Honda announced today that Acura achieved a historic first in safety testing today by earning top government and IIHS safety ratings for every vehicle in its lineup.

The historic first came after the NHTSA awarded the 2009 Acura TL a 5-star rating for side impact for both front and rear passenger seating. In Nov. 2008, the IIHS award the 2009 TL a top safety rating of “Good” for frontal, side and rear crash evaluation.

“No other automotive brand has accomplished what Acura has, nor can make the safety claims that Acura can,” John Mendel, executive vice president of Acura automobile sales said. “When consumers think safety, they really should think Acura.”

So when you guys think safety – what automaker pops up in your head first?

Click through for the press release.

Press Release:

Acura Achieves Another Historic First in Safety Testing

Entire Acura Line-up Receives Top Safety Ratings from NHTSA and IIHS for Crash Worthiness 

For the first time in the history of automotive safety crash testing, an automobile nameplate has simultaneously earned top government and IIHS safety ratings for every vehicle in its line-up.

On March 25, 2009, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA*), as part of its New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) testing, awarded the all-new 2009 Acura TL performance luxury sedan a 5-Star rating – its top rating – for side impact crash safety for both front and rear passenger seating positions. In earlier NHTSA testing, the 2009 TL achieved top safety ratings (a 5-Star rating for frontal crash performance for both driver and front passenger along with a 5-Star rating for Rollover resistance) meaning the 2009 TL now ranks as a top performer in all governmental safety ratings.

In November 2008 the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the 2009 Acura TL performance luxury sedan its top safety rating of “GOOD” for Frontal Offset Crash Test, Side Impact Crashworthiness Evaluation (SICE) and Rear Crash Evaluation. Furthermore, all Acura vehicles employ Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®), an electronic stability control system that, when combined with GOOD ratings in Frontal, Side and Rear crash protection allow every 2009 Acura model to earn the IIHS’ prestigious TOP SAFETY PICK rating.

“Acura’s achievement means that no matter which Acura model buyers choose, they’re getting a high level protection for the most common types of real-world crashes,” said IIHS president Adrian Lund.

The 2009 TL’s top safety ratings, combined with the rest of the Acura line-up’s top safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, mark the first time in history that an automotive nameplate has achieved top honors for front, side and rear crash worthiness for all of the vehicles in its lineup.

“No other automotive brand has accomplished what Acura has, nor can make the safety claims that Acura can,” said John Mendel, executive vice president of automobile sales. “When consumers think safety, they really should think Acura.”

The NHTSA and IIHS safety ratings are a direct result of Acura’s “Safety Through Innovation” initiative that is based on the brand’s commitment to leadership in safety. The initiative’s goal is for all Acura models to provide a high level of occupant protection along with injury mitigation to pedestrians, as well as increased crash compatibility with other passenger vehicles – regardless of vehicle size or price.

For 2009, all Acura models include as standard equipment the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure along with a host of other standard safety equipment including Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®), anti-lock braking system (ABS), dual-stage/dual-threshold front airbags, front-side airbags with passenger side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS), side airbags for all outboard seating positions, front seats with integrated active head restraints, front seatbelts with automatic tensioning system and load limiters, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Daytime Running Lights (DRL).

Acura’s ACE™ body structure is designed to help absorb the energy of a frontal crash, while also helping to minimize the potential for an “under-ride” or “over-ride” phenomenon that can occur during frontal impact with a significantly larger, smaller, higher or lower vehicle. ACE™ channels frontal crash energy to both upper and lower structural elements, including the floor frame rails, side sills and A-pillars. These specially engineered load pathways help distribute frontal impact forces through a greater percentage of the vehicle’s total structure and away from the passenger compartment.

Acura engineers have the advantage of being able to utilize two ultra-sophisticated crash test facilities, including the world’s first indoor multi-directional car-to-car crash testing facility, located in Tochigi, Japan. This facility has played a crucial role in the development of enhanced designs for occupant and pedestrian safety as well as vehicle-to-vehicle compatibility.

