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The 2006 Acura TL performance luxury sedan features a potent powertrain, a track tuned suspension and distinctive styling designed to solidify it's place as the leader in the luxury sedan §egmènt. Its driver-oriented cockpit contains an assortment of class-leading technology including DVD-Audio surround sound, XM(R) Satellite Radio and hands-free phone connectivity utilizing Bluetooth(R) technology as standard equipment. The TL is also equipped wîth the latest safety technology, including side curtain airbags, dual-stage, dual-threshold driver's and front passenger's airbags and new for 2006, a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
'The TL's winning combination of high technology, sporty performance and dynamic styling has made it one of the top selling cars in its class,' said Dick Colliver, executive vice president, sales. 'Along wîth the upgraded TSX and RL, the TL gives us our strongest lineup of sedans ever.'
The 2006 TL's 3.2-liter, 24-valve, all-aluminum VTEC(TM) engine utilizes an 11.0:1 compression ratio, a two-stage intake manifold and a cold air intake to help generate 258 horsepower SAE net (Rev 8/04)* at 6,200 rpm and 233 lbs-ft of torque SAE net (Rev 8/04) at 5,000 rpm. A high flow exhaust system that includes two close-coupled primary catalytic converters for quicker light off and a secondary underfloor catalytic converter helps to generate extra horsepower while meeting LEV-2 ÚLEV emissions standards. ( posted on conceptcarz.com) EPA fuel mileage ratings are 20 mpg city/29 mpg highway for all models.
The 2006 TL features a drive-by-wire throttle system, which eliminates the need for a mechanical connection between the accelerator pedal and the engine. Evolved from the drive-by-wire system in the NSX supercar, this system is custom tailored to match the unique performance characteristics of the TL. It provides responsive acceleration, modulates the throttle during automatic transmission shifts for improved smoothness and allows throttle control to be incorporated into the TL's Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA(R)) logic.
The TL is available wîth a choice of a 5-speed Sequential SportShift(TM) automatic transmission, or a close-ratio 6-speed manual. The 6-speed manual features a short throw shift linkage, large diameter shift cables and multi-cone synchronizers for optimum shift feel.
TL models wîth the 6-speed manual transmission are equipped wîth a limited slip differential, which proactively distributes torque between the driving wheels to help maintain traction, and creates more neutral handling. For 2006, models wîth the 6-speed manual transmission incorporate engine control module changes to help reduce torque steer during acceleration.
The TL's state-of-the art chassis and 4-wheel independent suspension are designed to deliver sporty, precise handling and a smooth, compliant ride. A standard Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA(R)) system works in concert wîth the drive-by-wire throttle system to provide enhanced control during acceleration, braking and cornering. This standard 4-channel system 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 TL features standard 17x8-inch 5-spoke wheels and 235/45R17 Bridgestone all-season tires that, when combined wîth 4-wheel disc brakes and Anti-lock braking, provide outstanding stopping power. Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) continuously and automatically adjusts the pressure to the front and rear brakes depending on how the vehicle is loaded. A Brake Assist feature utilizes a microprocessor to help the driver apply full brake pressure during accident avoidance situations. TL models wîth the 6-speed manual transmission come wîth Brembo 4-piston front calipers wîth larger rotors to further enhance braking and are also available wîth 17-inch high-performance summer tires.
To match its high performance powertrain and chassis, designers gave the TL aggressive exterior styling. They began wîth a wide, muscular stance accented by large wheels and tires, distinct fender blisters and minimal wheel arch-to-tire gaps. Working upward from there, they utilized bold character lines and a fusion of edge and organic design, to portray an image of muscular tension, helping to make the car look fast and lean from any angle.
In the front, the TL features a bold hood design and an aggressive front fascia wîth an angular headlight treatment and a lower air intake system that accents the styling while ensuring a steady flow of fresh air to the engine and cooling system. Hood lines begin at the front grill and run up along the top surfaces of the vehicle in one bold, unbroken stroke. Distinct character grooves run below the sleek cabin on each side of the car, stretching from the front side marker across the side of the car to the rear marker. A short rear deck, wîth a pronounced lip and a V-shaped break below the trunk, express the car's aggressive nature. Dual exhaust pipes wîth bumper-integrated exhaust tips further accent the car's muscular style.
