Autoblog

Honda signs on as Pikes Peak sponsor, race participant

Jonathon Ramsey — Sat, 27 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Coupe, Sedan, Hatchback, Acura, Honda, Motorcycle, Racing

Honda plans to storm the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb on June 30, entering ten cars in nine classes at the race to the sky, and signing on as a corporate sponsor. Part of the company's return to grassroots racing - if that's what you can call factory-backed efforts - the banners of Honda R&D and Honda North America will fly on these entries: a first-gen Acura NSX, an Acura TL SH-AWD, Honda CR-Z, Honda Fit EV, one CRF450R and two CRF250R motorcycles, a CBR1000RR motorcycle and a TRX450 ATV.

One more entry, details of which are to be announced later, will be driven by IndyCar pilot Simon Pagenaud of Schmidt Hamilton HP Motorsports. LoveFab (pictured above during practice last year) will be there with its new, NSX-based Enviate, but as a privateer entry.

Honda's been to the mountain before, with high-powered gear in 2012 and record-setting EVs in 1994 and 1999, but it's never made noise like this. Have a read of the press release below for more info.

Continue reading Honda signs on as Pikes Peak sponsor, race participant

Honda signs on as Pikes Peak sponsor, race participant originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 27 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chicago 2011: 2012 Acura TL is the face of change... at least a little bit

Zach Bowman — Wed, 09 Feb 2011 13:47:00 EST

Filed under: Chicago Auto Show, Sedan, Acura, Luxury

2011 Acura TL - Click above for high-res image gallery

Acura has yanked the sheets off of the latest take on its bread-and-butter TL at the 2011 Chicago Auto Show. In the face of much criticism, the Japanese automaker's stylists have set about taking some of the edge off of the sedan's styling with a fresh front fascia that goes some way toward making the vehicle look more like a car and less like Picaso's interpretation of one. The 2012 TL now wears shorter overhangs both front and rear, and the new look includes shedding the chrome trim from around the rear taillamps for a look that's altogether more appetizing than the previous iteration.

A few changes have cropped up under the hood as well. Acura engineers managed to cut engine friction to increase fuel economy, and a new six-speed automatic transmission helps bump the final figures to 20 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. That's an increase of three mpg highway over the five-speed automatic-equipped 2010 model. Fans of the third pedal need not fret, though. Acura says that buyers will still be able to snag their 2012 TL SH-AWD with the same six-speed manual setup that's currently available.

Inside, TL Advance trim now comes with a blind-spot awareness system and ventilated heated and cooled seats, while the TL Tech boasts a 60-gig hard-drive based navigation and entertainment system. Hit the jump for the full press blast.

Gallery: Chicago 2011: 2012 Acura TL

Continue reading Chicago 2011: 2012 Acura TL is the face of change... at least a little bit

Chicago 2011: 2012 Acura TL is the face of change... at least a little bit originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Feb 2011 13:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Acura mulling TSX coupe, Civic-based sedan?

Jeff Glucker — Mon, 04 Oct 2010 15:58:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Acura, Rumormill

Acura is planning a host of product updates in the very near future, and along with the launch of the TSX Wagon, two new models could come down the pike. According to Autoweek, Acura is considering a coupe built atop the TSX platform and a compact sedan to capitalize on the States' newfound love of smaller vehicles.

A TSX-based coupe would fill the gap left by the CL after its demise in 2003, and while Acura already produces a compact sedan for the Canadian market - the Acura CSX pictured above - it's simply a re-badged Civic with an upgraded interior. Obviously, Acura would need to do more to woo buyers into a smaller vehicle, and its best bet is to leverage one of Honda's other platforms for the task. An Acura Fit? Not so much...

[Source: Autoweek]

Acura mulling TSX coupe, Civic-based sedan? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 04 Oct 2010 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Next Acura TL getting rhinoplasty?

Damon Lavrinc — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 19:26:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Sedan, Acura, Luxury

2011 Acura TL - Click above for high-res image gallery

When it comes to Acura's corporate schnoz, you likely fall into one of two camps: you either loathe the chrome nose or you really loathe the chrome nose. There doesn't seem to be much in between. So to address its derisive looks, Acura appears to be tweaking the front end of the TL for the 2011 model year.

