The market for personal sized SUVs has been greatly increasing in popularity in the last few years. Based on current economic conditions and changing consumer preference, small is big in the eyes of today’s consumers. As always, Acura offers the right product at the right time.

The Acura RDX burst on to the Sport Utility Vehicle scene in 2007. Upon its debut, the RDX 5-passenger crossover SUV generated excellent reviews and it continues to garner praise. For 2010 the turbocharged RDX arrives with a fresh new look, a new drivetrain choice, better fuel economy (2WD), numerous interior and convenience upgrades, as well as a significantly lower base price.

The original RDX concept was initiated in California and then developed in Japan. When first introduced, the RDX debuted precedent-setting engineering features for Acura, including the luxury division’s first turbocharged and intercooled engine. For 2010, even more driver relevant features (with improved integration) are now part of the package. The RDX retains Acura’s “Safety Through Innovation” initiative with the application of edge standard safety technologies that combine to generate top ratings in NHTSA and IIHS crash tests. The RDX continues to offer class-leading electronic technologies that, for 2010, get even better thanks to items such as a larger navigation screen, much improved HandsFreeLink® voice recognition and technologies such as AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ and Traffic Rerouting™.

For 2010, the big news is that for the first time ever the RDX is available in two-wheel-drive form. The 2WD design offers a vehicle weight reduction, improved fuel economy and a lower purchase price. Also for 2010, the RDX now comes standard with a rear-view camera, electronic compass, a pull handle for the rear hatch, auto-function headlights, ambient footwell lighting, a center console storage tray, better grip cupholders, USB-port connectivity such as for iPhone/iPod or USB “memory stick” use, Note function for XM Radio and revised interior colors. Externally, all 2010 RDX feature striking 18-inch diameter aluminum wheels, bold new front and rear bumper fascias, Acura’s signature front grille, revised headlights and taillights, new exhaust tips and satin trim accents. For 2010, revised braking system components deliver better feel and improved durability.

ENTRY PREMIUM SUV MARKET

The Entry Premium SUV segment is relatively new, at present populated by a small group of vehicles including the Acura RDX, Audi Q5, BMW X3, Infinity EX35, Mercedes GLK350 and Volkswagen Tiguan. This segment is expected to grow five-fold in the next few years and the RDX positions Acura strongly within it, with its host of unique and attractive features.

TARGET CUSTOMER

RDX targets young professionals who are upwardly mobile and work hard, but play hard too. The typical buyer enjoys playing a sport, lives in the city, and on the weekends often travels to the mountains, country or coast. This customer wants a stylish vehicle that offers a higher “eye-point” (driving position) and more cargo flexibility than a sedan – but with the style, handling and performance of a sports sedan. Thus, the transformable utility of the RDX, along with its engaging performance and handling, is a perfect fit.

ENGINE & POWERTRAIN

The RDX is engineered to be a technical tour de force within its segment. The engine and powertrain feature a host of new and updated technologies for Acura that deliver strong driving performance with good fuel economy and low emissions.

RDX features Acura’s first application of a forced-induction engine. The 2.3-liter aluminum engine features an advanced variable flow turbocharger designed to provide quick response at low rpm as well as strong high-rpm power. The advantage of the variable flow turbo is immediate acceleration that drivers want in the city environment, together with 240 horsepower for the passing and hill-climbing ability of a traditional 6-cylinder engine. The RDX’s turbocharged inline four produces 260 lb-ft of torque. It also returns an EPA* estimated city/highway fuel economy of 19/24 mpg (2WD) and 17/22 mpg (SH-AWD™), while meeting tough EPA TIER 2 – BIN 5 and CARB LEV II ULEV emissions standards.

Acura’s commitment to making the RDX fun to drive continues with a Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission fit with racing-inspired paddle shifters. But of particular interest to many is that the RDX is its available Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™) system. First introduced in the 2005 Acura RL and then specially adapted for the RDX, the SH-AWD™ system deters understeer by transferring power to the outside rear wheel to create a yaw moment that helps boost cornering power and steering precision. The level of handling response and driver control provided by SH-AWD™ puts the RDX in a class by itself.

*Based on 2010 EPA mileage estimates, reflecting new EPA fuel economy methods beginning with 2008 models. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.

BODY & CHASSIS

Befitting its concept as an urban sports vehicle for young professional singles or couples, the RDX body design is powerful and athletic with muscular bodylines that impart a sense of command and control. Key styling elements include body sides that rake upward front to rear, generous wheel arches that emphasize the large wheels and tires, a short rear overhang, and a cargo door that’s positioned flush with the bumper. For 2010, the RDX exterior has a fresh look thanks to new 18-inch diameter aluminum wheels, bold new front and rear bumper fascias, Acura’s signature front grille, revised headlights and taillights, new exhaust tips and satin trim accents.

For strength, widespread use of high-tensile steel provides the rigidity necessary for the 4-wheel independent suspension system while helping to reduce NVH. The RDX uses 39-percent (by weight) high-tensile steel to provide increased strength at a lower weight. Other engineering features include precise aerodynamic tuning that reduces drag and improves quietness inside the cabin. This aerodynamic tailoring includes a specially designed tailgate spoiler, rear wheel strakes and aerodynamic side mirrors.

The RDX rides on 4-wheel independent suspension with MacPherson struts in front and a multi-link design in back. The mounting points for the suspension were carefully engineered to reduce the transmission of NVH into the passenger cabin. RDX also features 18-inch diameter wheels and large diameter 4-wheel disc brakes that include an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. Torque-sensing power rack-and-pinion steering provides quick steering response with outstanding feel.

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Body

The RDX is a fusion of SUV functionality and sports sedan handling. Together in one package, these qualities create Acura’s first urban adventure crossover vehicle – the perfect compliment to a fast-paced urban lifestyle.

The RDX’s crossover body styling simultaneously supports several agendas. First, its lines have a taut, muscular presence that promises energetic driving performance. But this performance edge doesn’t come at the cost of functionality, as evidenced by the versatile 5-door exterior format and generous interior storage space. Overall, the RDX has an urban-friendly size that’s both maneuverable and personal. Finally, while satisfying stylistic goals, the RDX is designed to provide a high level of crash safety performance.

DESIGN CONCEPT

To suit the dynamic (and sometimes hectic) urban setting, the RDX wears what Acura designers call “athletic armor,” a design approach that suggests the powerful image of a football running back, outfitted in protective gear. The look is muscular, taut, and poised for acceleration and agile split-second maneuvering. And for 2010, that look gets even more aggressive.

Starting with the front end, the RDX gets a new front fascia, the signature Acura grille, a hood with a new front edge design and updated HID headlights that are now controlled by a standard Auto on/off function. Looking at the side of the 2010 RDX you’ll notice new 18×7.5-inch 10-spoke aluminum wheels that team with the vehicles wide track (61.9-in. front, 62.6-in. rear) to deliver excellent handling. Elegant and decisive style lines run the length of the body, with muscular wheel arches and short overhangs further adding to a poised, powerful look. At the rear, a much more aggressive bumper fascia, rectangular exhaust finishers, revised taillights and satin finish trim give the 2010 RDX a fresh new look.

Form Follows Function

The overall size of the RDX matches the needs of today’s urban commuter. Key functional points for the RDX include a low hood line that improves forward visibility. A high eye point for the driver and front passenger further improve outward visibility and add to a sense of confidence and control. Unique “skin-mount” exterior mirrors have specially designed compact housings that improve the A-pillar area visibility, providing good outward visibility for urban intersections. And finally, excellent approach and departure angles pay dividends when approaching or leaving steep driveways or parking garages.

AERODYNAMIC EFFICIENCY

The RDX marries aggressive styling with function. The redesigned front fascia features a main opening that feeds the aluminum engine radiator. A top inlet, located behind the new grille, is a separate cold-air inlet for the aluminum turbocharger intercooler that is horizontally mounted above the engine. This functional inlet takes in cool outside air as the RDX moves forward, routing it through a duct in the hood and then down through the intercooler. A separate cool-air intake leads to a large-volume intake airbox fit with a high-volume air filter.

Additional details that contribute to the RDX’s aerodynamic efficiency include a spoiler above the tailgate (which helps air separate cleanly off the body at high speed), air strakes located in front of the rear tires and the streamlined “skin-mount” side mirrors.

KEY STYLING FEATURES

Redesigned high-intensity discharge (HID) low beam headlights command the front corners of the fascia and fenders. Their new design incorporates a “smoke style” chrome plating treatment and compliments the angular pattern set by the Acura grille. Fog lamps are standard, and for 2010 they are mounted within separate side grilles located at the corners of the new front fascia.

Both front and rear wheel arches are bold and broad, and new 18×7.5-inch 10-spoke aluminum wheels further add to the dramatic appearance of the RDX.

Door dimensions were selected to enhance the RDX’s primary mission as a driver’s vehicle while retaining high usability for passengers in back. The front doors were specifically designed with long proportions for easy ingress and egress, while the rear doors are shorter as hauling rear seat passengers is of much lower priority.

HID HEADLIGHTS

A powerful combination of Xenon HID low-beam and halogen high-beam front headlights provides excellent lighting for the RDX. For 2010, the headlights incorporate a “smoke style” chrome plating treatment for improved looks while the inner lens of the HID unit glitters, making the headlights more distinctive. Also new for 2010 is Auto On/Off headlight functionality that comes as standard. The RDX also features Daytime Running Lights (DRL), which enhance its visibility for other drivers and can help reduce the likelihood of accidents collisions during daytime driving.

BODY PROTECTION

Designed for arduous driving conditions, the lower door panels of the RDX incorporate a wide molding to help protect the lower body sides from chipping. This molding extends down past the body side sills, ensuring that the sills stay clean to avoid soiling clothing when passengers enter and exit the vehicle.

CONSTRUCTION

A rigid structure enables designers to maintain tight body-panel fit tolerances, tune the suspension for precise ride and handling, help keep the ride squeak- and rattle-free as well as to provide long-term durability and high levels of crash protection for the occupants. The widespread use of high-tensile steel enables the RDX to meet all of these challenges.

Polygonal-shaped frame members, that are designed to disperse and absorb forces in a collision, are located behind the front bumper beam. These high-strength steel frame members send collision forces upward and rearward where they can be absorbed by the main body structure. In the event of a rear collision, polygonal-shaped high-tensile steel frame members direct the loads forward and outward. These rear frame members also use a “wave shape” design that provides high strength, yet deforms controllably in a collision. In a side impact, large longitudinal high-tensile steel side sills extending front to rear underneath the vehicle, along with lateral high tensile steel cross members, absorb energy. For greater steering precision and handling stability, RDX designers paid particular attention to improving body rigidity around the front and rear suspension. These reinforcements are comprised of side-to-side bracing behind and above the firewall and inside the tailgate area.

HIGH-TENSILE STEEL

The use of varying grades of steel in the construction of the RDX’s unit body is key to its stiffness, performance in a collision and light weight. HSS780 grade steel is used in the “box” section of the front, side and rear frame members at the bottom of the body. Additional high tensile steel (HSS780 and 590) is used in other areas under the floor, and in the A- and B-pillars and roof rails. By utilizing high strength steel (39-percent by weight), the RDX exceeds the BMW X3’s torsional rigidity.

EXTERIOR DETAIL

Specially designed windshield wiper arms with flat blades ensure that the driver cannot see the stowed wipers from inside the vehicle. The hidden design also improves aerodynamics, reduces wind noise and adds to the RDX’s clean lines. Even the windshield washer nozzles are located underneath the trailing edge of the hood, improving both their performance at high speeds and the exterior look of the vehicle. Elimination of rear quarter glass panels in the doors gives RDX a cleaner appearance, with large 1-piece side windows that provide a more wide-open feeling.

TAILGATE

Designers spent a significant amount of time learning about the RDX’s target audience in order to better understand how they use their vehicles. One of the messages designers heard was that a high degree of functionality is essential. As a result, the RDX’s thoughtful design is evident even in small details, like tailgate hinges that are hidden at the top rear edge of the roof. This makes the body lines smoother, while simultaneously allowing for a higher tailgate opening.

The RDX’s clean exterior look is further enhanced by the use of an electric tailgate opening switch in place of a traditional outside handle. Touching the switch releases the tailgate, which can then be easily lifted open thanks to the counterbalancing effect of the gas-filled struts, tuned to suit the forward hinge positioning. New for 2010 are two lift handles that are integrated into the rear hatch, allowing for a more secure grip when opening/closing the tailgate.

The all-new provocative 2010 ZDX four-door sports coupe will arrive at Acura dealerships with dramatic styling, outstanding performance and the latest in advanced technology. The segment bending ZDX features stunning coupe-like styling with the added benefit of a commanding presence and flexible utility. Staying true to the prototype model that debuted at the 2009 New York Auto Show in April, the production ZDX will feature the key design highlights of a panoramic glass roof, hidden rear door handles and bold fender flares.

Along with head-turning styling, the ZDX will boast outstanding performance from its 3.7-liter V-6 engine mated to an all-new 6-speed automatic transmission. The 3.7-liter SOHC V-6 all-aluminum engine will generate 300 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque for immediate acceleration response, outstanding low- and mid-range torque and superior high-rpm power. The 6-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters gives the ZDX excellent acceleration while also enhancing fuel economy. Standard on the ZDX is Acura’s exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system. The SH-AWD® system expands the ZDX’s appeal by providing outstanding handling as well as superior all-season capability. Standard on the ZDX are 19-inch, 7-spoke alloy wheels; the largest standard wheel in the Acura lineup.

Inside, the ZDX exhibits the highest levels of refinement and sophistication. Every ZDX interior will feature a hand-stitched leather dash, panels and sculpted center console. The rich leather appointments give the ZDX a warm and inviting feeling while creating an intimate cockpit for the driver and passenger.

The ZDX’s flexible utility enables customers to have great utility coupled with sleek styling. The ZDX can seat up to five adults while maintaining a generous amount of cargo space behind the second row of seats. The cargo area can also be expanded to accommodate longer objects, such as golf bags, by removing side panels in the cargo-compartment sidewalls. As an added bonus, there is an integrated under-floor storage area.

When the ZDX goes on sale this winter, customers will have the choice of three distinct trim levels: ZDX, ZDX with Technology Package and the ultra premium, ZDX with Advance Package. Like all Acura models, the ZDX will come generously equipped from the start. The panoramic glass roof with moveable sunshades, hand-stitched leather interior, HandsFreeLink™ Bluetooth® connectivity, power tailgate, and a high powered audio system with CD player, AM/FM/XM radio and USB audio interface with iPod® integration are all standard features.

The ZDX with Technology Package adds several features including a Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, an Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system and a new multi-view rear camera. The Advance Package boasts additional customer enhancing technologies like a blind spot information system, a Collision Mitigating Braking System™ (CMBS™), and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC).

When the ZDX goes on-sale, it will bring a new level of prestige to the Acura lineup. The ZDX will be priced and positioned between the MDX luxury SUV and the RL luxury sedan. Pricing and additional details will be released at a later date.

Benchmarked against some of the best performance SUVs in the world and tuned on the Nürburgring racetrack in Germany, the MDX clearly establishes itself as a driver’s SUV. Outfitted with Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system and an available Sport Package with Active Damper System, the MDX yields a combination of handling and comfort that is truly on the cutting edge.