The well-appointed interior of the TL features an assortment of standard high tech features including a multi-channel DVD-Audio system. The Acura/ELS(TM) premium 8-speaker Surround Sound System wîth 6-disc CD, DVD-Audio and DTS(R) changer, AM/FM Tuner and Dolby(R) Cassette delivers a whole new level of audio fidelity. This DVD-Audio system, developed wîth Grammy-winning music producer Elliot Scheiner, utilizes six distinct channels (compared wîth two on the typical premium sound system) to deliver sound resolution 500 times greater than CD. The premium system plays standard CDs, DVD-A discs, and DTS-enabled CDs and incorporates XM(R) Satellite Radio for over 150 channels of premium quality sound.
The TL comes equipped wîth a Bluetooth-based hands-free phone system as standard equipment. The system, called HandsFreeLink(TM), enables a Bluetooth(R) wireless interface wîth mobile phones allowing calls to be made and received using the TL's voice recognition and audio interfaces. To make a call, drivers push the §teering wheel-mounted HandsFreeLink button, which connects their phone to the system.
The Acura Navigation System wîth Voice Recognition(TM) is available on the TL as a factory-installed option. This easy-to-use navigation system features a menu of 293 voice commands, an 8-inch touch screen display, a comprehensive destination guide wîth more than 7 million points of interest spanning the continental Únited States, 3-D graphics for freeway on and off ramps and turn-by-turn voice guidance.
To ensure proper maintenance intervals and reduce the number of service visits, the TL features an innovative Maintenance Minder system that automatically monitors the vehicle's unique operating profile and alerts the driver when certain types of routine service, including oil and filter replacement and tire rotation, are needed. When the TL is started, Maintenance Minder information is displayed on the multi-information display located on the instrument panel beneath the fuel gauge.
The TL incorporates a wide array of the latest safety technologies including standard side curtain airbags to help protect vehicle occupants from head and neck injuries in the event of a sufficient side impact. The TL is also equipped wîth 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-statured adult is leaning into the deployment path of the side airbag, deployment is prevented.
Additional safety features include a weight sensor incorporated in the front passenger seat to determine the total weight on the passenger seat. If it is less than 65 pounds (as if occupied by a small child or car seat) the front airbag will not deploy. On the driver's side, a new position sensor has been added to the seat, which determines how the airbag will be deployed in the event of a collision. If the seat is within half an inch of the most forward position, the front airbag will only deploy in the dual-stage mode. If the seat is farther than a half inch from the forward position, the airbag deploys in either single or dual-stage mode based on the severity of the collision.
New for 2006, the TL is equipped wîth a direct Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Úsing a series of four sensors and four initiators (one for each tire) and a receiver to capture and relay information, the system alerts the driver when it detects that tire pressure in one or more tires drops significantly below the recommended pressure.
Like all Acura models, the 2006 TL is covered by a comprehensive 4-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty and a new 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.Source - Acura
'The TL's winning combination of high technology, sporty performance and dynamic styling has made it one of the top selling cars in its class,' said Dick Colliver, executive vice president, sales. 'Along wîth the upgraded TSX and RL, the TL gives us our strongest lineup of sedans ever.'
The 2006 TL's 3.2-liter, 24-valve, all-aluminum VTEC(TM) engine utilizes an 11.0:1 compression ratio, a two-stage intake manifold and a cold air intake to help generate 258 horsepower SAE net (Rev 8/04)* at 6,200 rpm and 233 lbs-ft of torque SAE net (Rev 8/04) at 5,000 rpm. A high flow exhaust system that includes two close-coupled primary catalytic converters for quicker light off and a secondary underfloor catalytic converter helps to generate extra horsepower while meeting LEV-2 ÚLEV emissions standards. ( posted on conceptcarz.com) EPA fuel mileage ratings are 20 mpg city/29 mpg highway for all models.
The 2006 TL features a drive-by-wire throttle system, which eliminates the need for a mechanical connection between the accelerator pedal and the engine. Evolved from the drive-by-wire system in the NSX supercar, this system is custom tailored to match the unique performance characteristics of the TL. It provides responsive acceleration, modulates the throttle during automatic transmission shifts for improved smoothness and allows throttle control to be incorporated into the TL's Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA(R)) logic.
