(continued from above)
"The 2012 Acura TL is refined, yet aggressive," said Jeff Conrad, vice
president of Acura sales. "Already known for its great performance, the enhanced
TL has a sophisticated new look and an all-new 6-speed automatic transmission
that will take performance to the next level."
The 2012 TL's refined new
look includes a redesigned front bumper with improved aerodynamics, a revised
grille, updated headlights and turn signals, a new fog light design and a
shorter front overhang. At the rear, a new rear bumper incorporates a
significantly repositioned license plate opening and smaller rear reflectors,
while updated taillights and a thinner rear trunk edge trim add to a
sophisticated new look.
New Sequential SportShift 6-Speed Automatic
Transmission
To increase performance, a new Sequential SportShift
6-speed automatic transmission is applied on all TL models with automatic
transmission. In addition to incorporating engineering enhancements aimed at
improving efficiency, a sport-minded double-kick-down feature lets the driver
command a double downshift - such as from Fifth to Third gear. The Drive-by-Wire
throttle system also creates a "blip" of the throttle to help match gear speeds
while downshifting.
In addition, the transmission teams with a new
multi-clutch torque converter that not only reduces heat build-up during
operation, but also allows for lock-up activation during a much wider range of
driving conditions - which helps generate improved fuel economy. As a result,
city/highway fuel economy is now 20/29 mpg - an increase of 3 mpg in highway
driving over the 2011 TL. To further improve operating efficiency, the TL's
standard 3.5L V-6 engine receives a host of friction-reduction technologies
while a revised air inlet system provides cooler air for both the 3.5L and 3.7L
engines.
V6 Engines Remain Unchanged for 2012
For 2012, two
distinct versions of Acura's performance luxury sedan remain: a 280 horsepower,
front-wheel-drive TL along with a powerful 305 hp TL paired with Acura's
exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). The performance-minded 6MT
model will continue to be offered in the 2012 TL SH-AWD lineup, helping broaden
the TL's appeal among luxury performance sedan buyers.
Acura TL SH-AWD: Review (2/2)