The TL mid-size luxury sedan is Acura's bestseller and has been ranked among the top selling luxury sedans in America. The sporty TL has been fully redesigned for 2009, adding 6-inches in overall length, and nearly 2-inches in width. In spite of these increased dimensions, the TL is only a half-inch higher than the outgoing model, making for a wider, longer appearance.
Styling has been taken to the extreme. Aggressive headlights, more creases and angles than before, and Acura's new "shield" grill treatment give the new TL a distinctly unique look.
The base engine is a 3.5-liter that puts out 280 horsepower and 254 pound feet of torque. New for '09 is a 3.7-liter V6 that generates 305 horsepower and 273 horsepower. A 5-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters is standard equipment. The smaller V6 sends power to the front wheels, while the larger V6 comes standard with Acura's Super-Handling All Wheel Drive system which can channel power to the front wheels or rear wheels, as well as from left to right as needed.
Fuel economy for the TL ranges from 17 miles per gallon city, up to 26 miles per gallon highway.
Every TL comes well equipped, with standard leather 8-way power drivers seat, leather wrapped multifunction steering wheel, and dual zone automatic climate control.
Our Tech Package model with Super-Handling All Wheel Drive came equipped with Navigation with backup camera, and real-time traffic and weather updates. Other upgraded features include heated front seats, keyless entry with remote start, and 10-speaker 440-watt, AM/FM/CD/DVD system with USB port and auxiliary jack.
Standard Safety features on the TL include 4-wheel antilock disc brakes, dual stage airbags, vehicle stability assist, side impact door beams, and front and rear crumple zones.
Base MSRP for the 2009 Acura TL is $34,955. A fully loaded model like the one we tested will top out at just under $43,000. The TL is backed by a 6-year, 70,000-mile powertrain warranty.
With updated looks, a host of tech savvy features, and new powerplant options, the '09 TL looks to continue its campaign as Acura's most popular offering.