2006 Acura Advanced Sedan Concept

Posted by admin on June 27, 2008

Acura ‘Advanced Sedan Concept’ Debuts at Los Angeles Auto Show

“The Advanced Sedan Concept illustrates Acura’s commitment to modern design and cutting-edge style,” said John Mendel, senior vice president, auto operations.”With our advanced design team taking a significant role in shaping future vehicle design, we can expect upcoming products to reflect this progressive, forward-thinking styling.” The Advanced Sedan Concept is the purest expression of advanced design, performance and luxury, highlighted by its powerful, wide stance and deeply sculpted surfaces. The primary goal of this design study was to create a sophisticated, refined sedan with a mysterious presence. The concept’s generous exterior proportions suggest that a large, powerful engine lurks beneath the surface. The exterior lines reveal a sheer, sculpted lower body contrasted with a taut, architectural cabin. Although ultra-modern in its design, the concept retains the classic silhouette associated with a flagship sedan. Low to the ground, the concept is anchored by large 22 inch front and 23 inch rear tires which are mounted to custom billet-machined, polished aluminum wheels. Powerful brake discs and calipers accent the wheels and large ducts direct cooling air to the components. Bold wheel arches and flares add to the concept’s muscular appearance. The sleek, compact cockpit nestles atop the sculpted body and flows from hood to trunk. For a unique panoramic view, the roof is constructed entirely of tinted glass that shades the occupants while still connecting them to the outside world. “We wanted to capture the essence of an ultra luxurious sedan but give it a striking, mysterious presence to create a vehicle with a dual personality,” said Dave Marek, chief designer, Honda R&D Americas, Inc. “The concept echoes this quality with its clean exterior lines, a wide, stance, high performance cues and key luxury accents.” The hood is accented with pronounced character lines that culminate in the aggressive five-sided grille, which contributes to the sedan’s bold presence. The commanding grille is constructed of polished aluminum and features a cut crystal Acura emblem. The narrow headlights also double as air intakes and are positioned low on the bumper, further enhancing the sedan’s already commanding 79.5 inch width. “The front of the sedan communicates power and luxury,” explains Marek. “The pronounced hood and large grille communicate performance, while the jewel-like Acura emblem captures the essence of pure luxury.” In the rear, the Advanced Sedan Concept has a flush mounted rear bumper with the high-mounted stop lamp integrated into the center break of the trunk. The jeweledtaillights are pushed to the outer edge of the bumper to further enhance the vehicle’s wide and low appearance, while integrated dual exhaust outlets complement the sedan’s performance-oriented style. During the past decade, several Acura vehicles have been designed and developed in the U.S. including the award winning MDX luxury SUV, the innovative TL performance luxury sedan and the all-new RDX turbocharged crossover SUV. Acura will continue the expansion of its U.S. design capabilities with the addition of a dedicated Acura Design Center that will open next year in Torrance, Ca.

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2005 Acura TSX A-Spec Concept

Posted by admin on June 27, 2008

2005 Acura TSX A-Spec Concept

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2005 Acura TSX

Posted by admin on June 27, 2008

2005 Acura TSX

2005 Acura TSX- Introduction

Torrance, Calif. 09/01/2004
The TSX sports sedan complements the sporty TL and the luxurious RL. The TSX is positioned as a stepping stone to these established nameplates, providing luxury sedan buyers with an entry point to the Acura brand.

The front-wheel drive TSX was engineered and appointed to compete with Europe’s best sedans in the sporty near-luxury segment (the European D segment). This segment includes cars like the Audi A4 and the BMW 3 Series.

In keeping with its European competitors, the TSX driving character is sharply focused on the sporty end of the scale. Its double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension has sophisticated geometry that helps the TSX corner flat and resist acceleration lift and braking dive. In addition, the TSX has P215/50R17 Michelin MXM4 V-rated tires, 4-wheel disc brakes, and an impressive arsenal of electronic driver aids including Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with traction control and an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). A highly refined power rack-and-pinion steering system provides outstanding road feel that rivals the best Europe can offer. The takeaway for the driver is an ultra-competent entry luxury sports sedan that’s immensely fun to drive.

