2009 Acura TL

Review

Take a good look at a few pictures of the 2009 Acura TL. If you don’t find the design off-putting, then the TL is the luxury midsize sedan for you. The TL boasts class-leading technology and a spirited V6 engine. The TL’s already responsive handling is assisted by the all-wheel-drive option on the SH-AWD model. Get the complete results of our 2009 Acura TL road test in the following auto review.

Improvements from the 2008 Acura TL

Acura has completely redesigned the TL for 2009. The 2009 Acura TL is bigger, has a more powerful V6 engine, and boasts an all-wheel-drive option and new technology features.

Performance

Both of the possible models of the 2009 Acura TL feature different tire sizes, different engines, different steering calibrations, and different drive wheels, so the result is two radically different driving experiences. For drivers who prize comfort over athleticism and power, the base-model 3.5-liter, 280-horsepower V6 should do just fine, although car reviews note that the steering feels artificial at times. On the other hand, driving enthusiasts will prefer the SH-AWD (super-handling all-wheel drive) TL, which delivers superb grip, control, and handling. The 3.7-liter, 306-horsepower V6 in the SH-AWD is also much quicker than the base model’s engine. Braking is adequate on the base model, but the upgraded brakes on the SH-AWD model are worth the extra cost.

Exterior Features

Auto reviews can’t seem to reach a consensus on the divisive new styling of the 2009 Acura TL. The biggest bones of contention about the TL’s design are its odd, pointed front and back ends, which you can see more clearly in our 2009 TL photos. If you can look past those oddities, though, the Acura TL actually has a profile that is quite striking, sleek, and modern. Standard exterior features include a sunroof, 17-inch alloy wheels, heated side mirrors, and xenon headlights.

Interior Features

On the inside, the Acura TL uses the most advanced technology of any vehicle in the upscale midsize class. The interior is roomy and very well-equipped with high-tech features. On the other hand, drivers used to the expensive look of wood trim and premium leather might find the cabin of the TL disappointing. The TL’s interior looks decidedly upscale, but in a more modern way than some luxury buyers may expect. Standard interior features include dual-zone automatic climate control, eight-way power front seats, rear ventilation controls, Bluetooth, satellite radio, an iPod interface, leather upholstery, and a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel.

Safety and Specifications

The car insurance industry and federal government have yet to crash test the 2009 Acura TL, although the 2008 model did very well in crash testing. Standard car safety equipment on the 2009 TL includes front-seat side airbags, antilock brakes with brake assist, traction and stability control, active front head restraints, and full-length side-curtain airbags. These features may make qualifying for cheap car insurance a bit easier. A summary of the 2009 Acura TL’s specs is offered below.

• Car pricing: $34,955 - $38,505 MSRP; $32,136 - $35,391 invoice
• Engine: 3.5-liter, 280-hp V6 on base model; 3.7-liter, 306-hp V6 on SH-AWD
• Transmission: five-speed automatic with automanual mode
• Acceleration: 0-60 in 6.2 seconds

Upgrade Options

On the TL SH-AWD, drivers receive features like a more powerful engine, 18-inch alloy wheels, all-wheel drive, premium brakes, upgraded upholstery, and bolstered front seats. Acura also offers the Technology package as an option on both TL models. The Technology package includes a solar-sensing and GPS-linked adaptive climate control system, hard-drive-based navigation system with voice recognition, rear spoiler, keyless entry/ignition, a 10-speaker surround-sound system, and a rear-view camera. Individual options on the SH-AWD model include high-performance tires and 19-inch wheels.

How the New Acura TL Compares to Other Upscale Midsize Cars

As long as you stay away from the pricey all-wheel-drive option, the 2009 Acura TL is priced appropriately for the luxury-midsize segment. The TL has a respectable city/highway fuel economy rating of 18/26 mpg. The names of several of the TL’s competitors are listed below.

• BMW 3-Series
• Hyundai Genesis
• Cadillac CTS
• Lexus ES

New car guide information cites the 2009 Acura TL’s Intellichoice 5 year cost of ownership as $41,838, which is an above-average value for the class. The Acura TL capitalizes on Honda’s sterling reputation for reliability. The 2009 TL earned a score of 8.0 out of 10 on the JD Power and Associates Quality Ratings for predicted reliability. Acura offers TL drivers a class-topping warranty and roadside assistance program. The vehicle comes with a four-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty, and free roadside assistance for the life of the vehicle.

Conclusion: Is the TL a Smart Buy?

The only real point of contention about the 2009 Acura TL is its polarizing design; everything else is just about pitch-perfect. If you’re in the camp that loves the TL’s unique and daring style, then you owe it to yourself to give the new TL a test drive. The large cabin, peppy V6, and loads of high-tech features are likely to win you over. Of course, the interior might not dazzle you to the extent that those of German sedans can, but the TL still manages to hold its own in a competitive class.