The Acura TL is a medium-sized luxury car manufactured by Acura. It was introduced in 1995 to replace Acura Vigor and was embraced for the Japanese market from 1996 to 2000 as Honda Inspire and from 1996 to 2004 as Honda Saber . TL was the best-selling Acura model until it became outsold by MDX in 2007. While it once ranks as the second best-selling luxury sedan in the United States behind the BMW 3 Series, sales have declined by more than 50% since then. TL sales have been adversely affected both by recession and negative publicity due to styling problems in the last generation. Four generations of the Acura TL were produced, with the last fourth-generation TL emerging in 2008 as a 2009 model year and ending production in 2014, when it was replaced along with TSX by TLX. In the last year, TL was sold in Japan.
Video Acura TL
First First generation (UA1-UA3)
The TL "Touring Luxury" debuted as a 1996 model, first with 1996 2.5 TL available with a 2.5-L 176 hp (131-kW) SOHC 20-valve 5-cylinder engine from Vigor. The 3.2 TL uses 3.2Ã, L 200Ã, hp (149Ã,kW) SOHC 24v V6 from the second generation Acura Legend. The TL title signifies the Acura shift from a traditional vehicle name to an alphanumeric designation. By changing recognizable names like Vigor and Legend with two-letter marking, luxury makes hope to focus consumers' attention on the Acura name. TL is the first Acura model to adopt a new naming scheme.
TL 2.5 is positioned as a sporty model and 3.2 more focus on luxury travel. There is a slight difference in styling between the two, but the 3.2 TL has a larger tire even though 2.5 TL is more sporty marketing. In addition, additional power in 3.2 TL provides better acceleration. The V6 engine at 3.2 TL is mounted in front-rear, or longitudinal position. This contrasts with the more typical engine mount style, and is intended to provide better weight distribution and reduce nose dives. Engine mount designs produce elongated bonnet for first generation TL. The 5-inline engine at 2.5 TL competes with a similar 5-cylinder engine offered in the Audi and Volvo models.
The first 1996 Acura TL slid off the assembly line in Sayama, Japan on March 28, 1995. TL 2.5 sales began in the spring of 1995, but TL 3.2 was postponed to fall due to the US-Japan trade dispute. The US government threatened to impose a 100% tariff on more expensive Japanese automakers in response to the rising US-Japan trade deficit. Finally a deal is reached that avoids tariffs.
The first generation Acura TL features standard features including dual airbags, anti-lock brakes, automatic climate control, cassette/CD player systems, and power windows and locks. The skin is standard on the more luxurious TL 3.2, while the TL 2.5 features a stronger suspension setting. Like its predecessor, Vigor, this generation TL is a 4-door pillared hardtop, with a window without a frame.
1997
In 1997, Acura added a standard power moonroof to all TL models. In addition, all Acura TLs receive variable wiper interval speed settings. TL 3.2 has 205/65/15 tires and a V6 motor. Sport-targeted, 5-cylinder 2.5 TL further equipped with new wheels.
1998
For 1998, Acura made some features of the previous optional standard at 2.5 TL. 1998 is the last year of TL production in Japan, as the model is being redesigned for production in the United States. Second generation (UA4-UA5)
In 1998, Honda revealed the TL-X concept car, showing the second-generation TL preview to debut in the fall of that year. The second generation TL (now called 3.2 TL ) was released in 1998 and is now derived from the Honda Accord platform in the US market. It is available with newly designed 3.2Ã, L 225Ã, hp (168Ã,kW) SOHC VTEC J32 V6 mated to a four-speed electronic automatic transmission with SportShift.
The second generation 3.2 TL (2.5 dropped) was built in Marysville, Ohio, with the Honda Accord, at the Marysville Auto Plant. These cars are imported into Japan and sold as Honda Inspire on the Honda Clio dealer network, and like Honda Saber in Honda Verno dealer network. The main difference between the two cars is the front grille; Inspire and Saber are also available with the exclusive 2.5-L Honda J-series V6 for the Japanese market.
1999 Acura TL (2G) was first launched from the assembly line on 4 August 1998. The only option on the sedan is a CD-based navigation system. The 1999 TL navigation system stores maps in zones; there are 5 different zones for the US. Starting with this generation, the cabin air filter (also known as a pollen filter) is installed as standard equipment and is located behind the drawer.