The precise handling of the TSX perfectly complements its 200-hp 2.4-liter i-VTEC(TM) 4-cylinder engine. It is available with either a 6-speed manual transmission (with a lightweight magnesium case) or a 5-speed SportShift(TM) automatic that offers quick and precise gear changes. Thanks to its i-VTEC(R) intelligent variable valve timing and lift, the engine provides a broad, useable powerband that’s uncommon in a 4-cylinder engine, together with a stirring high-rpm power rush. The TSX engine, with its 7100-rpm redline is backed by 40 years of Honda international racing experience in Formula One, CART and Grand Prix motorcycles.

The 60/40-split fold-down rear seat holds three adults with 3-point seatbelts in all positions, and allows easy expansion of the generous 13.0 cu. ft. of trunk space. The seat back can also be locked upright for security. LATCH child-seat attachment points enable the attachment of up to two compatible child seats quickly and securely in the rear outboard positions.

Creature comforts include a dual-zone climate control system and a power moonroof with sliding shade. Steering-wheel mounted switches control the standard 360-watt Premium Sound System, 6-disc in-dash CD changer, cruise control and functions of the optional latest-generation Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition(TM).

For 2005, the TSX receives several upgrades including the addition of XM Satellite Radio, heated door mirrors, a 4-way power adjustable passenger seat, and new color combination - Ebony interior available with the Milano Red exterior color option, illuminated audio and cruise controls on the steering wheel.

Highlights
+ 2.4L 16-valve i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine200
+ 6-speed manual transmission
+ 5-speed Sequential SportShift transmission
+ Drive-by-wire throttle system
+ Ultra rigid unit body construction
+ 4-wheel double-wishbone suspension
+ 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS

DESIGN SUMMARY

While the TSX is a finely honed sports sedan, it’s also a magnificently comfortable 5-passenger commuter. Its tremendous unit body stiffness, achieved through the use of high-tensile steel and state-of-the-art computer engineering processes, makes an ideal attachment point for the suspension, and also offers a quiet haven for passengers. Attention to aerodynamics has provided a drag coefficient (Cd) as low as that of any other sedan in the TSX segment. The benefits of this aero-achievement include enhanced high-speed stability and an aggressive appearance.
The interior of the TSX connotes a sporty feeling, backed by the latest safety advances including side airbags and side curtain airbags with a larger protective area than that of the competition. The racing-inspired front seats feature pronounced side bolsters that help keep the driver and front passenger comfortable while cornering. The steering column is manually adjustable for both telescope and tilt. An 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat and, new for 2005, a 4-way adjustable passenger seat comes standard on every TSX.

TARGET BUYER

Young. Hip. Technically astute. Raised on Japanese cars. Aspiring to own upscale brands. They are all of this and much more, but these terms perfectly define the buyers that are attracted to the distinctive styling of the TSX, its advanced engineering and its sporting handling. Today’s leading automotive designs are sporty and aggressive, and TSX buyers will recognize these cues in this sporty Acura sedan.

Acura TSX owner demographics:

+ 57 percent male
+ Median age 35 years
+ 48 percent married
+ 84 percent college educated
+ $82,000 median household income

These young and affluent buyers have an emotional attachment to their cars, but require a rational base to support their purchases. The TSX supports both needs with its outstanding handling, strong engine performance, distinctive overall design character, and the world-class quality inherent in all Acura products.

SINGLE TRIM LEVEL WITH MANY STANDARD FEATURES

The Acura TSX comes in one trim level that includes perforated leather upholstery, a power glass moonroof, HID headlights, a premium sound system and much more. It features either a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission or an advanced 5-speed SportShift automatic transmission. The only factory option is the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition.

