnings and offers an array of driver preference settings. The available Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition has a large 8-inch display with a new, redesigned interface and AcuraLink(TM) satellite communication system with Real-Time Traffic.
All TLs receive many updates to their interiors for the 2007 model year. Instrumentation, leather trim, accent trim and Active Noise Cancellation in the Type-S are all part of the driving experience of the 2007 TL.
Additionally, there are distinct styling differences between the TL and Type-S models. In addition to red ambient lighting (instead of the blue on TL models) the Type-S receives carbon fiber trim in place of wood, paddle shifters on automatic-equipped models, more highly bolstered front seats, stainless steel sport pedals, contrast stitching on the door panels, seats and steering wheel, and an available 6-speed manual transmission.
Styling
The TL interior has a dynamic and distinctive look, yet upholds the longstanding Acura tradition of highly functional driving environments. Given the sharp handling agility and power built into the TL, its interior echoes a clear sporting message. Fine details and rich surface finishes make it clear that the TL has not strayed from its luxury roots. Sweeping aluminum-alloy accents with a new pattern for 2007 wrap around the doors, flow onto the instrument panel and dive down the center console. Wood patterned accents warm the interior in the TL, while Type-S models have carbon fiber-look accents and contrast stitching on the door panels, seats and steering wheel, which creates an edgy look.
At night, the TL interior is transformed by new ambient lighting. The TL is bathed in a subtle blue light that coordinates with the instrumentation lighting, switchgear, and accent lighting, including the new footwell lighting. On the Type-S, red lighting replaces the blue, reinforcing its role as the enthusiast model.
Driver-Oriented Cockpit
The TL interior puts all important systems and controls within easy reach of the driver. The systems used most frequently-audio, cruise control, Acura HandsFreeLink(TM) and Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition(TM)-have satellite controls positioned on the new 3-spoke steering wheel, leather-wrapped on Type-S. The new instrumentation is backlit and easy to read, and the displays have an uncluttered look and intuitive operation. The Multi-Info Display has been redesigned with higher resolution for better readability. Helpful features make driving easier, like power rearview mirrors that can be set to automatically tilt-down when reverse is engaged to make parking simpler.
With a driver’s 8-way power seat and a tilt/telescoping steering column, it’s easy to get comfortable in the TL. The one-touch moonroof switch is located in the overhead console. The Sequential SportShift selector features an intuitive interface for ease of use. The short-throw, close ratio 6-speed manual gearbox falls naturally to hand, and the shift knob and console-mounted parking brake lever are covered in a new textured leather. There is also a bottom-hinged throttle pedal with a more linear feel and natural motion. The Type-S features sporty-looking stainless steel pedals and a new carbon fiber-look automatic transmission shift knob in addition to the steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
Safety
The 2007 TL and TL Type-S were developed to help protect its occupants with a comprehensive array of safety technologies, high-grade materials and advanced construction techniques.
Weight sensors are incorporated in the front passenger seat to determine the total weight on that seat. If it is less than 65 pounds (as if occupied by a small child or car seat) the front airbag will not deploy and a warning message appears on the instrument panel. For the driver, a position sensor in the seat determines how the airbag will be deployed in the event of a frontal collision. If the seat is close to its forwardmost position, the front airbag is designed to deploy in the dual-stage mode. Otherwise, the airbag deploys in either single or dual-stage mode based on the severity of the collision and seat belt use.
The TL and TL Type-S also feature adjustable rear outboard head restraints, and standard side curtain airbags. These technologies, and the use of high-tensile steel in critical areas and computer-modeled crush zones, help to ensure a high level of passenger protection. The TL passed the toughest government safety tests with a 5-star frontal rating in addition to achieving a “GOOD” rating in all categories evaluated during the IIHS frontal offset collision. The TL safety equation even extends to pedestrians with structural elements designed to reduce the likelihood of serious injury in a collision.
Powertrain
Two engines are available for the 2007 TL. Under the hood of the TL is an all-aluminum 3.2-liter V-6 with 24 valves and Acura’s VTEC(R) - Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control system. It delivers 258 horsepower and 233 lb-ft of torque.
