Houston Cars

We all knew a brand new TL was due, since Honda recently redid the Honda Accord that the TL is based on.  Sure enough, here is the 2009 TL -  traditionally Acura’s best selling vehicle.  I say traditionally, because we may have some problems this time around.

Sure, performance is up - the base engine puts out a solid 280 HP.  If you opt for the SH-AWD ( Super Handling All Wheel Drive ) version, you get a larger 3.7 liter six banger that puts out a hefty 305 HP.  This thing will move, and won’t have any trouble in the twisties.  G35x - look out.  And the pricing is about right - $35k - $42k.  If it’s putting out the numbers and is priced right, what’s the problem?

Have you looked at the 2009 TL?  Take a minute.  It should jump right out at you.  Yes, that.  The new Acura grille.  The abomination that is Acura’s new face.  I could get over the mildly funky rear end.  I could even get over the 8,000 buttons in the center stack.  But that face I cannot get on board with.  On the other hand, if silly things like looks don’t bother you, you could do a heck of a lot worse than the new TL.  Honda reliability, serious performance, and super AWD?  Maybe the face isn’t so bad after all.

2009 Acura TL Specs

• 280 HP 3.5 liter V6 with FWD
• Optional 305 HP 3.7 liter V6 with SH-AWD
• 5 speed automatic transmission
• Estimated price range: $35,000 - $42,000
• EPA Says: 18 MPG city / 26 MPG highway

2009 Acura TL Reviews

Left Lane News reviews the 2009 Acura TL and writes - ‘The noteworthy feature of the SH-AWD was how competent it was when responding to an unexpected change in camber or curve radius. With most high-performance cars, even the new M3, when things change unexpectedly, you’ve got to be prepared to drive the car; though they are capable of handling issues that might arise, they don’t actually help the driver. In contrast, the modulated torque to each wheel in the SH-AWD actually pitches in to help you handle anything you encounter.’

Cars.com reviews the 2009 Acura TL and writes - ‘The one car I compared the TL to the most was the new Cadillac CTS because of their relative sizes, aggressive looks, similar prices and available all-wheel drive. I drove an all-wheel-drive CTS the week I returned from testing the new TL, and realized pretty quickly that the TL SH-AWD certainly would be my choice over the Cadillac. The CTS is just as harsh over rough roads, but doesn’t handle nearly as well as the Acura.’