Topic: 2009 Acura TL: 300HP, SH-AWD

[The Mighty Duck]

According to our anonymous tipster, the '09 TL range will consist of two models. The front-wheel-drive car will be powered by a 3.5L V6 delivering 280 horsepower. The step-up version will feature SH AWD and have a 3.7L, 300-horsepower V6 underhood (presumably the same one used in the MDX). We're told the latter car is not a Type-S, by the way -- that trim level goes back into hibernation with the arrival of the '09.

http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/12/rumormill-2009-acrua-tl-to-come-in-2-flavors-gets-awd/#comments

I think Acura would have better luck making SH-AWD standard...  in this class of vehicle, I think people expect RWD or AWD.  I sure don't see many TLs or Saabs on the road (though I do so plenty of TSXs).  I also understand that for fuel-economy's sake, the smaller engine and FWD is a good combination.

Of course, it's the 300hp SH-AWD version I find interesting.    I'm also quite keen to see, assuming this report is true, what they do with a new Type S in the future.  Maybe a 400+ HP sport sedan using the DNA of the upcoming NSX-replacement, to go head to head with the M5 and RS4?  I have my doubts, but it's a nice fantasy...

[robarakira]

I see soo may TL's on our roads, way more than the plentiful TSXs too.

A major key to the TL's success is its value -- much stemming from it's Accord platform.  There are two types of TL buyers that come into the showroom - those that care about the drive, and those who don't even know it drive's front wheels.  Separating these models will probably be best for Acura.

[mmret]

SHAWD TL is a happy thought, provided that:

1. It looks as good or better than the current TL / TL-S.
2. It doesn't rattle.

[LBJGH]

Nice, almost as much power as a Subi STI and for only a few more bucks.

[Allen]

SHAWD TL is a happy thought, provided that:

1. It looks as good or better than the current TL / TL-S.
2. It doesn't rattle.

  and don't worry TL's don't rattle

[2JDM]

Nice, almost as much power as a Subi STI and for only a few more bucks.

Good point.

This would be a great luxury+AWD+Power route, but for barebones fun, Evo or STI would be it.

[Mitlov]

Nice, almost as much power as a Subi STI and for only a few more bucks.

Handling would be in a different universe though.  One's a world-class rally car; another is a fancied-up Accord.

[Wetson]

Now if we could just see some pictures of the new one that aren't camoflaged I'd be happy!

[The Mighty Duck]

Nice, almost as much power as a Subi STI and for only a few more bucks.

And a lot more refinement and luxury.    I adore the STI, but it becomes a harder sell when one pauses to think there are entrants with similar power and AWD like this TL (potentially) or the Infiniti EX in the same price range.  IMO a lightly used AWD 335i would be a better buy than an STI for most people.

[Mitlov]

Nice, almost as much power as a Subi STI and for only a few more bucks.

And a lot more refinement and luxury.    I adore the STI, but it becomes a harder sell when one pauses to think there are entrants with similar power and AWD like this TL (potentially) or the Infiniti EX in the same price range.  IMO a lightly used AWD 335i would be a better buy than an STI for most people.

ANY rally car, like any focused performance car, is expensive, uncomfortable, and lacking in amenities for "most people."  It's a niche car for enthusiasts.  Likewise, a Mercedes SL would be a better car for most people than a 911 GT3...but I'm not sure they should really be compared to begin with.

[ghost]

TL is not STi's competitor. It competes with LGT though. TL is a nice car. Too bad it was FWD. With AWD, it would be really really hot.

[mmret]

SHAWD TL is a happy thought, provided that:

1. It looks as good or better than the current TL / TL-S.
2. It doesn't rattle.

  and don't worry TL's don't rattle

You might have gotten a good one - there were comments posted at the bottom of that article that mentioned otherwise.

[Allen]

SHAWD TL is a happy thought, provided that:

1. It looks as good or better than the current TL / TL-S.
2. It doesn't rattle.

  and don't worry TL's don't rattle

You might have gotten a good one - there were comments posted at the bottom of that article that mentioned otherwise.

I haven't had a single squeak, rattle, wind noise or any other type of noise from mine

[safristi]

..? it's Electric??

[Mitlov]

and don't worry TL's don't rattle

I haven't had a single squeak, rattle, wind noise or any other type of noise from mine

I haven't had any unscheduled maintenances with my Jetta, but I don't go around saying "Jettas don't need unscheduled maintenances"

[Snowman]

A SHAWD TL would be a consideration for me if they could keep it under 1600 kg………or bump it up to 350 HP 

[Allen]

Please, please no diesels in a TL

[The Mighty Duck]

Please, please no diesels in a TL

  You don't like diesels, ergo nobody should get one?

[Allen]

Please, please no diesels in a TL

  You don't like diesels, ergo nobody should get one?

No please go get one from Mercedes or VW

[Allen]

finally some spy pictures that enable you to get a better feel of what it may look like, have to wait and actually see it, but not sure I like the angular looks of the back end... looks like the front grill will be similar to the 09 TSX

http://www.leftlanenews.com/acura-tl-future.html