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2003 Acura 3.2 TL Road Test

Still A Viable Contender

Acuras current midsize entry has done well, pulling its share of aspiring executives to the Japanese automakers premium brand. While similar to the Honda Accord in many ways, the TLs clean, understated styling exudes a European flair, the kind of subtle sophistication that shows discriminating taste, but wont upstage the boss.

Initially launched in 1994 as a 1995 model, but redesigned to its current body style in model year 1999, the TL has only been refined for 2003 in anticipation of an all-new 2004 model (see Acura Concept TL in the concepts section of this web site for a sneak preview).

Enhancements include restyled

Anticipating an all-new model in 2004, the 2003 Acura TL has only been refined from prior years. (Photo: Acura)

door mirrors for improved aerodynamics and a resultant reduction in wind noise, as well as added insulation to achieve a quieter cabin. Also, the sporty Type S model ups its image with perforated leather door trim to match its perforated leather seat inserts.

Those front bucket seats are some of the best Ive ever tested, especially in Type S trim.

The Acuras 225-hp 3.2-L VTEC V6 is smooth and refined, but the 260-hp Type S version (shown) is a jewel of an engine. (Photo: Acura)

Still theres nothing wrong with the regular TL seats, firm and supportive with superb lateral support fitting the cars sporting demeanor.

In base guise the TL boasts a robust 225-hp 3.2-L VTEC V6 with 216 lb-ft of torque, matched to an extremely well sorted 5-speed Sequential SportShift automatic transmission. The Acura V6 is a jewel of an engine, high revving but as smooth and refined as modern 6-cylinders come. The transmission is

Smooth on the throttle is the order of the day. In Type S trim, stomping on the gas can result in serious torque-steer. (Photo: Acura)

equally impressive, allowing sequential manual shifting. The feature doesnt necessarily improve the rate of acceleration but does hold a chosen gear through corners, benefiting at the limit control and overall performance.

The same slick transmission comes as part of the upgraded 3.2 TL Type S, but now mated to a much more stimulating, performance tuned 260-hp V6 with 232 lb-ft of torque. Both models are adept handlers with a fully independent double-wishbone suspension system and alloy wheels as standard equipment.

With an above average interior and decent list of standard features, the TL holds itself high in the entry sport/luxury class. (Photo: Acura)

But the Type S is that much more rewarding with its sport tuned suspension and 1-inch larger diameter wheels and tires, from P205/60R16 to P215/50R17. Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS come standard on both models, proving very effective when the need to reduce speed quickly is pressing.

The only TL performance bane is torque-steer, a common problem among front-wheel drive cars with unequal length driveshafts. Its not as pronounced in the base model, due to its lower torque, but often mars an otherwise superb driving experience in the Type S. To keep control during takeoff its important to apply the throttle gradually, focusing

While the TLs interior fit and finish is excellent and quality of most materials above average, the faux wood trim that surrounds the lower console and center stack looks and feels anything but real. (Photo: Acura)

on smooth pedal actuation rather than just stomping on the accelerator - a shame as the latter can be so much fun. Still, professional drivers constantly preach smoothness over aggressive throttle and braking input, hence the TL Type S is a good tutor.

For an entry sport/luxury sedan the TL offers up a decent amount of standard features including automatic climate control, leather and wood trim, heated power front seats, remote keyless entry, a theft-deterrent system, and a Bose stereo system with cassette and in-dash 6-disc CD changer. Type-S trim adds the aforementioned perforated-leather seats, a metallic-face instrument panel and ebony wood-patterned trim for TLs with black interior - tan

The TLs navigation system covers all major freeways and metropolitan areas in the U.S. but will leave you stranded in Canada - food for thought if you travel north of the border. (Photo: Acura)

is the alternative.

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