BODY FEATURES

+ Rigid unit body structure with extensive use of high-tensile steel
+ Best in class aerodynamic performance
+ High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps
+ UV light-reflecting green-tinted glass
+ Scratch-resistant bright metal Acura doorsill garnishes
+ Multiplex wiring circuits
+ Power glass moonroof
+ Power mirrors with integrated turn signals

CHASSIS FEATURES

+ Double-wishbone front suspension
+ Double-wishbone multi-link rear suspension
+ Front and rear stabilizer bars
+ Lightweight rear aluminum suspension knuckles
+ Anti-dive and anti-lift suspension geometry
+ Quick-ratio power rack-and-pinion steering
+ 17 x 7-inch alloy wheels
+ P215/50R17 Michelin MXM4 V-rated all-season high performance tires
+ 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS
+ Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with traction control
+ Extensive NVH measures

POWERTRAIN FEATURES

+ Advanced 2.4-liter DOHC i-VTEC in-line 4-cylinder
+ 200 horsepower @ 6800 rpm
+ 166 lbs.-ft. torque @ 4500 rpm
+ i-VTEC “intelligent” Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control
+ Advanced Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
+ Direct ignition system
+ Drive-by-wire throttle control
+ Dual balance shafts
+ 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission
+ 5-speed Sequential SportShift(R) automatic transmission
+ 110,000-mile tune-up interval

COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE FEATURES

+ Easy-to-read analog instruments with LED backlit illumination
+ Leather-wrapped 3-spoke steering wheel
+ Steering column with adjustable reach and tilt
+ Perforated leather performance-oriented heated front bucket seats
+ 8-way power driver’s seat with adjustable lumbar support
+ 4-way adjustable power passenger seat
+ Dual-zone automatic climate control system
+ Power windows with driver’s auto-down and up feature with auto-reverse
+ Power adjustable heated door mirrors
+ Keyless entry system with panic button and window controls

+ 8-speaker, 360-watt Acura premium sound system
+ XM(R) Satellite Radio
+ 60/40 split-folding rear seatback with locking feature
+ Available Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition
+ Engine immobilizer with rolling code

SAFETY FEATURES

+ Front dual-stage, dual-threshold airbags
+ Front seat side airbags with passenger height and position sensors
+ Side curtain airbags
+ Front and rear crumple zones
+ Energy-absorbing sliding front subframe
+ Front seat belt pretensioners with load limiters
+ Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system in rear outboard seating positions

ENVIRONMENTAL FEATURES

+ Reduction of lead in construction
+ Elimination of polyvinyl chlorides (PVC) from instrument panel and other parts
+ Extensive use of recycled materials
+ CARB LEV-2 emissions certified

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2005 Acura TL

Posted by admin on June 27, 2008

2005 Acura TL

2005 Acura TL Introduction

Torrance, Calif. 09/01/2004

OVERVIEW

The Acura TL performance luxury sedan was introduced in 1995 with a second-generation model debuting in 1999. For 2004, an all-new completely redesigned TL went on sale with more power, an assortment of breakthrough technology and an exterior design that is taut, athletic and powerful. Enthusiast drivers appreciate the TL for its high dynamic capabilities-the 2005 TL is a true driver’s car that competes against the best near-luxury sedans.

For inspiration Acura considered a design style referred to as “Bauhaus,” named for the famous German design house of the 1920s that defined “form follows function” design. The TL uses crisp, taut lines instead of sweeping curves, satin trim in key areas rather than bright chrome, and a driver-oriented layout makes driving more engaging.

MARKET SUMMARY

The luxury vehicle market continues to expand, and the “near luxury” and “luxury SUV” segments within it are enjoying the most growth. The Acura TL occupies the near luxury segment, which accounts for over a third of the luxury market as a whole. Although the TL has been a top seller in this segment, it has recently faced increasing challenges from sporty sedans such as the BMW 530i, Cadillac CTS and Infiniti G35. Competition also comes from compact near-luxury sedans like the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-class.

POWERTRAIN

The TL’s 3.2-liter VTEC V-6 features an aluminum-alloy cylinder block and heads, crankshaft and pistons. Combining a 3-rocker VTEC system with a high 11.0:1 compression ratio and high-flow intake and exhaust systems help the engine produce 270 hp and 238 lbs-ft of torque at 5000 rpm.