The 2009 MDX is equally daring in its styling and thorough in its safety and environmental responsibilities. The MDX has an expansive array of safety features included as standard equipment. The MDX’s 300-hp VTEC® V-6 makes as much power as some competitive V-8s, yet delivers ultra-low emissions and excellent fuel economy. Inside the 7-passenger interior, the MDX offers thoughtful luxury and an unmatched range of advanced technologies, including the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ and AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System with real-time traffic and a spectacular 10-speaker Acura/ELS Surround® Premium Sound System.

Altogether, the 2009 MDX embodies Acura’s commitment to performance, luxury, quality and style, along with an emphasis on safety and environmental care. The 2009 MDX is the seventh Acura project to be designed and engineered in the United States (including the 1997 CL, 1999 TL, 2001 CL, 2001 MDX, 2004 TL and 2009 TL) along with several award-winning Honda products.

MARKET SUMMARY

MDX has been very important to Acura, accounting for about 30-percent of the division’s sales since the vehicle’s introduction as a 2001 model. Equally important, the original MDX attracted buyers from competitive luxury makes including BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Lexus, starting new relationships for Acura. The 2009 MDX competes in the Mid Premium CUV (Crossover Utility Vehicle) segment.

TARGET CUSTOMER

Focus groups with luxury customers were conducted in Seattle, Detroit, Chicago and Los Angeles. These cities were carefully chosen to explore how customers use their SUVs in cold climates, in areas that are traditional domestic-vehicle strongholds and in areas known for their trend-setting character.

Early in the study process Acura also benchmarked performance SUVs such as the BMW X5 – and polled their owners – to ensure that the second generation MDX would exceed its performance. Satisfying these highly discriminating customers means that the MDX would be well positioned to attract a wider group of potential buyers.

With the MDX, added performance and handling capabilities boost its appeal for performance enthusiasts, while the luxurious and functional interior continues to satisfy the needs of traditional luxury customers.

ENGINE & POWERTRAIN

Developing 300 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque, the MDX’s 3.7-liter V-6 output is competitive with many V-8 engines – without the fuel-economy penalty most V-8’s suffer. To widen the powerband and improve fuel economy, the 3.7-liter engine has VTEC® (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) valvetrain, a dual-stage intake manifold and an electronic Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system. EPA estimated mileage of 15/20 mpg* (city/highway) and a large 21-gallon fuel capacity mean the MDX has a long cruising range. The MDX is designed to meet the latest emissions requirements including strict EPA TIER 2 – BIN 5 and CARB LEV II ULEV standards.

A 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift is designed to satisfy the most performance-oriented drivers. Tuned on the famed Nürburgring circuit in Germany, the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system provides handling precision that sets a new benchmark for SUVs.

SH-AWD® actively varies the torque distribution between front and rear axles – then between the left and right rear wheels – to provide maximum grip under all driving circumstances. Such torque vectoring operates seamlessly and allows the SH-AWD® to overdrive the outside rear wheel up to 1.7-percent faster than the front wheels to create a “yaw moment” allowing the MDX to better rotate around a corner while minimizing understeer.

BODY & CHASSIS

The 2009 MDX sets new standards for SUV styling, engineering, handling and safety standpoints. Its dramatic styling utilizes large surface areas, sweeping curves and decisive angles. Longer, wider and lower (and with a longer wheelbase) than the original MDX, the dimensions create a more athletic appearance.

In an effort to keep mass out of the vehicle, the MDX features widespread use of light weight materials such as high-strength steel, aluminum and magnesium. In addition, the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure is intended to bring new levels of front crash safety to the MDX.

Befitting its position as Acura’s flagship SUV, the MDX is equipped with Xenon High-Intensity Discharge (HID) low-beam front headlights, a dramatic array of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) in the rear tail lamps and center high-mounted stop light (CHMSL), and exterior mirror-mounted turn signals. The Acura signature front grille reflects a fresh look for the MDX. Careful aerodynamic tailoring reduces drag noise and high speed dynamic stability.

The 2009 MDX features a track-tuned chassis to complement its 300-horsepower VTEC® V-6 engine and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®). Engineers targeted the BMW X5 and Porsche Cayenne when developing the MDX chassis, and then tested and refined it at Germany’s famed Nürburgring circuit. The Active Damper System, available in the Sport Package, has proprietary fully active dampers that adjust (in less than five milliseconds) to road conditions on a real-time basis. The MDX is also at home off-road where its excellent engine torque, responsive suspension, and generous ground clearance enable it to cross-step through rough terrain.

For family recreation, the MDX tows as well as it goes. With a 5,000-pound tow rating, standard trailer pre-wiring, high-capacity radiator with twin cooling fans, transmission fluid cooler and Trailer Stability Assist, the MDX needs only a dealer-installed hitch and wiring to tow a substantial trailer.

INTERIOR

The MDX features a luxurious yet functional interior. The cockpit environment is focused on the driver, and features a host of technologies to make driving simultaneously rewarding and relaxing. The interior styling and functionality perfectly coexist with a driver’s cockpit that features a 10-way power seat including power-adjustable lumbar support for the driver, electronic tilt and telescoping steering column, a 2-position custom memory system, and a Multi-Information Display (MID) that allows access to multiple electronic functions.

The interior design is as dynamic and contemporary as the exterior, with a “4+3 seating” concept that luxuriously hosts four passengers in the first and second row seats, while also offering comfortable accommodations for three additional passengers (one in the second row and two in the third row). The front passenger enjoys an 8-way power seat, while everyone on board will appreciate the MDX’s Tri-Zone automatic climate control system. All occupants will enjoy the 253-watt, 8-speaker Acura Premium Sound System with in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3/WMA changer, AM/FM tuner, and XM® Satellite Radio. An auxiliary jack for personal audio devices is also included. Standard convenience features include HomeLink®, Maintenance Minder™ and adaptive and flexible cargo space with six configurations.

SAFETY

The Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure along with several passive-safety technologies help bring the 2009 MDX to the next level of safety. ACE™ more evenly distributes collision forces and helps maintain the integrity of the passenger cabin in the event of a severe frontal collision. The MDX is also less intrusive to smaller vehicles in a head-on collision thanks to a special frame member located below the front bumper that is designed to engage the front bumper of smaller vehicles.

The MDX is equipped with an active front head restraint system for front seat head restraints along with knee bolsters for the driver and front passenger. The driver and front passenger are also protected by dual-stage, dual-threshold airbag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) and side airbags with front passenger Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS). Side curtain airbags help reduce the likelihood of injury to the occupants in all three rows of outboard seats A rollover sensor adds a further level of protection.

The 2009 Acura MDX furthers Acura’s commitment to “Safety Through Innovation” with pedestrian injury mitigation features such as a deformable aluminum hood and hood hinges along with breakaway windshield-wiper pivots.

MANUFACTURING QUALITY

Honda of Canada Manufacturing in Alliston, Ontario, is the assembly plant for the MDX. A special dynamic quality-control process is employed to ensure the highest possible level of attention to detail for every MDX produced. After assembly is completed, each MDX enters a special Acura Quality line. The ability to immediately respond to the smallest quality issue allows the MDX to excel in quality – and in customer satisfaction.

Body

The 2009 MDX fuses the model’s traditional virtues of adaptable space, functionality, safety and environmental responsibility with a more exciting visual presence along with more accomplished handling and ride comfort.

Customers in the luxury SUV arena demand distinctive style. The 2009 MDX ups the game with standard 18-inch wheels and tires, standard Xenon High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights and a distinctive front grille. Driving excitement is equally embraced with a chassis tuned at the Nürburgring circuit and on autobahns in Germany.

The exterior has bold, clean and advanced styling details with European cache, and it was styled to connect with enthusiast drivers from the moment they first see it. Sitting in the vehicle – and then experiencing it – makes the desire even more intense. Besides featuring a 300 horsepower V-6, the MDX includes Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®), an available Active Damper System along with lightweight aluminum components used in the suspension and body. Convenience features such as an available power rear tailgate further improve functionality and luxury.

EXTERIOR DESIGN GOALS

One of the primary goals in designing the second generation MDX was to keep its traditional strengths but advance its performance and image. The clear direction for the MDX was to create a bold and innovative look that clearly conveyed the “Driver’s SUV” nature of the vehicle. The grille is free of molding breaks for a cleaner look and features dark silver satin plating.

STYLING DEVELOPMENT

The original MDX provided a fine blend of utility, luxury and style. The 2009 Acura MDX has powerful, dynamic styling that is a continuation of the themes that have been embodied in recent Acura products. Designers found inspiration in a high-powered mega yacht, which features an exceptionally bold, lean and contemporary design. The challenge was to apply the useful elements of the yacht design to an SUV, and designers found their answer in the adoption of large areas of clean surfaces and the addition of decisive line breaks and dynamic surface curvature. Large 18-inch wheels and tires not only benefit handling, but also create a muscular look. In front, the 2009 MDX has a distinctive, advanced Acura look. The platform is long, low and wide to enhance cornering and high-speed stability.

COMPETITIVE COMPARISON

The MDX has a significantly wider track than its primary market competitors. As a result it offers dramatic appearance, packaging and utility advantages.

 BODY STRUCTURE

The 2009 MDX utilizes the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, which distributes collision forces through the structure during a frontal collision while helping to retain the integrity of the passenger compartment. The MDX uses a large amount of high-strength steel to help reduce vehicle weight while simultaneously increasing strength. Alternative materials including aluminum and magnesium are also used throughout the vehicle, further reducing vehicle mass, which helps improve fuel economy and increase performance.

Attaining a high level of dynamic body rigidity is essential for precise handling, ride quality and quietness inside the cabin. By researching the body’s dynamic response to chassis loads resulting from everyday driving events, MDX engineers considered the unit body’s “dynamic stiffness” as an entire system — not just as a single component. Thus, body rigidity is not an end to itself, but rather it is an enabler for enhanced vehicle dynamics, riding comfort, and driving quietness.

Instrumented testing revealed that the “tailgate ring” – the open area surrounding the tailgate – is particularly important for handling, stability and ride. In the second generation MDX, this area has been markedly stiffened, providing the rear suspension with a more solid mounting and netting an improvement in handling precision. In addition, the MDX’s floor frames are wider than before for improved packaging and rigidity.

HIGH-STRENGTH STEEL

The use of high-strength steel contributes to rigidity, excellent crashworthiness and light weight. High-strength steel is specified in different grades for use in different parts of the vehicle. Some unit body areas using this material include the roof arches, floor cross members, tailgate opening and front rails and body sides.

LIGHTWEIGHT ALUMINUM

In addition, about 4.1-percent of the 2009 MDX body components are constructed of aluminum. This material is ideal for certain components such as the hood and instrument panel support, where light weight is required but the strength of steel is not imperative.

The hood on the first-generation MDX was steel, and the weight savings of using aluminum instead of steel (for the 2009 MDX hood) is 15.5 pounds. Aside from using a unique metal conditioner and phosphate dip prior to painting, there are no unique production challenges for using an aluminum hood – and no ownership compromises either. To improve environmental efficiency, a factory separation line isolates different scrap materials, including aluminum, for recycling.

The aluminum instrument panel support saves an additional 10.5 pounds compared to a traditional steel unit. This support structure, which connects the A-pillars to the front floor crossmember, is a structural element consisting of cast parts, extrusions and sheet aluminum.

AERODYNAMICS

Acura MDX prototypes spent a total of seven weeks in the wind tunnel to test and develop its aerodynamic properties. The attention to detail in aerodynamic efficiency included the development of body side sills that help keep air from moving underneath the vehicle which can cause turbulence. Lift balance and the coefficient of lift were also addressed to keep the MDX stable at high speeds. In this area, internal testing revealed that the MDX exceeds the performance of the BMW X5.

WIND NOISE

Careful attention was paid to reducing wind noise inside the MDX cabin. An acoustic wind tunnel was used to identify and correct noise issues, resulting in the MDX’s best-in-class wind noise performance (at the driver’s ear point) according to Acura’s internal measurements.

An added benefit of wind tunnel testing was the ability to rotate the MDX sideways into the airflow. This allowed engineers to approximate even the most severe gusting side winds and solve unexpected and unwanted wind noise that could accompany such severe conditions.

The MDX’s moonroof is larger than used in the previous generation and is also the widest of any direct competitor. A finely tuned deflector ensures that the moonroof does not add objectionable wind noise when in the open position, even at highway speeds. Attention to detail in the sealing of the doors and tailgate also heightened the performance of the MDX’s overall wind noise level.

INSULATION

Engineers attacked noise from virtually every source inside and outside the MDX. Their primary goal was to reduce noise at its source. One creative noise-reduction technique is the use of composite seals in the exterior door panels. These composite seals actually serve two purposes – to reduce the transmission of noise through the doors and to shield the interior components from dirt and water while driving through rain or puddles. The new door insulators provide a substantial reduction in objectionable sound – up to five decibels on some roads.

DOORS

The MDX’s door handles are sized for comfort as well as ease of use, regardless of whether the user is bare handed or wearing winter gloves. There are three door checker – the detent mechanism that holds the door partially open – positions instead of the usual two, thus providing a convenient “in between” position useful during tight parking situations. The door openings are finished with an attractive composite garnish that hides the doorsill when the door is open.

GLASS

Normally only sports cars use windshields with highly compound curves. Deeply contoured glass is more complex and costly to make, thus it is usually reserved for low-production vehicles. Designers specified deeply curved acoustic glass for the MDX for its styling appeal as well as to improve aerodynamic efficiency and quietness. The 2009 MDX uses an acoustic glass front windshield that incorporates a unique PVB film to help quell wind and windshield wiper noise from entering the cabin. The rear glass is also a deep wraparound design – the deepest in the Acura product range.

The MDX has an auto up/down feature for the driver and front passenger’s 3.5mm thick side windows. The 2009 MDX offers 273-degrees of outward visibility compared to 266-degrees of visibility for the BMW X5, which is a significant accomplishment considering the increased size of the MDX’s head rests mandated by the government’s FMVSS 202 safety regulations.

All glass from the B-pillar rearward has a gray tint to reduce eyestrain and heat buildup inside the cabin. In addition, the outside rearview mirrors use a special blue glass (sourced from Germany) that provides bright imaging along with excellent glare resistance.

XENON HID HEADLIGHTS

All 2009 Acura MDX models include Xenon high-intensity discharge (HID) low beam front headlights with halogen high beams. The advantages of HID headlamps include greater lighting power, daylight-color light balance and reduced power consumption. In addition, the cut lines of the new HID headlights are extremely precise, providing maximum nighttime visibility without distracting other drivers.

The 2009 MDX features Daytime Running Lights (DRL), which automatically turn on with the activation of the ignition. An MDX fit with the optional Sport Package features an auto-leveling feature that keeps the headlights level regardless of how the vehicle is loaded with passengers or cargo.

To ensure a high degree of theft prevention, the HID headlights are attached to the unit body with multi-strand steel cables. Halogen fog lamps are also included as standard equipment on all MDX trim levels

LED TAILLAMPS

Two Light-Emitting Diode (LED) arrays, comprised of 12 LEDs apiece, are used for the tail lamps of the 2009 MDX. Likewise, the Center High Mount Stop Lamp (CHMSL) features a single array of 16 LEDs. Advantages of the LED taillights include an elegant contemporary appearance, quicker turn-on time compared to a conventional incandescent bulbs and significantly greater service life. LEDs are also brighter, smaller, lighter and produce less heat than incandescent lights. The LED CHMSL was selected for its appearance and ability to produce the required lighting brightness while retaining slender physical dimensions. LEDs are also used in the MDX’s outside mirror housing-mounted turn signals, improving visibility during lane changes or turns.

