THE NEW ACURA TL - PUREHONDA.COM
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TL'S
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In 1994, Acura created the modern interpretation
of the classic Touring Car concept -- the TL. This concept combines the best elements of a
sports coupe and a luxury car, providing its owner with a vehicle that can negotiate
twisting roads with tenacity, and yet still deliver impressive comfort and luxury.
For 1999, this concept takes another leap forward. The completely re-engineered 1999 Acura
TL now offers the most powerful engine in its class. Built entirely in the U.S. and
featuring a more refined and sturdier chassis, the TL is only available in one trim level:
amazingly well equipped. Simply select the TL's one option - the state-of-the-art Acura
Navigation System - or from the available Acura accessories to make the TL uniquely yours.
And thanks to its transverse engine design, which takes up less space, the TL's interior
is now roomier than the Lexus ES300, Mercedes C-Class and BMW 5-Series.
The TL's state-of-the-art 3.2-liter, all-aluminum V-6 engine
24 valve powerplant has more power than any other vehicle in its class. The TL has 225 hp
on demand, an extra 25 hp compared to the previous model, while torque is up to 216
lb.-ft. The VTEC equipped engine also has increased fuel economy, is lighter in weight by
18% and has increased compression ratio. This racing bred masterpiece uses a 60o
V-angle set up to deliver smoothness and immediate response.
The standard 4-speed, electronically controlled transmission
features a new Sequential SportShift™ mode, similar to the system in the NSX sports
car. The driver can elect to either let the automatic transmission shift in a conventional
manner, or manually shift the transmission. By positioning the transmission lever into a
special SportShift gate, up and down shifts can be commanded with a quick touch of the
lever.
Gear position is indicated by a digital display positioned prominently in the tachometer face. The result is the satisfying control of a manual transmission with the convenience of an automatic.
Like all Acura vehicles, the TL features an upper and lower control arm suspension, also known as double wishbone, similar in configuration to the suspensions on Formula One race cars. This system exercises more precise control over toe change and translates to better stability at speed, improved steering response and better bump absorption. The rear suspension features a sophisticated new 5 link set-up. This set-up provides exceptional handling characteristics, and is much more compact - a factor that helps account for the TL's spacious interior and trunk. The tire specification this year includes 16 in. tires mounted on new 7 spoke aluminum wheels.
The TL's speed sensitive steering system provides the immediate, intuitive response of an accomplished sports sedan. This system alters power assist based on vehicle speed, a more efficient and more practical system than those based purely on engine speed. At low speed, such as parking, the system provides maximum assist to make maneuvering nearly effortless. As speed increases, power assist diminishes to increase precision and control. Given the TL's increased power
output, and the need for all-weather drivability, a new Traction Control System (TCS) is
standard equipment. Designed to operate at speeds under 25 mph, TCS uses an array of
sensors linked to a central processing unit. The TCS detects wheelspin, such as when
accelerating on a slippery surface, and automatically applies pressure to one or both
front brakes to limit wheelspin. Compared to the previous system which only reduced engine
power in the presence of wheelspin, this new arrangement delivers 30% better acceleration
in split-traction situations.
In typical Acura
fashion, the Xenon High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps do more with less. Compared to
conventional halogen lamps these lamps use less electrical energy, yet produce twice the
illumination. And as a bonus, their bulb life is double that of halogens. Overall, the
useful range of illumination on low beam is increased visibility and safety at night.
Typically an extra cost option (if offered at all) on competitive models, HID headlights
are standard on the TL.
The TL's keyless entry system activates the
Acura theft-deterrent security system, and includes a remote trunk lid release for added
convenience. In addition, the "smart" ignition key employs a special built-in
transponder tied in with the TL's immobilizer-equipped ignition system.
The Acura Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ uses
information from Global Positioning System (GPS) satellites and its own inertial
navigation system to precisely pinpoint the vehicle's location. It can guide you to a
selected destination by means of a visual cues on the 6-inch screen and audio alert such
as "Exit at next turn" or "Keep right," to minimize distraction to the
driver. The system can guide you to local restaurants or points of interest based on
inputting the destination's phone number. Geographic information is stored in the on-board
database and is updated annually at no charge for the first two years of ownership. After
the third year, the owner pays a minimal charge for updates.
The powerful, 150 watt Acura/Bose Audio System features a
standard CD player, cassette deck and AM/FM stereo and five precisely located Bose
speakers. A 6-disc CD changer located in the trunk is available as an option. An
impressive nine inch Bose Nd woofer utilizes a rare earth element magnet to provide
concert quality bass.
The 1999 TL features leather-trimmed seating made of
hand-selected U.S. sourced hides. The door panel inserts are also trimmed in leather. The
driver's seat features 8-way power adjustment while the passenger's seat features 4-way
power adjustment for a perfect fit. The seats also feature dual-density backrests for
support and comfort and deeper bolsters to help keep occupants in place under transient
maneuvers. |