2000
In its second year of production, the Acura TL is given slightly more features, including a 5-speed automatic transmission with SportShift. Additional teeth allow a slightly better fuel economy and acceleration when compared to the previous 4-speed automatic transmission with SportShift. With this model, if the driver forgot the shift 1-2, the computer will take over when in sports mode and perform 1-2 shifts up and down, unlike the 1999 4-speed model. In many vehicles, the 5-speed automatic transmission fails: a third clutch pack is used, the particles block the oil channel and prevent transmission from transmitting or holding the tooth normally. Transmission will slip, fail to shift, or suddenly lower the teeth and make the car stop screeching, even at the speed of the freeway. This issue was highlighted in the Los Angeles Times in September 2002. Consumer Reports took note and gave TL and CL a black dot, the worst rating for transmission reliability. In response to repeated problems, the manufacturer expanded its warranty covering up to 7 years of transmission or 100,000 miles (160,000 km) on the US model. Class action demands are resolved to extend the transmission warranty for U.S.A owners or entities up to 7.75 years for all models made from 1998 to 2002 and some models of 2003 by VIN; However, the Canadian owner's warranty is not renewed. Transmissions replaced before March 2005 usually fail again. Transmission was changed from March 2005 and later included a third redesigned gear clutch package to fix the problem.
Other significant changes include the addition of side impact airbags for front passengers and format changes for the navigation system. TL 2000 switches from CD database to DVD-based navigation system. The entire continent of the United States becomes accessible by navigation system; it's possible to drive from one coast to another with a new navigation system.
2001
For the 2001 model, a redesigned version of the TL coupe was introduced, 3.2CL . While mechanically identical to the TL, the sale never approached the model of his brother, and as a result, was discontinued in May 2003. 2001 added a feature not possessed by 2000, a redesigned new cupholder insert.. Automatic transmission in these cars is also damaged. In response to recurring problems, the manufacturer expanded its warranty covering transmission to 109,000 miles (175,400 km) or 7.75 years for all 1999 - 2002 and 2003 per partial VIN. The Acura dealer replaces the transmission under warranty. Transmissions replaced before March 2005 usually fail again. Transmission was replaced in 3/2005 and later included a redesigned 3rd gear clutch package that was reported to fix the problem.
Some models in 2002-2003 were the subject of a safety withdrawal in July 2009 for injuries reported by mistaken driver side airbag inflators. In February 2010, another withdrawal was issued for the same issue.
2002
In March 2001 for the 2002 model, TL received minor changes, with a refreshing front fascia, redesigned rear lights, 6 CD in-dash changer and several other features. The Type-S model was also added, adding 35 hp (26 kW) and 17-inch wheels (430 mm), firmer seats and suspension. Most of these vehicles show problems with automatic transmissions that require replacement. In response to recurring problems, the manufacturer expanded its warranty covering transmission to 109,000 miles (175,400 km) or 7.75 years for all 1999-2002 and 2003 partial per VIN models. The Acura dealer replaces the transmission under warranty. Transmissions replaced before March 2005 usually fail again. Transmissions were replaced in March 2005 and later included a redesigned 3rd gear clutch package reported to fix the problem.
2003
Only minor changes occurred that year to make way for redesign.
Maps Acura TL
Third generation (UA6-UA7) 2004-2008
2004
The first third generation TL Acura slid from the assembly line on September 30, 2003. On October 6, 2003, the third generation Acura TL (3.2 dropped climber) was released for sale in North America. Developed primarily in the United States by a team led by Erik Berkman with bodywork by American Honda designer Jon Ikeda, the newly built TL in Marysville, Ohio, and comes from the 7th US Honda Accord.
Starting with this generation, this model is not sold in Japan, with Honda Inspire holding the entry level position of a luxury sedan under the Honda Legend in Japan. Inspire from this era even sold as the seventh generation Honda Accord North America. The Third Generation TL is slightly smaller than the model it replaces.
It's powered by 270 hp (201 kW); then revised to 258 hp (192 kW), based on the new SAE measurement standards for horsepower and 233Ã, lb? ft (316Ã, N? m) torque, 3.2 L 24 valve SOHC VTEC V6 engine mated to either 5-speed automatic with SportShift or 6-speed manual. The manual transmission model features Brembo 4-Piston front brake calipers, Torsen limited slip differential, rigid anti-roll front axle, and rear tires and performance at no additional cost.