POWER TAILGATE

Acura’s power tailgate system is included on MDX models optioned with Technology or Sport packages. The power tailgate can be operated via the remote key fob, from a button on the driver’s door panel, or from a button located inside the tailgate. The location of the motor in the MDX’s D-pillar (instead of in the roof) allows excellent headroom for the third-row seats. The tailgate can also be operated manually.

RESIN FUEL FILLER DOOR

The MDX fuel filler door is operated remotely from inside the vehicle via a switch on the driver’s door panel. The fuel-filler door is made of a composite resin material that is lightweight, dent resistant and corrosion proof. For a better appearance the inside of the door features a flangeless resin design.

BUMPERS

The front and rear bumpers are constructed of a structural beam covered with a plastic fascia rated to withstand impacts of up to five mph without sustaining significant damage. An attachment point for a tow hook is located under a small cover on each bumper fascia. Removing the cover allows access to a threaded boss that accepts a steel eyebolt located in a holder in the jack storage area.

EXTERIOR PAINT

Inspired by the smooth finishes on fine pianos, Acura set out to achieve a mirror-smooth paint finish with a wet, glossy look. To advance the surface smoothness, “orange peel” – the finely undulating surface found on some paints resulting from the evaporation of the paint solvents – had to be all but eliminated. Seven environmentally safer waterborne exterior colors are available, and each uses a durable clear-coat finish that resists scratching and airborne pollutants. For 2009 the MDX is available with two new colors: Bali Blue Pearl and Mocha Metallic.

The evolution of the luxury performance SUV took a significant leap forward with the arrival of the Acura RDX turbocharged crossover vehicle. The immediate response of power from Acura’s first-ever turbocharged engine, combined with the breakthrough technology of Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™), delivers adrenaline pumping performance in an efficient SUV package. In its first full year of sales, the RDX captured 38-percent of the Entry Premium SUV segment, proving that its unique blend of performance and superior handling hit home with buyers looking for more than just the status quo from an SUV.

For 2009, the RDX now comes standard with a 4-way adjustable power-activated passenger front seat along with four new exterior colors: Basque Red Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl, Grigio Metallic and Palladium Metallic. In addition, AcuraLink® Real-time traffic system includes coverage for yet another major metropolitan area—bringing the total to 77 areas.

“The RDX continues to gain momentum with customers in the Entry Premium SUV segment,” said Dick Colliver, vice president sales, “It is a critical addition to our lineup and it is an engaging vehicle from the standpoint of driving dynamics and technology.”

The RDX was designed as the ideal vehicle for drivers with energetic lifestyles who are in need of a compact, sporty and responsive weekday ride, and a weekend getaway vehicle with the versatility to match their diverse and active recreational lifestyles.

True to Acura’s leadership in the application of advanced technology, the RDX incorporates a class-leading array of features that keep passengers informed, entertained and in control. In addition to its sophisticated powertrain, the RDX is available with the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System, Acura Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink™ along with AUX jack connectivity for MP3 external music players.

The RDX also incorporates leading safety technologies based on the fundamentals of Acura’s “Safety Through Innovation” initiative including advanced front, side and side curtain airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist ™ (VSA™), ABS with Brake Assist and an Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) front body structure.

Powertrain

The RDX is equipped with a turbocharged 2.3-liter DOHC 16-valve in-line four-cylinder engine incorporating computer-controlled i-VTEC™ “intelligent” intake/exhaust valve actuation system that delivers enhanced performance across a broad powerband while still delivering superior fuel economy and reduced exhaust emissions. The heart of the RDX’s performance is its Variable Flow Turbo (VFT) that delivers an unusually broad powerband with virtually no lag in throttle response. The Variable Flow Turbo works in concert with i-VTEC to deliver outstanding acceleration while driving at a variety of speeds.

Rated output for the RDX engine is 240 horsepower at 6000 rpm with 260 lb-ft of torque at 4500 rpm. The RDX has an EPA fuel economy rating of 17/22 mpg* (city/highway) and meets the U.S. EPA’s stringent TIER 2 – BIN 5 and CARB LEV-2 ULEV exhaust emissions standards.

A performance-minded 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift is standard on the RDX. An electronically-controlled Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system works with the transmission to execute exceptionally quick and smooth gear changes. The Sequential SportShift transmission can function as a conventional automatic transmission or, at the driver’s option, can be controlled manually via steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

Chassis

Acura’s exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™) system is standard on the RDX, helping it to maximize available traction while improving handling balance and responsiveness. SH-AWD™ distributes optimum torque not only between the front and rear axles, but also between the left and right rear wheels while also being able to overdrive the rear wheels. The system’s direct yaw control utilizes torque vectoring to help reduce understeer thus enhancing steering accuracy and adding to total cornering ability.

Precise and responsive handling is further aided by fully independent front and rear suspension. A MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension system is tuned for compliant control, and the suspension is assisted by large-diameter front and rear stabilizer bars for flatter cornering. Standard to the RDX is Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with traction control to further enhance vehicle controllability and grip.

Exterior/Interior

RDX exterior styling further emphasizes the SUV’s sporty athleticism. Standard 18-inch wheels and tires, large wheel arches, aggressively raked body sides, steeply raked windscreen, and a short rear overhang generate an RDX with a taut and muscular presence. A unique rear hatch, finished with a replaceable panel to reduce the cost of accident repair, allows for a smooth transition of the body to the rear bumper. Such bodywork transition delivers a more custom look as well as eases loading and unloading of cargo. Available for 2009 are new exterior colors including: Basque Red Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl, Grigio Metallic and Palladium Metallic.

Inside the RDX, the front seats feature a high outward visibility “eye point” that provides a confident field of view. For 2009, a 4-way adjustable power front seat is standard for the front passenger. The 3-passenger rear seat has a 60/40 split-folding capability and, when folded flat, significantly expands the load area and increases the total cargo volume to 60.6 cubic feet.

Multiple interior storage compartments are positioned throughout the interior, including a lockable dual-level center console (that is large enough to accommodate a briefcase) located conveniently between the front seats.

The RDX features an array of electronic features that set it apart from the competition. Standard features include a dual-zone automatic climate control system, a Multi-Information Display (MID), LED backlit gauges with progressive illumination and Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink™ mobile telephone connectivity. Also standard is an impressive 360-watt 7-speaker Acura Premium Sound System with a multi-format 6-disc changer, AM/FM tuner, XM® Satellite Radio, and the convenience of an AUX input jack for the easy connection of MP3 audio devices such as an iPod®.

Just one option package—the Technology Package—is offered on the 2009 RDX. The Technology Package heightens the RDX’s appeal with tech-savvy customers through a range of advanced features. The centerpiece is a 10-speaker Acura/ELS Surround™ Premium Sound System designed by 6-time Grammy® award winning sound engineer Elliot Scheiner. When playing DVD-Audio discs (DVD-A is 500 times clearer than traditional CD), this advanced 410-watt system delivers eight discreet audio channels (up from the usual two channels) to create an exceptionally accurate listening experience. With its multi-format 6-disc DVD-Audio changer, AM/FM tuner and XM® Satellite Radio, along with AUX jack connectivity, the Acura/ELS Surround™ system is exceptionally versatile and powerful.

The Technology Package also incorporates numerous information and communications features including Acura Navigation System and AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System with Real-time traffic. Furthermore, AcuraLink® allows for 2-way communication between Acura and the vehicle, thus providing customers with the latest information and service requirements specific to their vehicle.

The Real-time traffic feature of the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ can display up-to-the-minute traffic information including flow, accident and construction on freeways in 77 metropolitan areas—an increase of an additional market for 2008. When the transmission is placed in reverse, the Navigation screen displays a video image from a rearview camera to make parking easier.

Safety

The RDX’s technology leadership also extends to safety, where a long list of advanced safety technologies, including an Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) front body structure make the RDX one of only two luxury SUVs in its class to achieve both the U.S. government’s top 5-star rating for both frontal and side impact crash tests, along with a “TOP SAFETY PICK” rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

The ACE™ body employs a network of interconnected front frame structures that work to absorb and redirect collision forces away from the passenger cabin while helping improve crash compatibility with vehicles of different sizes in a frontal collision. A special frame member located below the front bumper is designed to engage the front bumper of a lower vehicle, allowing the bumper systems of both vehicles to attenuate crash energy more efficiently.

In addition, a specially engineered hood, collapsible hood hinges, breakaway wiper pivots and other features help reduce the chance of pedestrian injury in the event of a collision with the vehicle.

Inside the RDX is a full complement of passive safety features. Key technologies include the latest generation of dual-stage, dual-threshold airbags for the driver and front passenger, plus side airbags for the driver and front passenger along with side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor for all outboard occupants. The passenger’s side airbag features an Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS) to prevent airbag deployment if a child or small-stature adult leans into the deployment path. LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) child seat mounting systems allow the quick and secure installation of a child seats.

Like all Acura models, the 2009 RDX is covered by a comprehensive 4-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty and a 6-year/70,000 miles 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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Body

The RDX is a fusion of SUV functionality and sports sedan handling. Together in one package, these qualities create Acura’s first urban adventure crossover vehicle – the perfect compliment to a fast-paced urban lifestyle.

The RDX’s crossover body styling simultaneously supports several agendas. First, its lines have a taut, muscular presence that promises energetic driving performance. But this performance edge doesn’t come at the cost of functionality, as evidenced by the versatile 5-door exterior format and generous interior storage space. Overall, the RDX has an urban-friendly size that’s both maneuverable and personal. Finally, while satisfying stylistic goals, the RDX is designed to provide a high level of crash safety performance.

DESIGN CONCEPT

To suit the dynamic (and sometimes hectic) urban setting, the RDX wears what its designers call “athletic armor,” a design approach that suggests the powerful image of a football running back, outfitted in protective gear. The look is muscular, taut, and poised for acceleration and agile split-second maneuvering.

Starting with the front end, the signature Acura grille has an aggressive flair with a sharply creased leading edge. This first theme in the body form decisively sets the tone for the rest of the design, which follows with a long 104.3-inch wheelbase and wide track (61.9-in. front, 62.6-in. rear). Elegant and decisive style lines run the length of the body, with muscular wheel arches and short overhangs further adding to a poised, powerful look.

Form Follows Function

The overall size of the RDX matches the needs of the urban commuter. Key functional points for the RDX include a low hood line that improves forward visibility. A high eye point for the driver and front passenger further improve outward visibility and add to a sense of confidence and control. New “skin-mount” exterior mirrors have specially designed compact housings that improve the A-pillar area visibility, providing good outward visibility for urban intersections. And finally, excellent approach and departure angles pay dividends when approaching or leaving steep driveways or parking garages.

AERODYNAMIC EFFICIENCY

The RDX marries aggressive styling with function. The windswept front fascia features a main opening that feeds the aluminum engine radiator. The top inlet, located above the bright Acura badge, is a separate cold-air inlet for the large aluminum turbocharger intercooler, which is horizontally mounted above the engine. This fully functional inlet takes in ambient-temperature air as the RDX moves forward, routing it through a duct in the hood and then down through the intercooler. A separate cool-air intake leads to a large-volume intake airbox and high-volume cartridge air filter.

Additional details that contribute to the RDX’s aerodynamic efficiency include a spoiler above the tailgate (which helps air separate cleanly off the body at speed), strakes located in front of the rear tires, and the streamlined “skin-mount” mirrors.

KEY STYLING FEATURES

High-intensity discharge (HID) low beam headlights command the front corners of the fascia and fenders. Their design compliments the angular and elegant pattern set by the trademark Acura grille. Fog lamps are standard as well.

Both front and rear wheel arches are bold and broad, further adding to the dramatic appearance of the standard 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels, the first application for an Acura. The RDX’s beltline rises visibly from the sharply raked A-pillar back to the substantial C- and D-pillars.

Door dimensions were selected to enhance the RDX’s primary mission as a driver’s vehicle while retaining high usability for children or adult passengers in back. The front doors have long proportions for easy ingress and egress, while the rear doors are shorter.

TAILGATE TRIM

In styling the rear portion of the RDX body, Acura designers introduced a unique new design element. Instead of a conventional rear tailgate panel positioned above a large protruding bumper, the RDX tailgate panel drops cleanly downward and terminates smoothly at the trailing edge of the body. This creates a custom look for the rear of the body.

For accident repairs, the rear tailgate uses a replaceable resin lower panel that has a far lower replacement cost than an entire conventional metal tailgate. Without a thick bumper to reach over, loading and unloading cargo in the RDX is also easier. The tailgate design is another way the RDX creatively balances style, safety and convenience.

HID HEADLIGHTS

A powerful combination of Xenon HID low-beam and halogen high-beam front headlights provides excellent lighting firepower for the RDX. Contained within aerodynamic headlight units, the inner lens of the HID unit glitters, making the headlights more distinctive. The RDX also features Daytime Running Lights (DRL), which enhance its visibility to other drivers and can help reduce accidents during daytime driving.

BODY PROTECTION

Designed for arduous driving conditions, the lower door panels of the RDX incorporate a wide molding to help protect the lower body sides from chipping. This molding extends down past the body side sills, ensuring that the sills stay clean to avoid soiling clothing when passengers enter and exit the vehicle.

CONSTRUCTION

A rigid structure enables designers to maintain tight body-panel fit tolerances, tune the suspension for precise ride and handling, keep the ride squeak- and rattle-free, and provide long-term durability and high levels of crash protection for the occupants. The widespread use of high-tensile steel enables the RDX to meet all of these challenges.

Polygonal-shaped frame members, which are computer designed to disperse and absorb forces in a collision, are located behind the front bumper beam. These high-strength steel frame members send collision forces upward and rearward where they can be absorbed by the main structure. In the event of a rear collision, polygonal-shaped high-tensile steel frame members direct the loads forward and outward. These rear frame members also use a “wave shape” design, which provides high strength, yet deforms controllably in a collision. In a side impact, large longitudinal high-tensile steel side sills extending front to rear underneath the vehicle, along with lateral high tensile steel cross members, absorb energy (see the Safety section for more information). For greater steering precision and handling stability, RDX designers paid particular attention to improving body rigidity around the front and rear suspension. These reinforcements are comprised of side-to-side bracing behind and above the firewall and inside the tailgate area.

HIGH-TENSILE STEEL

The use of varying grades of steel in the unit body is key to its stiffness, performance in a collision, and light weight. HSS780 grade steel is used in the “box” section of the front, side, and rear frame members at the bottom of the body. Additional high tensile steel (HSS780 and 590) is used in other areas under the floor, and in the A- and B-pillars and roof rails. By utilizing high strength steel (39-percent by weight) the RDX exceeds the BMW X3’s torsional rigidity while keeping vehicle weight under control.

EXTERIOR DETAIL

Specially designed windshield wiper arms with flat blades ensure that the driver cannot see the stowed wipers from inside the vehicle. The hidden design also reduces wind noise and adds to the RDX’s clean lines. Even the washer nozzles are located underneath the trailing edge of the hood, improving both their performance at high speeds and the exterior look of the vehicle. Elimination of rear quarter glass panels in the doors gives RDX a cleaner appearance, with large 1-piece side windows that provide a more wide-open feeling.

TAILGATE

Designers spent a significant amount of time with the RDX’s target audience in order to understand how they use their vehicles. One of the messages designers heard was that a high degree of functionality is essential. As a result, the RDX’s thoughtful design is evident even in small details, like the tailgate hinges that are hidden at the top rear edge of the roof. This makes the body lines smoother, while allowing for a higher tailgate opening.