Acura engineers also utilize the company’s Raymond, Ohio, Automotive Safety Research Facility to perform advanced testing on all U.S.-developed models. The facility features the world’s first pitching test sled, which aids efficiency by enabling economical, repeatable and quick crash test simulations with certain interior safety components (such as seats and seatbelts) prior to conducting a crash test with an actual vehicle. The lab also features one of the world’s highest resolution impact barriers, which enables precise measurement of the distribution of impact load forces on a vehicle allowing for even more advanced vehicle designs.

Acura has been the first to market on many safety technologies including: the first production vehicle in the U.S. to offer a 4-channel anti-lock braking system; the first car to have dual-stage driver- and passenger-side airbags; the first luxury SUV to receive a 5-Star crash safety rating from NHTSA; and the first production vehicle to offer Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS) that varies the deployment of the passenger side airbag depending on the occupant’s body location.

As part of its commitment to improving safety for all road users, Acura has also led the U.S. industry in the application of features designed to reduce injuries to pedestrians in a collision (such as collapsible hood hinges and breakaway windshield wiper pivots) with a focus on reducing severe head injuries which account for 60 percent of pedestrian fatalities. In addition, the company sought to better understand the dynamics of pedestrian collisions, thus it developed the POLAR II safety test dummy which is widely recognized as the world’s most advanced pedestrian safety test dummy.

- By: Omar Rana

It seems like dealer Dave Conant really believes in Acura and Honda’s U.S. executives when they say Acura will soon be a top-tier luxury brand playing in the major leagues with Lexus, Mercedes and BMW. So much so that Conant spent $20 million upgrading his Acura dealership in suburban Los Angeles betting that this time Honda will succeed.

“We invested in this facility on the bet they really mean it,” Conant told Automotive News.

Jeff Conrad, vice president of American Honda’s Acura division admits that dealer expectations are high. He says that Acura is working hard to improve its vehicles, marketing, and retail network but reaching those goals will take some time.

“Every product we launch becomes more of a Tier 1 product.” Conrad says. “But you don’t just snap your fingers and do it overnight. It is a long-term effort.”

Let us know if you think that the $34,955 2009 Acura TL 3.5L V6 engine is a Tier 1 product in the comments section below and give us you’re input on if and how Acura can become a Tier 1 brand. Oh, and while your at it, let us know what you think about Dave Conant spending $20 million to upgrade his Acura dealership.

Acura has announced that it will ‘further up its game for performance minded TL driver’ (right…) by offering a manual transmission on the new 2010 Acura TL SH-AWD. The 6-speed manual transmission TL SH-AWD will hit the showrooms next fall as a 2010 model year.

This is the first time Acura is ever offering a 6-speed manual transmission for its Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system, which Acura says is 100 pounds lighter than the Sequential SportShort automatic transmission currently being sold.

The transmission will be mated to the TL’s new 3.7L V6 engine that produces 305-hp. A Manual transmission for Acura seems like a step in the right direction but let’s hope they strengthen the brand a little before getting into high-performance models like the ‘F’ for Lexus.

Click through for high-res images and the press release.

2009 Acura TL:

Press Release:

2010 Acura TL to Offer All-New Manual Transmission

New 6-Speed Manual Will Be Available Next Fall on TL SH-AWD Model

By adding an available manual transmission to the TL SH-AWD® model, Acura will further up its game for performance minded TL drivers who prefer the winding route over the direct route, Acura announced today. Available next fall for the 2010 model year, will be a TL SH-AWD® with 6-speed manual transmission and numerous modifications to enhance vehicle dynamics.

“The new manual transmission equipped TL SH-AWD® really allows the enthusiast driver to take full advantage of the performance of Acura’s SH-AWD® system,” said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of sales, “Not only is the new manual transmission model the best performing Acura TL ever, it is the top handling performer among every vehicle in its class.”