While it's highly doubtful that Acura is going to completely dispatch the metal overbite found throughout its lineup, the new nose appears more refined and slightly toned down. Judging by the heavily-camo'd shot above, there's sure to be some revisions to the lower fascia, but the real changes can be seen on the pic to the right, including some new slatting and a slightly smaller shield.

On this particular prototype, there's also a fair amount of wires protruding from one of the exhaust outlets and leading into the trunk, so it's likely safe to assume that some kind of engine or electronics upgrades are in the works for this mid-cycle refresh. With hot-weather testing fully underway, we suspect the mildly restyled TL will debut later this year before going on sale in the first half of 2011.

Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 Acura TL

[Source: KGP Photography]

Spy Shots: Next Acura TL getting rhinoplasty? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Jul 2010 19:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rendered Speculation: Reader-penned Acura TL Sportwagon

Sam Abuelsamid — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 09:29:00 EST

Filed under: Wagon, Acura, Design/Style, Luxury

With the Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon now on sale and the Acura TSX wagon coming this fall, Autoblog reader Andrew decided to try his hand at producing a five-door version of the larger TL sedan.

By merging the roofline of the seven-seat MDX crossover with the body of the midsize sedan, Andrew has created what to our eyes is a fairly handsome sedan... well, at least those of us in the minority that actually like the look of the standard TL. The D-pillar does look a bit heavy in this application, so perhaps a more forward sloping rear window in the manner of some of Audi's Avant wagons would give the car a sleeker look. Share your thoughts in the comments below.

[Source: Andrew Stump]

Rendered Speculation: Reader-penned Acura TL Sportwagon originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Jun 2010 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Officially Official: Acura releases Canada-only TL A-Spec

Steven J. Ewing — Wed, 12 May 2010 16:59:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Acura, Canada

2010 Acura TL A-Spec - Click above to enlarge

Every once in a while, automakers will design special trim levels and packages specifically tailored for our friends to the north. The latest, from Acura, is the A-Spec package available on the 2010 TL sedan, which includes add-ons like 19-inch wheels on special summer tires, an aero kit, dark chrome grille (which somehow manages to make the shield a bit easier on the eyes), rear accents and (of course) A-Spec badges. Underneath the extra glitz is Acura's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive system, and a choice of either a five-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission.

We spoke with Honda's American PR team, and while they assure us that there are no plans to bring the A-Spec to Yankee soil, prospective TL buyers in the States shouldn't be too put off. Glancing through the TL's U.S.-market configuration site, we see that American models can be optioned with all sorts of A-Spec-like accessories, including underbody spoilers, sport grilles and different wheels. It might not have the appropriate badging, but it'll do the trick.

The TL A-Spec can be ordered from Canadian Acura dealers as you read this, retailing from $51,290 CAD. For the full details, hit the jump to read Acura's press release.

[Source: Acura]

Continue reading Officially Official: Acura releases Canada-only TL A-Spec

Officially Official: Acura releases Canada-only TL A-Spec originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 12 May 2010 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Review: 2010 Acura TL SH-AWD 6MT is a mouthful, not a handful

Sam Abuelsamid — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 11:57:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Acura, New Car Reviews, Luxury

2010 Acura TL SH-AWD 6MT - Click above for high-res image gallery

When the redesigned Acura TL debuted in late 2008, it represented a substantial transformation over previous iterations. The third-generation model retained the transverse V6 of its two predecessors, but for the first time included an all-wheel-drive option. But while the torque-vectoring Super Handling-All Wheel Drive is an appreciated addition when you're putting out over 300 horsepower, performance oriented drivers were appropriately miffed that both the TL Type-S and a manual transmission were no longer available.

Thankfully, shortly after the 2009 TL went on sale, Acura announced plans to add a manual gearbox back to the lineup. Unfortunately, it would take an entire year before it hit the market. Now it's here, and we're ready to find out if the Acura TL SH-AWD six-speed can fill the Type-S-sized hole in our hearts.