The RDX’s clean exterior look is further enhanced by the use of an electronic tailgate switch, which replaces a traditional outside handle. Touching the switch releases the tailgate, which can then be easily lifted open thanks to the counterbalancing effect of the gas-filled struts, tuned to suit the forward hinge positioning.

NOISE, VIBRATION AND HARSHNESS (NVH)

The city is a challenging environment and a great test of a vehicle’s NVH. Varied street surfaces, potholes and other navigational hazards mean the body structure (together with tire and suspension tuning) must address a wide range of NVH issues.

Engineering rigid front and rear suspension mounting points was key to achieve a low NHV character in the RDX. The low road noise allows easy conversation between the driver and all seats. Internal Acura tests measured the RDX at 71 decibels during city driving speeds, similar to other luxury vehicles.

POWER DOOR LOCKS AND REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY

For owner convenience, the RDX has standard power door locks and remote keyless entry. A retractable ignition key is built into the transmitter fob, and can be folded for easier carrying.

POWER WINDOWS

Front power windows with auto-reverse are standard. The RDX’s front power windows also incorporate a 1-touch auto up/down feature for convenience. Window operation is retained for 10 minutes after the ignition is turned off or until the front doors are opened. Tinted door glass reduces eyestrain and the sun load on the inside of the vehicle.

POWER MOONROOF

A large power moonroof with auto-reverse can be opened or closed with one touch of the ceiling-mounted switch. A timer allows it to be operated for 10 minutes after the ignition is shut off or until the doors are opened. The flush-fitting glass panel of the moonroof reduces air turbulence and wind noise, and an inside sliding shade is provided to block the sun.

EXTERIOR MIRRORS

A sleek mirror design that maximizes the mirror area while minimizing the size of the mirror housing provides good outward visibility in the A-pillar area. Both the driver and passenger-side mirrors are heated, and the passenger-side mirror has a reverse auto-tilt feature.

PAINT COLORS

For 2009 the RDX is available with four new exterior paint colors: Basque Red Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl, Grigio Metallic and Palladium Metallic. The 2009 Acura RDX is available in a choice of four pearl and three metallic colors. All are topped with durable clear-coat finishes that resist scratching and urban pollutants.

Acura debuted an all-new V-6 model for its TSX sports sedan line-up at the Chicago Auto Show today. Scheduled to go on sale this summer, the 2010 TSX V-6 will be equipped with a powerful 3.5-liter engine, exclusive suspension tuning, larger diameter wheels and additional enhancements.

“The automotive market may be slowing down, but not Acura,” said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. “With improved acceleration and handling, the new 280 horsepower V-6 adds even more sport to the already sporty nature of the popular TSX sports sedan.”

Since its redesign last year, the TSX has shattered sales records to become one of Acura’s best-selling sedans. As the entry point to the Acura brand, the four-cylinder TSX has won over customers with its nimble handling, agile driving feel and balanced performance. The V-6 model adds a new level of power on top of these winning traits for a more sporty and spirited driving experience. The V-6 will surely satisfy driving enthusiast’s appetite for a fun-to-drive, yet refined sports sedan.

With the introduction of a V-6 powered TSX, Acura will fill a niche in its lineup between the four-cylinder TSX and the all-new TL performance luxury sedan. With the TL moving more upscale following its redesign in the 2009 model year, the TSX V-6 will be aimed squarely at youthful buyers who want a performance-oriented sports sedan in a more personal size.

Powertrain

A new TSX powertrain choice means performance luxury buyers can enjoy a 280 horsepower 3.5L V-6, with sophisticated VTEC® valvetrain control and a dual-stage induction system. For maximum performance and efficiency, the engine will be coupled to Acura’s Sequential SportShift automatic transmission, with intelligent features such as Grade Logic Control and Shift Hold Control. If the driver desires, the Sequential SportShift transmission can also be operated manually, via steering-wheel mounted F1®-style paddle shifters.

Body/Chassis

The new TSX model will feature a state-of-the-art, double-wishbone front and multilink rear suspension system to provide excellent ride, handling and control. To generate sportier handling, the V-6 model will also use exclusive suspension tuning along with 18-inch split five-spoke aluminum wheels, fit with Michelin Pilot all-season tires. The larger wheels and tires will help distinguish this performance- minded TSX, as does the slightly revised front fascia and a V-6 badge on the trunk.
The TSX V-6 model will be generously equipped with the latest advancements in safety technology and is anticipated to achieve the highest ratings in both government (NHTSA)* and independent (IIHS) crash testing – including garnering IIHS’s TOP SAFETY PICK.

Interior

Like all Acura models, the new TSX will feature an exceptional level of standard equipment, including leather-appointed interior, power moonroof, automatic climate control, a premium seven-speaker sound system with CD, AM/FM tuner, XM® Satellite Radio, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® , USB port and AUX jack music interface and more.

Similar to the four-cylinder TSX, the V-6 model will be available with the optional Technology Package that includes the Acuralink™ satellite navigation system with rear-view camera and the Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system for a top-in-class audio experience.

The introduction of the TSX V-6 at the Chicago Auto Show is the first step in a series of major advancements to the 2010 Acura lineup. Almost every Acura sedan and SUV will receive significant enhancements for the 2010 model year.

2009 Acura ZDX

A prototype of the provocative Acura ZDX luxury four-door sports coupemade its world debut at the New York International Auto Show today. The production version of the dramatically styled prototype goes on-sale in the fall of 2009. The segment bending ZDX features stunning coupe-like styling with the added benefit of a commanding presence and flexible utility.

“The ZDX is truly a luxury performance coupe – plus,” said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. “The emotional coupe styling coupled with a luxurious and dramatic interior and surprising versatility, allows the ZDX to define its own segment and attract an entirely new customer.”

The ZDX is designed to break new ground for Acura in the areas of provocative styling, contemporary luxury and meticulous refinement. With its sensuous curves, sharply raked roofline and bold fender flares, the ZDX blurs the distinction between coupe, sedan and sport utility vehicle. Clean, flowing lines start from the headlights and run the length of the car, accentuating the cars presence and grace. In keeping with the coupe-inspired styling, the rear door handles are cleverly concealed in the C-pillar. The all-glass tailgate opens wide to reveal a highly functional cargo space with integrated under-floor storage. The prototype is finished off with stylish dual chrome exhaust outlets and 9-spoke machined wheels fitted with 20-inch Michelin tires.

“From the very first sketch of the ZDX, I wanted to create an emotional vehicle that challenged conventional thinking of what a sports coupe should be,” said Michelle Christensen, ZDX exterior designer. “My goal was to create a strikingly beautiful exterior, and use that attraction to help draw you into the rich interior.”

Inside, the ZDX exudes modern luxury while focusing on pampering the front passengers. The cabin is enveloped in leather, which gives the interior a luxurious and inviting feel. The hand-stitched leather dash and instrument panel sweep down to form a dual cockpit layout, creating a personal and intimate experience for the front seat occupants. The premium leather seats are highly bolstered to support the passengers during sporty driving and at the same time provide comfort during a long getaway. A black monochromatic center stack leads to the textured metallic center console, which complements the black and pearl white leather trim. The thick leather wrapped steering wheel provides ample grip and is framed by racing-inspired paddle shifters for the ultimate in driver control. The cabin is enclosed by a panoramic glass roof which runs the entire length of the vehicle, providing occupants with a breathtaking view of the world around them.

The production ZDX will bring a new level of prestige and sophistication when it arrives at Acura dealerships in the fall, offering the latest advancements in performance, technology and safety. The ZDX will deliver sports sedan performance on the road with its powerful V-6 engine mated to an all-new, smooth shifting 6-speed automatic transmission. The potent powertrain will be coupled with Acura’s exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system, giving the ZDX outstanding handling and cornering capabilities in all-weather conditions.

In typical Acura fashion, the ZDX will be available with the latest in customer enhancing technologies and advanced safety features including an all-new blind spot information system, which will help drivers change lanes more confidently. A new multi-view rear camera makes parking even easier with the added enhancement of both a wide angle and top down view. Acura signature technologies like Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic and Weather™, Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system and Bluetooth® connectivity will also be available on the all-new model.

The ZDX represents the next step for Acura in its advancement to becoming one of the top luxury brands and makes a clear statement toward the future of the brand.

ZDX Prototype Dimensions:

• Length: 192.4 inches
• Width: 78.5 inches
• Height: 61.8 inches
• Wheelbase: 108.2 inches
• Wheel/tire: 9-spoke custom alloy wheels with Michelin Latitude HP 275/40ZR 20 tires
• Powertrain: All-aluminum VTEC® V-6, all-new 6-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®)
• Seating capacity: 5-passenger

Acura unveiled today at the New York Auto Show the all-new second-generation TSX sports sedan. Featuring a dynamic design with a bold new signature Acura grille, the 2009 TSX is more distinctive and sporty. Due to its greater length and width, wider track, and longer wheelbase, the new TSX provides additional interior room while new fully independent front and rear suspension with dual-stage dampers provides more agile handling.

The 2009 TSX has improved fuel economy, lower emissions, added safety features, and more technology than ever before. Producing 201 hp from a 2.4-liter engine, the DOHC VTEC® in-line 4-cylinder now delivers its power across a much wider rpm range. Along with more torque, the new 2.4L is also cleaner as it meets EPA TIER 2-BIN 5 and CARB LEV II Ultra Low Emission Vehicle standards.

The TSX is equipped with an impressive list of standard equipment which includes a power glass moonroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather seats, power windows/mirrors/locks, a premium 7-speaker sound system (with CD, AM/FM and XM Radio), Bluetooth HandsFreeLink, and USB port and AUX jack music interface.

Acura provided a one-two punch with the world debut of the all-new second-generation TSX sports sedan along with the appearance of the redesigned RL luxury performance sedan at the New York International Auto Show today. With new engines, refined drivetrain, and Acura’s latest Keen Edge Dynamic styling, the all-new TSX and RL highlight a new direction for Acura sedans.

“With powerful looks and performance, the debut of the new TSX has taken an enthusiastic bite out of the Big Apple,” said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of sales. “Besides offering enhanced performance, the 2009 TSX has improved fuel economy, lower emissions, added safety features, and more technology than ever before.”

Producing 201 hp from a 2.4-liter engine, the DOHC VTEC® in-line 4-cylinder now delivers its power across a much wider rpm range. Along with more torque, the new 2.4L is also cleaner as it meets EPA TIER 2-BIN 5 and CARB LEV II Ultra Low Emission Vehicle standards.

Merging crisp, dynamic design with a bold new signature Acura grille, the 2009 TSX is more distinctive and sporty. Due to its greater length and width, wider track, and longer wheelbase, the new TSX provides additional interior room while new fully independent front and rear suspension with dual-stage dampers provides more agile handling.

The TSX is equipped with an impressive list of standard equipment which includes a power glass moonroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather seats, power windows/mirrors/locks, a premium 7-speaker sound system (with CD, AM/FM and XM® Radio), Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, and USB port and AUX jack music interface.

The available Technology Package features leading-edge electronics including the AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System, Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, AcuraLink® Real-time traffic, Traffic Rerouting™ and AcuraLink® weather. Included in the Technology Package is an audiophiles dream in the form of a 415 watt, 10-speaker Acura/ELS™ Premium Surround Sound System with DVD-Audio designed by Grammy® Award winning producer/engineer Elliot Scheiner.

Designed with an emphasis on safety, the 2009 TSX now makes use of Acura’s esteemed Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure. The 2009 TSX, with ACE™ and a host of other safety features, is expected to achieve the highest ratings in both governmental (NHTSA)* and independent (IIHS) crash testing – including IIHS’s TOP SAFETY PICK.

Also making its first appearance in New York is Acura’s new 2009 RL luxury sedan which features bold new styling, an all-new 3.7-liter engine, chassis enhancements and numerous technological upgrades. Performance improves with the 2009 RL thanks to a new 300 horsepower V-6 that incorporates the first ever SOHC use of VTEC® valvetrain actuation for both the intake and exhaust valves. The top-of-the-line Acura furthers cutting edge technology with the addition of new high-tech items including AcuraLink® weather, AcuraLink® Traffic Rerouting™, a new Note function for XM® Radio, Active Sound Control, and Bluetooth® Audio to an already robust list of features found on the previous RL. To enhance handling, new chassis technology abounds in the form of enhanced Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™, a revised steering system, firmer coil springs, better performing shock absorbers, larger rear stabilizer bar, and larger wheels and tires.

Acura offers a full line of technologically advanced performance luxury vehicles through a network of 268 dealers within the United States. The Acura lineup features five distinctive models including the RL luxury performance sedan, the TL performance luxury sedan, the TSX sports sedan, the turbocharged RDX luxury crossover SUV and the award-winning MDX luxury sport utility vehicle.

Pricing

The completely redesigned TSX will be available in two versions: the generously appointed TSX and the fully-featured TSX with Technology Package. MSRP pricing for the TSX is $28,960 and the TSX with Technology Packages is $32,060. The 2009 TSX is available with either a 6-speed manual transmission or 5-speed automatic for no additional charge. Although the new TSX surpasses the previous generation in virtually every way, pricing for the 2009 model represents a modest 4.3 percent sales weighted average price increase. Destination and Handling is not included in MSRP, and for the 2009 TSX remains unchanged at $715.

Powertrain

The new TSX’s size, weight and total performance work in balance. The result is a car that is comfortable for five passengers, yet agile and responsive for performance driving. The same balanced thinking applies to the TSX powertrain. With an advanced in-line 4-cylinder powerplant, TSX offers strong acceleration, combined with low overall weight and compact packaging. Fuel efficiency is also a strong point.

An advanced, all-aluminum 2.4-liter DOHC i-VTEC® in-line 4-cylinder engine produces 201 hp and 172 pound-feet of torque (MT), and incorporates Acura’s i-VTEC® “intelligent” valve control system that features Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC®) combined with Variable Timing Control™ (VTC™). Though peak horsepower is virtually unchanged versus the previous generation engine, peak torque output has risen by 8 lb-ft. In addition, the engine’s torque curve has fattened considerably. Horsepower, for example, is up five percent at 4,400 rpm. The result is stronger throttle response and better acceleration just about everywhere in the engine’s operating range. To achieve these power gains, the engine has a higher compression ratio, new valve timing, and intake and exhaust flow improvements. A new aluminum and resin composite intake manifold reduces weight over the previous aluminum design, while better insulating the engine’s incoming airflow from under-hood heat.

Though engine performance has improved, the powerplant delivers better fuel economy and has reduced emissions. A rear-mounted exhaust layout, close-coupled catalytic converter and advanced Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) team to help the TSX meet strict EPA 2 – Bin 5, and CARB LEV II Ultra Low Emission Vehicle standards (LEV-2 ULEV).

The 2009 TSX comes with a choice of two transmissions – a standard 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission or a Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic. The manual gearbox has a lightweight magnesium alloy case and multi-cone synchronizers providing a light, quick action with very short shift throws. To provide more spirited driving, the manual transmission now includes more performance-minded ratios for second and third gears.