The availability of a 6-speed manual transmission for the 2010 TL SH-AWD® represents the first time Acura has ever paired its acclaimed Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ system with a manual gearbox. In addition, the new close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission is approximately 110 lbs lighter than the Sequential SportShift automatic transmission to further benefit acceleration, braking and cornering.

The 6-speed manual transmission is an all-new design that is substantially stronger than the previous generation TL manual transmission. In addition to using a more rigid aluminum case and heavier-duty internals, the new manual transmission employs precisely selected gear ratios based on the characteristics of the TL’s new 3.7L V-6 engine and SH-AWD® drivetrain. New gear synchronizers deliver improved shift accuracy and feel, and a short-throw shifter assembly generates confident shifting combined with low shift effort.

Acura engineers also designed an entirely new clutch system for the new 6-speed manual transmission to withstand the TL’s robust power output while also improving modulation for noticeably easier use. The new self-adjusting, dual-mass clutch delivers extremely constant pedal effort throughout the entire stroke of the pedal. By keeping the effort linear, the driver has improved feel that results in better clutch interaction.

The TL SH-AWD® 6MT has a specially calibrated Hill Start Assist system that helps prevent the vehicle from rolling backwards when the driver switches from the brake to the accelerator while stopped on a hill. When the road incline exceeds an 8-degree threshold and the vehicle is fully stopped, Hill Start Assist automatically activates. When Hill Start Assist is active, the brakes automatically hold for one second as the driver’s foot transitions from the brake to the accelerator pedal. The brakes are automatically released when the vehicle begins to move forward.

The 2010 TL SH-AWD® 6MT has exclusive suspension tuning via special coil spring and shock absorber rates tuned for flatter cornering with reduced pitching motions under acceleration and braking. The front dampers incorporate 5-percent more tension damping during low piston speeds to generate improved turn-in feel. In addition, the front dampers generate 14-percent less high speed compression damping which helps improve ride quality.

The TL SH-AWD® 6MT employs firmer engine and transmission bushings that better resist engine and/or transmission movement during spirited driving. Engine side mount bushing stiffness increases by 80-percent, front mount rate increases by 17-percent, rear hydro mount firmness increases by 50-percent and the transmission upper mount is stiffened by 100-percent.

For 6-speed manual transmission applications, special heavy-duty front driveshafts are used. In addition to being 2-percent larger in diameter, the driveshafts have a larger inboard spline size and team with more heavy-duty CV joints.

The TL SH-AWD® fit with the new 6-speed transmission will also benefit from exclusive Electronic Power Steering (EPS) tuning. Just as with the TL SH-AWD® with Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic, the EPS delivers low steering effort for parking maneuvers that progressively firms up as speed increases.

With the 6-speed manual transmission TL SH-AWD®, the EPS system is further tuned to deliver a slightly heavier feel as speed increases thus generating more confident mid- to high-speed driving dynamics.

The addition of a manual transmission, an all-new clutch system and suspension changes yield an 88 lb. reduction in overall vehicle weight. The weight reduction not only delivers improved performance, but also generates a more favorable front/rear weight bias. Compared to an automatic transmission equipped TL SH-AWD®, the 6-speed manual version improves weight distribution by 1-percent thus generating a 58/42 ratio versus the 5AT’s 59/41 ratio.

Acura offers a full line of technologically advanced performance luxury vehicles through a network of 270 dealers within the United States. The 2009 Acura lineup features five distinctive models including the RL luxury performance sedan, the TL performance luxury sedan, the TSX sports sedan, the turbocharged RDX crossover SUV and the award-winning MDX luxury sport utility vehicle.

Acura has announced the pricing for the new 2009 Acura TL which will arrive in dealerships with front-wheel-drive on Sept 24th followed by the all-wheel-drive models in November.

