2006 Acura TL: Road Test
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2006 Acura TL ▼
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- MSRP: $33,325 -$35,525
- Invoice: $30,384 -$32,387
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Our road test for the 2006 Acura TL includes a full evaluation of the 2006 Acura TL from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2006 Acura TL, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2006 Acura TL help you decide if a 2006 Acura TL is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base, auto. | Base w/nav. sys., man. | Base w/nav. sys. and perf. tires, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.7 |
Strong, though best above 3500 rpm. Test automatic-transmission TL did 0-60 mph in about 7.0 sec. Automatic downshifts smoothly, promptly for good midrange response. Manual-transmission test car did 6.2 sec 0-60. Manual has silky, short-throw shift action, but clutch engagement can be abrupt.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base, auto. | Base w/nav. sys., man. | Base w/nav. sys. and perf. tires, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 5 | 4.6 |
Test manual-transmission TLs averaged 17.7-23.3 mpg, depending on driving conditions. Test automatic-transmission version averaged 23.0 mpg. Acura recommends premium-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base, auto. | Base w/nav. sys., man. | Base w/nav. sys. and perf. tires, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 5 | 6.7 |
Stable, controlled, though tauter than comfort-minded rivals like Lexus ES 330. Manual-transmission models' handling-focused suspension gives even firmer ride, especially with the performance tires. Notably rigid body structure.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base, auto. | Base w/nav. sys., man. | Base w/nav. sys. and perf. tires, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 8 | 7.1 |
Agile and well-controlled, abetted by linear, nicely weighted steering. But rapid acceleration at low speed triggers marked torque-steer wander. This unwanted effect is most prevalent in TLs with manual transmission; evident with automatic only when accelerating rapidly out of tight corners. Strong, confident stopping power, enhanced by Brembo brakes on manual-transmission models.
QUIETNESS
| Base, auto. | Base w/nav. sys., man. | Base w/nav. sys. and perf. tires, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 7 | 6.8 |
Wind rush modest, but available performance tires roar intrusively. Engine note sporty but subdued.
CONTROLS
| Base, auto. | Base w/nav. sys., man. | Base w/nav. sys. and perf. tires, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 8 | 8 | 6.7 |
Clear gauges, well-marked controls. Cutting-edge DVD Audio sounds terrific. HandsFreeLink easy to use. Navigation system doesn't absorb primary audio/climate functions, but does complicate some adjustments, takes time to master, and often needs screen brightness changed to suit light conditions. Cabin near top of class for fit/finish, materials quality, and standard amenities like leather upholstery and heated power front seats.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base, auto. | Base w/nav. sys., man. | Base w/nav. sys. and perf. tires, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7.4 |
Comfortable seats with good lateral support for spirited driving, though some testers say they're firmer than necessary and too sharply contoured. Sufficient space for six-footers, but cockpitlike design makes for cozy feel.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base, auto. | Base w/nav. sys., man. | Base w/nav. sys. and perf. tires, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 5.5 |
Tight head room for taller riders. Seat cushion low to floor, oddly shaped, lacks thigh support. Leg room gets tight if front seats are more than halfway back. Entry/exit requires negotiating narrow lower door frame.
CARGO ROOM
| Base, auto. | Base w/nav. sys., man. | Base w/nav. sys. and perf. tires, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 4 |
Smallish trunk, but usefully shaped. Low liftover, but constricted opening. Lid hinges intrude, but are covered to prevent cargo damage. Rear seatback doesn't fold, has small center ski pass-through. Modest in-cabin storage.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base, auto. | Base w/nav. sys., man. | Base w/nav. sys. and perf. tires, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 9 | 9 | 5.9 |
This Acura is an impressive blend of sport and luxury. Its only real dynamic flaw is the tendency toward torque steer--pulling to the side--during rapid acceleration in the manual-transmission version. Still, the TL is a solid Best Buy, delivering high refinement, solid workmanship, and lots of features at hard-to-beat prices.
Total Score
| Base, auto. | Base w/nav. sys., man. | Base w/nav. sys. and perf. tires, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 68 | 64 | 63 | 61.4 |
Total Score: 65
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