In March 2004, Honda offered the public a "factory-approved" tuner package version of TL called TL A-SPEC . This version has a suspension set by Makoto Tamamura, an indication of aggressive engineering TL A-SPEC. In addition, the body kit, spoiler, limited edition A-SPEC steering wheel, "A-SPEC" badge on the back, and 18-inch (460 mm) wheels are standard issues on the A-SPEC package. When installed during purchase, a 4-year/50,000-mile (80,000 km) car warranty applies to packages as well.
The third-generation TL is also the first car on the American market to include a 6-disc DVD-Audio system, output through a 225-watt system with 8 speakers, engineered by Panasonic and tuned by Grammy-winning winner Elliot Scheiner. The system also plays back regular audio CDs as well as DTS, CD-Audio, CD-R and CD-RW audio discs but not MP3s. In the United States, all models are also equipped with Bluetooth HandsFree Link (HFL) system, integrated with audio system, to enable hands-free use of one's mobile phone (provided the phone also supports Bluetooth and HFL compatible HHL profiles). In Canada, the HFL feature is not available on the basic model (standard with A-Spec, Technology, and Navigation packages), although the 2005 HFL view model is standard across all Canadian models. With the built-in XM Radio tuner, owners can opt to pay for monthly subscriptions after a free 3-month subscription ends from Acura for XM radio, which provides more than 100 digital channels via satellite.
With an Alpine-designed optional navigation system, third-generation TLs can also receive voice commands like "search for the nearest police station" or "go home." The navigation system is equipped with an 8-inch (200 mm) LCD touch screen, which allows for easy viewing of the road ahead.
The JDM Honda Inspire debuted about four and a half months earlier (on June 11, 2003) and marked the branching of the TL line from Inspire. Inspire is essentially the seventh generation US Honda Accord V6 with minor trim changes, and the addition of Variable Cylinder Management, which closes half of the engine when it is not needed to improve fuel economy. Saber is stopped and the new Inspire is sold at Clio, Primo, and Verno dealers.
TL became the best-selling Acura luxury sedan in 2004 with over 79,000 sold that year.
IIHS found the Acura TL has the second lowest mortality rate among medium luxury cars.
2005
TL 2005 receives a passenger airbag cut-off switch and additional indicators and seams on the front seats. There are some minor changes that have been made (such as an anchor rod safety change) that are not published.
2006
TL 2006 received a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and a new engine management system to help reduce steer torque. The new horsepower rating of 258 hp (192 kW) is due to changes in the testing procedures, although the engine has remained the same since 2004.
2007
The 2007 Acura TL has a slightly revised exterior as well as a revised interior with new steering wheels, redesigned gauges, and footwell lights, in addition to new interior and exterior colors. TL (non Type-S) 2007 received suspension changes to improve ride comfort. Also new for the 2007 model year is a repeater of LED light signals on the side mirrors and fog lights on the bumper. Prior to 2007, fog lamps were integrated into the main lamphouses; Daytime Running Lights now occupies that space (Canadian models have DRLs rather than fog lights since 2004).
TL with a navigation model using a new rear camera with images displayed on the navigation screen as well as XM NavTraffic. In addition to the new standard additional audio jacks, the sound system is now compatible with MP3/WMA and offers a volume override of Dolby Pro Logic II and volume sensitive speed. The manual transmission option has been derived from the TL base because most of the sales are very low (approximately 1 in 40 TL sold across America equipped with manual gearbox).
The most important revision is the return of the Type-S edition of TL. The Acura TL Type-S accepts the 3.5-liter Acura RL V6 tuned to 286 horsepower (213 kW) with either a 5-speed automatic with a F1 paddle shifter style or a 6-speed manual transmission. Manual transmission includes limited slip differential. Exterior differences include quad exhaust pipes, adjustable rear taillights and front fascia, lip spoilers, wider siding sills, Brembo brakes, dark silver 10-spoke wheels, black "chrome grille" rather than standard glossy grille, and S-Type badges exclusive, plus an exclusive new color option, the Kinetic Blue Pearl. The interior has a S-type badging on the steering and headrests, a stronger front seat, a two-tone seat (only with Ebony/Silver interior), a metal racing pedal, carbon fiber trim, and red interior lighting (as opposed to blue at the base of TL). Navigation touch screen is standard and suspension has been improved. The only option is the above-mentioned transmissions and high-performance summer tires (Bridgestone Potenzas) rather than standard all-season tires (Michelin Pilot MXM4s).
