Acura is the upscale division of Honda. Although Acura joined the US market in 1986, the brand has only recently entered other markets like China and Japan. As its worldwide presence increases, Acura aims to differentiate its products from those of parent company Honda, as well as other luxury competitors, with distinctive design, sensible luxury, and technology.

Anchoring Acura's revamped lineup of cars is the all-new Acura TSX. The TSX, derived from the European Honda Accord, has grown significantly in size. The TSX offers a rare combination of front-wheel-drive and a fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine in an entry luxury sedan, where many competitors offer six-cylinder power, and rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive. While the TSX may not directly compete with other smaller RWD performance models, it is a stylish, practical and well-equipped alternative.

Acura's mid-sized TL enters the 2009 model year wearing radical new styling that may polarize many buyers. Like its sibling the Accord, the TL boasts significantly larger proportions. Acura offers the TL in two versions; the front-wheel-drive TL features a 280 horsepower 3.5L V6, while the performance-oriented TL SH-AWD offers a 305 horsepower 3.7L V6 and all-wheel-drive.

Acura has also updated its flagship RL sedan, with the 3.7L V6 shared with the TL and MDX. The RL sees further improvements with suspension and tire upgrades, as well as revised exterior styling.

A new NSX looms on the horizon for Acura.

• What's new for Acura
• Acura for 2009
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Performance

For many, the way a car performs is a key criterion for which car to purchase. Our Velocity Index helps determine which vehicles are the best all-around performers taking in to consideration a balance of factors such as acceleration and handling.

For more information, view our new car performance guide.

What would we drive?

Based on our Velocity Index analysis, the 2009 Acura TL (3.7L) seems to provide a good trade-off between price and vehicle performance.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy has long been a key decision factor when buying a new vehicle. While the EPA estimates may accurately predict your mileage with a given vehicle, they are useful for broad comparisons of vehicles. Note that many trucks and large SUVS are too heavy to be required to specify their fuel economy.

For more information, view our new car fuel economy guide.

What's popular

Here are the five cars that draw the most attention from our readers.

• 2009 Acura TL
• 2009 Acura TSX
• 2009 Acura MDX
• 2009 Acura RDX
• 2009 Acura RL