2011 Acura TL

Acura boasts of a well-rounded midsize luxury sedan-the 2011 Acura TL.

Performance

The TL does away with excess power through its 3.5 liter V6 that generates 280 horsepower and 254 pound-feet of torque and is also paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. However, for a hill start assist system, a six-speed manual transmission is an option. With the EPA-estimated figures of 18 mpg city/26 mpg highway and 21 mpg combined and as the automatic transmission goes from 0 to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds, while the manual does it in 5.6 seconds, the Acura TL delivers on impressive fuel economy.

Exterior & Interior

The 2011 Acura TL’s sleek outward appearance outlines its true nature as a people carrier. On the outside, it looks aggressive with an angular look along with a trunk that comes to a point in the back. Standard in the Acura TL are the 17-inch wheels, adaptive xenon headlamps, fog lamps, rear spoiler, a sunroof and a keyless ignition/entry. However, 18-inch wheels can be used on the base TL, while the standard 17-inch can be upgraded to 19-inch wheels on the SH-AWD. The 2011 Acura TL can be classified into two trim levels-TL and TL SH-AWD.

The interior features add to the superb level of refinement that Acura TL can be proud of. Ergonomic and pleasing to the eye, the seats come in upgraded, soft and supple leather upholstery. But, the supreme TL SH-AWD trim boasts firmer and deeper bolstered sport seats.

Options

A journey with this Acura sedan is never dull with its premium entertainment package such as the satellite radio, ten-speaker surround- sound system with digital music storage, an auxiliary audio jack, an iPod/USB audio interface, and Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity. High-tech car accessories also include heated eight-way power front seats , an auto dimming rearview mirror, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a navigation system, voice control, GPS-linked and solar – sensing dual zone automatic climate control, a real time traffic and weather and an upgraded interior metal trim. The TL is absolutely big on comfort as it comes with an adjustable and side bolstering driver’s seat and the rear seats can conveniently hold taller passengers.

Safety

Safety is not an issue with 2011 Acura TL as it incorporates four-wheel antilock disc brakes with brake assist which is reliable in panic stops, front-seat side airbags, side curtain airbags, active front restraints that are intended to minimize the risk of head and neck injury, and large flip-up headrests for protecting those in the rear seats. The 2011 Acura TL has also been awarded by the federal government with the highest score in all crash tests.

Another excellent rating was given by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for the front, side and rear crash tests undergone by the Acura TL. During brake testing, it came to a stop from 60 mph in a distance of 122 feet. Like the Acura RL, the TL also received an impressive reliability rating. The manufacturer also provides its customers with a four-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a six-year/70,000-mile power train warranty and the latest unique roadside assistance.

The Competition

For cheaper people carrier with user-friendly interior and solid build quality, others may consider the Lexus ES (MSRP $36,725; 19 city / 27 hwy). The Infiniti G37 (MSRP $35,800; 19 city / 27 hwy) is also worth a look for its thrilling driving performance in any weather situation. For more storage, the Infiniti M37 (MSRP $47,050; 18 city / 26 hwy) and Cadillac CTS (MSRP $35,345; 16 city / 26 hwy) are better options.

Pros & Cons

The 2011 Acura TL received negative feedbacks for its polarizing exterior design, small trunk and expensive all-wheel drive and technology package options, and the base TL model’s numb steering. However, the Acura TL takes pride in its longer list of advantages such as remarkable sound system and iPod integration, advanced climate and entertainment features, posh and high quality interior, reliable responsiveness of SH-AWD, high crash test scores and outstanding build quality. Also, as a Japanese car, the 2011 Acura TL comes with a great resale value.

Overall Rating
75 out of 100

What others say:

“If the bold exterior is to your liking, the 2011 Acura TL is a solid luxury value—and the SH-AWD has true sport-sedan chops.”Car Connection

“The manual transmission is a delight, providing slick shifts and an easy-to-modulate clutch. With the automatic, drivers can use the paddle shifters to make manual shifts even with the transmission set in fully automatic mode.”Consumer Guide

“Abundant user-friendly high-tech features; spacious cabin; smart all-wheel-drive system; superb optional sound system; solid construction; excellent crash test scores.”Edmunds

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Sedan Base Price: $35,605.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70 liters) Miles Per Gallon: 20 city / 29 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 194 in. (492.8 cm) Width: 74 in. (188 cm)
Height: 57.2 in. (145 cm) Wheel Base: 109.3 in. (277.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 3669 lbs (1678 kg) Ground Clearance: 5.7 in. (14.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 13.1 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Engine: 3.5L V6 DOHC Displacement: 3.5 LITERS
Horsepower: 280 HP Max RPM: 6200 RPM
Torque: 254 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
Available Trims & Engine
Option:TL SH-AWD MSRP: $45,085; MPG: 18 city / 26 hwy

->