The TL is available wîth a choice of a 5-speed Sequential SportShift(TM) automatic transmission, or a close-ratio 6-speed manual. The 6-speed manual features a short throw shift linkage, large diameter shift cables and multi-cone synchronizers for optimum shift feel.
TL models wîth the 6-speed manual transmission are equipped wîth a limited slip differential, which proactively distributes torque between the driving wheels to help maintain traction, and creates more neutral handling. For 2006, models wîth the 6-speed manual transmission incorporate engine control module changes to help reduce torque steer during acceleration.
The TL's state-of-the art chassis and 4-wheel independent suspension are designed to deliver sporty, precise handling and a smooth, compliant ride. A standard Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA(R)) system works in concert wîth the drive-by-wire throttle system to provide enhanced control during acceleration, braking and cornering. This standard 4-channel system 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 TL features standard 17x8-inch 5-spoke wheels and 235/45R17 Bridgestone all-season tires that, when combined wîth 4-wheel disc brakes and Anti-lock braking, provide outstanding stopping power. Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) continuously and automatically adjusts the pressure to the front and rear brakes depending on how the vehicle is loaded. A Brake Assist feature utilizes a microprocessor to help the driver apply full brake pressure during accident avoidance situations. TL models wîth the 6-speed manual transmission come wîth Brembo 4-piston front calipers wîth larger rotors to further enhance braking and are also available wîth 17-inch high-performance summer tires.
To match its high performance powertrain and chassis, designers gave the TL aggressive exterior styling. They began wîth a wide, muscular stance accented by large wheels and tires, distinct fender blisters and minimal wheel arch-to-tire gaps. Working upward from there, they utilized bold character lines and a fusion of edge and organic design, to portray an image of muscular tension, helping to make the car look fast and lean from any angle.
In the front, the TL features a bold hood design and an aggressive front fascia wîth an angular headlight treatment and a lower air intake system that accents the styling while ensuring a steady flow of fresh air to the engine and cooling system. Hood lines begin at the front grill and run up along the top surfaces of the vehicle in one bold, unbroken stroke. Distinct character grooves run below the sleek cabin on each side of the car, stretching from the front side marker across the side of the car to the rear marker. A short rear deck, wîth a pronounced lip and a V-shaped break below the trunk, express the car's aggressive nature. Dual exhaust pipes wîth bumper-integrated exhaust tips further accent the car's muscular style.
The well-appointed interior of the TL features an assortment of standard high tech features including a multi-channel DVD-Audio system. The Acura/ELS(TM) premium 8-speaker Surround Sound System wîth 6-disc CD, DVD-Audio and DTS(R) changer, AM/FM Tuner and Dolby(R) Cassette delivers a whole new level of audio fidelity. This DVD-Audio system, developed wîth Grammy-winning music producer Elliot Scheiner, utilizes six distinct channels (compared wîth two on the typical premium sound system) to deliver sound resolution 500 times greater than CD. The premium system plays standard CDs, DVD-A discs, and DTS-enabled CDs and incorporates XM(R) Satellite Radio for over 150 channels of premium quality sound.
The TL comes equipped wîth a Bluetooth-based hands-free phone system as standard equipment. The system, called HandsFreeLink(TM), enables a Bluetooth(R) wireless interface wîth mobile phones allowing calls to be made and received using the TL's voice recognition and audio interfaces. To make a call, drivers push the §teering wheel-mounted HandsFreeLink button, which connects their phone to the system.
The Acura Navigation System wîth Voice Recognition(TM) is available on the TL as a factory-installed option. This easy-to-use navigation system features a menu of 293 voice commands, an 8-inch touch screen display, a comprehensive destination guide wîth more than 7 million points of interest spanning the continental Únited States, 3-D graphics for freeway on and off ramps and turn-by-turn voice guidance.
To ensure proper maintenance intervals and reduce the number of service visits, the TL features an innovative Maintenance Minder system that automatically monitors the vehicle's unique operating profile and alerts the driver when certain types of routine service, including oil and filter replacement and tire rotation, are needed. When the TL is started, Maintenance Minder information is displayed on the multi-information display located on the instrument panel beneath the fuel gauge.
