Whats New for Acura
2009 Acura TL
The redesigned fourth generation TL is larger and more powerful. Dramatic new styling wraps a body that is longer (6.2 inches) and wider (1.8 inches). Horsepower increases on the 3.5L V6-powered TL base model to 280-bhp. A new TL SH-AWD model featuring Acura's performance oriented all-wheel-drive system replaces the TL Type-S. A larger 3.7L V6 in the TL SH-AWD produces 305-bhp. A five-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters is standard on both models.
2009 Acura TSX
The redesigned second-generation TSX is significantly larger. The new car is 3 inches wider, 2.4 inches longer and has a 1.3-inch wider wheelbase. Hip room and shoulder room increase but headroom decreases slightly. The standard engine is a 2.4l four-cylinder rated at 201-bhp. Torque increases only slightly to 172 lb-ft, but the torque band is wider. Exterior styling highlights include a new body with more chiseled edges, pronounced wheel-well arches and Acura's prominent metallic grille.
2009 Acura RL
The RL wears a restyled front end with a more prominent grille similar to the second generation MDX. A larger 3.7L V6 produces 300-bhp and 271 lb-ft of torque. Stiffer springs, larger stabilizer bars and new 18-inch wheels and tires are included to improve handling. Revisions to the interior include a new steering, revised front seats and upgraded material finishes.
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.
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