What Changed for 2008:

• AcuraLink real-time traffic expands to 76 metropolitan areas


• Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition now available in Hawaii


• Updated vehicle security immobilizer system


• Two new exterior colors: Polished Metal Metallic and Bold Beige Metallic


• Parchment interior trim paired to exterior White Diamond Pearl or Carbon Bronze Pearl paint

Overview
The TL is Acura’s midsize luxury sedan. It debuted as a 1996 model, then was redesigned for 1999 and went through an update in 2002. The car was redesigned inside and out for the 2007 model year. For the 2008 model year, enhancements are minor, and primarily focus on in-vehicle technology.

All 2008 Acura TL models are covered by a 4-year/50,000-mile limited warranty that includes Acura Total Luxury Care (TLC) with roadside assistance as well as a 6-year/70,000-mile limited powertrain warranty.

Model Lineup
The 2008 Acura TL is available in two versions: the standard TL and the more performance-oriented TL Type-S. The standard TL comes with a power moonroof, heated outside mirrors that tip down in reverse gear and include integrated turn signals, automatic headlights, speed-sensing windshield wipers, and sport seats with perforated leather. The front seats are heated and offer 8-way power for the driver’s side and 4-way power for the front passenger. The arm rest between the front seats is height-adjustable. Also included are dual-zone automatic climate control; rear-passenger ventilation controls; power windows; remote keyless entry; memory settings for driver’s seat, exterior mirrors and climate and audio controls; steering-wheel-mounted audio controls; HomeLink transmitter; tilt and telescoping steering column; leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift knob; front and rear beverage holders; carpeted floor mats; illuminated vanity mirrors; a multi-information display; exterior temperature indicator; Acura/ELS Surround Premium sound system with 8 speakers; 6-disc CD changer and Dolby cassette player; XM satellite radio; MP3 and WMA playback; and Bluetooth HandsFreeeLink wireless telephone interface.

The Type-S adds sport-tuned suspension; Brembo brakes; black chrome exterior trim; wider side sills; aero front and rear fascia; aluminum/carbon-look interior trim; high-performance seats; gauges with a “spun-metal” look and laser-etched numerals; red ambient cabin lighting; stainless-steel sport pedals; integrated quad-outlet exhaust; active noise cancellation; and Acura Satellite-Linked Navigation System. The Type-S also has a different powertrain and wheels.

Powertrain
The standard 2008 Acura TL draws propulsion from a 258-hp, 3.2-liter V-6 engine linked to a 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift, which enhances driver control, and Grade Logic Control, which adjusts shifting based on whether the car is traveling up- or downhill. The TL is rated at 18 mpg city/26 mpg highway by the EPA.

The TL Type-S has a 286-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 engine and can be linked to either the 5-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual transmission. With the automatic transmission, the TL Type-S is rated at 17 mpg city/26 mpg highway. With the manual transmission, the EPA fuel economy ratings are 18 mpg city/27 mpg highway.

All 2008 Acura TL models feature double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension, with the Type-S getting more aggressive hardware to deal with the extra dynamic potential. The Type-S also gets larger Brembo brakes.

Safety
All 2008 Acura TL models are equipped with anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist technologies to enhance stopping. Vehicle Stability Assist also is standard equipment and incorporates traction control to enhance stability in inclement conditions or in emergency maneuvers. Passive safety equipment includes front and front-seat side (thorax) air bags and side curtain air bags that cover both rows.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) rates the Acura TL with 5 stars for frontal impact protection for both the driver and front-seat occupant and at 4 stars for front-seat side-impact and 5 stars for rear-seat side impact. NHTSA also rates the TL at 4 stars for resistance to rollover. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gives the TL “Good” ratings in both frontal- and side-impact protection.

Technology
The 2008 Acura TL can be equipped with a sport suspension or A-SPEC kit that includes performance springs and shocks that lower the vehicle 1.2 inches, 18-inch wheels wrapped by Yokohama AVS ES100 tires, an aerodynamic body kit, rear spoiler, special steering wheel, performance brake pads, and A-SPEC badging.