The TL incorporates a wide array of the latest safety technologies including standard side curtain airbags to help protect vehicle occupants from head and neck injuries in the event of a sufficient side impact. The TL is also equipped wîth 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-statured adult is leaning into the deployment path of the side airbag, deployment is prevented.
Additional safety features include a weight sensor incorporated in the front passenger seat to determine the total weight on the passenger seat. If it is less than 65 pounds (as if occupied by a small child or car seat) the front airbag will not deploy. On the driver's side, a new position sensor has been added to the seat, which determines how the airbag will be deployed in the event of a collision. If the seat is within half an inch of the most forward position, the front airbag will only deploy in the dual-stage mode. If the seat is farther than a half inch from the forward position, the airbag deploys in either single or dual-stage mode based on the severity of the collision.
New for 2006, the TL is equipped wîth a direct Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Úsing a series of four sensors and four initiators (one for each tire) and a receiver to capture and relay information, the system alerts the driver when it detects that tire pressure in one or more tires drops significantly below the recommended pressure.
Like all Acura models, the 2006 TL is covered by a comprehensive 4-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty and a new 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.Source - Acura
Acura's best-selling model, the TL has ranked as the second best-selling luxury sedan in the U.S., right behind the BMW 3-Series. Introduced in 1995, the Acura TL debuted as a mid-size luxury sedan with front wheel drive that was produced to replace the Acura Vigor. Acura incorporated some of the most popular features from the Legend, while that vehicle was discontinued during the same year. The Acura was rebadged for the Japanese market in '96 as the Honda Aspire an as the Honda Saber from 1996 through 2004.
From 1996 until 1998 the TL was available in two engine sizes, a 5 cylinder 2.5 liter, a lavish sports car model and a 6 cylinder 3.2 liter luxury sedan. The first generation was assembled in Sayama, Japan and came with a 111.8 in wheelbase. Its 2.5L 176 HP engine came with a 4-speed automatic transmission. On March 28, 1995 the very first 1996 Acura TL rolled off the assembly line.
In 1999 the second generation was introduced and was available with only the more popular 3.2 liter engine. Much larger than the previous generation, the 1999 TL showcased sleeker updated styling along with a more powerful V6 engine. Acura was attempting to market to a younger generation, and in the Acura TL, it succeeded.
The second generation TL was also called the Honda Inspire and was assembled in Marysville, Ohio. The engine was the 3.2L 224 hp V6 and the 3.2L 260 HP. The transmission was a 4-speed automatic and after 2000 the 5-speed automatic was introduced. The second generation model featured a 108.1 inch wheelbase with an overall length of 192.9 inches.
Honda introduced the TL-X concept car in 1998, and this was a preview of the second-generation TL that would be unveiled in 1999. The newest TL was derived off the USDM Honda Accord platform and featured a newly-designed 3.2 L 225 hp SOHC VTEC J32 V6 that was joined to a four-speed electronic automatic transmission with SportShift.
The 2.5 was dropped for the second generation, and the 3.2 TL was built alongside the Honda Accord before being imported into Japan and sold as Honda Inspire at the Honda Clio dealer network, and as Honda Saber in the Honda Primo and Verno dealer networks. On August 4th, 1998 the very first 1999 Acura TL 2G rolled off of the assembly line. The only available option on the sedan was a hard drive-based navigation system.
For the 2000 model year, the Acura TL was given slightly more features, including a 5-speed automatic transmission with SportShift. The new gear allowed for better fuel economy and acceleration when compared to the previous four-speed automatic transmission with SportShift. Other additional changes on the 2000 model included the addition of side impact airbags for front passengers and a change of format for the navigation system. The CD was also exchanged for a DVD-based navigation system.
The following year a brand new redesigned coupe version of the TL was unveiled; the 3.2CL. Though mechanically identical, the '01 model never reached the height of sales that it's sibling model reached. In May of 2003 this coupe model was discontinued. The 2001 model featured a new redesigned cupholder, a feature that the previous years model didn't have. The warranty of these models were also extended by the manufacturer due to recurring problems with the automatic transmission.
For 2002 the Acura TL received a minor makeover that resulted in a refreshed front fascia, redesigned taillights, a 6 CD in-dash changer along with several other features. For this same year a new Type-S model was also added to the lineup. The Type-S added 35 hp as well as 17-inch wheels, firmer seats and suspension.