The TL Type-S is powered by a modified version of the 3.5-liter VTEC V-6 found in the Acura RL. With more displacement than the TL engine and a high-flow exhaust system, it boasts 286 horsepower and 256 lb-ft of torque.
Both engines benefit from Acura’s groundbreaking VTEC system. This patented technology provides an exceptionally flat torque curve, enhancing high-rpm horsepower without sacrificing low-end torque. The result is an engine with excellent responsiveness at all engine speeds.
The standard transmission in the TL and TL Type-S is an all-new electronically controlled 5-speed automatic. Developed from the RL’s 5-speed automatic, this transmission has more torque capacity that the one it replaces, but more compact. It also features Acura’s Sequential SportShift system. Inspired by Formula One(R) racecars, Sequential SportShift gives the driver the flexibility of a self-shifting automatic or the control of a manual. The system has been reprogrammed this year for smoother operation and enhanced gear holding capabilities. In addition, the TL Type-S “rev matches” during manually selected downshifts.
Available on Type-S models is a smooth-shifting 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission. Similar to the manual transmission on the 2006 TL, it features a re-designed bellhousing and improved clutch feel for smoother, more linear engagement.
With Acura’s unwavering commitment to the environment, both TL engines meet strict CARB LEV-II ULEV standards. In addition, cold-start emissions are improved thanks to the close-coupled catalytic converter system and under-floor catalyst.
TL Engine
3.2-liter SOHC V-6 aluminum alloy engine
258 hp at 6200 rpm and 233 lb-ft of torque at 5000 rpm
Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC(R))
Dual-stage induction system with lightweight magnesium intake manifold
Cold-air intake system
Computer-controlled Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Direct ignition system
Compact in-head exhaust manifolds
High flow close-coupled catalytic converters plus under floor catalytic converter
High capacity 32-bit RISC processor engine control unit
105,000 mile tune-up intervals
TL Type-S Engine
3.5-liter SOHC V-6 aluminum alloy engine
286 hp at 6200 rpm and 256 lb-ft of torque at 5000 rpm
Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC(R))
Dual-stage induction system with lightweight magnesium intake manifold
Cold-air intake system
High flow, sport tuned exhaust system with quad finishers
Computer-controlled Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Direct ignition system
Compact in-head exhaust manifolds
High flow close-coupled catalytic converters plus under floor catalytic converter
High capacity 32-bit RISC processor engine control unit
105,000 mile tune-up intervals
5-Speed Automatic Transmission
All-new compact design w/ high torque capacity
More compact design
Sequential SportShift re-programmed to allow quicker, more positive downshifts and upshifts (Type-S only)
Improved coordination between Drive-by-Wire(TM) throttle system and transmission for smoother shifts
Steering wheel-mounted F1(R)-style Sequential SportShift Paddle Shifters (Type-S only)
External transmission fluid cooler (Type-S only)
Advanced shift-hold control limits up-shifts during spirited driving
Advanced Grade Logic Control System reduces gear “hunting” when driving on steep hills
Linear solenoid direct-acting control reduces shift shock and improves smoothness
Lockup torque converter design for superior fuel economy
6-Speed Manual Transmission (TL Type-S only)
Close ratio spacing for maximum performance
Multi-cone synchronizers (first through fourth gears)
Reverse lock-out feature prevents accidental engagement
Lightweight high-pressure-cast aluminum-alloy transmission housing
Improved clutch feel for smoother engagement
Advanced clutch torsion mechanism reduces gear noise
Helical gear limited-slip differential reduces wheel spin and maximizes acceleration
Emissions/Fuel Economy
Meets CARB LEV-II ULEV standard
TL EPA fuel economy 20/29 mpg (city/highway)
TL Type-S EPA fuel economy 19/28 mpg (AT) and 20/29 (MT)
High flow close-coupled catalytic converters plus under floor catalytic converter
High capacity 32-bit RISC processor engine control unit
Noise Vibration and Harshness (NVH)
Highly rigid aluminum-alloy block with cast-in iron cylinder liners
60-degree V-angle for inherently smooth operation
Dual-mass flywheel (6 MT) reduces driveline noise and vibration
Automatically tensioned, maintenance-free serpentine accessory drive