2008
TL 2008 has a new improved immobilizer system, and separate TMS Pressure Monitor (TPMS) warning lights. The navigation system has been updated to work in Hawaii, and AcuraLink satellite capabilities have been expanded to incorporate 76 markets (up from 38 markets for 2007 models).
Performance
Awards
- The 2006 Acura TL won the ConsumerSearch ' s "The best sports sedan with a touch of luxury" in the Best Luxury Car in September 2006.
- The 2006 Acura TL won the ConsumerSearch ' s "The best mix of sport and luxury" in the Best Sports Sedan list in June 2006.
Fourth_generation_.28UA8-UA9.29 "> Fourth generation (UA8-UA9)
The first fourth generation TL Acura slid off the assembly line on September 23, 2008. Debut for the 2009 model year, Acura TL featured a more aggressive interpretation of Acura's latest styling vocabulary, known as "Keen Edge Dynamic." What stands out on the front is the controversial "top grille" of the "Power Plenum". The size of the car has increased slightly, and as a result the wheelbase has been drawn 1.4 inches (36 mm) to 109.3 inches (2.780 mm). The car is also 6.2 inches (160 mm) longer overall, 1.8 inches (46 mm) wider and 0.5 inches (13 mm) taller. Rear legroom increased by 1.3 inches (33 mm) and the rear shoulder chamber increased 0.5 inches (13 mm). Structural rigidity increased due to the use of high-strength steel in 47.6 percent of the chassis.
The TL base is a front-wheel drive and powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 s (210 kW) and 254 lb power? Ft (344 N m), increase of 22 hp (16 kW) and 21 lb? ft (28Ã, N? m) above the previous 3.2 liter V6. The new TL SH-AWD ("Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive") replaces the previous TL Type-S and is powered by a 3.7 liter V6 that produces 305 hp (227 kW) and 275 pounds (373 N). m) torque, increase of 19Ã, hp (14 kW) (Acura initially advertises the car has 307 hp (229 kW), but revises that claim without explanation after several months in the market) and 19 lbb? ft (26Ã, N? M) above the 3.5-liter V6 Type-S. The 3.7L engine also uses the VTEC variable lifting time on the input and exhaust valves (base TL and the previous model only applies VTEC to the inlet valve).
The SH-AWD ("Super Handling" All Wheel Drive) is a multi-vector all-wheel drive system designed more for performance than simply providing traction in adverse circumstances. While roaming, the system sends 90% power to the front wheels and 10% to the rear wheels. Acceleration produces more torque on the rear wheels. The car can install up to 70% of the total available power to the rear wheels to help accelerate rapidly, and from that 70%, 100% can be pushed to the left or right wheel to help the vehicle through the bend..
The brakes on the new TL have been upgraded in size, from the older 11.8 in (300 mm) front disks and 11.1 in (280 mm) rear discs to the disc brakes now 12.70 in (320 mm) and 13.2 inch (340 mm) rear disc, still using the internal drum rear brake while maintaining the hydraulic discs for the foot-applied brakes. The bolt pattern on the car is no longer 5 x 114.3 mm (4.50 inches) but 5 x 120 mm (4.7 inches) for this generation.
The SH-AWD model also includes several interior improvements over the base model and is tuned for slightly firmer suspension and steering feedback. This is visually indistinguishable from the base model on the exterior with a SH-AWD badge on the rod, a quad exhaust pipe (as opposed to a dual exhaust on the base model) and a larger air duct on the front bumper to cool larger brakes (the signal indicator turn the base model on the bumper extends to the middle.) The TL rides on the 245/50R17 tires, while the TL SH-AWD has a 245/45R18 tire with an optional 245/40ZR19 summer tire. Both models use electric power steering rather than hydraulic, and a revised five-speed automatic transmission featuring shift paddles on the steering wheel is standard equipment for both models.
For the 2010 model year, Acura announced that a manual transmission with a 6 speed speed ratio will be available for the SH-AWD model. For this manual transmission model, Acura designed a new dual-adhesive mass coupling system to improve endurance and improve modulation compared to previous generations. Additional differences from SH-AWD automatic transmission models include more aggressive front dampers and springs, more rigid engines and transmission mounts, Electric Power Steering (EPS) tuning, hill start assistance, and improved front/rear weight distribution.