Acura introduced an A-SPEC version of its popular TL Type-S model that was available only in Canada in 2003. This edition was limited to only 800 units produced. Cosmetic differences were the only variations between the A-SPEC and non A-SPEC versions.
On September 30, 2003 the first third generation Acura TL rolled off of the assembly line. The vehicle underwent a complete redesign in 2004, mainly due to the customers that wanted a more powerful vehicle along with a sportier exterior. The new '04 TL was introduced with a redefined chassis, a 270 horsepower 3.2 L V6 engine along with the enhancements such as Bluetooth wireless connectivity and a DVD-Audio surround sound system.
The third generation of the Acura TL was assembled in Marysville, Ohio from 2004 until 2008. The third generation Acura TL was released for sale in North America on October 6, 2003. Derived from the seventh generation USDM Honda Acorrd, the new TL was developed mainly in the Y.S. by a team led by Erik Berkman with bodywork by American Honda designer Jon Ikeda. Powered by a 270 hp, the third generation is based on the new SAE measurement standard for horsepower and 233 lb-ft of torque, 3.2 L 24 valve SOHC VTEC V6 engine joined to a 5-speed automatic with SportShift or 6-speed manual.
Honda offered a factory-sanctioned ‘tuner package' version of the TL in March of 2004 to the driving public. Featuring a suspension tuned by Makoto Tamamura, an indication of the TL A-SPEC's aggressive engineering. Other features included an underbody kit, spoiler, limited edition A-SPEC steering wheels, 'A-SPEC' badge on the back, and 18-inch wheels that are all standard features on the A-SPEC package.
The first car in the American market to include a 6 disc DVD-Audio system, the third generation TL featured output through an 8-speaker 225-watt system, engineered by
Panasonic and tuned by Elliot Scheiner. In 2004 the TL became Acura's best selling luxury sedan with more than 79,000 sold in that year.
For 2005 the Acura TL received minor updates that included a tire pressure monitoring gauge along with higher horse power rating that was determined through new testing procedures. A passenger airbag cutoff switch along with extra stitching on the front seats were some of the updates featured on the '05 model. Brembo 4 Piston brake calipers for the front wheels were also featured on manual transmission models.
For 2006 the TL received the Tire Pressure Monitoring System, an updated and improved weight ratio, along with a new engine management system that aided in reducing torque steer. Though the engine remained the same throughout 2007, a new horsepower rating of 258 hp is due to a change in testing procedures.
For 2007 the Acura TL was updated with a slightly revised exterior along with a revised interior that featured a new steering wheel, new gauges, and new colors for 07 models. To improve ride comfort, the 2007 model received suspension changes. LED signal blinkers were added on the side mirrors and fog lights on the bumper. A new rear view camera with image displayed on the navigation screen along with XM NavTraffic on the new navigation models. The sound system is now MP3/WMA compatible along with the new standard auxiliary audio jack. The base model dropped manual transmission due to extremely low sales.
The Type-S edition of the TL returned. The new Type-S received the Acura RL's 3.5-liter V6 engine that was tuned for 286 horsepower and 25 lb-ft of torque with either a 5-speed automatic with paddle shifters of a 6-speed manual transmission. Differences were mainly focused on the exterior with the addition of quad exhaust pipes, newly restyled taillights and front fascia. Additional updates were focused on the lip spoiler, LED lights, Brembo brakes, dark silver 10-spoke wheels, exclusive Type-S badging along with new exclusive color options. The interior of the Type S featured two-tone trim on the headrests and steering wheel, racing pedals, carbon fiber trim and red interior lighting. Standard now was the touch screen navigation along with a re-tuned suspension.
For 2008 the TL showcased an improved new immobilizer system, a separate Tire Pressure Monitoring System warning lamp, along with two new body colors. The navigation system was also updated to now work in Hawaii. There is a rumor that Acura will unveil an all-new special generation of the Acura TL in 2009.By Jessica Donaldson
For more information and related vehicles, click hereFrom 1996 until 1998 the TL was available in two engine sizes, a 5 cylinder 2.5 liter, a lavish sports car model and a 6 cylinder 3.2 liter luxury sedan. The first generation was assembled in Sayama, Japan and came with a 111.8 in wheelbase. Its 2.5L 176 HP engine came with a 4-speed automatic transmission. On March 28, 1995 the very first 1996 Acura TL rolled off the assembly line.
