2012 Acura TL
Acura has launched a redesigned version of its TL sedan, featuring the restyled-yet-distinctive front fascia styling found on the latest models across the luxury's brand's vehicles.The latest model year saw a minor stylistic refresh, along with welcome updates to the vehicle's features, a new automatic transmission and improved fuel economy.
2012 Acura TL
PackagingThe new TL comes in two varieties: a base front-wheel drive car and an up-level all-wheel drive model. The front-driver is powered by a 285 horsepower 3.5-liter V6, while the AWD model receives its motivation from a 3.7-liter V6 producing 305 horsepower.
New for the latest model year is an extra gear for the automatic transmission, packaged in a six-speed Sequential SportShift automatic transmission, dramatically increasing the car’s highway fuel economy to 29 mpg, a big three mpg jump over the outgoing model. City fuel economy is 20 mpg with a combined figure hovering around 24 to 25 mpg.
2012 Acura TL
The new SportShift transmission also features the ability for drivers to apply heavy throttle and downshift two gears at once for a burst of performance. Despite boasting 305 horsepower and all-wheel drive, the range-topping model will not sport the Type-S nameplate but will be distinguished by quad exhaust pipes. In fact, as of now, Acura does not offer a Type-S model
2012 Acura TL
CompetitionThe mid-size TL competes with the BMW 5-Series, Mercedes E-Class, Volvo S80, and Lexus ES in terms of size and luxury. Although those rivals offer more powerful engines, the TL can't be beaten in terms of pricing.
The sixth-generation TL continues Acura's new design language seen on the redesigned TSX and RL, featuring a bold front grille treatment. Out back, the TL looks to have an Accord-inspired rear fascia, with a polarizing design sure to stand out from the mundane offerings in the segment. The TL's interior is less controversial and features several arches in its design language.
Other tweaks to the refreshed model include ventilated seats, a new 60BG HDD, blind-spot information system and new wheels.
Pricing begins at $35,605 for the 280 horsepower FWD model, which jumps to $39,335 with the Technology Package, and again to $41,535 with the Advance Package.
2012 Acura TL
2011 Acura TL Should shoppers opt for 305 horsepower TL SH-AWD model, pricing starts at $39,155, with a modest bump to $42,885 with the addition of the Technology Package and a more noteworthy increase to $45,085 when opting for the Advance Package. If you’re looking to save a little coin while retaining performance, one can snag a TL SH-AWD model with a six-speed manual and Technology Package for just $42,885.
2012 Acura TL
2012 Acura TL