The fourth generation Acura TL adds further electronic convenience items, now including a central multifunction display, 276 watt 27-watt audio system with six-disc CD changer, XM Satellite Radio, USB port connectivity (including full iPod control support), and Bluetooth Audio ( to stream music from your phone). Both models offer the optional Technology Package, which includes premium Milano leather seats, keyless start, an updated joystick-based navigation system (no longer touchscreen) with a new 8-inch (200 mm) full VGA screen and the ability to provide weather and routing information rearranged traffic, and an Acura/ELS audio system with 10 speakers, 440 watts of power, CD DTS compatibility for 5.1 surround sound, DVD-A, and an internal hard drive with 13 GB of dedicated audio storage. With an ELS audio system, audio CDs are automatically torn down to the hard drive during insertion for upcoming playback. The navigation system also stores map data on the hard drive (compared to previous model-based storage of DVDs), resulting in faster boot times.
Technology Packages
Audio
Hard Drive
- 13GB
- Only the contents of the Audio CD can be hacked into HDD. Copying to HDD from media or other recording storage devices is not supported.
- Album, Title, and Artist information is provided by the updated Gracenote file.
USB
- FAT32 Supported Format
- Limited to 700 folders in the root of the storage device. The folder name appears as the album name. Sub-folder navigation is not supported.
- Limited to 15,000 files
2012
For the 2012 model, Honda offers new front and rear styling on the Acura TL. Acura updated the controversial "half" insert on the front grille, replacing it with a smaller insert that flows better with the headlamps and creates a sleeker profile. In addition to cosmetic changes, TL 2012 is equipped with a 6 speed Honda automatic transmission to improve performance and efficiency. This transmission features downshift rev-matching with throttle blip and the ability to lower 2 gears at once. New additional features include a ventilated seat, a new 60GB HDD, blind-spot information system, and an upgraded wheel. TL 2012 maintains both base 3.5L 280 hp (209 kW) 254 lb? Ft (344 Ã, N? M) and model SH-AWD '3.7L 305Ã, hp (227Ã, kW) 273Ã, lb? Ft (370Ã, N? M) engine but now gets 2 mpg more in the city (20 mpg) and 3 mpg more on the highway (29 mpg), thanks to less engine friction and 6 speed automatic transmission. 6 speed manual transmission will continue to be offered. The 2012 model is also 3dB quieter on the highway.
2013 Acura TL Special Edition
This is a version of the front-wheel-drive 2013 Acura TL with a typical 18-inch all-wheeled 10-spoke alloy wheels, matching color-deck spoiler, special edition Special Edition, Keyless Access System with Remote Access Without Key, start pushbutton, 4 body colors (Bellanova White Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl, Graphite Luster Metallic and Silver Moon Metallic) match the Ebony interior leather seats with contrast stitching, 6-speed Sequential SportShift automatic transmission with paddle shifter system, 10-way adjustable power driver seat, passenger seat customized 8-way front, power moonroof, 276 watt audio system with eight speakers, dual-mode automatic dual-mode climate control system with automatic moisture control. The vehicle was manufactured using components sourced domestically and globally at Honda of America Mfg., Inc., in Marysville, Ohio.
Security
Acura TL uses Honda's Advanced Compatibility Engineering front-end. The Insurance Institute for Road Safety (IIHS) found the TL front-wheel drive model 2009-11 (SH-AWD model not included in the study) to have overall driver deaths of 5 deaths per million years registered.
- * vehicle structure rated "Acceptable"
Production
Honda announced replacing the TL with the new Acura TLX sedan. TL production will stop by the end of 2014, with the TLX 2015 replacement model going on sale in the fall of the same year.
Sales figures
References
- 2004 Acura TL A-spec "2004 Acura TL A-SPEC: No assembly required to enjoy this manufacturer-specified tuner package", an article by John Kiewicz on page 136 March 2004 edition on Motor Trends
- "Unexpected Honda Dental Shift", an article by John O'Dell in the September 11, 2002 edition of Los Angeles Times
External links
- Acura USA - Official Site
- Acura TL - Official US Site
Source of the article : Wikipedia
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