Acura is offering two trim levels for the 2009 TL with the base model starting at $34,955 powered by a 3.5L V6 engine producing 280-hp. With the Technology Package the entry level model will run you $38,685. The 305-hp SH-AWD models will start at $38,505 and $42,235 with the Technology Package. If you want 19-inch alloy wheels and high-performance summer tires be prepared to pay an additional $1,000.

Just to point out the difference, the fully loaded 2008 Acura TL currently goes for $38,425, so you’re looking at a price difference of $4,810. The current entry level TL with the Technology Package goes for $36,225, a difference of $2,460.

Click through for the high-res gallery and the press release.

2009 Acura TL:

Press Release:

Acura Announces Pricing For All-New 2009 TL

Acura’s Best Selling Sedan Poised to Set the Benchmark for Luxury Performance

09/15/2008 – TORRANCE, Calif. – Acura today announced pricing for the all-new 2009 TL performance luxury sedan that will go on sale at Acura dealerships nationwide on September 24th, with all-wheel-drive models planned for sale in November.

For the first time ever in an Acura vehicle, the newly redesigned TL will be available with a choice of two different VTEC® engines while also offering both front wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive (TL SH-AWD®) models. MSRP pricing for the 3.5-liter V-6 equipped TL is $34,955 and the TL with Technology Package is $38,685. For TL models equipped with Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ system, MSRP pricing for the 3.7-liter V-6 powered TL SH-AWD® is $38,505, while the TL SH-AWD® with Technology Package is $42,235. In addition, the TL SH-AWD® with Technology Package is also available with an exclusive 19-inch alloy wheels and high-performance summer tire package for an MSRP of $43,235. Destination and Handling of $760 remains unchanged and is not included in the MSRP.

“The completely re-designed TL’s performance, sophistication and styling have been dramatically elevated to satisfy both luxury sedan buyers and enthusiast drivers,” said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of sales. “Its introduction marks a new and exciting era for the TL and for Acura.”

The 2009 TL SH-AWD® is the most powerful Acura ever and all TL models feature an impressive combination of eye-catching exterior design and premium interior detail. An emotional and powerful exterior conveys a sense of motion via the use of strong character lines, pronounced wheel arches and jewel-like HID and LED lighting. Inside, the TL is packed with premium standard features such as a power moonroof, dual-zone adaptive climate control, 10-way adjustable (8-way power seat with 2-way power lumbar support) driver seat, 8-way adjustable power front passenger seat and steering-wheel-mounted F1®-style paddle shifters for the Sequential SportShift automatic transmission. In addition, an 8-speaker 276-watt audio system with 6-disc CD changer, AM/FM radio, XM® Satellite Radio, Bluetooth® Audio, USB port and AUX jack connectivity and HandsFreeLink® wireless telephone interface are standard.

Available on both the TL and TL SH-AWD® is a Technology Package that includes the most comprehensive array of advanced electronic features ever offered by Acura. The Technology Package includes the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, AcuraLink® real-time traffic, AcuraLink® weather radar mapping, an Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system, Keyless Access System with pushbutton ignition and interior upgrades. The included Navigation System also features a new 8-inch full VGA high-resolution color display for improved visibility and a back-up camera.

Further enhancing the TL’s Technology Package is the new Acura/ELS Surround® 10-speaker, 440-watt premium sound system with DVD-Audio, CD, DTS™, AM/FM radio, XM® Satellite Radio and 12.7 GB hard disk drive (HDD) media storage. An intuitive interface dial as well as advanced voice recognition capability simplifies control of this impressive technology. Premium Milano Leather seating surfaces included in the Technology Package further enhance the vehicle’s comfort and visual appeal.

Acura offers a full line of technologically advanced performance luxury vehicles through a network of 270 dealers within the United States. The 2009 Acura lineup features five distinctive models including the RL luxury performance sedan, the TL performance luxury sedan, the TSX sports sedan, the turbocharged RDX crossover SUV and the award-winning MDX luxury sport utility vehicle.