Gallery: Review: 2010 Acura TL SH-AWD 6MT

Continue reading Review: 2010 Acura TL SH-AWD 6MT is a mouthful, not a handful

Review: 2010 Acura TL SH-AWD 6MT is a mouthful, not a handful originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Feb 2010 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Honda adds 440,000 more cars to airbag fragment recall

Jonathon Ramsey — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 08:01:00 EST

Filed under: Recalls, Safety, Acura, Honda

2001 Honda Accord - click above for high-res gallery

Honda began a recall campaign last November to repair overpressurized airbag inflators in 2001 Honda Civics and Accords. The excessive pressurization could cause the metal inflator casing to explode on the driver's side, potentially resulting in fragments that would pierce the airbag material and injure drivers.

That recall has now been expanded with the addition of 440,000 cars that include the 2002-2003 Acura TL. Honda says affected owners will receive a recall notice in the mail, or you can check your car's recall status on Honda and Acura's sites. Barring that, you can get all of the information in the press release after the jump or check out our galleries of the 2001 Accord and Civic models below.

Gallery: 2001 Honda Accord

Gallery: 2001 Honda Civic

Continue reading Honda adds 440,000 more cars to airbag fragment recall

Honda adds 440,000 more cars to airbag fragment recall originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Aug 2009 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Honda announces 6-speed manual for 2010 Acura TL

Michael Harley — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 12:29:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Acura

Click on the above image for our high res 2009 Acura TL gallery

Acura is again tossing enthusiasts a bone with a new six-speed manual transmission option for their 2010 Acura TL SH-AWD model. While the 2009 model is only available with a five-speed automatic with paddle shifters, next year will mark the return of the stick shift -- and the first time Acura has paired their SH-AWD with a manual transmission. The six-speed is all-new, and stronger than the manual last used in the 2008 model. It features a more rigid aluminum case and heavy-duty internals. New gear synchronizers improve accuracy while a standard short-throw shifter improves feel. In addition to the six-speed manual, the TL SH-AWD receives "Hill Start Assistant" to hold the vehicle on hills during a start, and special enthusiast-oriented suspension tuning for flatter cornering. The manual transmission also comes with stiffer engine and transmission bushings, heavy-duty front driveshafts, and stronger CV joints. Best of all, the manual transmission weighs 88 lbs. less than the automatic, moving the TL's weight distribution even further rearward.

Gallery: 2009 Acura TL

[Source: Honda]

Continue reading Honda announces 6-speed manual for 2010 Acura TL

Honda announces 6-speed manual for 2010 Acura TL originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Sep 2008 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2009 Acura TL priced from $34,955

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 13:03:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Sedan, Acura

Click above for high-res gallery of the 2009 Acura TL

Acura has finally revealed the pricing structure of its new 2009 TL sedan, and the base price jumps to $34,995, a little over a thousand bucks more than the last entry-level model. Replacing last year's Type-S is a new model with a version of Acura's SH-AWD and, at 305-horsepower, the most powerful V6 that parent company Honda has ever offered for sale. That top-level model will run you $38,505, which is pretty close to what the abandoned Type-S went for last year, though standard navigation is dropped. Adding the Technology Package -- which includes niceties like GPS, keyless access, push-button start and the Acura/ELS Surround sound audio system we liked so much when we got our first drive -- to either model will add about $4K to the asking price.

The looks are extremely polarizing, and these price increases aren't likely to win over the TL's detractors. Still, there is no doubting that the TL remains a lot of car for the money. Time will tell if it remains the sales success that its younger self undoubtedly was. Get all of the pricing details after the break.

