2009 Acura TL

NEW FOR 2009:

- Redesigned model

For 2009, the Acura TL has been completely redesigned, now in its fourth generation. For the first time in an Acura vehicle, the TL will be available in front-wheel drive or with the company's all-wheel SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive) system. The new model is larger than the one it replaces, with more rear-seat room, and features a choice of two V6 engines, all-new electric power steering, new interior, and styling that is intended to set the future direction of the Acura brand.

Among the new features added for 2009, depending on the trim line, include a hard disc drive music storage system, active front seat head restraints, eight-way power passenger seat, hill start assist, headlight washers, rearview camera, and keyless access and start.

The TL uses a 3.5-litre V6 in the front-wheel version, and a 3.7-litre in the all-wheel; both use a five-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode and paddle shifters.

Features on the TL include 17-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, automatic headlamps, tire pressure monitoring system, fog lamps, heated mirrors with integrated turn signals and tip-down in reverse, Xenon headlamps, power sunroof, auto-dimming rearview mirror, exterior temperature display, garage door opener, LED footwell lighting, programmable LED interior lighting, power windows with front auto up/down, speed-sensing variable intermittent wipers, tilt and telescopic wheel with integrated audio controls, six-CD/MP3 stereo with auxiliary input and USB connector, XM satellite radio, eight-way driver and passenger power heated leather-trimmed seats, and two-position driver's memory.

The TL SH-AWD adds 18-inch alloy wheels, headlight washers, hill start assist, and sport grip steering wheel.

Both models can be optioned with a Technology Package that adds rear deck lid spoiler, navigation system, rearview camera, GPS-linked solar-sensing automatic climate control, Keyless Access System with pushbutton start, perforated premium leather wheel, and premium ten-speaker surround sound stereo system.

Translating its increased size into improved interior comfort, the Acura TL strikes a balance of luxury and sportiness, especially with the SH-AWD package, which is as much about dry road performance as it is about inclement weather. The new system addresses previous questions about the TL's front-wheel position in a world of rear-wheel drive sports sedans, and the new styling, love it or hate it, will certainly get you noticed.