From Acura PR: All-New 2009 TL Redefines Performance with the Most Powerful Engine in Acura History and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive

With dramatic new styling, precise handling and a host of advanced technology and safety features, the fourth-generation TL is Acura’s performance leader TORRANCE, Calif. - Since inception, the Acura TL performance luxury sedan has set lofty standards for styling, performance, comfort and technology. Available for 2009 in two distinctly different models, TL and TL SH-AWD, the all-new fourth-generation Acura TL dramatically expands the model’s capabilities and appeal with evocative style, a choice of two VTEC® powertrains (including a new 305-horsepower V-6) and the TL’s first-ever application of Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®).

Boasting larger dimensions, optimized suspension, a new Sequential SportShift transmission, plus an available Technology Package featuring a comprehensive array of navigation and communication aids, the 2009 TL offers more appeal than ever before. Along with an available Acura/ELS Surround® premium 10-speaker surround sound system and an all-new AcuraLink® weather feature, the new TL is by far the most technologically advanced sedan in Acura’s history.

The combination of dramatic new styling, exhilarating performance and an extensive array of electronics (including AcuraLink® real-time traffic and AcuraLink® weather with Doppler-style radar mapping) ensures the 2009 Acura TL will appeal to a sophisticated, technology-savvy audience.

Powertrain: A choice of two different all-aluminum VTEC® engines enables the new 2009 TL to satisfy a wide range of customers. Standard is a 3.5-liter V-6 producing 280 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque that sends power to the front wheels through Acura’s sophisticated Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel- mounted paddle shifters and Grade Logic Control. Though powerful, the new engine is also fuel efficient, with projected EPA fuel economy ratings* of 18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. The engine is targeted to meet California’s tough CARB LEV II ULEV emissions certification standards, thanks to features including a Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system, Computer-Controlled Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) and Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC®) for the intake valves.

Serious performance-sedan devotees will choose the TL SH-AWD to make winding roads their own. Its all-new 3.7-liter V-6 engine produces 305 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque courtesy of greater displacement and additional high-performance features like Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC®) on both the intake and exhaust valves, and a special high-flow dual exhaust system. With projected EPA fuel economy ratings* of 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway, the 3.7L is also targeted to meet California’s stringent CARB LEV II ULEV emissions certification. The pièce de résistance on the TL SH-AWD® is the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ system, now available on the TL for the first time.

A 3.7 liter V6 is at the highlight of performance upgrades. It’s 300-horsepower contained in Honda’s VTEC system. The 3.7L engine uses VTEC on both the intake and exhaust - all this combined give the vehicle a boost in torque. A five-speed automatic transmission is also newly standard.

The interior hasn’t changed much from last year’s design, except the front seats have a 10-way adjustability system, so you are guaranteed to be comfortable no matter what your height. On the safety side, active head restraints are also newly standard.

Next season Acura will have two prototype entries for the 2009 American Le Mans season. The new LMP1 ARX-02a is being developed in England with track testing set to start in November. Acura has yet to confirm whether or not Andretti Green Racing, which operates Acura’s current LMP2 racers, would continue with the company next season. Michael Andretti spoke to AutoWeek, saying there was about a “70 percent” chance of the relationship continuing. Hopefully we can expect more Acura-Andretti victories for future Le Man’s series.

Looking for photos and possibly specifications of this new Acura LMP1 racer? Good luck - The automaker keeping their mouths zipped and not looking forward to releasing any spec information; whether it be engine type, fuel capacity or body design. Acura hopes this new Le Mans entry will give quite the marketing boost for 2009’s season. Le Mans is not only one of the most heavily watched racing events in the world, but it also allows car makers to show of their pinnacle automotive technologies, and incorperate them into street legal consumer vehicles.

In an effort to compete more directly with its rivals Acura has made plans to add additional vehicles to its 2010 line. Acura executives are referring to the new Acura as a “tier 1 luxury brand.” The last new vehicle that Acura added to its line was the RDX in August 2006. Acura’s new vehicle will likely cover a niche segment according to product planning manager, John Watts. “We will look at smaller segments,” Watts said “There is potential for a coupe like the CL.” There have been rumors that Acura may be developing a four seat sports coupe that will sell in the $50,000 price range. In recent months Acura sales have been down and many dealers are anxious for a new Acura model to create some hype. 2010 looks like it may be an exciting year for Acura dealers and consumers alike.

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