Gallery: 2009 Acura TL

[Source: Acura]

Continue reading 2009 Acura TL priced from $34,955

2009 Acura TL priced from $34,955 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Sep 2008 13:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Autoblog First Drive: 2009 Acura TL [w/VIDEO]

Sam Abuelsamid — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 20:02:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Acura, First Drives

Click above for high-res gallery of the 2009 Acura TL

Beginning in February at the Chicago Auto Show, Acura began rolling out redesigned versions of its three sedans in the span of six months. Beginning with the RL in Chicago, Acura has rolled out its new design ethos intended to make these cars stand out in the increasingly crowded entry luxury segment. When we first showed you the RL, it got what would charitably be described as a negative reception. The new shield grille design was almost universally reviled both in the media and amongst you readers. By the time the entry-level TSX arrived a month later, reactions softened somewhat as people became accustomed to the look. In its first few months on the street, sales of the new TSX have jumped more than 20 percent compared to the old model.

The last to arrive and arguably the best looking of the three is the mid-level TL, which arrives this September to replace the best selling sedan in Acura's lineup. Acura invited us to New York to sample its new mainstream model on the roads of Connecticut and the Empire State in mid-July. While the TL was the last to be unveiled, it is actually the first and only one of the three sedans to be completely designed around this new look. Read more about the new TL and our first drive impressions after the jump.

Gallery: First Drive: 2009 Acura TL

Gallery: 2009 Acura TL

Continue reading Autoblog First Drive: 2009 Acura TL [w/VIDEO]

Autoblog First Drive: 2009 Acura TL [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 Aug 2008 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Even better pics of the new '09 Acura TL

Frank Filipponio — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 15:02:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Sedan, Acura

Click image above for additional pics of the 2009 Acura TL

We just showed you some spy pics of the 2009 Acura TL yesterday, but when one automotive photog saw the lo-res cellphone pics we ran, he knew he could do better. Our buddy Rich Truesdell of Automotive Traveler sent over a small patch of pics that he shot of the new mid-level Acura in action out in the Mojave. Just as with the new TSX and RL, the '09 TL seems to be adopting the corporate blocky metal triangle look. To paraphrase Fletch, "It's all about blocky metal triangles these days." Besides that signature fascia treatment, however, the rest of the car could easily be mistaken for a G37 sedan. Not bad, mind you, but not very distinctive either and surprising given the aggressively styled nose and tail. We'd say the best view is the rear-3/4 shot showing how the C-pillars continue out past the rear glass at their trailing edge and become the top edge of the rear deck. Pretty nifty. Check out our gallery below and Automotive Traveler to read about their encounter with the new TL.

Gallery: 2009 Acura TL spy shots

[Source: Automotive Traveler]

Spy Shots: Even better pics of the new '09 Acura TL originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Jun 2008 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: 2009 Acura TL continues triangular theme

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 19:58:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Sedan, Acura

Acura is in the midst of a major restyling of its entire range of sedans. While we've already seen the new TSX and RL (though an even newer RL has been spied), it's the TL that is the bread-and-butter model of the line. From what has been seen already, we're expecting a version of the blocky metal triangle at the front of the model, though the latest spy photos reveal that the angular theme will be carried over to the rear of the vehicle as well. It's always risky to make major changes to the high-volume model, but it appears as if Acura is not content to just play it safe with its line of uber-Hondas. While the stylists attempt to set new trends, we're pretty sure that the TL will continue to use a front wheel drive architecture and V6 engines, though a form of the automaker's SH AWD seems a distinct possibility.

[Source: Temple of VTEC]

Spy Shots: 2009 Acura TL continues triangular theme originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Jun 2008 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: 2009 Acura TL

Chris Shunk — Mon, 19 May 2008 09:24:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Sedan, Acura, Honda

Acura is in the middle of a total makeover, and while we've already seen the RL and TSX, the Japanese automaker's bread and butter TL has been out of the spotlight, until now. Spy photographers have snapped up a couple shots of the 2009 TL sans the requisite crazy patterns and without most bras, leaving some poorly fit panels to throw us off.

Up front, the grille is covered, but the basic shape looks very much like the buck-tooth treatment given to the RL and TSX. The front wheel arches bulge out like the TSX to give the TL a more aggressive stance, and the concave line stretching from the A-pillar to the tail lights has been replaced by a muscular character line expanding from the front arch, helping to further accentuate the sedan's stance. Out back, a prominent V shape at the bumper and spoiler gives the TL a little more style, while the tail lights wrap to show off the TL's angles.

