2003 Acura CL Review

Honda's upscale Acura division is trying to get a sportier image with models such as the revised 2003 CL coupe. The first CL arrived as an early 1997 model. It was designed expressly for the U.S. market and built by Honda in Ohio. But the smooth, reliable coupe was just an attractive cruiser in the late 1990s. No car enthusiast gave it much thought. Acura got more serious with the second-generation model; it arrived for 2001 as a larger, more powerful coupe, although it still only came with the automatic transmission. Not especially sporting.

However, the top-line 260-horsepower Type-S model now offers a new close-ratio six-speed manual transmission with a helical limited-slip differential--besides a five-speed automatic that can be shifted like a clutchless manual with its "semi-manual'' feature. The 225-horsepower 3.2 CL comes only with the automatic transmission. Styling stays pretty much the same, but the CL looks a little sleeker and more aggressive with such items as a revised grille, revamped headlights with black accents and a redesigned front-bumper air intake. Taillight lenses also have a new design. Wheels are a big deal with sporty models, so the base 3.2 CL gets new 16-inch wheels and the Type-S gets revised 17-inch wheels. Acura says all wheels were styled to portray a "lightweight, high-performance image.''

Other new features include an automatic-up driver's side window and interior titanium-look trim on Type-S models with black interiors. Both CL models have a leather interior because, after all, they're from the uptown Acura division. In fact, the $28,200-$30,350 3.2 CL models are packed with standard equipment--helping make them a top buy for the money. You get everything from heated front bucket seats to a power sunroof. A satellite-navigation system is the only factory option and now includes General Motors' OnStar security and convenience system. Safety items include front side airbags and anti-lock disc brakes.

The $30,550-$32,700 Type-S models get the higher-horsepower V-6, along with such things as a sport suspension. The Type-S can be had with the manual or automatic transmission for $30,550; the navigation system ups the price to $32,700. The CL has front-wheel drive, when some sporty car buyers demand the better balance provided by a rear-drive setup found in cars from automakers such as BMW. Of course, Acura knows the front-drive system can discourage some potential buyers. It thus notes that the Type-S with the manual gearbox is more than 60 pounds lighter than that model with the automatic transmission-- and says the manual enhances steering response and handling by shifting weight distribution slightly more rearward.

Although it's still front-heavy, my test Type-S had crisp steering. The race-style double-wishbone suspension helped provide sharp handling and a supple ride. The brake pedal had a nice firm feel, and stopping distances were short. Both CL models have a traction control system, but an anti-skid system is standard only on the Type-S with an automatic transmission.

The system monitors wheel speed and lateral (cornering) stability to integrate traction control, anti-lock braking and stability control functions to help a driver maintain control during sudden collision-avoidance maneuvers. Both versions of the sophisticated 3.2-liter V-6 are smooth, with variable valve timing for good response at all speeds. The Type-S engine loafs at 2,800 rpm at 75 mph in sixth gear. It especially benefits from Honda racing technology and has such items as a dual-stage induction system and low-restriction dual-outlet exhaust.

Both versions also provide an estimated 19 mpg in the city and 28-29 mpg on the highway. The CL is plenty fast with the responsive automatic transmission. But many car buffs will want the nifty manual gearbox, which trims about half a second from the 0-60 mph time. The manual works with a light clutch and provides more driving fun and faster acceleration.

The clutch has a long throw, but is self-adjusting to ensure consistent pedal height and feel throughout its life. Getting in and out of the nicely shaped front bucket seats is easy, but extra effort is needed to enter or leave the rear seat area, where leg room is tight for a tall passenger situated behind a tall driver. Long, heavy doors are a drawback in tight parking areas. And it would be nice if the tilt steering wheel had a telescope feature.

The dashboard is nicely designed and the interior is attractive. Attention to detail is shown by the dual sunvisor extensions and clever design of the console cupholders. The trunk is large, although it has a high opening and manual hinges that steal space. There is only a narrow pass-through area between the trunk and rear-seat area. The new CL has an awful lot going for it, but it remains to be seen if it will give Acura a sportier image.

2003 ACURA CL

Prices
$28,200-$32,700
Likes:
Acceleration. Handling. New close-ratio manual gearbox. High quality. Well-equipped.
Dislikes:
Long, heavy doors. Rather tight back seat. Narrow trunk pass-through cargo opening.