Honda has finally released the official press release along with a bunch of images of the 2009 Acura TL. The completely redesigned 2009 Acura TL will be available in two different models including the TL and the TL SH-AWD. The 2009 Acura TL is larger, with an upgraded suspension, a new Sequential SportShift transmission and a Technology Package.

Power for the base 2009 TL comes from a 3.5 liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower with a peak torque of 254 lb-ft. Sadly enough Acura sticks with the front wheel drive which gets power from the Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission. EPA fuel-economy ratings come in at 18/26mpg – city/highway.

The 2009 Acura TL SH-AWD gets an all-wheel-drive architecture and is powered by a 3.7 liter V6 engine producing 305 horsepower and a peak torque of 273 lb-ft. The EPA comes in at 17/25mpg.

Click through for more pictures and the press release.

2009 Acura TL:

Press Release:

All-New 2009 TL Redefines Performance with the Most Powerful Engine in Acura History and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™

Since inception, the Acura TL performance luxury sedan has set lofty standards for styling, performance, comfort and technology. Available for 2009 in two distinctly different models, TL and TL SH-AWD®, the all-new fourth-generation Acura TL dramatically expands the model’s capabilities and appeal with evocative style, a choice of two VTEC® powertrains (including a new 305-horsepower V-6) and the TL’s first-ever application of Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®).

Boasting larger dimensions, optimized suspension, a new Sequential SportShift transmission, plus an available Technology Package featuring a comprehensive array of navigation and communication aids, the 2009 TL offers more appeal than ever before. Along with an available Acura/ELS Surround® premium 10-speaker surround sound system and an all-new AcuraLink® weather feature, the new TL is by far the most technologically advanced sedan in Acura’s history.

The combination of dramatic new styling, exhilarating performance and an extensive array of electronics (including AcuraLink® real-time traffic and AcuraLink® weather with Doppler-style radar mapping) ensures the 2009 Acura TL will appeal to a sophisticated, technology-savvy audience.

Powertrain

A choice of two different all-aluminum VTEC® engines enables the new 2009 TL to satisfy a wide range of customers. Standard is a 3.5-liter V-6 producing 280 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque that sends power to the front wheels through Acura’s sophisticated Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel- mounted paddle shifters and Grade Logic Control. Though powerful, the new engine is also fuel efficient, with projected EPA fuel economy ratings* of 18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. The engine is targeted to meet California’s tough CARB LEV II ULEV emissions certification standards, thanks to features including a Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system, Computer-Controlled Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) and Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC®) for the intake valves.

Serious performance-sedan devotees will choose the TL SH-AWD® to make winding roads their own. Its all-new 3.7-liter V-6 engine produces 305 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque courtesy of greater displacement and additional high-performance features like Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC®) on both the intake and exhaust valves, and a special high-flow dual exhaust system. With projected EPA fuel economy ratings* of 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway, the 3.7L is also targeted to meet California’s stringent CARB LEV II ULEV emissions certification. The pièce de résistance on the TL SH-AWD® is the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ system, now available on the TL for the first time.

During spirited cornering, SH-AWD® seamlessly distributes more torque to the outside rear wheel to create a “yaw moment” to help the TL turn in more quickly and precisely – while also continuously apportioning drivetrain torque front to rear and left to right. The result is a remarkably balanced and precise all-wheel-drive performance sedan that excels year-round, not just during inclement weather.

Acura TL’s performance achievements extend to durability, reliability and refinement as well. Both engines feature electronically controlled engine mounts to reduce engine noise, vibration and harshness (NVH); quiet and efficient Electric Power Steering (EPS) and maintenance-free serpentine accessory belt also boost operating refinement. A standard Maintenance Minder™ system and up to a 100,000-mile tune-up interval offer further time and cost savings for the TL owner.

