2005 Acura TL

Tom Collins
The Auto Answerman
KEZW Radio
Denver

Vehicle Type: FWD Performance Luxury Sedan
Base Price: $32,900/As tested: N.A.

Pros:
Powerful Engine
Available 6-Speed Manual
Luxurious Interior
Ride/Handling
Long List of Standard Features
Great Sound System

Cons:
Notchy Shift Gate

Overview:

Now in it’s third generation, the Acura TL offers a lot of value for the money with a long list of standard features and relatively few options. Our test car had one, that being the Navigation System. Performance buffs will want to check out the A-Spec kit that includes a suspension package, 40 series 18” rubber, 4 piston Brembo calipers, a spoiler, and a sport steering wheel. Even in standard form, the TL is a nice blend of performance and luxury. The TL is nearly identical to the 5-Series BMW in terms of size.

Under The Hood:

Power comes from an aluminum-alloy 3.2-liter, 24 valve, SOHC VTEC V6. This engine, with an 11 to 1 compression ratio and variable valve timing and lift, makes 270 horses and 238 lbs-feet of torque. Fuel economy is 20 city/29 Highway. Redline is 6800 RPM and this engine sings like a sewing machine. Acura takes a back seat to no one when it comes to building engines. Our car had the 5-Speed automatic providing smooth shifts and responsive performance. The ‘Sequential SportShift’ allows you to manually shift if you so desire. Unfortunately, the shift gate is too notchy making the shift back into park awkward at times. A 6-Speed manual is available. 0-60 times are said to be in the mid 6-second range.

The Driving Experience:

The TL is a fun car to drive. Plenty of power and excellent brakes instills confidence. 4-wheel ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution (EDB) and Brake Assist, stability control and traction control are standard along with 235/45/17” all-season tires. The 4-wheel independent suspension features Wishbone up front and double wishbone in the rear. Large bushings and rigid control arms reduce road noise and provide additional stability as do front and rear stabilizer bars. Body roll is kept to a minimum while a comfortable ride is retained. Precise rack and pinion steering gives the TL a sporty feel. Would Rear-Wheel drive and perfect 50/50 weight distribution be preferable? Sure, but the thought will probably never cross your mind once you get behind the wheel of the TL. It’s that good.

On The Inside:

As I said earlier, there is a long list of standard equipment. This is especially true when it comes to creature comforts in the cabin of this fine car. The dash is nicely laid out with recessed round gauges. Aluminum trim and high quality materials give the TL an upscale look and feel. The comfortable heated leather drivers seat is 8 way power adjustable with power lumbar support and memory. The front passenger seat is a 4-way power unit. Cargo volume is listed at 12.5 cubic feet. There is a rear seat center locking trunk pass-through for your skis. Dual zone climate control, a killer 225-watt Surround Sound 6-disk CD player and a power moon roof are all standard. The navigation system is said to feature hands-free voice recognition although I never tested it out. The interior is quiet and luxurious.

Safety:

Front driver and passenger dual-stage, dual-threshold airbags are standard along with side airbags and side curtain airbags. The TL received a perfect 5-Star Government crash rating in everything except front-seat side impacts where it earned a 4-star rating. The theft deterrent system features an electronic immobilizer. I already mentioned the ABS, stability control and traction control. B-Xenon High-Density headlights give you an edge at night.

Conclusion:

The TL is an excellent vehicle. Build quality is beyond reproach. Resale value and reliability will likely be excellent. It’s a lot of car for the money. Those looking for an entry-level luxury sport sedan will not be disappointed.

Tom Collins
www.theautoanswerman.com
January 18th 2005