2011 Acura TL: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2011 Acura TL sees no major changes pending a freshening due in calendar 2011 as a 2012 model. This premium-midsize sedan reprises Base and SH-AWD (for Super Handling All-Wheel Drive) trim levels. Base versions are front-wheel drive, a 280-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine, and a 5-speed automatic transmission. SH-AWD versions have a 305-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 and the choice of a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. They also have a sport suspension and 18-inch wheels versus the 17s on the Base. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front-side airbags, and curtain-side airbags. Also standard are leather upholstery with heated front seats, sunroof, wireless cell-phone link, and 8-speaker audio. A Technology Package, priced as a separate model, includes a 10-speaker audio and navigation system with real-time traffic and weather alerts. Base cars with the Technology Package are available with 18-inch wheels. For the SH-AWD, the Technology Package is required in order to get the manual transmission and/or optional 19-inch summer-only performance tires.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium-Midsize Cars sport interior dimensions similar to Midsize Cars. Premium-Midsize Cars offer more luxury, performance, and prestige when compared to Midsize Cars. Our Best Buys include the Acura TL, Cadillac CTS, Infiniti G Sedan, Jaguar XF, and Volkswagen CC. Our Recommended picks are the Audi A6, Lexus ES 350, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Volvo XC70. New or significantly redesigned models include the BMW 5-Series, Cadillac CTS Coupe, Cadillac CTS-V, Infiniti M, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class (convertible and wagon), and Volvo S60. For 2011, the Lincoln MKZ gains a gas/electric Hybrid model, and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan gains a new diesel model for 2011.