The engine meets the tough California Air Resources Board (CARB) LEV-2 ULEV emissions standards for all vehicles sold in the U.S., and has a tune-up interval of 105,000 miles. A Maintenance Minder system continuously monitors the vehicle’s operating conditions, indicating to the driver when maintenance such as an oil change is required.

Both a 5-speed Sequential SportShift(TM) automatic and a close ratio 6-speed manual transmission are available.

BODY & CHASSIS

The design concept starts by building the body over a substantial foundation-large wheels and tires positioned wide, with body overhangs minimized.

Front suspension geometry evolved from the previous TL Type-S in pursuit of even greater roadholding capabilities. Every suspension link has been set to optimize the geometry to produce superior ride and handling. Using a lower arm and knuckle, and shortening the rigid stamped steel upper arms, results in greater camber gain, resulting in optimized tire contact patches during cornering. Both the front and rear suspension have built in “toe” gain when the suspension is in bump, further stabilizing the chassis on rough roads and during cornering. With careful suspension tuning, engineers made sure that enhanced handling performance did not come at the cost of ride quality or comfort.

Double-wishbone front suspension and 5-link double wishbone rear suspension, 4-wheel disc brakes, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) are all standard. Wider wheels and tires are standard, and a choice of all-season or high-performance tires is available on the manual transmission models.

Despite a comprehensive array of technology and the use of insulating materials to promote a quiet and luxurious cabin, strict control over component weight has kept the automatic transmission-equipped TL to just 3,575 pounds.

The list of features and equipment contains a number of firsts for the industry and for Acura. It is the first vehicle in North America to feature an acoustic glass windshield with shade band and the first to offer a standard DVD-Audio 5.1 surround sound system.

INTERIOR

Acura’s tradition of augmenting a driver-oriented layout with luxury features is fully realized in the TL. LED backlit analog instruments are placed to allow the driver instant access to information, while top quality interior materials and details enhance luxury. The interior is also more spacious and stylish, and features standard perforated leather-trimmed seating.

The TL features the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition(TM) with seven million points of interest for the 48 states. Its trip calculation time is two times quicker than the previous generation TL system and it recognizes 293 verbal commands. It also offers a large, easy-to-read 8-inch multi-function touch screen display.

Another advance is the use of Bluetooth, a wireless technology that’s attaining widespread use in computers, PDAs and other portable electronics to enable hands-free phone capability in the TL. The Acura HandsFreeLink(TM) telephone system wirelessly links to the TL owner’s Bluetooth-compatible cellular phone to enable calls to be made and received through the TL’s audio and voice recognition systems.

The TL features a standard DVD-A 5.1 audio system in North America. The 225-watt Acura/ELS(TM) Premium 8-speaker Surround Sound System with DVD-Audio, DTS(TM) and CD 6-disc Changer, AM/FM Tuner and Dolby(TM) Cassette delivers a whole new level of audio fidelity. This DVD-Audio system, developed with Grammy-winning music producer Elliot Scheiner, utilizes six distinct channels (compared with two on the typical premium sound system) to deliver sound resolution 500 times better than CD. The premium system plays standard CDs, DVD-A discs, and DTS-enabled CDs and incorporates XM(R) Satellite Radio for over 100 channels of premium quality sound.

SAFETY

The TL has an advanced array of safety features. This includes advanced passive safety technologies and engineered-in accident avoidance capabilities like 4-wheel independent suspension, 4-wheel disc brakes, large P235/45R17 tires, Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist and Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA).

In the event of a collision, the TL unit body is engineered to disperse collision forces while maintaining the integrity of the passenger compartment. Front and rear door beams (two in the front, one in the rear), extensive use of lightweight, high-strength steel in the passenger safety cage, and deformable front and rear structures, help the TL target the highest rankings in the government SINCAP and NCAP barrier tests. Likewise, during the IIHS offset collision the TL is expected to achieve a “GOOD” rating (the highest) in all categories. Other safety features include standard side curtain airbags and adjustable rear outboard head restraints.