The 5-speed Sequential SportShift automatic has a new straight-style shift gate (versus the previous TSX’s serpentine-style gate design) with Drive and Sport positions that provide fully automatic operation. The transmission can be shifted manually via new steering wheel mounted F1®-style paddle shifters at the driver’s option. Also new with SportShift is the ability to use the paddle shifters to make gear changes while in Drive, whereas previously this would only occur when in Manual mode. When using SportShift in Drive, the gear changes are made per driver command, but after a short time (with no further gear change input) the 5-speed automatic transmission returns to its normal Drive mode operation. Working in combination with the Drive-by-Wire™ Throttle System, the Sequential SportShift transmission’s shift logic results in quick, smoothly controlled shifts. Grade Logic and Shift Hold Control work in automatic mode to keep the transmission in the gear that’s ideal for the driving situation. Further improving performance and drivability is a revised torque converter lock-up assembly.

Long 100,000-mile tune-up intervals and a standard Maintenance Minder™ system, which automatically monitors the vehicle’s unique operation condition to indicate to the driver when maintenance is required, help to lessen the cost of ownership. The Maintenance Minder™ system is designed to ensure that important service issues are addressed in a timely manner, and eliminate unnecessary maintenance procedures to help reduce environmental impact and operating expenses.

Powertrain at A Glance

Engine

• 2.4-liter, DOHC, i-VTEC® 4-cylinder engine generates 201 horsepower at 7,000 rpm with 172 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm (MT); 170 lb-ft of torque at 4,300 rpm (AT)
• i-VTEC® “intelligent” valve-control system combines Variable Timing Control™ (VTC™) with VTEC®
• Drive-by-Wire™ Throttle System
• Computer-controlled Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
• Dual balance shafts for exceptional smoothness
• Direct ignition system
• Lightweight alloy pistons and high-strength connecting rods
• 100,000-mile tune-up interval (may vary with driving conditions)

Emissions/Fuel Economy

• Estimated mileage of 21/30/24 mpg* (city/highway/combined, 5 AT) and 20/28/23 mpg* (city/highway/combined, 6 MT)
• EPA TIER 2 – BIN 5, CARB LEV II ULEV emissions standards
• Rear-facing exhaust ports, close-coupled catalytic converter and under-floor converter provide fast catalyst light-off for lower and cleaner emissions

6-Speed Manual Transmission

• Close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission
• Compact, rigid, lightweight transmission case and bellhousing
• Multi-cone synchronization on all gears for light shifting effort
• Revised ratios for second through sixth gears
• Precise and light shift
• Short clutch pedal stroke with light effort
• Compact clutch with low inertia for quick acceleration

Sequential SportShift 5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Sequential SportShift via F1®-style steering-wheel mounted paddles
• 5-position straight shift gate
• Advanced Grade Logic Control for reduced gear hunting when driving on steep hills
• Linear solenoid direct-acting control for reduced shift shock and shift smoothness and responsiveness
• Drive-by-Wire™ cooperative control facilitates quicker shifts
• Lockup torque converter design delivers superior fuel economy
• Shift Hold Control

Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH)

• Lightweight and durable aluminum cylinder block with cast-in iron cylinder liners
• One-piece aluminum crankshaft carrier for improved strength
• Chain-driven balance shafts mounted on lower block in oil pan
• Maintenance-free silent-chain camshaft drive
• Maintenance-free serpentine accessory drive-belt assembly with auto-tensioner

i-VTEC® VALVE CONTROL SYSTEM

The 2009 TSX’s 2.4L engine features Acura’s i-VTEC® “intelligent” valve control system. Featuring Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC®) combined with Variable Timing Control™ (VTC™), the system provides power characteristics like those of a V6 without sacrificing the light weight or fuel efficiency of an inline four. A new VTEC® design uses three reduced-thickness aluminum rocker arms that operate a pair of intake and exhaust valves for each cylinder. At low rpm, the valves follow low-lift, short duration camshaft profiles to help boost low-end torque. Above 5000 rpm, the intake valves are operated by high-lift, long-duration camshaft profiles, for maximum high-rpm horsepower.

VTEC® lets the engine develop strong low-end torque along with exceptional high rpm power by varying valve lift and duration based on key engine parameters. To further refine powerplant operation, the TSX engine features the “intelligent” i-VTEC® system which adds Variable Timing Control™ (VTC™) to VTEC®. This provides continuously variable, computer controlled camshaft timing. In total, the TSX’s i-VTEC® system provides performance, efficiency and emissions benefits by allowing the intake valve lift and valve timing to be continuously adjusted to suit the engine’s operating parameters.

Variable Timing Control™ (VTC™)

The TSX’s intake camshaft timing is continuously adjusted to suit engine operating conditions by a system called Variable Timing Control™ (VTC™). An integral part of the TSX’s i-VTEC® system, the new TSX employs revised VTC™ parameters to enhance power output, fuel economy and emissions performance with its precise control of cam timing.

Camshaft position, intake manifold pressure and engine rpm are simultaneously monitored by the powertrain control unit (PCM), which then commands a VTC™ actuator to advance or retard the intake camshaft timing. The intake camshaft is almost fully retarded at idle to deliver a more stable idle and reduced hydrocarbon (HC) emissions. As engine RPM builds, the intake camshaft is progressively advanced so the intake valves open sooner and valve overlap increases. This reduces pumping losses, which increases fuel economy and further reduces exhaust emissions due to the creation of an internal exhaust-gas recirculation effect.

CYLINDER HEAD / VALVETRAIN
The TSX cylinder head is constructed of pressure-cast aluminum alloy and features four valves per cylinder actuated by dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). The cams are driven by an automatically adjusted silent-type chain. The chain system is maintenance free and runs in an oil bath for maximum durability. The combustion chambers have large “quench” areas to promote faster flame propagation and more complete burning, thus helping to reduce carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrocarbon (HC) exhaust emissions. Larger intake and exhaust valves and revised ports contribute to improved breathing. An increase in compression ratio from 10.5 to 11.0:1 is a significant contributor to the TSX’s greater torque output.

CRANKSHAFT, PISTONS, ENGINE BLOCK & OIL PAN

TSX’s forged-steel crankshaft has micropolished journals to reduce friction and improve long-term durability. The die-cast lightweight aluminum cylinder block has cast-in iron cylinder liners that are made using a unique spin casting, centrifugal process. New-design pistons use special low-friction rings to reduce power loss. For maximum rigidity and minimal noise and vibration, the cylinder block is a 2-piece design that supports the five main bearings with a single cast-alloy bed-plate assembly.

PROGRAMMED FUEL INJECTION (PGM-FI)
Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) uses an array of sensors to constantly monitor a number of critical operating variables, including throttle position, intake air temperature, water temperature, ambient air pressure (altitude), air flow, air/fuel ratio, along with the position of the crankshaft and camshafts. Highly vaporized-style fuel injector nozzles reduce the typical size of fuel droplets, which improves air/fuel atomization and flame propagation inside the combustion chambers.

INDUCTION SYSTEM

The TSX’s induction system has been reworked to increase airflow volume by nine percent and to create a more aggressive, linear engine sound. The revised inlet design allows cool ambient air to be picked up at the front of the vehicle, and then routed though a high-flow filter assembly. The single-stage lightweight plastic intake manifold has fixed-length intake runners that are tuned in length, diameter and shape to provide an optimal blend of low-rpm torque and high-rpm response. The new manifold incorporates new 48 mm intake runner (up 6 mm from the previous design runners) along with a new throttle-body with a 4 mm larger inlet opening.

EXHAUST SYSTEM

To help boost engine torque, the TSX has a new high-flow, low back-pressure exhaust system that contributes to a 15-percent increase in exhaust flow over the previous TSX. Large-diameter pipe sizes throughout the exhaust system increase flow; beyond the under-floor catalytic converter, the exhaust system passes through a pre-chamber under the second-row floor, and then splits just behind the rear axle to feed into free-flowing dual silencers and chrome exhaust tips.

DRIVE-BY-WIRE™ THROTTLE SYSTEM

In place of a conventional mechanical throttle linkage, the TSX uses a Drive-by-Wire™ Throttle System. A DC motor controls the throttle butterfly position in the intake tract. This allows the ratio between pedal movement and throttle motion to be altered to suit the driving conditions. The system monitors throttle pedal position, throttle butterfly position, road speed, engine speed and engine vacuum. This information is used to define the throttle control sensitivity. The system also alters response based on the calculated road slope, providing more throttle gain uphill, and less downhill, and also reduces changes in gain on curvy roads to make the car easier to control.

The drive-by-wire throttle system works with the Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission to make shifts smooth and quick. With coordination of the throttle opening and the transmission’s shifting functions, shift shock and delay are reduced.

Emissions Control

In addition to the TSX engine gaining torque, the 2.4-liter engine has lower emissions. The 2009 TSX is compliant with California Air Resources Board (CARB) LEV II ULEV standard, which is one of the toughest emissions regulations in the United States. TSX also achieves EPA TIER 2 – BIN 5 regulations emissions compliance.

The in-line 4-cylinder engine is designed with emissions performance in mind, employing VTC and a unique i-VTEC® cylinder head promoting internal exhaust gas recirculation, which helps reduce NOx output. Newly designed fuel injectors likewise help reduce hydrocarbons after starting, while a Linear Air/Fuel sensor positioned in the exhaust system just upstream of the catalyst improves air/fuel mixture control.

The exhaust manifold is integrated into the cylinder-head casting in the rear of the transversely mounted engine. This allows the catalytic converter to be positioned very close to the cylinders for swift light-off after a cold engine start. A secondary catalytic converter is positioned under the passenger compartment floor, shortly downstream.

NOISE, VIBRATION & HARSHNESS (NVH) CONTROL

The TSX engine has an array of features designed to reduce noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). The pressure-cast cylinder block has a bed-plate type main bearing cap that results in a highly rigid assembly, which helps to resist vibration. Two balance shafts further smooth the inherent vibration commonly found with a large-displacement in-line 4-cylinder engine layout, and a self-adjusting silent-type camshaft chain and serpentine accessory drive belt also reduce NVH.

100,000 MILE TUNE-UP INTERVAL

Features like a self-adjusting silent-type camshaft chain, long wearing platinum-tipped spark plugs and a precision-engineered valvetrain, all contribute to the TSX’s low maintenance needs. Aside from routine fluid changes and inspections, the first scheduled engine tune-up is not required for 100,000 miles or more (may vary with driving conditions).

Maintenance Minder™ SYSTEM

A standard Maintenance Minder™ system automatically monitors the vehicle’s operating condition. The driver is alerted via a message on the Multi-Information Display (MID) when maintenance is required. The system helps eliminate unnecessary service stops, while ensuring that the vehicle is properly maintained.

The Maintenance Minder™ system monitors operating conditions such as coolant and oil temperatures along with engine speed, and then determines the proper service intervals. Depending on the engine operating conditions, oil change intervals can be extended to a maximum of 10,000 miles, potentially sparing the owner considerable money and inconvenience over the life of the vehicle. The system can be reset manually by the owner, and monitors all normal service parts and systems, including oil and filter, air-cleaner, tire rotation, automatic transmission fluid, coolant, spark plugs, timing belt, brake pads and more. Maintenance alerts are presented on the instrument cluster when the ignition is first turned on, and not while driving.

ELECTRONIC CONTROL MOUNT (ECM)

The Electronic Control Mount System is used to minimize the effects of engine vibration. At low engine speed, a vacuum-controlled front engine mount allows additional engine movement, so that less low-frequency vibration is transmitted to the body. At higher rpm, the mount stiffens so that the mass of the engine is properly restrained for better handling.

6-SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION

A close-ratio 6-speed manual gearbox is one of two standard transmissions in the TSX. With precise and light shifting action, the manual transmission is designed to compliment the TSX’s sporting side. Compared to a 5-speed transmission, the 6-speed gearbox allows for closer ratio staging. This enables the engine to operate closer to its power peak during acceleration for better performance.

A high (numerically low) top gear ratio allows for a relaxed cruising rpm and fuel efficiency. For 2009, the TSX 6-speed manual gearbox has new ratios for second through sixth gears for better performance with the revised engine.

The compact, highly rigid transmission case is cast of magnesium alloy to reduce weight by about seven pounds relative to a comparable aluminum unit. Additionally, the highly rigid casting helps damp out noise and vibration. Multi-cone synchronizers on first through fourth gears reduce and smooth shifting effort.

The low-effort clutch pedal design has a broad engagement band for progressive engagement and smoother launches.

SEQUENTIAL SPORTSHIFT 5-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WITH PADDLE SHIFTERS

The TSX has a standard Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission with F1®-style paddle shifters and Grade Logic Control to maximize acceleration, fuel economy and driver control.

Automatic mode

A console mounted, 5-position shift gate makes operation of the transmission simple. When in this mode the transmission operates automatically in the “D” position, selecting among the five forward gear ratios based on the driving conditions. When in automatic mode, the transmission incorporates an advanced Grade Logic Control and Shift Hold Control, both of which work to reduce gear “hunting” on hills and through turns.

Grade Logic Control reduces shift frequency and improves vehicle speed control by altering the transmission’s shift schedule when traveling uphill or downhill. The transmission computer continuously compares throttle position, vehicle speed and acceleration/deceleration with a map stored in the computer memory. The Grade Logic Control System determines when the TSX is on an upslope or down slope. The shift schedule is then adjusted to automatically hold the transmission in a lower gear for better climbing power or increased downhill engine braking.

When the throttle is quickly released and the brakes are applied, as might be the case when decelerating for a corner, Shift Hold Control keeps the transmission in its current (lower) ratio. This helps provide added engine braking, and ensures that abundant power is immediately available at the corner exit.

Manual mode

New for 2009, TSX is equipped with steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters. The steering-wheel mounted Sequential SportShift F1®-style paddle shifters are activated when a fingertip pull of the right paddle commands an upshift or a pull of the left paddle commands a downshift. A digital display in the tachometer face indicates which gear the transmission is in when the steering wheel paddles are active.

The steering wheel paddles can operate in both the “D” and “S” transmission positions. When in “D,” a touch of a paddle shifter temporarily places the transmission in manual mode (but without gear holding at redline). After comparatively steady-state cruising conditions are detected, the transmission returns to full automatic operation. In “S,” engaging a paddle enables gear holding, which allows only driver-commanded shifts, with the exception of automatically shifting to first gear at a stop, even if not driver-selected.

When first placed in “S” mode, the transmission will automatically shift between first, second, third and fourth gears until a paddle shifter is activated. When a paddle shifter is activated, the transmission goes into full manual mode.

Manual mode protective features

An array of protective features is active when the transmission is in manual mode to help protect the engine and drivetrain from damage. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) will cut off fuel flow to the engine if there is a possibility of over-revving in a gear, as might occur if the driver is late in commanding an upshift. To prevent over-revving while downshifting, the transmission will not execute a driver-commanded downshift that would send the engine beyond redline in the lower gear. Even if the driver allows the vehicle to come to a stop in a high gear, the transmission will automatically downshift to first gear to prevent lugging away from a stop in a high gear.

Cooperation between 5-Speed Automatic Transmission & Drive-by-Wire™ Throttle System

With the TSX’s electronically controlled automatic transmission and Drive-by-Wire™ Throttle System, the function of the engine and transmission are closely choreographed for faster, smoother shifting. As a result, shift shock is reduced significantly during upshifts and downshifts.

ACTIVE LOCKUP TORQUE CONVERTER

To provide good fuel economy while maintaining a high level of drivability, the 5-speed automatic transmission includes an active lockup torque converter. With the precise control afforded by a linear solenoid and assist spring, the system features a wide range of speed and throttle settings in which lockup can be engaged in the top four gears. This results in excellent fuel economy in both city and highway driving.

