2001-2003 Acura CL: Road Test

While the second-generation CL maintains solid near-luxury credentials, it's noticeably sportier than previous models. Each version is predictable, crisp, and responsive. A Type-S with automatic ran 0-60 mph in just 6.7 seconds, and showed equally strong highway passing power. Add quick steering, fine grip and cornering balance, plus a stable high-speed ride, and the Type-S rivals most any competitor for dynamic ability--including the vaunted BMW 3-Series. The base model is a shade tamer, but still boasts sure acceleration (0-60 in under 8 seconds) and confident road manners. Automatic transmissions in either model can be slightly indecisive in mountain driving, but otherwise smooth and alert, shifting promptly and without jolting. The six-speed's narrow gates can confuse gear selection in quick shifting. Acura recommends premium fuel for both models. As for economy, new Type-S coupes averaged 19.5 to 23 mpg, while base models returned 19.3 to 24.5 mpg and a manual-shift Type-S scored 23.3 mpg. Not an all-around athlete, the CL produces too much noseplow and tire scrubbing in aggressive cornering. A Type-S can suffer torque steer, too, under full-throttle bursts. Either CL is taut but comfortable riding over broken surfaces, though lower-profile tires and a firmer suspension make the Type-S jiggle a bit on washboards and expansion joints. Tire roar intrudes on coarse pavement, and Type-S tire slap annoys on patchy surfaces. Wind noise is minimal, and refined engines emit a pleasant, muted snarl under hard throttle. Braking is swift, stable, confident, and easy to modulate, with little nosedive in panic stops. Carefully assembled from classy materials, the CL cabin is rare among coupes for being airy and roomy (at least in front). Thin roof pillars and a low-cowl dashboard provide terrific visibility, though less so to the rear. Front bucket seats are well-shaped, comfortable and supportive, with plenty of leg and shoulder space; only tall folks may lack headroom. In back is bucket-type seating for two, but only preteens will agree to ride there for long. Front entry/exit is no problem, but rear access is typical coupe crouch-and-crawl. Because the CL uses the well-designed TL dashboard, standard climate controls are a stretch for drivers with shorter arms. The optional navigation system governs some climate and audio functions, but it's less distracting than some. Interior storage is good, but cupholders are shallow. The roomy trunk features a knee-high liftover and a pass-through portal, but fold-down seatbacks are not available and sickle-shaped hinges steal cargo space.

Value for the Money
Acura's prior CL seemed like little more than a restyled two-door Honda Accord. This one has a sportier personality that should satisfy demanding drivers. While lacking the agility of a BMW 3-Series, it appeals for brisk acceleration and adept ride/handling balance. Well-equipped when new, CLs make few concessions to pricier European coupes in performance, comfort, or quality.