The standard transmission on the 2009 TL and TL SH-AWD® is a Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic featuring F1®-style steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters and Grade Logic Control. Merging the convenience of an automatic with the enjoyment of SportShift manual gear selection, the transmission also features an overdriven top gear for maximum fuel efficiency on the highway. In fact, the Acura transmission has the widest gear-ratio spread of any 5-speed transmission in its class, providing strong acceleration in lower gears and relaxed, fuel-efficient highway cruising.

Body/Chassis

Major improvements in structural engineering for the unit-body further define the 2009 TL. The list of substantial changes begins with the relocation of frame rails inside (rather than underneath) the vehicle’s floor pan, resulting in a nearly flat body underside. Benefits of this design include improved crash safety, a significant reduction in interior noise levels, and reduced aerodynamic drag that helps enhance fuel economy. Another significant improvement is the increased use of high-strength steel, which simultaneously improves the unit-body’s overall strength while helping to reduce weight. For additional weight savings, aluminum is used for the hood, the front suspension subframe and rear suspension knuckles.

Ride quality and passenger comfort benefit from the 2009 TL’s larger exterior dimensions. Featuring 6.0 inches greater exterior length, 1.8 inches more overall width and a modest 0.5-inch increase in overall height, the TL is noticeably larger than its predecessor.

The larger body size directly contributes to greater interior roominess; it also allows a 1.4-inch longer wheelbase to improve ride quality and a significantly wider track (1.1 inches wider in front, 1.8 inches wider in the rear) helps generate even more tenacious cornering power. The TL employs a double-wishbone independent front suspension and a multi-link independent system in back.

Further improving ride quality and road-holding are new dual-stage “blow off” style hydraulic suspension dampers, new hydro-compliant bushings (used to mount the transmission and key suspension components) and a new “smart” engine mount design. On the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) model, more performance-minded suspension and brake tuning, larger wheels/tires, racing-inspired front brake cooling ducts, and specially-tuned Electric Power Steering (EPS) take the enthusiast’s driving experience to an even higher level.

Exterior/Interior

An evocative and powerful exterior body design dramatically advances the TL’s image as a performance luxury sedan. Designed by Acura in Southern California, the TL utilizes an array of styling techniques to express motion – and emotion – even when the car is at rest. Featuring Acura’s new signature front grille, body sides defined by strong character lines, sweeping C-pillars and new LED taillights, the 2009 TL is simultaneously Acura and yet wholly unique. Plentiful use of luxury and performance features add visual appeal while adding to the TL’s vigorous statement – including bright HID projector-beam front headlights, pronounced wheel arches, a standard power moonroof and genuine stainless-steel body trim.

Wheels and tires are as expressive as the exterior styling. Standard on the 2009 TL are 17-inch aluminum wheels with P245/50R17 all-season Bridgestone Turanza or available Michelin Pilot tires for confident year-round performance. The TL SH-AWD® comes with 18-inch aluminum wheels with lower-profile P245/45R18 Michelin Pilot tires for more agile handling. Finally, the TL SH-AWD® offers available 19-inch aluminum wheels with aggressive P245/40ZR19 Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 summer tires for the ultimate TL performance experience.

In keeping with its mission as a driver’s car, the 2009 TL interior features a new “dual personal” layout that provides both the driver and front passenger with their own personal space. Thanks to its larger exterior dimensions, the new TL has 1.3 inches more rear legroom and 0.5-inch of added rear shoulder room compared to the previous generation TL.