LOW-FRICTION CLUTCH DISC FOR AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

To provide better fuel efficiency, a special low-friction clutch disc is used for all five gears.

Chassis

In keeping with its lean, athletic appearance, the 2009 TSX offers a flat ride that is free from excessive pitching motions, along with outstanding agility and steering precision. As a result, the chassis serves a broader mission than that of the previous-generation TSX. Several advancements are responsible for this, including a more rigid body design including a new cross-braced roof structure and a new safety cage-type rear bulkhead structure.

SUSPENSION

The 2009 TSX suspension’s roll center (the geometric axis on which the body rolls or leans while cornering) has been raised compared to the previous generation TSX. This revised roll center reduces body lean during cornering, which better equalizes the workload for all four tires while also improving passenger comfort.

Front suspension
Double-wishbone front suspension components include stamped-steel upper A-arms, cast-iron steering knuckles, cast-iron lower A-arms, coil-over dampers and a larger/thicker (26.5 mm diameter hollow versus the previous 25.4 mm hollow design) front stabilizer bar. A steel subframe cradles the engine, transmission and lower suspension components, and mounts on rubber bushings tuned to reduce road and engine noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) without compromising handling agility or steering precision.

Rear suspension
The multi-link rear suspension includes stamped-steel upper A-arms, cast aluminum knuckles, double lower tubular lateral links, tubular steel toe-control links, coil-over dampers and a larger (17 mm solid versus the previous 15 mm solid) stabilizer bar. This system provides outstanding agility and handling, together with a flatter ride and excellent control of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH).

DUAL-MODE DAMPERS

The 2009 TSX features dual-mode dampers, a first for an Acura vehicle. While most conventional dampers are tuned to provide a compromise between ride comfort and sporty handling at different speeds, the TSX’s new dual-mode dampers are engineered to provide ideal damping rates at both low and high speeds.

With a typical suspension unit, damping forces rise with the speed of damper compression, such as occurs when the vehicle encounters road irregularities at high speed. This can cause significant ride harshness and noise that reduces passenger comfort and enjoyment. However the new TSX’s dual-mode dampers are tuned to provide the ideal damping rates for comfort and smoothness at low speeds of damper compression, while also limiting the maximum damping forces to reduce ride harshness at higher speeds of damper compression.

In this way the 2009 TSX provides a wider range of comfortable ride quality and exceptional road holding under a wide variety of driving speeds and conditions.

For the first time ever in an Acura vehicle, the 2009 TL is available in a choice of front-wheel-drive TL or all-wheel-drive TL SH-AWD® configurations. The new 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 TL Type-S is the TL SH-AWD® model, built exclusively for the enthusiast driver and featuring Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™, special suspension and steering tuning, and the most powerful engine from Acura ever.

Unlike some competitors, who add all-wheel drive to their vehicles primarily to help in winter conditions, the TL’s available SH-AWD® was designed to dramatically enhance sporty handling in addition to further enhancing the vehicle’s winter-driving capability.

Under the hood there will be the most powerful Acura engine ever, probably same 3,7 liter engine used in the RL that develops 300 hp.

Body

The new 2009 TL’s dynamic and bold styling was designed at the Acura Design Studio in Torrance, California. The design team wanted the TL’s exterior styling to not only be emotional, but to reflect the exhilarating driving experience that would be realized behind the wheel. The new TL also uses the latest materials and technologies to help reduce weight, increase strength and enhance aerodynamic performance.

DESIGN CONCEPT

The exterior design of the TL uses a principal that the design team refers to as “Motion Surface.” Simply put, this term expresses the feeling of motion in the surface of the vehicle even when the TL is at rest. The body uses artfully crafted character lines that divide the TL’s sides into lower, middle and upper areas, with each catching the light differently while presenting a dynamic and strong athletic shape. As well, the character lines lead the eye along the body side from front to rear, enticing the viewer to take in the whole car and explore and discover its many design details.

One intriguing detail is the Acura “power plenum” grille, whose platinum-like finisher appears to be cut from solid billet that “floats” in front of the car. Beneath the finisher is a diamond-pattern black grille opening that adds an aggressive sports-car look. A satin grille surround further accentuates the opening. Below the bumper, two large openings on the front fascia house fog lamps, turn signals (and on the SH-AWD® model) front brake cooling ducts. The 2009 TL is the third sedan in the Acura lineup to receive the new Acura signature grille, after the 2009 TSX and 2009 RL.

Aggressive front wheel arches and dramatic character lines set a confident and muscular tone for the TL’s body side. In addition, the headlight and taillight arrays, which sweep aggressively around each corner of the body, further add character. Below the taillight array are large red reflectors that add style as well as safety. Below the trunk lid is a satin finisher with stylized cues echoing the front finisher.

NEW LARGER SIZE

In keeping with its mission of providing even more performance, agility and comfort, the 2009 Acura TL increases in size compared to the previous-generation TL. For improved interior roominess, handling stability and ride quality, the 2009 TL has a longer wheelbase and a wider track. Wheelbase is up 1.4 inches (to 109.3 inches from 107.9 inches), while the track increases 1.1 inches (to 63.2 inches in front and 1.8 inches to 63.8 inches at the rear). Overall length is up 6.2 inches (to 195.5 inches), overall width is up 1.8 inches (to 74.0 inches), and height rises 0.5-inch (to 57.2 inches). The wider track pays dividends in both cornering ability and interior roominess, while the longer wheelbase increases ride comfort as well as interior roominess. The new TL offers more interior volume (111.4 cu-ft vs. 110.2 cu-ft) than the outgoing model. Like the previous-generation TL, the 2009 TL is classified by the EPA as a Midsize car.

WEIGHT REDUCTION STRATEGIES

Despite its larger size and higher overall content level, at 3,708 lbs. the base 2009 Acura TL increases just 85 pounds in curb weight compared to the previous model. The new TL SH-AWD® has a curb weight of 3,970 lbs. Part of the reason for the minimal increase in weight is due to the widespread use of high-strength steel in key structural areas, lightweight yet ultra high-strength hot-stamped steel for the B-pillars and doorsills, as well as an aluminum hood, front suspension subframe, rear suspension knuckles and steering hanger beam. Over 18 pounds were saved in the TL’s unit-body construction alone.

FRAME RAIL SYSTEM

The 2009 TL is the second Acura (along with the TSX) to use an advanced new unit-body frame rail system. With this new system, the stamped steel frame rails are positioned above and inside the body structure floor (rather than underneath it) to create a nearly flat body underside. This design results in improved structural strength for safety, reduced interior noise from turbulent air flowing underneath the car, and better aerodynamic efficiency for improved fuel mileage and more interior space. The new frame rail design does not compromise interior room and improves crash safety. (Please see Safety section for more information.)

ADVANCED COMPATIBILITY ENGINEERING™ (ACE™) BODY STRUCTURE

Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) represents a groundbreaking change in the way Acura unit-bodies are constructed. Now a standard feature on every new Acura, ACE™ maximizes the body’s ability to disperse crash energy in a frontal collision by directing collision forces along predetermined load pathways. One of most important benefits of the design is that crash energy can be dispersed with less affect on the structural integrity of the passenger cabin. Another important ACE™ characteristic is how it allows the TL to interface better with larger or smaller vehicles in a frontal collision, further protecting both the TL passengers as well as those in the other vehicle. (Please see Safety section for more information.)

Based on internal testing, the 2009 Acura TL is projected to earn top crash ratings. These include 5-Star ratings* for frontal NCAP and side SINCAP tests from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and GOOD ratings for offset frontal, side and headrest tests from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). (Please see Safety section for more information.)

*Government star ratings are part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) New Car Assessment Program (www.safercar.gov). Model Tested with side-impact air bags (SABs).

HIGH-STRENGTH SHEET STEEL

Along with new engineering techniques, the 2009 TL also has widespread use of high-strength sheet steel, which provides benefits in ride, handling and overall durability. The new TL uses five different types of high-strength steel, including ultra high-strength hot-stamp steel that is heated before it is stamped into shape for the front unit-body rails, doorsills, B-pillar and side roof rails. A total of 47.6-percent of the steel used in the new TL is high-strength steel. Hot-stamp steel and 980 grade high-strength steel, two premium types of steel, are used by Acura for the first time in the 2009 TL.

STRUCTURAL RIGIDITY

The 2009 Acura TL is 15-percent more rigid overall than its predecessor in key areas, which directly improves handling agility, ride quality, interior quietness and overall durability. Specific rigidity advancements include:

* 41-percent greater rear vertical rigidity
* 17-percent greater front lateral rigidity

BUMPERS

Aluminum front and rear bumper beams help the 2009 TL meet the most rigid crash test standards, while also helping to reduce vehicle mass for improved performance and fuel economy. In front, the bumper beam is tied into an ACE™ beam structure that helps equalize the height disparity between large and small cars, resulting in better attenuation of crash energy during a frontal collision. Stylized plastic bumper fascias are an integral part of the TL styling and are rated to withstand 2.5-mph front and rear impacts without substantial damage.

The TL SH-AWD® receives a unique front bumper fascia that incorporates special vent openings and ducts to cool the front disc brakes. In addition, the TL SH-AWD® employs the 3.7L V-6’s dual-exhaust system capped with quad stainless-steel tips (the TL with 3.5-liter V-6 has two exhaust tips).

PROJECTOR-BEAM HID HEADLIGHTS

The new 2009 TL has Xenon high intensity discharge (HID) projector-style low-beam headlights as standard equipment. The primary operational benefit of projector headlights is a bright and precisely focused light beam for confident nighttime driving, but they also provide an aggressive and technical appearance. Halogen high beams are mounted inboard of the projector beams, and offer further nighttime driving confidence with a crisp, bright and focused beam. The halogen high-beams serve double duty as the daytime running lights (DRL) by operating at a lower voltage. The headlight arrays are protected by flush impact-resistant covers that blend sleekly into the TL’s front fascia, hood and fenders, and include wraparound amber side reflectors that are visible from both the front and sides of the vehicle. Fog lamps are integrated into an opening below the front bumper that also includes air inlet ducts for additional front brake cooling on the SH-AWD® model. LED lighting is used for the taillights, center high-mounted stop light (CHMSL) and the exterior mirror-mounted auxiliary turn signals.

ALUMINUM ALLOY WHEELS

Standard on the TL are 17×8-inch cast aluminum alloy wheels with 10 crisply designed spokes, a silver paint finish and black Acura emblem showcased in a composite center cap. The TL SH-AWD® features unique 18×8-inch 5-spoke aluminum alloy wheels finished in dramatic and exclusive silver finish and featuring a premium spun-aluminum center cap replete with black Acura emblem. Optional for the TL SH-AWD® with the Technology Package are 19×8-inch aluminum-alloy wheels featuring a 10-spoke design finished in silver with a spun-aluminum center cap and a chrome Acura emblem.

POWER TILT/SLIDE MOONROOF

The 2009 TL comes with a standard power moonroof that tilts or slides via a one-touch control. To tilt or slide the moonroof fully open or closed, simply press the ceiling-mounted switch once (rather than pushing for several seconds). Partially opening or closing the moonroof to achieve partial ventilation simply requires a lighter touch. A built-in auto-reverse system helps ensure that the moonroof will not close forcefully if a hand or arm is in the way. If an obstruction is detected, the moonroof mechanism is designed to automatically reopen the moonroof.

ACOUSTIC WINDSHIELD

Special acoustic windshield glass is used on the TL to help reduce wind noise. Tuned specifically to attenuate wind-noise frequencies, the windshield uses two layers of 2 mm safety glass with an inner layer of a transparent elastic acoustic membrane for a total thickness of 4.5 mm. The acoustic windshield in conjunction with 5 mm thick side windows helps position the TL at the top of its class in wind-noise performance. The windshield, like the side windows and 3.1 mm thick rear window, is UV light absorbing.

Windshield Wipers

The TL’s windshield wipers nest below the hood line, where they are out of the driver’s line of sight and away from the direct airflow that can cause turbulence, aerodynamic drag and noise. The driver’s side wiper measures 25.5 inches in length to clean a broad section of the windshield, while the passenger-side wiper measures 18.75 inches long. A 2.5-liter capacity windshield-washer system helps clear dirt from the windshield as necessary.

WINDOW TRIM

Above the beltline of the car, the side windows are surrounded by luxurious stainless steel trim. Showing the level of detail that has gone into the new TL, its surface shape is actually slightly concave, which effectively eliminates “hot spots” in the reflection caused by direct sunlight. Additional stainless trim along the roofline joins the windshield, roof and rear window together in one smoothly flowing curve. This roofline trim finishes dramatically in the form of a mini bulkhead along each side of the subtly recessed window. The treatment does not impede outward visibility but rather creates a look of strength and solidity at the rear of the TL. So too does a subtle “negative break” running from front to rear along the trunk lid. Matching the pronounced break at the front of the car, the bisected trunk lid and the matching rear bumper and fascia further define the TL as a strong, aggressive sport sedan.

PILLAR SEPARATORS

All of the vertical roof pillars and two areas of the front unit-body bulkhead are filled with closed-cell expansion foam that significantly reduces the transmission of road noise from the lower part of the unit-body up into the passenger compartment. The foam is installed prior to the unit body’s assembly and welding process, and it expands to tightly fit the pillar openings when the body is later baked after the electro deposition of protective coatings.

POWER WINDOWS

The 2009 TL has power windows as standard equipment, including a one-touch auto up/down feature that simplifies the lowering or raising process for the driver and front passenger-side windows. As with the power tilt and slide moonroof, the driver and front passenger-side power windows include a pinch-protection feature, and all four windows as well as the moonroof may be opened via the TL’s Keyless Access Remote. Turning the key twice in the driver’s door lock or pressing and holding the lock button on the remote Keyless Access Remote closes the windows and moonroof simultaneously.

Side glass

To help reduce wind and road noise, the 2009 TL features 5 mm thick glass for all four side windows. The added thickness (beyond typical auto glass) provides a superior acoustic barrier that makes the interior more quiet and luxurious.

DOOR HANDLES

The broad door handles are formed to comfortably fit a wide range of hand sizes as well as to accommodate gloved hands in winter driving conditions. The handles feature painted surfaces on the base TL and a painted and chromed finish on the Technology Package. The 2009 TL with Technology Package uses a Keyless Access System that unlocks the driver’s door or all doors (programmable as the owner wishes) when grabbing either the driver or front passenger door handle. A button, located on the driver’s door handle, locks all doors with a light touch-and a reassuring audible tone confirms that the vehicle is indeed locked. An emergency lock cylinder, located on the rear edge the driver’s door handle, permits locking and unlocking the vehicle in the event the battery becomes discharged.

DOOR SILLS

Satin door sill plates greet the driver and front passenger when the front doors are opened. Centered in a durable black composite surround, the metal door sill plates feature the Acura logo. As well, dual 360-degree seals in all four door openings provide outstanding sealing capability to help keep wind, road and traffic noise, water and dirt out of the interior.

POWER EXTERIOR MIRRORS

Aerodynamically shaped power-adjustable mirrors make use of tinted glass that reduces glare. Mounted flush with the mirror nacelle are bright turn-signal diodes that provide an extra margin of safety in traffic—without interrupting the TL’s dramatic bodylines. In addition, the side mirrors are heated and memory linked to driver preference.

