Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Acura TSX, 2007

Acura TSX, 2007

 
 
The Acura TSX is one of the hottest luxury sedans on the road today, setting sales records month after month since its introduction and winning over enthusiasts customers and automotive press with its blend of outstanding performance, nimble handling and sporty styling. The TSX continues to distance itself from the competition by offering class-leading technology and the latest standard safety features, including a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) new for 2007 model year.

The 2007 TSX is equipped with a 2.4 liter DOHC i-VTEC(TM) 4-cylinder engine, generating 205 horsepower and 164 lb-ft of torque*, giving the TSX engine overall performance comparable to many 6-cylinder powerplants. The i-VTEC "intelligent" valve-control system delivers enhanced performance across a broad power band, superior fuel economy and reduced exhaust emissions. A direct ignition system with knock control helps optimize power and fuel efficiency by ensuring a properly timed spark at all engine speeds.

The TSX engine is equipped with a drive-by-wire throttle control system that eliminates the need for a mechanical connection between the accelerator pedal and the engine, which continuously adjusts the sensitivity of the accelerator pedal to match current driving conditions. It also incorporates throttle control into the car's Vehicle Stability Assist(R) (VSA(R)) system, the vehicle's cruise control function and modulates the throttle to help make automatic transmission shifts even smoother.

Platinum-tipped spark plugs and a self-adjusting cam chain help the TSX run for 100,000 miles or more before requiring a major scheduled tune-up.

Since many performance enthusiasts prefer shifting gears, the TSX comes with either a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission or a compact 5-speed Sequential SportShift automatic transmission as standard equipment. The lightweight 6-speed gearbox features short shift throws and multi-cone synchronizers on all gears for quick, light shifting action. The transmission case is made from magnesium alloy, a material typically reserved for racing applications. This case weighs 6.6 pounds less than a comparable aluminum unit and is extremely rigid to damp out noise and vibration.

Along with its impressive 205 horsepower output, the TSX with manual transmission delivers 22 mpg city/30mpg highway, while the TSX with automatic transmission delivers 22 mpg city/31 mpg highway. Air-assisted fuel injectors, an underfloor catalyzer and a high-flow, low-heat mass exhaust manifold help the TSX achieve EPA Tier 2-Bin 5,Carb Low Emission Vehicle-2 (LEV-2) emissions status.

To complement its high-adrenaline powertrain with sports car-like handling, the TSX features an extremely rigid unit body structure and a race-bred, 4-wheel-independent double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension. The suspension is track-tuned to reduce lift, dive and body roll and boasts gas-pressurized shock absorbers and large front and rear stabilizer bars. A quick-ratio, variable power assist rack-and-pinion steering system provides outstanding feel and responsiveness and features an anti-kickback valve for reduced kickback on rough roads.

Handling is further enhanced by a Vehicle Stability Assist(R) (VSA(R)) that works in concert with the braking and drive-by-wire throttle systems to provide enhanced control during acceleration, braking and cornering. This 4-channel system also orchestrates the throttle and each of the vehicle's four disc brakes to seamlessly integrate traction control, anti-lock braking and stability enhancement for increased driver control. The electronically controlled Brake Assist feature helps the driver apply full brake pressure during accident avoidance situations.

To provide stability and offer superb stopping power, the TSX is equipped with 4-wheel disc brakes with 4-channel ABS, 17-inch alloy wheels and P215/50R17 Michelin all-season high-performance tires.

The body of the TSX offers crisp lines and dynamic curves. In front, styling cues include a signature 5-sided Acura grille, angular side markers and bumper-integrated fog lamps. In the rear, the taillights slope to meet a short, high trunk lid, which terminates sharply to help air separate cleanly off the back of the car at top speeds. Stylish nine-spoke alloy wheels finish the TSX's sporty appearance.

The TSX is available in nine exterior colors: Premium White Pearl, Alabaster Silver Metallic, Carbon Gray Pearl, Nighthawk Black Pearl, Artic Blue Pearl, Royal Blue Pearl, Glacier Blue Metallic, Deep Green Pearl, and Milano Red.

The five-passenger interior of the TSX is sporty yet refined with modern LED- illuminated instrumentation and intuitive controls. Like the RL and TL sedans, the TSX comes equipped with standard Bluetooth(R) enabled hands-free phone system. The system, called HandsFreeLink(TM), enables a Bluetooth(R) wireless interface with mobile phones allowing calls to be made and received using the TSX's voice recognition and audio interfaces. To make a call, drivers push the steering wheel-mounted HandsFreeLink(TM) button, which connects their phone to the system. The HandsFreeLink(TM) system can be programmed to accept up to six different phones and up to 50 numbers may be stored in the system's phone book.