POWERTRAIN FEATURES
+ 3.2-liter, SOHC, VTEC V-6 engine
+ 270 horsepower @ 6200 rpm
+ 238 lbs-ft of torque @ 5000 rpm
+ Intake side three-rocker VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control)
+ 11.0:1 compression ratio
+ High flow cold air induction system
+ 2-stage tuned intake manifold
+ High-flow exhaust system with closed-coupled and under-floor catalytic converters
+ Drive-by-Wire Throttle System(TM)
+ Computer-controlled Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
+ Direct ignition system
+ Meets CARB LEV-II ULEV emissions standards
+ Maintenance Minder system which optimizes service intervals
+ 105,000-mile tune-up intervals

BODY & CHASSIS FEATURES
+ Unit body with extensive use of high-strength steel
+ Bi-function Xenon High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps
+ Acoustic glass windshield
+ Satin grille and trunk trim
+ Standard power moonroof with 1-touch switch with auto-reverse safety feature
+ Memory-linked power mirrors with auto tilt-down for left and right mirrors
+ Double-wishbone front suspension
+ 5-link double-wishbone rear suspension
+ Lightweight aluminum-alloy front subframe
+ Torque-sensing power rack-and-pinion steering
+ 17 x 8 aluminum-alloy wheels
+ P235/45R17 Bridgestone Turanza all-season tires (Potenza high-performance tires available on TL with manual transmission)
+ 4-wheel disc brakes with 3-channel ABS, Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist
+ Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with traction control (standard on automatic transmission and manual transmission models

COMFORT & CONVENIENCE FEATURES
+ LED backlit analog instruments
+ Leather-wrapped 4-spoke tilt and telescopic steering wheel
+ Steering wheel mounted controls for audio, cruise control, HandsFreeLink telephone system and available Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition
+ Performance-oriented front bucket seats with leather seating surfaces
+ 10-way power driver’s seat with power adjustable lumbar support
+ Fully lined trunk
+ Dual-zone, Dual-mode Automatic Climate Control System
+ Keyless Memory Link with two driver profiles
+ Acura/ELS(TM) Premium 8-speaker Surround Sound System with DVD-Audio, DTS(TM) and CD 6-disc Changer, AM/FM Tuner and Dolby(TM) Cassette
+ XM Satellite Radio
+ Multi-Information Display (MID) enables access to multiple electronic functions
+ HandsFreeLink wireless phone interface

SAFETY FEATURES
+ Driver and front passenger airbags with dual-stage inflators
+ Front seat mounted side impact airbags with Occupant Position Detection System
+ Side curtain airbag system
+ Front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters
+ Front neck injury reduction seats
+ Front head restraints adjustable for height and tilt
+ Rear outboard adjustable head restraints
+ 3-point seat belts for all five seating positions
+ Automatic Locking Retractor/Emergency Locking Retractor (ALR/ELR)
+ Tether anchors (all rear positions)
+ Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system for rear outboard positions
+ Seat belt reminder
+ Childproof rear door locks
+ Adjustable front seat belt anchors
+ Front and rear crumple zones
+ Dual front and single rear door beams

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2005 Acura RSX Type-S

Posted by admin on June 27, 2008

2005 Acura RSX Type-S

2005 Acura RSX Introduction

Torrance, Calif. 09/01/2004

2005 OVERVIEW

Since its debut in 2002, the RSX has carved a solid niche in the sports coupe segment, and with the important “tuner” market. Available in two distinct models-the sporty RSX and the high-performance RSX Type-S-this sports coupe serves as an important point of entry for the brand, introducing youthful performance enthusiasts to the Acura line-up of precision-crafted performance luxury vehicles.

The RSX has won an assortment of industry awards including being named to Car and Driver’s “10 Best” and Ward’s 10 Best Engine’s lists. With their high-performance engines, abundant luxury features, advanced safety and security systems, and innovative cockpit and body designs, the RSX and RSX Type-S have set a bold standard of driving excitement and refinement in the sports coupe segment.

