Power, Luxury and Technology – 2012 Acura TL
The 2012 Acura TL sedan is powerful, handles superbly and has impressive safety and luxury features, as well as technological touches that enhance a great driving dynamic.
With its pair of engine options - a 280-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 or a 305-horsepower, 3.7-liter V-6 - you won't lack power. Both powerplants are linked to a five-speed automatic with auto-manual mode or a six-speed manual transmission. The TL comes with a standard front-wheel-drive or optional Super Handling All-Wheel-Drive trim. Acura says the SH-AWD distributes more torque to the outside rear wheel in turns to enable the TL to scoot through them quickly and optimizes balance. Fuel economy is pretty good, with an EPA estimated rating of 17-18 mpg in the city and 25-26 mpg on the highway.
You'll be impressed by the dramatic exterior lines of the TL, including the sloping grille in front. There are 17-inch aluminum wheels that are standard, but the SH-AWD trim sits on larger 18- or 19-inch aluminum wheels for improved handling. The interior is equally stylish, with leather, power moonroof, dual-zone adaptive climate control, 10-way power adjustable driver seat, and heated front seats, all of which are standard.
The terrific audio system has eight speakers, XM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth connectivity and a HandsFreeLink wireless telephone interface. Upgrade to the Technology Package and get a navigation system with voice recognition, real-time traffic alerts, and rerouting capabilities, as well as a 10-speaker premium sound system. Acura says USB connectivity and an MP3 jack are standard and will accommodate anything from an iPod to a thumb drive.
The TL provides plenty of passive and active safety features, including dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags, dual-chamber front-seat side airbags with front passenger seat occupant position detection system, and side-curtain airbags for front and outboard rear seating positions. Acura also has what it calls Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure for additional protection in a crash. There are four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, electronic brake-force distribution, vehicle stability assist, and daytime running lights for added safety.
For peace of mind, there is a hill start assist system to stop the TL from rolling backwards when you take your foot off the brake on a hill.
The TL ranges in price from around $36,000 to around $44,000, with the tester, an SH AWD Tech model, being priced at $43,745.
With its sharp styling, smooth driving and impressive power, the TL is a great luxury sedan.
