2009 Acura TL Review

The mid-size sporty TL sedan spearheaded Acura's sales revival in the late 1990s and is by far the top-selling car in Honda's upscale Acura division.

Acura intends to keep it that way, besides picking up new customers with the deftly redesigned 2009 TL. It thus is larger, roomier and more powerful -- while retaining decent fuel economy.

Vehicle sales are in a dive this year, so TL sales through September totaled 35,659 cars, down from 45,072 in the same year-ago period. But TL sales might pick up with the fourth-generation model, which looks bolder with such features as a larger, more prominent grille, wide chrome "V" where the trunk lid meets the bodywork, strong "character lines" and extra-large wheel arches.

Acura is taking a chance with the new "Motion Surface" styling, designed in Southern California. Some might like the generally new look, while others might feel it's a little over the top. My black test model looked racy, with a mostly angular, modern look.

The new TL is 6.2 inches longer overall than its predecessor at 195.3 inches, nearly 2 inches wider, with a modest height increase of half an inch. The larger body provides more cockpit roominess and a larger trunk. It also allows a 1.4-inch longer wheelbase (distance between axles) to improve the ride and a significantly wider track (distance between wheels on the same axle) to help generate even more tenacious cornering ability. Weight of the base TL model climbs just 85 pounds to 3,708 pounds.

The TL is more aerodynamic for enhanced fuel economy and uses additional high-strength steel to improve the all-new unit body's strength while helping reduce weight. Also, aluminum is used for key components to cut weight.

The TL is offered for the first time with Acura's advanced super-handling all-wheel-drive (SH-AWD) system. It distributes optimum engine torque between front and rear axles, and also between the left and right rear wheels. The result is superior all-weather traction and neutral, accurate steering under power. Acura says the system is "unmatched by front-drive, rear-drive or conventional all-wheel-drive systems." It helps turn the TL through corners -- improving handling balance and controllability, besides increasing overall cornering grip.

However, a TL with the SH-AWD system has a firmer suspension and ride than the front-drive model.

There are two engines: a 3.5-liter V-6 with 280 horsepower that delivers estimated fuel economy of 18 mpg in the city and 26 on highways. An all-new 3.7-liter V6 produces 305 horsepower -- the most powerful engine yet offered in an Acura sedan. It delivers 17 mpg city, 25 highway. While premium fuel is recommended, Acura says regular-grade gas is allowed for normal driving conditions. The highway driving range is pretty good with an 18.5-gallon fuel tank.

Both smooth engines are so sophisticated it almost seems as if they could power a space shuttle. They shoot power through a responsive five-speed automatic transmission with a manual-shift feature controlled by race-car-style steering-wheel paddle shifters. However, six-speed automatics are common in the TL's market segment.

The 2008 model's six-speed manual transmission has been dropped, but an especially sporty 2010 TL model will have a stronger, easier shifting six-speed manual gearbox with the SH-AWD system -- marking the first time Acura will offer a manual with SH-AWD.

The 3.5 V-6 comes in base front-drive versions, while the 3.7 V-6 is in higher-line models teamed with the SH-AWD system.

The base front-wheel-drive TL stickers at $34,955 or at $38,685 with a Technology Package containing seductive Milano Premium leather seating surfaces, upscale 10-speaker surround-sound system, push-button ignition and Acura's advanced, award-winning navigation system and rearview camera.

Pricing for the TL 3.7 SH-AWD is $38,505 and $42,235 for the TL SH-AWD and Technology Package. Many Acura dealers likely will order the package, which includes the most comprehensive array of advanced electronic features ever offered by Acura.

That's not all. You can get the TL SH-AWD with the "Tech" package, 19-inch alloy wheels and high performance summer (spell higher-traction) tire package for $43,235.

Larger tires translate to better handling; the front-drive TL has 17-inch wheels, while the regular TL SH-AWD has 18-inch wheels. My test TL had the 3.7 V-6 and 18-inch tires.

A TL with SH-AWD is easily identified by four huge exhaust outlets, which add to the car's sporty flair. The TL with SH-AWD also has large brake cooling ducts in the lower front end. Pop the hood and the attractive V-6 is shown off with a picture-frame-like "engine room."

I tested the TL with SH-AWD and found it can be swiftly and safely driven. The new electric power steering is quick but is somewhat heavy and doesn't feel as good as it did with its previous hydraulic unit. The ride is firm but supple. Powerful anti-lock brakes have a progressive pedal feel and provide fast, sure stops.

The TL again is loaded with comfort, convenience and safety equipment. Items including a standard power moonroof and vehicle stability assist are standard. The major option is the Technology Package, which some 70 percent of TL buyers are expected to want.

It's easy to get in and out of the classy, whisper-quiet interior, thanks to easily grasped handles and wide-opening doors. Front seats are especially supportive, and the new TL looks and feels far more upscale than the outgoing model. It has room for four tall adults, with decidedly more rear-seat room -- although the center of the backseat is too hard for comfort. It's best used for the center fold-down armrest, which contains dual cupholders with a cover.

Backlit gauges with progressive illumination can be quickly read. Climate and sound system controls are small and rather crowded on the dashboard, but they can be used fairly easily. A multifunction controller knob on the dashboard works with a navigation screen to help with such things as climate control and other features.

The roomy trunk has a wide, but high, opening. Rear seatbacks don't flip forward to enlarge the cargo area, but there's a small center pass-through area to the backseat. The manual trunk hinges have covers to prevent cargo damage.

The new TL competes in a tough market segment but seems worth the money, considering its many improvements.

Jedlicka's take: 2009 Acura TL

Price: $34,955-$43,235

Likes: Deftly redesigned. Fast. Sharp handling. Posh. Roomier. Well-equipped. Available all-wheel drive (AWD). Good highway economy. Well-equipped.

Dislikes: Rather firm ride with AWD. Hard rear seat center. No manual transmission until 2010. Overly aggressive styling?