So far, Acura's new-look lineup has been a mix of hits and misses (more misses depending on who you ask), but the TL is the high volume stud that absolutely has to be a home run for Honda's luxury lineup to keep up with the competition. Thanks for the tip, Jose!

[Source: VTEC]

Spy Shots: 2009 Acura TL originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 May 2008 09:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumormill: 2009 Acura TL coming in 2 flavors, gets AWD

Alex Nunez — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 22:41:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Acura, Rumormill

Honda/Acura had its 2009 dealer meeting in New Orleans last week, and a little birdie that claims to have attended has whispered some details about the 2009 Acura TL in our ears. According to our anonymous tipster, the '09 TL range will consist of two models. The front-wheel-drive car will be powered by a 3.5L V6 delivering 280 horsepower. The step-up version will feature SH AWD and have a 3.7L, 300-horsepower V6 underhood (presumably the same one used in the MDX). We're told the latter car is not a Type-S, by the way -- that trim level goes back into hibernation with the arrival of the '09. Word is, the car "looks amazing." The TL in its current state is Acura's best-looking vehicle, so our curiosity is definitely piqued.

Rumormill: 2009 Acura TL coming in 2 flavors, gets AWD originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 12 Apr 2008 22:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Acura recalls 273,000 TLs due to fire fears

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 19:03:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Recalls, Safety, Acura

Honda put out two recall notices today that affects some 273,000 2004-2008 Acura TLs. One of the recalls addresses a windshield wiper issue, where a potentially faulty circuit breaker on 129,600 '04 and '05 TLs could fail, rendering the wipers useless.

The other recall is a bit more compelling. Apparently an issue with high temperatures under the hood can cause the power steering hose to degrade to the point that it could crack and leak fluid onto the catalytic converter. This could result in a fair amount of smoke, or, at worse, a fire.

Neither issue has resulted in a crash or injury, but Acura dealers have been instructed to replace the power steering hose and, in the case of the windshield wiper motor, inspect the unit and replace it if necessary. Naturally, there's no charge for either recall.

[Source: Detroit News]

Acura recalls 273,000 TLs due to fire fears originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Feb 2008 19:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Acura exec outlines future vehicle lineup

Dan Roth — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 10:05:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Japan, Acura, Honda

Acura's sales are down, and rather than try to be all cars to all buyers, filling niches is more the game plan. Product planning manager John Watts intimated that Acura's looking at segments with a narrower appeal, such as the now-defunct CL, and the possibility of a retractable hardtop vehicle, too. The MDX does well, and the new RDX is the darling of everyone who drives it, but as far as cars go, Acura's not catching anyone's hair on fire. The top-dog RL sedan is a wonderful car - beautifully drawn, SH-AWD moves, and a powerful V6 make it a very pleasant way to devour miles, but it doesn't offer the flavor du jour for premium sedans with performance leanings. The engine layout is wrong, and it's missing at least two cylinders to truly be taken seriously by some buyers who are looking for a V8 and rear drive as prerequesites.

There's talk of a new 8 or 10 cylinder powerplant in the offing. The NSX is supposedly getting a V10, which could then propagate through to other Acura cars. Analysts have noted that there's a need for a flagship sedan above the RL to offer RWD and larger engines. While Acura gets its act together developing the new NSX and readying the new TL for launch in 2009, dealers are enviously eyeing Lexus and Infiniti stores, wishing they had a big V8 boomer to throw into the fray, as well.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Acura exec outlines future vehicle lineup originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 Sep 2007 10:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Driving Impression: 2008 Acura TL Type-S Six-speed

Sam Abuelsamid — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 13:05:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Acura, First Drives

Click the photo of the 2008 TL for a high-res gallery

Acura kicked off its 2008 model presentation with a rundown of what's new for 2008, which isn't much. The bulk of the presentation was actually about the development of the AXR-01 LMP2 race car. Once that was over, we had the opportunity to select from a fleet TL and TSX sedans for the drive out to Waterford Hills Raceway. I hopped into a six-speed manual TL Type-S to traverse the forty mile route that Acura laid out for us.