For 2005, significant enhancements were made to both the RSX and RSX Type-S to reset that standard to an even higher level. These enhancements were designed with three specific objectives in mind:
To boost the already formidable performance of the Type-S model by increasing horsepower and optimizing the 6-speed manual transmission
To provide more precise handling and better ride comfort for both models by optimizing the suspension, steering and braking systems
To highlight the aggressive, yet refined nature of the RSX with enhanced styling inside and out

The RSX is powered by a 16-valve, DOHC i-VTEC 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 160 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 141 lb-ft. of torque at 4000 rpm. The RSX features either a 5-speed manual transmission or an available 5-speed Sequential SportShift automatic transmission.

For 2005, modifications to the intake, exhaust and emissions systems were made to the Type-S model’s 16-valve, DOHC i-VTEC 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine to boost power to 210 horsepower at 7800 rpm (up from 200 hp at 7400 rpm on the previous model) and 143 lb-ft of torque at 7000 rpm (up from 142 lb -ft at 6000 rpm). The Type-S comes exclusively with a close ratio 6-speed manual transmission. To complement the engine performance gains, the final gear ratio of this 6-speed manual was lowered by 8.6 percent to provide quicker acceleration. Single cone carbon synchronizers replace double cone brass synchronizers on fifth and sixth gears to provide a more direct shift feel and reduce mechanical losses in the transmission.

To meet the demands of today’s discriminating drivers, both RSX models boast a sport-tuned suspension system, which has been substantially retuned for 2005 to make the RSX even more fun to drive. Revised suspension, steering and braking systems coupled with an increase in front and rear body rigidity result in even more responsive handling while at the same time enhancing ride comfort.

New for 2005, the Type-S model receives standard 17-inch alloy wheels (up from 16-inch) fitted with Michelin 215/45R17 all-season high-performance tires, which provide enhanced traction and a more substantial appearance under the wheel wells.

To complement the revised suspension, the rigidity of the body has been increased front and rear with reinforcements in key areas including the suspension mounting points. Additional insulation material in the roof and doors reduces road noise, while a dynamic damper added to the front subframe reduces engine rocking and vibration transmitted to the cabin from the engine.

Building on its decidedly enthusiast-oriented theme, the RSX features a dynamic, “driver-tuned” cockpit that has been freshened for 2005 with the addition of chrome and titanium-look accents, upgraded materials throughout and front seats that have been redesigned to provide additional support and comfort.

Exterior styling enhancements for 2005 include redesigned front and rear fascias and side sills on both models, and a new deck lid spoiler on the RSX Type-S model, which not only give the car a sportier, more aggressive look, but improve its aerodynamics as well.

SUMMARY OF CHANGES FOR THE 2005 RSX

RSX/RSX Type-S
Revised suspension tuning for increased handling precision and a smoother ride
Ride height reduced by 7 mm
Optimized damper and spring settings
Firmer stabilizer bars (front and rear for Type-S, front for RSX)
Bushings at suspension installation points were optimized
Inversely wound front coil springs
Refined steering system for enhanced feel and quicker response
Quicker steering ratio
Stiffer steering column
Pump flow increased by seven percent
Kickback reduction valve
Optimized braking system for enhanced stopping power and feel
Pedal stroke decreased
Master cylinder diameter increased
Brake pedal to rigidity increased
Larger diameter 17-inch alloy wheels and 215/45R17 all-season high-performance tires
Body rigidity increased 15 percent in front and 21 percent in the rear through the application of reinforcements at key areas
NVH reduced
Engine damper added to front subframe to reduce engine rocking and vibration transmitted from the engine to the cabin
Insulation material added at key points on doors and roof to reduce road noise
Side-mirror gaps sealed and weather strip added
More aggressive exterior styling
New front and rear bumper designs
Redesigned headlight and taillight assemblies
Restyled signature 5-sided Acura grille
Redesigned side sill garnish
Four new exterior colors: Magnesium Metallic, Vivid Blue Pearl, Jade Green Metallic, Blaze Orange Metallic
Freshened interior design
Deeply bolstered front seats with thicker cushions
New chrome and titanium-look accents
Meter faces changed from metallic to white