FUEL FILLER DOOR

The Acura TL uses a new electric fuel-filler door release system. Instead of a traditional floor-mounted cable release, the 2009 TL’s fuel-filler door opens with a push of a button located on the driver’s door next to the trunk-release button. When the button is pushed the filler door pops open 1.2 inches and is held open by a secondary spring. The fuel door may then be opened fully to access the fuel filler.

TAILLIGHTS

A large array of light emitting diodes (LEDs) serves as the taillights on the new TL. Used here as well as in the turn signals located in the outside rearview mirrors and Center High-Mounted Stop Lamp (CHMSL), the LEDs illuminate almost instantly, provide exceptionally high-visibility lighting and draw less energy than comparable incandescent bulbs. The LEDs also provide a highly technical look that compliments the TL body design and are projected to have a far longer service life.

REAR SPOILER

Included in the available Technology Package is a rear spoiler that contains a trunk release touch button as well as a rearview camera that’s image is displayed on the Navigation screen when the transmission is shifted to Reverse. The composite spoiler is painted body color and smoothly integrated into the bodylines. To date, none of the TL’s European competitors offer the rearview camera as an option.

EXHAUST FINISHERS

Bright finish dual exhaust tips give the TL a powerful presence when viewed from the rear. The 3.7-liter SH-AWD® model takes this further with quad exhausts featuring twin “D” shaped outlets that add further strength and appeal to the rear of the vehicle.

FUEL TANK

Fuel capacity on the 2009 TL has increased to 18.5 gallons from 17.1 gallons on the previous TL, an increase in volume that helps extend cruising range between fill-ups. Manufactured of high-density polypropylene resin, the tank is also located farther forward than in the past, helping to improve mass centralization for better ride and handling as well as rear-seat roominess.

ADVANCED AERODYNAMICS

Further reducing wind noise inside the new TL was essential to making the vehicle a top performer in the premium sport sedan market. Designers used many different strategies, including the use of an acoustic windshield, thicker side glass, special insulators, and precise aerodynamic tailoring of the body and the vehicle’s underside. The result is that the TL more smoothly moves through the air, benefiting interior quietness and fuel economy.

The underside of the TL has significant aerodynamic advancements. At the front of the vehicle, a precisely shaped deflector directs part of the airflow from underneath the front fascia and up through the radiator to provide a steady supply of cooling air at speed. The aerodynamic tailoring continues with another deflector that guides remaining airflow smoothly underneath the engine. Racecar-inspired deflectors located ahead of the front tires also help steer air around them more efficiently. The inside frame rails (described in the Body section) allow air to flow more smoothly underneath the car. The TL also has a mid-floor cover that smoothly transitions air from the underside of the body to the underside of the fuel tank. The dual muffler undersides are likewise flat, and the vehicle’s underbody is also coated with a sound-absorbing PVC coating.

INCREASED TRUNK CAPACITY

Offering 13.1 cu. ft. of storage volume, the 2009 Acura TL has 0.8 cu. ft. (6.5-percent) more trunk capacity than the previous generation TL. The SH-AWD® model has 12.5 cu. ft. of storage due to the space requirements of the rear differential-yet as a result of intelligent packaging it still offers an increase of 0.2 cu. ft. or 1.6-percent compared to the previous TL. The TL’s trunk is spacious enough to hold four golf bags, four 22-in. Pullman-style suitcases or a family-sized cooler.

For the first time in the Acura TL, the fuel door is opened from inside the car via an electrical switch instead of a cable release as used on the previous-generation TL. The switch is conveniently located on the driver’s door panel instead of on the floor. When equipped with the Technology Package, the Keyless Access System allows the trunk to be opened by simply pressing a “smart button” on the rear spoiler. As long as the Keyless Access Remote transponder is in their possession the TL’s Keyless Access System will recognize the presence of the driver and allow the trunk to be opened.

Fully Lined Trunk

The trunk is fully lined to protect the cargo as well as for improved visual appeal. The hinges are likewise concealed. Several improvements give the trunk a more finished overall appearance. These include a spring-loaded cover that hides the latch striker, a unified look and feel for the lined trunk sides and floor, a convenient strap for lifting the spare-tire cover, a garnish where the hinge arms slide into the body, and a neatly finished edge to the trunk lining material. More substantial hinges also create a more rigid overall trunk-lid assembly.

Underneath the floor of the trunk is a T135/80D17 temporary spare tire mounted on a steel wheel, along with a jack, lug-nut wrench, and an eyelet that screws into a locating point on the front bumper in the event the TL ever needs to be transported on a flatbed truck. The trunk also features six anchor points for attaching a cargo net, along with a fold-down pass-through to accommodate long items such as snow skis.

EXTERIOR COLORS

The 2009 Acura TL offers a total of nine available exterior colors-the most ever available for the TL model. Five out of the nine available colors are new for 2009, and include a mix of five pearl colors and four metallic colors. The new colors include Basque Red, Borealis Blue, Crystal Black, Grigio, and Palladium. Specifically chosen to mirror the TL’s “emotion unleashed” character, the new colors look particularly dramatic in bright sunlight, where the TL’s strong character lines present different facets of the body to the light differently, creating a highly evocative and dynamic 3-D appearance. All exterior colors feature a durable, hard clear coat that resists damage from industrial pollution, acid rain and fog, as well as organic contaminants such as bird droppings. The exterior colors were also selected to compliment the TL’s four available interior colors including Ebony, Parchment, Taupe and Umber Tan.

Powertrain

The 2009 Acura TL and TL SH-AWD® are each fitted with a transversely mounted V-6 powertrain that has been painstakingly engineered to meet the specific requirements of each TL model. The TL features an all-aluminum 3.5-liter V-6 with single overhead camshaft cylinder heads and 24 valves, with all intake valves actuated by the Acura VTEC® (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control®) system. This compact and efficient engine produces 280 horsepower and 254 lbs-ft of torque. Compared to the previous generation TL’s 3.2-liter engine, the 3.5-liter V-6 delivers 22 additional horsepower and 21 additional lbs-ft of torque.

The TL SH-AWD® is powered by a new 3.7-liter V-6 that shares many features with the 3.5-liter engine, but gains displacement through larger cylinder bores and increased stroke. With 305 horsepower and 273 lbs-ft of torque, the 3.7-liter engine is as powerful as some V-8s, and is the most powerful engine ever offered in an Acura. Compared to the previous generation TL Type-S 3.5-liter engine, the 2009 TL’s 3.7-liter V-6 has gained 19 horsepower and 17 lbs-ft of torque. Similar to the 3.7-liter engine that now powers the 2009 RL sedan, the new TL SH-AWD® engine features a new VTEC® system which varies the exhaust valves as well as the intakes to contribute to elevated power output. The engine is even lighter than the 3.5-liter powerplant it replaces, due in part to the use of aluminum rather than iron cylinder liners.

Both engines reflect Acura’s unwavering commitment to the environment with good fuel economy given their power output. All TL engines meet strict EPA TIER 2 – BIN 5 and CARB LEV II ULEV standards, and have close-coupled catalytic converters to ensure efficient cold-start emissions control.

The transmission in all versions is a new Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission with a new straight-gate style console-mounted shifter. For more spirited driving, a new “smart” F1-style steering wheel paddle shifter system is standard and now works when the transmission is in “Drive” rather than only in “Manual” mode as in the past. Grade Logic Control and revised shift programming refine driving feel and improve performance.

Since its original introduction, the TL has been exclusively a front-wheel-drive vehicle. Beginning with the fourth-generation 2009 model, an all-wheel-drive version joins the TL lineup. The 2009 TL SH-AWD® features Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™, Acura’s advanced drivetrain system that delivers quick, precise all-wheel-drive response. SH-AWD® made its debut on the 2005 RL, and at its introduction it was the first all-wheel-drive system to distribute the optimum amount of torque not only between the front and rear axles, but also between the left and right rear wheels. The system’s unique torque vectoring direct yaw control feature makes the 2009 TL SH-AWD® exceptionally neutral under power, for greater handling precision and control.

ENGINE ARCHITECTURE

The TL’s 3.5-liter V-6 engine uses an inherently smooth-running 60-degree V-angle. The cylinder block is constructed of aluminum and has cast-in iron cylinder liners. The cylinder heads are cast of lightweight aluminum and feature four valves per cylinder along with a unique 2-rocker VTEC® variable valve timing system, with variable lift for the intake valves. Power is enhanced with an 11.2:1 compression ratio, high-output port shapes, intake airflow enhancements, and a sport-tuned exhaust system. While torque numbers are equivalent to the 3.5L in the outgoing Type-S, when compared to the previous 3.2L engine, the 3.5L produces 9- to 13-percent more torque between 2,000 and 4,000 rpm-the engine speed most commonly used in day-to-day driving. In addition to a high specific power output, the 3.5-liter V-6 delivers exceptional refinement and low emissions.

The 3.7-liter engine in the TL SH-AWD® is an enhanced version of the powerplant in the 2009 Acura RL, and it is the most powerful engine ever fitted to an Acura sedan. While dimensionally similar to the compact 3.5-liter TL engine, the 3.7-liter employs aluminum (rather than iron) cylinder liners for weight savings and improved cooling. Its VTEC® variable valve timing system features variable lift and timing for both intake and exhaust valves. Increases in intake airflow and compression ratio, combined with a high-flow exhaust system using close-coupled catalytic converters and dual exhaust pipes with four exits, help make the TL SH-AWD® engine the most powerful engine that Acura has ever offered.

ENGINE BLOCK

Both the 3.5-liter TL engine block and that of the 3.7-liter TL SH-AWD® are constructed of lightweight die-cast aluminum. The 3.5-liter engine has thin-wall iron liners that are made in a centrifugal spin-casting process that ensures high strength and low porosity. The rough outer surface of these liners makes an effective bond with the aluminum block, enhancing block stiffness and heat transfer from the liners to the block.

The 3.7-liter TL SH-AWD® cylinder liners are made of high-silicon aluminum and are cast directly into the aluminum block. The hard piston ring sealing surface of the liners is created during manufacturing with a mechanical etching process that exposes silicon particles embedded in the sleeves. The aluminum sleeves provide better cooling thus allowing closer piston-to-cylinder clearance than iron liners afford. The alloy liners also improve heat dissipation in the area between adjacent cylinder bores, allowing the SH-AWD® engine to have larger cylinder bores, even though its bore-center dimensions (the distance between the centers of adjacent bores) remain unchanged.

Both the 3.5-liter and the 3.7-liter cylinder blocks are heat-treated for strength and have deep-skirt designs with four bolts per bearing cap (providing excellent structural support for the crankshaft), thus minimizing engine noise and vibration.

CRANKSHAFT/CONNECTING RODS/PISTONS

The 3.5-liter engine of the TL and the 3.7-liter engine of the TL SH-AWD® both employ robust forged-steel crankshafts for high strength and minimum weight. On both engines, forged aluminum pistons are cooled with oil spray directed up to the underside of the piston crowns, making possible the high 11.2:1 compression ratio. The connecting rods are steel forgings for high strength, and are “crack separated,” a unique process in which the bearing caps are broken away from the rod rather than machined separately. This process forms a lighter, stronger connecting rod with perfect mating surfaces.

The mid-engine, all-wheel-drive DN-X concept is equipped with a unique 400 horsepower hybrid powertrain that combines a high-output, 3.5-liter, DOHC, i-VTEC V-6 engine powering the rear wheels and an advanced electric Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system that provides additional power to all four wheels. Not only does this system provide outstanding performance, but also achieves an environmentally conscious 42 miles to the gallon.

During acceleration, the IMA system contributes supplemental torque, resulting in both lower fuel consumption and powerful acceleration. The IMA’s ultracapacitor is recharged by regenerative braking that takes energy from forward momentum and captures it during braking. This system makes an external electric power supply unnecessary.

Mated to this high output powerplant is a unique 6-speed transmission allowing the driver to chose either manual or automatic mode at his or her discretion. When placed in manual mode, the DN-X operates as a clutchless, 6-speed manual transmission similar to those found in Formula One race cars. Shifting gears is accomplished using controls located on the steering wheel. Or, if desired, the DN-X can be driven as an automatic by selecting D on the center console.

Also unique to the DN-X are new drive-by-wire systems that control throttle, brake and steering operations and eliminate the need for a mechanical connection between the cockpit and these components. Steer-by-wire utilizes two actuators in the cars front corners that receive input from the control module and turn the front wheels accordingly. Likewise, the electro-mechanical (EMB) brake-by-wire system, replaces the hydraulic system with electronic controls and actuators.

The DN-X has been given a highly rigid, lightweight state-of-the-art chassis tuned to provide better handling and aerodynamic efficiency. A wind tunnel-designed monocoque body and highly effective integrated front spoiler help to improve handling by lowering the coefficient of drag to 0.23, nearly 25 percent less than the Acura NSX.

Active Headlights further aid visibility by adjusting the angle of its beams to match the speed and direction in which the vehicle is traveling. During straight-line driving, the headlights perform like conventional systems by illuminating the road directly in front of the vehicle. When entering a curve, the upper portion of the headlights respond to steering direction and mapping information provided by the GPS navigation system to illuminate the entire road surface throughout the corner, thus minimizing blind spots.

The DN-X concept’s technical advances extend to the passenger cabin as well. The instrument panel of the DN-X, featuring interactive voice-recognition, is divided into three, easy-to-read units. A pop-up display in the center console provides access to e-mail, Internet and cellular telephone service. The LCD screen also shows navigation information from the Acura Satellite-Linked Navigation System.

The first clue for the next generation NSX was offered by Acura with the introduction of the HSC (High-Performance Sports Concept) at Detroit in 2004. The advancement towards a production version has been deduced as several test mules have been spotted in tests on Nürburgring. Although using S2000 body panels, the overall sizes and mid-engine placement of the mule indicate that it is a possible successor for the NSX, the only Honda with middle positioned engine.

The original NSX was a revolutionary concept when it was introduced and it expected that the new model will be the same. It will feature a body composed of carbon fiber panels over an all-aluminum unit body frame. Short overhangs and a large wheelbase maximize handling and agility.

What engine will be used in the car is still a subject of debate. It is expected that Honda will use its Formula 1 know-how and will develop a 5.5 liter high-rev V10 producing around 550 bhp. Most likely it will also feature Honda’s VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) technology, allowing the engine to run on only 5 cylinders, boosting fuel efficiency and reducing CO2 emissions. That will allow the NSX to compete with others models that are allready sold on the US market, like Porsche 911 Turbo, Ferrari F430, Lamborghini Gallardo and the new Maserati GT.

The NSX’s 4.5 liter V10 engine will smaller than current BMW’s M5 and the upcoming Lexus V10. It will have a V angle of 95º, similar to F1 engines.The car should reach around 120HP/L with max output of 550Hp. Top speed is expected to be arround 200 mph and the 0 to 60 mph sprint in 3.8 seconds.

With the V10 the new NSX will be the most powerful Honda ever.The carmaker is aiming for the top in producing engines. The new Honda/Acura NSX will move upmarket, and will target Aston Martin.

The design of the new NSX is said to be more in the line of British GT’s than Italian Ferraris. It will have similarities with other cars on the road, but you could say it’s an Acura, but that you couldn’t think of it as a NSX successor.

The use of Honda’s “Super Handling AWD” system is also a possibility. SH-AWD is capable applying a greater percentage of overall torque to the rear wheels in aggressive driving situations. The SH-AWD technology is fantastic for high performance vehicles. The technology was first used on Acura’s RL model. It worked so well, that they have decided to apply the technology to some of their more high-performance vehicles.