Acura’s commitment to luxury and technology becomes apparent from the first moment the driver’s door is opened. With sweeping shapes, generous use of premium materials and passionate attention to detail, the TL rewards the discriminating eye. The design and execution of the interior is an artful combination of leather surfaces, accented by metallic and wood-pattern trim. An impressive array of premium standard features includes a power moonroof, dual-zone adaptive climate control, 10-way adjustable (8-way power seat with 2-way power lumbar support) driver seat, 8-way adjustable power front passenger seat, and steering-wheel-mounted F1®-style paddle shifters for the Sequential SportShift automatic transmission. An 8-speaker, 276-watt audio system that includes a 6-disc CD changer, AM/FM radio, XM® Satellite Radio, Bluetooth® Audio, USB port and AUX jack connectivity, and HandsFreeLink® wireless telephone interface are standard.

Available on both the TL and TL SH-AWD® is a Technology Package that includes the most comprehensive array of advanced electronic features ever offered by Acura. The Technology Package includes the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, AcuraLink® real-time traffic, AcuraLink® weather with Doppler-style radar mapping, an Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system and Keyless Access System with pushbutton ignition. The included Navigation System features a new 8-inch full VGA high-resolution color display for improved visibility.

Audiophiles with appreciate the new Acura/ELS Surround® 10-speaker, 440-watt premium sound system with DVD-Audio, CD, DTS™, AM/FM radio, XM® Satellite Radio and 2,500-song** hard disk drive (HDD) media storage. An intuitive interface dial as well as sophisticated voice recognition capability simplifies control of this impressive technology. Premium Milano leather seating surfaces included in the Technology Package further enhances comfort and visual appeal.

Safety

Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) represents a major advance in structural engineering for the 2009 TL. In simple terms, ACE™ better dissipates crash energy in a severe frontal collision through the use of dedicated load-bearing frame structures that efficiently distribute crash energy through the body structure-while also helping to preserve the integrity of the passenger compartment. Acura first introduced ACE™ to the Acura line for the 2005 model year and its inclusion in the 2009 TL means that every vehicle in the Acura model range now has this advanced safety engineering.

Six airbags and a new active head restraint system for the driver and front passenger headrests top the long list of passive safety features built into the new TL. The airbag array includes dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags, new dual-chamber front seat side airbags with front passenger seat Occupant Position Detection System, along with side-curtain airbags for all outboard seating positions. Additional passive-safety features include 3-point seatbelts and head restraints for all seating positions, driver and front passenger seatbelt load-limiters with an automatic tensioning system and a Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH) system that permits quick, secure attachment of up to two child seats in the rear seating area.

The new TL includes sophisticated active safety features including powerful 4-wheel disc brakes (with ABS, EBD and Brake Assist), Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), all-season tires and an available SH-AWD® system. Adding to the list of standard exterior safety features are daytime running lights (DRL) along with 2.5-mph front and rear bumpers.

The 2009 Acura TL is designed to meet the latest crash-safety regulations, including the new FMVSS214 side crash standards (which the TL meets three years early) and the new FMVSS301 rear crash standards. Internal testing indicates that the 2009 TL should achieve the highest ratings in National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)*** and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) crash tests.

The 2009 Acura TL is assembled in Marysville, Ohio and 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 benefits of ownership include Acura Total Luxury Care (TLC), which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service and trip routing.

While we wait on the full official press release and images from Honda for the 2009 Acura TL, we thought we’d let you know that it has already unofficially hit the web via Edmunds – who has all the details and specs.

We don’t know where Acura’s design team is headed with this but the 2009 Acura TL’s exterior has been completely redesigned and, well we hate to say it but – we really don’t think this one will grow on us. The interior has also been redesigned with some new features.

The 2009 Acura TL will be available in two different models including a front-wheel-drive version powered by a 3.5L V6 engine that produces 280-hp (an increase of 22-hp over the outgoing model) and an all-wheel-drive SH-AWD powered by a 3.7L V6 producing 305-hp (an increase of 19-hp over the current Type S). Both come with a 5-speed automatic transmission as standard with paddle shifters on the steering wheel.

No word on the Type-S as of yet. Pricing will be announced closer to launch.

Click through for InsideLine’s video of the 2009 Acura TL.

2009 Acura TL:

Source: Edmunds