Autoblog First Drive: 2009 Acura TL [w/VIDEO]

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Filed under: Sedans/Saloons, Acura, First Drive

Click above for high-res gallery of the 2009 Acura TL

Beginning in February at the Chicago Auto Show, Acura began rolling out redesigned versions of its three sedans in the span of six months. Beginning with the RL in Chicago, Acura has rolled out its new design ethos intended to make these cars stand out in the increasingly crowded entry luxury segment. When we first showed you the RL, it got what would charitably be described as a negative reception. The new shield grille design was almost universally reviled both in the media and amongst you readers. By the time the entry-level TSX arrived a month later, reactions softened somewhat as people became accustomed to the look. In its first few months on the street, sales of the new TSX have jumped more than 20 percent compared to the old model.

The last to arrive and arguably the best looking of the three is the mid-level TL, which arrives this September to replace the best selling sedan in Acura's lineup. Acura invited us to New York to sample its new mainstream model on the roads of Connecticut and the Empire State in mid-July. While the TL was the last to be unveiled, it is actually the first and only one of the three sedans to be completely designed around this new look. Read more about the new TL and our first drive impressions after the jump.

Gallery: First Drive: 2009 Acura TL


Gallery: 2009 Acura TL


Photos Copyright (C)2008 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.Continue reading Autoblog First Drive: 2009 Acura TL [w/VIDEO]

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[speedmaster]

This premium midsize sedan should be available in Base and Type-S models. Base versions will likely receive a 3.5-liter V6 engine that makes around 300 hp and mates to a 5-speed automatic transmission. Type-S models may get a 3.7-liter V6 that makes between 330 and 350 hp. Current Type-S models offer the choice of a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic. The Type-S also should continue to include a sport suspension and specific interior and exterior trim. Exclusive to the current Type-S is Honda's Active Noise Cancellation designed to electronically quell mechanical, road, and wind noise. It should remain available on the new Type-S. Available safety features should include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. Also standard should be leather upholstery with heated front seats, sunroof, wireless cell phone link, and DVD Audio. A navigation system with voice command should remain standard on the Type-S and optional on the base. We have not yet tested a 2009 Acura TL.
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[TireMeltingRSX]

Everything I read was that the Type-S was gone, replaced by the SH-AWD version, and that no manual option would be offered on either.

[Spade]

looks butt ugly. hope it fails.

[EKY]

Not sure if anyone posted this.. but there's tons of pics and a detailed writeup by Acura on Acura Media Newsroom: Headlines