The comprehensively equipped TSX features deeply bolstered, perforated leather seating surfaces, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power moonroof, power windows and door locks and keyless entry. The leather-wrapped three-spoke sport steering wheel provides a sporty feel, features wheel-mounted audio and cruise control as well as voice recognition and HandFreeLink switches.

The TSX comes equipped with a 360-watt Acura Premium Sound System with standard XM(R) Satellite Radio and an auxiliary jack located in the center console for playing MP3 and other digital music devices. The standard 8-way power adjustable driver's seat features two-position memory, so when the driver enters the car with the key fob, the TSX automatically adjusts the driver's seat to their preferred position. In addition, tilt and telescopic steering wheel allows the TSX to accommodate a wide range of drivers. A 4-way adjustable power passenger seat increases passenger comfort and convenience.

The only factory option (other than transmission choice) on the TSX is the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition (TM). This easy to use navigation system features a menu of 560 voice commands, an 8-inch display, and a comprehensive destination guide with over 7 million points of interest including the Zagat Survey(TM) Restaurant Guide, 3-D graphics for freeway interchanges including on and off-ramps and turn-by-turn voice guidance. In addition, 1.7 million U.S. cities and street names can be accessed through the voice recognition system. The navigation system can be controlled through the steering wheel-mounted voice recognition button or by using the menu on the touch screen.

To ensure proper maintenance intervals and reduce the number of service visits, the TSX features a Maintenance Minder system that automatically monitors the vehicle's unique operating profile and alerts the driver via the Multi-Information Display when certain types of routine service, including oil and filter replacement and tire rotation, are needed.

The TSX is also equipped with standard dual-stage, dual-threshold driver's and front passenger's airbags, and side airbags for the driver and front passenger. The passenger's side airbag uses seven sensors in the seatback and side bolster to determine the height and position of the occupant. If the sensors detect that a child or small-stature adult is leaning into the deployment path of the side airbag, the bag will not deploy.

To further enhance safety, side curtain airbags help protect vehicle occupants from head and neck injuries in the event of a significant side impact. Additionally, the 2007 TSX is now equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Like all Acura models, the TSX is covered by a comprehensive 4-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty, and a 6-year / 70,000 mile powertrain limited warranty. Additional ownership benefits include Acura Total Luxury Care (TLC), which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service, and trip routing.
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Acura TL, 2012

Acura TL, 2012

 
 
 

With athletic and emotional styling, powerful engine performance and a Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) model, the fourth-generation Acura TL is nothing less than the most exciting performance luxury sedan in Acura history. After a complete from-the-wheels-up redesign for 2009, Acura aimed to enhance every aspect of the original model. Featuring a stiff unit-body construction with expansive use of high-strength steel (as well as key aluminum components), unique and dramatic exterior styling, a choice of two powerful VTEC V-6 powertrains (280-hp 3.5L and 305-hp 3.7L), Electric Power Steering (EPS), and a luxurious and technologically advanced interior, the Acura TL sets the benchmark for the future direction of the Acura division.

For 2011, the Acura TL received the Automotive Lease Guide (ALG®) award for the best residual value of any Near Luxury vehicle, with the overall Acura brand taking the second place spot for best residual value for all Luxury Brands. Such independent recognition indicates the strong value and quality that the Acura brand offers.

However, for 2012 engineers went back to work to further refine the Acura TL with even better attributes. Most apparent are the visual changes that incorporate new front and rear styling, but also present is a new Sequential SportShift 6-speed automatic transmission for improved performance and fuel economy, a revised interior and a host of technology upgrades.

At the rear, a new rear bumper incorporates a significantly repositioned license plate opening and much smaller rear reflectors, while updated taillights and a thinner rear trunk edge trim add to a sophisticated new look. Also adding to the exterior looks are new 17- and 18-inch aluminum wheels fitted with a revised center cap featuring a raised-style, chrome-plated Acura "A" mark.

To increase performance, a new Sequential SportShift 6-speed automatic transmission is used with all TL models. In addition to incorporating engineering enhancements aimed at improving efficiency, a sport-minded double-kick-down feature lets the driver command a double downshift — such as from Fifth to Third gear. The Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system also creates a "blip" of the throttle to help match gear speeds while downshifting.