In 1999 the second generation was introduced and was available with only the more popular 3.2 liter engine. Much larger than the previous generation, the 1999 TL showcased sleeker updated styling along with a more powerful V6 engine. Acura was attempting to market to a younger generation, and in the Acura TL, it succeeded.
The second generation TL was also called the Honda Inspire and was assembled in Marysville, Ohio. The engine was the 3.2L 224 hp V6 and the 3.2L 260 HP. The transmission was a 4-speed automatic and after 2000 the 5-speed automatic was introduced. The second generation model featured a 108.1 inch wheelbase with an overall length of 192.9 inches.
Honda introduced the TL-X concept car in 1998, and this was a preview of the second-generation TL that would be unveiled in 1999. The newest TL was derived off the USDM Honda Accord platform and featured a newly-designed 3.2 L 225 hp SOHC VTEC J32 V6 that was joined to a four-speed electronic automatic transmission with SportShift.
The 2.5 was dropped for the second generation, and the 3.2 TL was built alongside the Honda Accord before being imported into Japan and sold as Honda Inspire at the Honda Clio dealer network, and as Honda Saber in the Honda Primo and Verno dealer networks. On August 4th, 1998 the very first 1999 Acura TL 2G rolled off of the assembly line. The only available option on the sedan was a hard drive-based navigation system.
For the 2000 model year, the Acura TL was given slightly more features, including a 5-speed automatic transmission with SportShift. The new gear allowed for better fuel economy and acceleration when compared to the previous four-speed automatic transmission with SportShift. Other additional changes on the 2000 model included the addition of side impact airbags for front passengers and a change of format for the navigation system. The CD was also exchanged for a DVD-based navigation system.
The following year a brand new redesigned coupe version of the TL was unveiled; the 3.2CL. Though mechanically identical, the '01 model never reached the height of sales that it's sibling model reached. In May of 2003 this coupe model was discontinued. The 2001 model featured a new redesigned cupholder, a feature that the previous years model didn't have. The warranty of these models were also extended by the manufacturer due to recurring problems with the automatic transmission.
For 2002 the Acura TL received a minor makeover that resulted in a refreshed front fascia, redesigned taillights, a 6 CD in-dash changer along with several other features. For this same year a new Type-S model was also added to the lineup. The Type-S added 35 hp as well as 17-inch wheels, firmer seats and suspension.
Acura introduced an A-SPEC version of its popular TL Type-S model that was available only in Canada in 2003. This edition was limited to only 800 units produced. Cosmetic differences were the only variations between the A-SPEC and non A-SPEC versions.
On September 30, 2003 the first third generation Acura TL rolled off of the assembly line. The vehicle underwent a complete redesign in 2004, mainly due to the customers that wanted a more powerful vehicle along with a sportier exterior. The new '04 TL was introduced with a redefined chassis, a 270 horsepower 3.2 L V6 engine along with the enhancements such as Bluetooth wireless connectivity and a DVD-Audio surround sound system.
The third generation of the Acura TL was assembled in Marysville, Ohio from 2004 until 2008. The third generation Acura TL was released for sale in North America on October 6, 2003. Derived from the seventh generation USDM Honda Acorrd, the new TL was developed mainly in the Y.S. by a team led by Erik Berkman with bodywork by American Honda designer Jon Ikeda. Powered by a 270 hp, the third generation is based on the new SAE measurement standard for horsepower and 233 lb-ft of torque, 3.2 L 24 valve SOHC VTEC V6 engine joined to a 5-speed automatic with SportShift or 6-speed manual.
Honda offered a factory-sanctioned ‘tuner package' version of the TL in March of 2004 to the driving public. Featuring a suspension tuned by Makoto Tamamura, an indication of the TL A-SPEC's aggressive engineering. Other features included an underbody kit, spoiler, limited edition A-SPEC steering wheels, 'A-SPEC' badge on the back, and 18-inch wheels that are all standard features on the A-SPEC package.
The first car in the American market to include a 6 disc DVD-Audio system, the third generation TL featured output through an 8-speaker 225-watt system, engineered by
Panasonic and tuned by Elliot Scheiner. In 2004 the TL became Acura's best selling luxury sedan with more than 79,000 sold in that year.