RSX Type-S Additional Enhancements
Engine intake and exhaust modifications that boost the horsepower of the Type-S model to 210 at 7800 rpm (compared to 200 hp at 7400 rpm on the previous model)
High performance camshafts to improve engine breathing
Air intake duct enlarged for increased air flow
Larger diameter exhaust pipes to increase exhaust flow
Catalytic converter optimized to reduce exhaust backpressure
6-speed transmission optimized with a lower final gear ratio for quicker acceleration and carbon synchronizers replacing brass on 5th and 6th gears for a smoother shift feel
Larger diameter front strut tower bar
Bushings replaced by bearings on strut mount
Larger diameter 17-inch alloy wheels and 215/45R17 all-season high-performance tires
Deck lid spoiler

HIGH PERFORMANCE POWERTRAIN

The 2005 RSX is powered by two versions of an innovative, 16-valve, DOHC, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine utilizing Acura’s i-VTEC valve-control system. The i-VTEC system incorporates VTC (Variable Timing Control) to continuously adjust intake-camshaft phase in concert with Acura’s Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) system-enhancing performance, and fuel efficiency, while reducing emissions across a broad power band. The RSX utilizes VTC and VTEC on the intake valves and camshaft while on the Type-S i-VTEC combines VTC intake phasing with VTEC intake and exhaust valve control.

The RSX engine produces 160 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 141 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. Thanks to new high performance camshafts, larger diameter intake ducting and modifications to the exhaust system including larger diameter exhaust pipes, the 2005 Type-S engine produces a robust 210 horsepower at 7800 rpm (up from 200 at 7400 rpm) and 143 lb-ft of torque at 7000 rpm (up from 142 lb-ft at 6000 rpm).

Both the RSX and the RSX Type-S meet strict Low Emission Vehicle-II (LEV-II) standards adopted by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) for 2005.

The 160-horsepower RSX engine drives the front wheels through a choice of two state-of-the-art transmissions: a smooth-shifting, five-speed manual that provides excellent control during spirited driving, or an optional 5-speed automatic transmission equipped with Acura’s Sequential SportShift system. The SportShift concept first appeared on the Acura NSX exotic sports car . The SportShift transmission operates as an automatic or puts gear selection in the hands of the driver, much like a manual transmission.

In keeping with its high-performance mission, the RSX Type-S is available exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission. Designed to be exceptionally compact and lightweight, this 6-speed has also been engineered to shift with extremely short and precise throws. It features a short-throw clutch with an innovative torsion mechanism that considerably reduces noise. For 2005, the final gear ratio of this transmission was lowered by 8.6 percent to complement the more powerful engine and provide enhanced acceleration. Multiple synchronizers are utilized for outstanding feel. For 2005, single cone carbon synchronizers replace brass double cone synchronizers on fifth and sixth gear for quicker response and an enhanced shifting feel.

GLOBAL COMPACT PLATFORM

To achieve both a sleek exterior and a roomy cabin, the RSX is built on the Global Compact Platform. It features a 4-wheel independent suspension system that, for 2005 has been substantially retuned to provide even more agile handling and refined ride comfort. Up front, the RSX features a compact Control-Link MacPherson Strut suspension for outstanding handling, ride and packaging. Moreover, the Control-Link MacPherson Strut design delivers quick, responsive handling by helping to maximize each front tire’s contact with the road throughout the range of suspension travel. In the rear, the RSX is equipped with a compact double-wishbone suspension that helps provide a smooth ride, excellent handling, and additional cargo space.

To make the RSX even more fun to drive, both 2005 models receive significant suspension changes designed to enhance handling precision and ride comfort.A new geometry was applied, which lowers the car by 7 mm. Stabilizer bar diameter on both models was increased, as was the diameter of the front strut tower bar on the Type-S. In addition, bushings at the suspension installation points were optimized and (on the Type-S), the bushings were replaced by bearings on the strut tower mounts for quicker turning response. To minimize the affect of suspension compression on steering, inversely wound front coil springs were applied.

