Acura Debuts New 310 hp, SH-AWD TL

Acura's TL has become a benchmark for affordable midsize luxury. The

North

American-exclusive sedan offers a blend of performance,

refinement sportiness and space which has made it a success over the

past few years. Acura is taking this one step further with the new

generation TL, which broke cover yesterday.

Featuring

styling that's in line with Acura's new, angular design philosophy, the

TL features the new corporate shield grille, and origami bodywork.

Compared to the current car, the new model features a coupe-like roof

line, plus deeply chiseled shoulders.

With

the new look comes several advancements in power and traction. The new

TL will be available for the first time with Super Handling All Wheel

Drive. This model will be powered by Acura's most powerful motor to

date, a 3.7-liter V6 with 310 horsepower. Not all TLs sold will feature

this configuration; the

standard TL will get front wheel

drive mated to an engine with more power than the current model.

In place of the 3.2 will be a 3.5-liter V6 with 280 horsepower. All

TLs will feature a five-speed automatic with manual mode and

steering-wheel mounted paddles for more interactive shifting.

Although

the TL doesn't introduce any new luxuries or amenities, it will feature

navigation, and in the US, XM weather and traffic updates. USB audio

integration will also be available, as will the brand's stellar ELS

DVD-Audio surround sound system.

The new TL goes on sale this autumn.