A 5-speed automatic transmission and front side airbags are 2000 additions to this American-built sedan from Honda's upscale division. Acura's best-selling model, the TL shares its platform with Honda's Accord and the redesigned Acura CL coupe.
A 3.2-liter V6 and automatic transmission continue, but the engine is tuned to deliver more low-speed power, and a 5-speed automatic replaces last year's 4-speed. The transmission retains Acura's SportShift manual gear-selection feature. Correcting another competitive deficit is the addition of standard front side airbags. Shared with Acura's RL and CL is a sensor system in the right front seat designed to prevent that side airbag from deploying if it would injure a small child. The right front dashboard airbag now also bases the rate of its deployment on collision severity.
TLs have standard leather upholstery, heated front seats, power moonroof, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, traction control, and high-intensity discharge headlamps. The sole factory option is an in-dash navigation system. For 2000, its touch-screen gets a matte finish designed to make it easier to read, and the database is upgraded to use DVD (digital video disc) technology. There's also now lighting for all power-window switches, not just the driver's switch.