2009 Acura TL
by Jim Prueter -04/2009

Redesigned TL is bigger, more powerful and available AWD

My first impression upon seeing the all-new TL from Honda’s luxury brand was, “What were they thinking?”

While its profile is downright handsome, views from both the front and rear immediately let you know you’re looking at something unlike any other car on the road. You’ll stand out in a way you didn’t intend.

The front mimics the new face of Acura, only on the TL, it has a more exaggerated “goofy grin” look.

A trip around to the back of the TL suggests that a once good-looking vehicle backed into a block wall. How could a sibling of Acura’s attractive flagship, the RL, end up looking like this?

It’s hard to imagine that potential buyers will be drawn to the TL for its looks. Which is why smart Acura sales consultants would do well to get their customers behind the wheel, where the TL is a very comfortable and enjoyable place to be.

Where the new TL really scores big is in both its interior and driving dynamics. We’ve never considered Acura to be Honda’s luxury brand in the way that Lexus is to Toyota and Infiniti is to Nissan, yet the TL’s interior gets very close.

The dual cockpit design features exceptionally comfortable front bucket seats, with enough adjustment for all drivers to find a perfect setting. We did find the memory seat adjustment to be among the most annoying features of any we’ve tested. Every time I entered the vehicle, I would watch the driver’s seat automatically slide forward and rise higher, reverting my seat adjustment to a previous, unwanted setting. An exceptionally tall driver, I had to reach down and power the seat all the way back before I could even get into the car. After several trips to the owner’s manual, following step-by-step directions, I still could not change the default setting.

The leather seats are perforated and heated, but not cooled. Rear-seat legroom is a much-needed inch greater than in the previous TL, but the middle-seat slot is narrow and raised, making it nearly impossible for a third adult to ride comfortably.

The dual-hooded dash is soft touch, well laid out with separate deep-set gauges and a navigation screen that keeps sun glare away, rendering it easy to read. We’ve always appreciated the simplicity of Honda navigation systems, which are useful and easy to program.

All materials are of excellent quality, and fit and finish are superb.

Our TL was loaded with technology, including Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free phone operation, voice-activated navigation system, rear backup camera, a 10-speaker ELS surround sound audio system, MP3/auxillary input jack, USB audio interface, XM Satellite radio including AcuraLink communication system with real-time traffic and weather, and keyless entry system with smart entry and push-button ignition.

For 2009 the TL is offered in two models: base ($34,995) powered by a 3.5-liter 280-horsepower V-6 engine, and the SH-AWD with Technology Package ($42,235). You can add the SH-AWD to the base TL for about $3500, which includes the larger 3.7-liter 305 horsepower V-6. Previously, only the RL sedan offered all-wheel drive; now only the smaller Acura TSX is front-wheel-drive only.

All versions of the TL use the same five-speed automatic transmission with manual mode capabilities. Most vehicles in this class use a six-speed automatic, which luxury buyers expect for improved fuel economy and acceleration. A manual transmission is not offered, but Acura says it’s coming for 2010.

We tested the SH-AWD with Technology Package (SH for Super Handling) which, like most Honda and Acura products, comes fully loaded with navigation, power moonroof, one-touch up and down windows, power locks/mirrors/seats (10-way driver/8 way passenger) and manual tilt-telescoping steering wheel. Our tester had a price of $42,995 with no options and included shipping and handling. Options are listed as accessories and are dealer installed.

The SH-AWD drive system is unlike any other all-wheel drive system. When cornering or going too fast into a tight curve, the vehicle’s system takes over, putting more power to the outside rear wheel while cutting power to the inside rear wheel. This additional torque helps with the steering to keep the rear of the car from trying to get to the front. Of course, it can’t prevent driver stupidity behind the wheel but it does entice you to test the TL’s capabilities, especially on twisting roads.

The AWD isn’t meant for off-road use but rather to provide improved handling and traction on slippery snow-covered or wet roads.

The TL’s ride is more performance oriented and might be too firm for those expecting more luxury. The handling is taut and poised. Road noise is pronounced in the otherwise quiet cabin.

Standard safety equipment includes dual-stage front airbags, driver and front passenger side airbags, side-curtain airbags, vehicle stability control, anti-lock braking system, active front head restraints and LATCH system for child seats. The 2009 TL earned the highest possible 5 star rating in government crash tests. It also earned the highest possible “Good” rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in frontal offset and side-impact crash tests.

Overall, the new TL is pleasant, enjoyable, and significantly refined and improved over the previous model. But it doesn’t stand out in its class. Performance is noticeably better, especially with the addition of all-wheel drive. The interior is well crafted but the exterior design is polarizing, at best.