Large disc brakes at each wheel help deliver exceptional stopping power. In front, the RSX uses 10.3-inch ventilated discs, while the high-performance Type-S features 11.8-inch ventilated discs. Both the RSX and the RSX Type-S are equipped with 10.2-inch rotors at the rear. The brake systems on both models were enhanced for 2005 with a lower pedal stroke ratio, a more rigid brake pedal and a larger diameter master cylinder for enhanced performance and superior braking feel.

The solid unit body of the RSX was designed from the outset to set a new standard for torsional and bending rigidity. This standard has been raised for 2005 by strengthening key points on the body and chassis. Exterior styling has also been updated for 2005 for a more distinctive, sporty look. Enhancements including redesigned front and rear fascias, new side sills, redesigned head and taillight assemblies, and the addition of a deck lid spoiler on the Type-S model. These changes, as well as the suspension modifications help to lower both the coefficient of drag and coefficient of lift for enhanced stability.

The RSX platform has been computer-designed to achieve a 5-star NCAP rating for frontal impact by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Specially designed crumple zones in the front and rear help dissipate impact forces before they can intrude on the passenger cabin, while impact-absorbing pads in the pillars, roof sides, and door linings work in conjunction with the standard front and side airbags to help minimize the chance of occupant injury.

SPACIOUS AND STYLISH COCKPIT

Despite its 101.2-inch wheelbase, the RSX provides generous room for both passengers and cargo-thanks in part to its compact suspension system and cab-forward design. With the rear seats up, the cargo area offers 16 cubic feet of cargo space.

The driver-oriented cockpit has been freshened for 2005 with new chrome and titanium-look accents and upgraded materials throughout. It features a sleek instrument panel with large gauges that are backlit in red for easy night time visibility. Both models feature deeply bolstered seats, which have been redesigned for 2005 for increased support as well as comfort, and a three-spoke, leather-wrapped steering wheel for an unmistakable “driver’s car” feel. Handsome, double knit material with patterned-cloth center inserts is standard on the RSX while perforated, hand-selected leather is available as an option. Perforated leather is standard on the RSX Type-S.

STANDARD LUXURY FEATURES

Like all Acura models, the RSX is comprehensively equipped. Standard equipment includes an Automatic Climate Control system with air filtration, a keyless entry and security system with anti-theft engine immobilizer, power windows with an “auto-up/down” feature for the driver’s window, heated power sideview mirrors, and intermittent wipers. In addition, the RSX boastsa standard 6-speaker audio system with in-dash CD player, while the RSX Type-S features an even more impressive 7-speaker Acura/Bose(R) Music System with 6-disc in-dash CD changer and cassette player.

SPORTY AND AERODYNAMIC EXTERIOR DESIGN

For 2005, exterior styling has been enhanced for a sportier, more dynamic look. The grille, front and rear bumpers, side sills, headlights, and taillights have all been redesigned, building on the sporting appeal of the previous model and ensuring the RSX looks as fast as it drives.

Thanks to gently tapered body-side panels, curved door and quarter-panel glass, and a suspension lowered by 7 mm for 2005, the RSX is the most aerodynamic coupe in its class. Coefficient of lift and coefficient of drag are improved in 2005 and the ratio of lift front to rear was improved for maximum high-speed stability.

The RSX is available in the following exterior colors: Taffeta White, Nighthawk Black, Satin Silver Metallic, , Premium White Pearl (Type-S only), and Milano Red. Four additional exterior color options added for 2005 include: Magnesium Metallic, Vivid Blue Pearl, Jade Green Metallic and Blaze Orange Metallic, which replace Artic Blue Pearl, Eternal Blue Pearl and Desert Silver Metallic.

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2005 Acura RSX A-Spec Concept

Posted by admin on June 27, 2008

Posted under Acura

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2005 Acura RSX

Posted by admin on June 27, 2008

2005 Acura RSX