For 2005 the Acura TL received minor updates that included a tire pressure monitoring gauge along with higher horse power rating that was determined through new testing procedures. A passenger airbag cutoff switch along with extra stitching on the front seats were some of the updates featured on the '05 model. Brembo 4 Piston brake calipers for the front wheels were also featured on manual transmission models.
For 2006 the TL received the Tire Pressure Monitoring System, an updated and improved weight ratio, along with a new engine management system that aided in reducing torque steer. Though the engine remained the same throughout 2007, a new horsepower rating of 258 hp is due to a change in testing procedures.
For 2007 the Acura TL was updated with a slightly revised exterior along with a revised interior that featured a new steering wheel, new gauges, and new colors for 07 models. To improve ride comfort, the 2007 model received suspension changes. LED signal blinkers were added on the side mirrors and fog lights on the bumper. A new rear view camera with image displayed on the navigation screen along with XM NavTraffic on the new navigation models. The sound system is now MP3/WMA compatible along with the new standard auxiliary audio jack. The base model dropped manual transmission due to extremely low sales.
The Type-S edition of the TL returned. The new Type-S received the Acura RL's 3.5-liter V6 engine that was tuned for 286 horsepower and 25 lb-ft of torque with either a 5-speed automatic with paddle shifters of a 6-speed manual transmission. Differences were mainly focused on the exterior with the addition of quad exhaust pipes, newly restyled taillights and front fascia. Additional updates were focused on the lip spoiler, LED lights, Brembo brakes, dark silver 10-spoke wheels, exclusive Type-S badging along with new exclusive color options. The interior of the Type S featured two-tone trim on the headrests and steering wheel, racing pedals, carbon fiber trim and red interior lighting. Standard now was the touch screen navigation along with a re-tuned suspension.
For 2008 the TL showcased an improved new immobilizer system, a separate Tire Pressure Monitoring System warning lamp, along with two new body colors. The navigation system was also updated to now work in Hawaii. There is a rumor that Acura will unveil an all-new special generation of the Acura TL in 2009.By Jessica Donaldson
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 | Captivating looks laced with premium quality and groundbreaking innovations are the standout features of the models charged with continuing the success of the BMW brand into the future. The NAIAS 2013 in Detroit will see BMW presenting visitors with new models now entering series production and pioneering vehicle concepts combining technological progress, innovative forms and exemplary sustainability in a single package. BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe: more elegant, more dynamic, more individ...[Read more...] |
| VOLKSWAGEN CLAIMS BEST HIGHWAY FUEL EFFICIENCY, WITH SEVEN MODELS THAT ACHIEVE MORE THAN 40 MPG | |
 | • New Jetta Hybrid earns EPA fuel economy rating of up to 48 mpg; the first compact hybrid available with a turbocharged engine Herndon, VA - With EPA estimated fuel economy ratings of 48 mpg on the highway, 42 mpg in the city, and a combined rating of 45 mpg, the Jetta Hybrid becomes the most fuel-efficient vehicle in the Volkswagen lineup and the seventh model capable of more than 40 mpg on the highway. With sales of the Jetta Hybrid beginning later this month, Volkswagen wil...[Read more...] |
 2006
Acura
models |
| Acura ALMS |
| Acura MDX |
| Acura RL |
| Acura RSX |
| Acura TSX | 2006 Acura Concepts |
| Acura RD-X |
| Acura RDX |
| Acura RL A-Spec |
| Similarly Sized Vehicles from 2006 |
| Acura MDX |
| Acura RL |
| Acura RL A-Spec |
| Alfa Romeo 159 |
| Alfa Romeo 2.4 JTDm |
| Alfa Romeo Brera |
| Alfa Romeo Spider |
| Ascari A10 |
| Ascari KZ1 |
| Audi Shooting Brake Concept |
| Acura: 2001-2010 |
| Similar Automakers |
| Acura History |
| Other models by Acura |
| Manufacturer Website |
| Vehicle Recall Information |
| Related Articles and Event Coverage |
| 2006 Philadelphia International Auto Show |
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| CL ILX | Integra MDX | NSX RDX | RL RLX | RSX TL | TSX ZDX |
| 2007 TL Type-S | 2007 TL |