The driving route consisted of a mix of stop-and-go and medium-speed city driving, low-speed neighborhoods and twisty back roads. Under the hood, the TL Type-S has a 3.5L SOHC V-6 equipped with Honda's VTEC variable valve timing system. The V-6 has an output of 286 hp and 256 lb-ft of twisting force. The torque peaks at 5,000 rpm but feels reasonably strong at lower revs as well giving the engine a flexible, responsive feel.

Gallery: 2008 Acura TL Type-s ride

Continue reading Driving Impression: 2008 Acura TL Type-S Six-speed

Driving Impression: 2008 Acura TL Type-S Six-speed originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Sep 2007 13:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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No more mystery: Acura TL Type-S official photos hit the web

Alex Nunez — Thu, 10 Aug 2006 08:57:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Acura

Over the weekend, the Boston Globe let loose with the first details on the new Acura TL Type-S. We didn't expect to hear any more on the subject until 9/1, when Acura was set to officially pull off the wraps, but Autoweek has accelerated things a bit by publishing official pictures and additional details.

We already told you about the car's 286-horse 3.5L V6, which is connected to either a 6-speed manual or a 5-speed auto with paddles. Also covered was the new stiffer suspension for the Type-S, so let's move on to how the car looks.

Appearance-wise, the Type-S has adopted the former TL A-Spec's bodywork. The lower side skirts, the fender bulges, and the decklid spoiler that all first appeared on that package are now part of the Type-S trimmings. All TL models receive revised front fascias featuring integrated foglamps, new head and taillight assemblies, and an updated interior. The TL Type-S also gets a slightly different rear-end treatment that incorporates a new bumper cover and a pair of dual-tipped exhaust outlets (very BMW "M" if you ask us). Both the TL and TL Type-S get new wheels, too, with the Type-S rims reminding us of the ones found on the Nissan Altima SE-R. Frankly, we're a bit surprised they didn't go with a more original design. No complaints about the base TL's new 5-spokes, which look great.

The interior incorporates new gauges, a new steering wheel, and colored ambient lighting (blue for TL, red for Type-S). The available nav system has a real-time traffic feature and also acts as the display for the car's reverse camera. The now-expected-by-everyone iPod jack is hidden in the center console.

The Acura TL was and remains a sharp-looking car that's been made even more attractive thanks to the availability of the performance-oriented Type S package. Aside from the additional fun now available via the loud pedal, Acura wisely left well enough alone. We're ok with that. Now, how soon can we drive one?

Thanks to Rob C. for the tip!

(More pics after the jump)

[Source: Autoweek]

Continue reading No more mystery: Acura TL Type-S official photos hit the web

No more mystery: Acura TL Type-S official photos hit the web originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Aug 2006 08:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Acura readies 286-hp TL Type S

Alex Nunez — Sun, 06 Aug 2006 11:05:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Acura

UPDATE 1

The Boston Globe spilled the beans! For MY 2007, Acura has added a Type S model to the TL range. Those who opt for the package are rewarded with a 3.5L V6 churning out 286 horses and 256 lb.-ft. of torque, 28 hp and 23 lb.-ft. better than the base TL's 3.2L mill.

Subtle detail changes differentiate the Type -S from the standard car. A mesh grille, wheel/tire upgrade, rear spoiler, quad exhaust outlets and, of course, Type S badging identify it as such. Inside, the Type S gets sportier seating, carbon fiber trim, and racy steel pedals. A sport-tuned suspension is in place to give the car improved handling to go with its added punch. Expect a retail price of around $39,000.

We're guessing that an official announcement will likely come this week, now that a major media outlet has broken the story. We'll have photos and complete specs as soon as Honda makes them available to us.

Thanks to reader Raghu fir the tip!

[Source: The Boston Globe]

UPDATE 1: Click here to see a shot of what the 2007 Acura TL Type S will actually look like.

Acura readies 286-hp TL Type S originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 06 Aug 2006 11:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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