By Steven D. Gatt, Automotive Editor
ACURA 3.2 TL
Unlike the first TL that I test drove more than a year ago, this one has a 3.2L V6. The engine makes all the difference in the world; the 2.5L, 5-cylinder TL was under-powered. The difference was especially noticeable on the freeway where the TL is most at home. The TL is not a luxury sport-sedan by any stretch of the imagination, it has a soft suspension that creates a plush ride.
The Acura TL series competes in a market crowded with entries. Some of those are the Cadillac Catera and the Mazda Millenia, both of which I have recently driven. Others include the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and the Lexus ES300. Unfortunately the Acura TL, like much of its competition, doesn't stand out for its exterior design. To put it bluntly, it is boring.
The TL has great visibility; encouraged by the by a low hood line. Making life comfortable on the inside are a plethora of luxury amenities including leather heated seats, CD player and a power moonroof. Making your wallet a little lighter is the total as tested price of $36,043; average for the market. Average best decribes this car, it does everything well but nothing noteworthy or outstanding.
Acura and the EPA report mileage ratings of 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. During my week of testing, I managed 22 mpg.
The 3.2 TL is a mediocre entry-level luxury sedan. It fails only in being too sedate and cramped back seat space. If I were to buy a car, any car, for $36,000, I would want an exciting design. Since this is a luxury car, exciting design doesn't enter into the picture. The buyer will have to settle for the reputable build quality and reliability found in this Acura.
ACURA 3.0 CL
Unlike the Acura TL, and most luxury vehicles, the CL has a fresh and funky design. The exterior is especially unique with a crease through the center of the car. The tail-lights feature a unique wedge styling.
That exterior was penned at the Torrance, California, design studio with many of the styling cues from the CL-X concept car. The 3.0L V6 was a joint effort between U.S. and Japan engineers; built at the Anna Engine Plant, in Ohio. Vehicle assembly occurs at Honda's East Liberty Assembly plant. With most parts coming from American suppliers, the Acura CL is considered a domestic product by the EPA.
Speaking of the EPA, mileage ratings are 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. During the twelve days I drove the car, I averaged 25 mpg.
Ihe interior is well appointed with features such as leather seats, leather wrapped steering wheel, heated front seats and a Bose stereo system. Other personal luxury items were power mirrors, windows and locks, cruise control, a large power moonroof and an 8-way power driver seat.
Safety has become a predominate issue in the past few years. The Acura CL is enhanced with many modern safety features: dual airbags, front and rear crumple zones, side impact door beams and 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes are the mainstays of the safety systems.
The new V6 engine has excellent power and tends to overpower the
suspension; creating push conditions during some accelerated cornering
maneuvers. On the open road, the coupe drives well and provides
a very comfortable surrounding for driver and passengers alike.
The base price is $26,460, plus floormats, $100; and destination of $435; for a total as tested price of $26,995. Acura has a tough mountain to climb because the competition includes the BMW 3 series coupe and the Lexus SC 300; both of which are excellent cars. At a lower cost then both competitors and as a domestic product, the Acura CL should do well in the luxury coupe market.