Acura rolls out a major update of the TL.
Timing is everything, or so it’s been said, and Acura discovered that the hard way with the 2009 launch of its updated TL sedan, which arrived in showrooms just in time for one of the worst downturns the automotive market has endured since the Great Depression.
This time around Acura marketing executives are counting on a recovering automotive market to bring buyers around for their latest update, the 2012 Acura TL, which debuted at the 2011 Chicago Auto show and is scheduled to reach showrooms in March.
Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales said the new iteration of the TL delivers fresh looks, improved performance – three mpg more on the highway – and upgraded technology. The TL also has been given a visual makeover for 2012, with changes that incorporate new front and rear styling, with features such as a redesigned front bumper, updated headlights and turn signals, a new fog light design and a shorter front overhang.
Acura is toning down the much-criticized "beak" with the introduction of the 2012 TL.
That’s good news for Acura’s critics, who have been begging the automaker to abandon what is often derisively referred to as “the beak,” the oversized chrome plate that has been one of the dominant features in all Acura models in recent years.
The beak isn’t gone entirely but has been downsized substantially.
Acura has addressed another frequent charge, finally giving the TL a new Sequential SportShift 6-speed automatic transmission.
“The 2012 Acura TL is refined, yet aggressive,” said Conrad. “Already known for its great performance, the enhanced TL has a sophisticated new look and an all-new 6-speed automatic transmission that will take performance to the next level.”
In addition to incorporating engineering enhancements aimed at improving efficiency, the Drive-by-Wire throttle system now can “blip” the throttle to help match gear speeds while downshifting.
The new transmission teams with a new multi-clutch torque converter that not only reduces heat build-up during operation, but also allows for lock-up activation during a much wider range of driving conditions– which helps generate improved fuel economy. To further improve operating efficiency, the TL’s standard 3.5L V-6 engine received a host of friction-reduction technologies while a revised air inlet system provides cooler air for both the 3.5L and 3.7L engines.
As a result, city/highway fuel economy is now 20/29 mpg..
For 2012, the 3.5-liter package makes 280 horsepower, driving the front wheels. The 3.7 turns out 305 hp, and is paired with Acura’s “Super Handling All-Wheel Drive” or SH-AWD. The performance-minded six-speed manual transmission will continue to be offered in the 2012 TL SH-AWD lineup, which broaden’s the TL’s appeal.
Standard on the 2012 TL are new 17×8-inch 7-spoke aluminum wheels with all-season tires, while The TL SH-AWD comes standard with new 18×8-inch 5-spoke aluminum wheels.
The new TL, like other Acura models, is covered by a comprehensive 4-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty and a 6-year/70,000 miles powertrain limited warranty. Additional benefits of ownership include Acura Total Luxury Care, which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service and trip routing.