In addition, the transmission teams with a new multi-clutch torque converter that not only reduces heat build-up during operation, but also allows for lock-up activation during a much wider range of driving conditions — which helps generate improved fuel economy. As a result, city/highway fuel economy is now 20/29 mpg — an increase of 3 mpg in highway driving over the 2011 TL. To further improve operating efficiency, the TL's 3.5L V-6 engine receives a host of friction-reduction technologies while a revised air inlet system provides cooler air for both the 3.5L and 3.7L engines.

Previously, only the Acura TL SH-AWD made use of an external transmission cooler (for hot weather driving), but for 2012 all models of the TL are now fitted with an external transmission cooler.

The 2012 TL is available in numerous configurations including a choice between front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive. The performance-minded 6MT model will continue to be offered in the 2012 TL lineup, helping broaden the TL's appeal among luxury performance sedan buyers. However, the TL 6MT goes well beyond the addition of a unique transmission. Acura engineers developed a complete performance package for the 6-speed model that includes numerous enhancements to handling, steering and reliability. Not only is the manual transmission model the best performing Acura TL ever, but it is the top performer in handling amongst every vehicle in its class.

The 2012 Acura TL is a powerful and precise performance luxury sedan that is as confident and composed on a mountain road as it is in the city center. Replacing the previous generation TL's Type-S model is the Acura TL SH-AWD® model that is built for the enthusiast driver. Featuring Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™, special suspension and steering tuning, the most powerful engine from Acura ever and an optional performance minded close-ratio 6-speed manual gearbox, the 2012 TL offers plenty of appeal for both commuters and performance enthusiasts. Unlike some sedan competitors that add all-wheel-drive to their vehicle to primarily help in winter conditions, the TL's available SH-AWD® was specially designed to dramatically enhance sporty handling in addition to further enhancing the vehicle's winter-driving capability. This means that the Acura TL SH-AWD® is inspiring to drive year-round.

For 2012, the Acura TL has a fresh new look to back up its performance, including a new front bumper which teams with a more refined grille. In addition, front end styling benefits from updated headlights and turn signals and a new fog light design. Along with providing improved aerodynamics, the refined front of the Acura TL features a shorter front overhang. Just as with the 2011 TL, the 2012 TL exterior makes use of luxury cues like genuine stainless-steel trim, LED taillights and dynamic surface lines immediately capturing the viewer's attention.

Underhood, for 2012 the Acura TL has a new Battery Management System (BMS) that is designed to increase the overall service life of the battery, reduce the chance of a dead battery and help deliver improved fuel economy. The 3.5L and 3.7L engines make use of an updated cold air inlet system along with all-new dual fine electrode spark plugs that help improve combustion and further expand the operating efficiency of the EGR system.

Inside, the 2012 TL benefits from an even further refined cabin that includes updates such as available ventilated front seats, instrument cluster changes and new surface finishes for many interior appointments. The further expansion of intuitive and customizable technologies enables the 2012 Acura TL owner to better stay connected with the world around them as well as to be able to use their time more efficiently. For 2012, a larger HDD system (now 60 gigabytes) works with a brighter and more colorful monitor, there is an increase to 15 GB of dedicated space for the storage of up to 3,500 songs, and now there is even faster USB port connectivity. Technology improvements abound with the 2012 TL in the form of the availability of Song By Voice™, refinement of Bluetooth® Audio (now with artists name, song title, etc.), new "active pairing" functionality for Bluetooth® enabled cellular telephones, dial-by-number and dial-by-voice tags, and even further expanded map information for the navigation system.

Within the TL, occupants are treated to an engaging interior which includes advanced LED lighting throughout the cabin, thickly bolstered leather seating and flowing metallic or wood patterned accents.

As expected from Acura, the TL's range of standard safety features is exemplary and includes six airbags, active head restraints for the front seats, and the advantages of Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body design.

In addition, a Technology Package is available on both models. Featuring items such as Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting™, AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ with radar image mapping, the Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system, Bluetooth® Audio and the Keyless Access System (with Smart Entry and pushbutton ignition), the Technology Package offers a comprehensive electronic array of features. New for the 2012 TL is Song By Voice™ (SBV) that allows the driver to select audio choices via voice activation, rather than having to remove a hand from the steering wheel.

When equipped with the Advance Package, a new blind spot information (BSI) system can detect other vehicles when they are located in the blind spot of the Acura TL driver. Also part of the Advance Package are ventilated front seats and larger wheels/tires.
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