The Acura Advanced Sports Car Concept presented at 2007 Detroit Auto show features 19 inch front and 20 inch rear performance tires which are mounted to custom billet-machined, polished aluminum wheels. Powerful, ventilated carbon ceramic brake discs and eight-piston calipers accent the wheels. Bold wheel arches and flares add to the concept’s aggressive appearance.

The low slung cabin is constructed entirely of tinted glass and sits flush against the body. Door handles are also flush mounted, allowing the sports car to retain a clean and aerodynamic appearance. The Advanced Sports Car Concept features a carbon fiber underbody and the rear is finished with aggressive quad exhaust pipes and integrated rear diffusers, further communicating its high performance potential.

The images we present you are computer generated by our artists and are suppositions on how the future car might look like, based on available information and on the latest design tendencies from Acura.

The Acura HSC (High-Performance Sports Concept) combines supercar performance capabilities with the ease and comfort of a daily driver. Its muscular exterior, with sharp lines and elaborate detail, serve as a teaser for what lies beneath the hood. Located mid-ship for optimum balance, the concept’s V-6 engine generates over 300 horsepower. Among its many highlights, the HSC showcases an all-aluminum frame, and aluminum and carbon fiber body panels. Inside, the instrument panel features superimposed meters, designed to provide two sets of information in one location, and a paddle-shift, steering wheel mounted lever for instant gear changes.

The HSC is a design study combining the ultimate in supercar performance with the interior comfort and handling ease of a daily driver. It features a lightweight body, a compact yet powerful engine and a racing-inspired interior.

The High-Performance Sports Concept features a lightweight 3.5-liter V-6 engine located midship for optimum balance and superior handling. Shifting is accomplished through a unique dial shifter located on the center console or an F-1 style paddle shifter located on the steering wheel.

The HSC features a 4-wheel double wishbone suspension with six-piston caliper Brembo disc brakes on each wheel. Five-spoke forged aluminum alloy racing wheels are shod with 245/35ZR19 tires in front and 295/30ZR20 tires in the rear.

The HSC body is composed of carbon fiber panels over an all-aluminum unit body frame. Short overhangs and a 104.7-inch wheelbase maximize handling and agility.

The cockpit is rounded and sleek for an aggressive look as well as increased visibility. A clear glass engine cover, located behind the cockpit, shows off the engine. The lower body boasts a low waistline, rectangular air intakes on both sides, curvaceous fenders, scissor-style doors and sharp lines that leave no doubt to the concept’s sporty nature.

The wedge-shaped front fascia includes large, lower air ducts, projector-style HID headlamps and smooth lines for enhanced aerodynamics. In the rear, high-illumination LEDs are incorporated into the taillight housing for a visibility-enhancing three-dimensional design. Dual exhaust tips are integrated into the bumper and a rearview camera, located next to the taillights, transmits the view behind the car to the driver via the navigation system tilt-up screen when the concept shifts into reverse.

Inside, the concept features a race inspired cockpit with black nubuck leather trim and anodized aluminum accents on the door panels, center console, steering wheel and meter housings. Dual gauge clusters feature a tachometer/shift meter on the left and an analog/digital speedometer on the right. A thick, leather-wrapped performance steering wheel and aluminum foot pedals offer increased road feedback and precise control.

A new-age, high-performance, mid-engine sports car that anyone can drive

The HSC was created to deliver the joy of a sports car and the thrill of free-spirited driving in a package that anyone can handle. It combines the ultimate in vehicle performance with carefree handling accessible to all. The HSC is a pure sports car, offering driving exhilaration that until now only a professional could experience. The long wheelbase and short overhangs help maximize performance. Located mid-ship for better handling, the lightweight, compact V6 engine is designed for high efficiency and delivers output in excess of 300 horsepower. A paddle-shift shift lever makes for instant gear changing. The HSC delivers liberating technology in a machine accommodating enough for any driver. It all started with the S500, Honda’s first automobile, a two-seat sports car,and the HSC is the latest inheritor of the Honda sports DNA.The HSC-a pure sports car for a new age.

A captivating design to match the exciting performance
Optimally designed to make the most of the vehicle’s high performance, the body is inviting and sensuous, with curves you want to look at and touch. The upper body is shaped to appeal to the emotions, while the lower body features sharp lines that reflect the power within.

A sporty, new-look interior that puts you in the mood to drive
The instrument panel is designed on a skeletal motif, for a light yet strong look. The cockpit design is elaborate, ranging from black and blue carbon to colored aluminum, crystal aluminum, and nubuck leather-just what you’d expect in an intelligently conceived sports car.

Layered meters help the driver focus on the driving
Meters are superimposed to offer two sets of information in one location. This reduces the adjustment in focal distance that the driver needs to make between the meters and the world outside, for faster decision making.

Combined dial and paddle shifters for outstanding operability
Along with an easy-to-operate dial shifter, the HSC comes equipped with a paddle shifter, for the ultimate in sporty driving enjoyment.

Highly visible 3D rear combination lights and a rear-view CCD camera
High-illumination LEDs are incorporated into the rear combination lights to form a visibility-enhancing 3D design. The LEDs’ superior lighting response provides information more quickly to drivers in vehicles approaching from behind. Meanwhile, the CCD rear-view camera provides the driver with a more precise view to the rear.

2007_Acura-Advanced-Sports-Car-Concept_3

Created to take exotic sports car styling to a new level, the concept is designed to incorporate a powerful front-mounted, V-10 engine and a new high-performance, rear-wheel-drive based version of Acura’s exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) (SH-AWD(TM)).

“The Acura brand will always be a home for people who love to drive,” said Takeo Fukui, president & CEO of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. “As we advance toward building a car like this, I can tell you it will feature advanced technology matching our passion for performance.”

The concept’s exterior demonstrates a dynamic fusion of advanced technology and emotion. The long, pronounced hood features deeply sculpted lines and embossed air vents, both of which hint at the powerful engine beneath. The exterior lines run the length of the body, creating a ribbon-like effect from the front headlights to the rear wheel arches, evoking a feeling of movement and power.

Although modern in its appearance, the Advanced Sports Car Concept retains the subtle cues associated with its predecessor, the NSX. The concept’s slim, LED headlights are pushed wide and designed to mimic the pop-up headlights found on the first generation NSX. Other styling hints include a modern take on wraparound rear taillights and the all black cockpit.

“Our intention was to design an exotic sports car that gracefully combines advanced technology and strong emotion,” said Jon Ikeda, principal designer, Acura Design Center. “The technical, machined surfaces and keen-edge design are balanced with sweeping curves and dramatic lines, all of which results in the ultimate exotic sports car.”

Wide and low to the ground with a 108.8 inch wheelbase, the concept is anchored by grippy 19 inch front and 20 inch rear performance tires which are mounted to custom billet-machined, polished aluminum wheels. Powerful, ventilated carbon ceramic brake discs and eight-piston calipers accent the wheels. Bold wheel arches and flares add to the concept’s aggressive appearance.

The low slung cabin is constructed entirely of tinted glass and sits flush against the body. Door handles are also flush mounted, allowing the sports car to retain a clean and aerodynamic appearance. The Advanced Sports Car Concept features a carbon fiber underbody and the rear is finished with aggressive quad exhaust pipes and integrated rear diffusers, further communicating its high performance potential.

The Advanced Sports Car Concept was designed by the Acura’s Los Angeles-based design team that will be based at the new Acura Design Center, opening this summer.

Overview

In the face of new competition from Lexus, BMW, Infiniti and others, the 2007 TL has been impressively updated. To solidify its place as the standard bearer in its class, the TL is now available in two versions; the luxurious TL and the reintroduced high-performance TL Type-S.

As part of its comprehensive performance package, the new TL Type-S builds on the already impressive performance of the TL with the addition of an enhanced powertrain and much more. The Type-S engine is a 286-horsepower 3.5-liter VTEC(R) V-6. It is connected to either a 6-speed manual transmission or an all-new 5-speed automatic with F1(R)-style Sequential SportShift paddle shifters and Grade Logic Control.

The Type-S isn’t just a more powerful TL; it’s a complete performance package that features a re-tuned suspension, unique exterior styling and interior trim that distinguishes it from the TL. Just one drive proves that the TL Type-S delivers the emotional thrill of a high performance luxury sedan without sacrificing the comfort and convenience expected from it.

TL features numerous other refinements for the 2007 model year. The re-designed front end features a larger grille, fog lights relocated to the bumper, and black chrome or satin chrome trim on the TL Type-S and TL, respectively. In addition, the tail lights and rear bumper have been re-designed for a more aggressive appearance, and new wheels, side sills, and other details set the TL apart. The TL Type-S receives a unique front fascia with a ’splitter’ leading edge, wider side sills and rear fascia diffuser.

The interior is also subtly revised with a new 3-spoke steering wheel, new gauges and model-specific ambient lighting that is red for TL Type-S and blue for the TL. Models without navigation systems have a restyled center console that uses vacuum fluorescent displays for the audio system and climate control.

The TL’s combination of high-tech innovations like the standard 225-watt Acura/ELS Surround(TM) Premium 8-speaker Sound System with 6-disc CD, DVD-Audio, DTS(R) and Dolby(R) Pro Logic(R) II set it apart from its competitors from the moment it went on sale. The improvements for 2007 build on these strengths while adding the all-new, enthusiast-focused TL Type-S.

The luxury vehicle market continues to expand, and the ’near luxury’ sedan segment is enjoying some of the greatest growth. This segment, which accounts for over one-third of the luxury market as a whole, is where the Acura TL competes. Although the TL has consistently been a top seller in this segment, it has increasing challenges from sporty sedans such as the BMW 530i and Lexus IS 350. Competition also comes from compact near-luxury sedans like the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-class.

Behind the restyled grille of the 2007 TL is one of two engines. The TL receives a 3.2-liter 24-valve VTEC(R) V-6 powerplant, a smooth and powerful engine that delivers 258 horsepower at 6200 rpm and a broad torque curve that peaks with 233 lb-ft at 5000 rpm. The high-performance TL Type-S receives a larger-displacement 3.5-liter VTEC V-6 engine produces 286 hp at 6200 rpm and 257 lb-ft of torque at 5000 rpm.

The standard transmission for both the TL and TL Type-S is an all-new 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift and Grade Logic Control. Similar to the transmission in the RL luxury sedan, this two-wheel drive version features thicker and larger gears than the previous automatic for increased torque capacity. It is also more compact than the previous 5-speed automatic. TL Type-S models have an even more aggressive shift program, as well as the Paddle Shifters mounted on the steering wheel. The Sequential SportShift has been re-programmed to provide smooth downshifts by ’blipping’ the throttle between gears, matching revs and significantly improving overall driving smoothness.

Optional only on the TL Type-S is a 6-speed manual transmission. For 2007, the transmission has been strengthened for increased durability with the more powerful 3.5-liter engine.

Acura’s commitment to low emissions continues. Both the 3.2-liter V-6 in the TL and the 3.5-liter V-6 in the Type-S meet stringent CARB LEV-II ULEV emissions requirements.

Among the TL’s firsts in 2004 was the introduction of DVD-Audio and HandsFreeLink(TM) wireless telephone interface as standard equipment. For 2007, the TL continues its high-tech leadership with the addition of WMA and MP3 playback, Dolby(R) Pro Logic(R) II and speed-sensitive volume compensation to the audio system.

Additionally, 2007 TL Type-S models feature standard Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition(TM) and rearview camera as well as Active Noise Cancellation(TM). The navigation system is re-designed with a new, easier to read interface, and also incorporates AcuraLink(TM) satellite communication system with real-time traffic updates, as on the RL. On TL models without navigation, the climate control and audio system displays have been redesigned using the same vacuum fluorescent displays found on high-end home audio equipment.

STANDARD LUXURIES

When first introduced to the press and public, the TL impressed with its unprecedented levels of standard luxury equipment, a tradition continued by the 2007 model. With its standard 6-disc DVD-Audio system, plush leather seating surfaces, power seats for both the driver and front passenger, and keyless entry with a new One Touch Start system on models with an automatic transmission, the TL is designed to provide a truly comprehensive array of fine amenities as standard equipment. The only factory option on the TL is the DVD-based Acura Satellite-Linked Navigation System(TM).

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EXTERIOR

Front View

Since its 2004 introduction, the TL’s clean lines have been described as ’Bauhaus with attitude.’ Bauhaus refers to the design philosophy of form following function. The attitude comes from TL’s assertive stance, large grille, narrow headlights and tasteful use of chrome highlights to impart an athletic and sporty demeanor unmatched by its competitors. The re-designed front end emphasizes performance by enlarging the grille opening and re-styling the lower fascia to incorporate the foglights. In the rear, the taillights and lower bumper valance have been redesigned. The TL Type-S incorporates special Type-S badging, a more aggressive front fascia, black chrome trim and a quad exhaust that emphasize its performance edge.

COCKPIT DESIGN

From the new 3-spoke steering wheel with integrated audio, cruise and voice navigation controls, to the new front seats that have been redesigned for improved comfort, the TL’s

interior has been subtly redesigned for 2007 to be more luxurious and stylish than ever. The re-styled gauges resemble spun aluminum with laser-etched numerals, and both the TL and the TL Type-S receive redesigned aluminum trim. Blue cockpit lighting and new Grand Anigre wood patterned trim that extends from the doors into the dash enhance the luxury feel of the TL. The sporty Type-S receives red lighting, carbon fiber-look trim, and the Type-S logo on the bottom steering wheel spoke and embossed on the front headrests.

What some consider being a problem

So what is that one thing, which will indeed damage this excellent new TL Type-S’ chances in its effort to compete head-to-head with BMW 3, Lexus IS, and Infiniti G35? You guessed it…front-wheel drive. Rightly or wrongly (depending on geographic location and weather), the majority of serious performance buyers prefer the feel and response they get from having their drive wheels out back. Most won’t accept fwd performance, no matter how strong or well refined.

Then again, Audi’s doing reasonably well with front-drive and available high-performance all-wheel drive. Maybe that is Acura’s ultimate answer, and Audi its most natural target.

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First impressions

By Kevin “Crash” Corrigan

Have you ever noticed that the Acura logo looks somewhat similar to that of Star Trek? Of course, this could be just pure coincidence, but is it?

Just take a look at their new 2007 Acura RDX entry-luxury SUV/Crossover vehicle. I think that there might be one or two sci-fi enthusiasts behind this design.

The exterior styling of the RDX could be described as somewhat similar to the MDX model, yet it appears to have a much more futuristic look about it. The distinctive and slightly pointed front end idea has now been carried to the rear which makes it instantly recognizable from any angle. The vehicle also appears altogether more streamline and car-like than the MDX and Acura say that they envision the RDX as more of an SUV version of their TSX sedan.

There appears to be a certain “X factor” to their nameplates. In fact, out of the six models that the company has on offer, four of them end with the letter X.

Then there is the vehicle’s power plant to consider. Acura has boldly taking the RDX where no other North American Acura has gone before, into the world of the Turbocharged vehicle. Underneath the hood lies an all-new 2.3 L double-overhead-cam turbocharged inline four with i-VTEC. Developed in conjunction with Mitsubishi, this variable-flow turbo combines the best qualities of both small and large turbo units. The end result is 240 hp at 6000 rpm and 260 lb-ft of torque at 4500 rpm.

For Honda die-hards, this might appear as if the company has gone out of orbit. According to the folks at Acura, they ventured this route because of the new technologies now available to them which made the turbo-four a better design choice than the normally aspirated V6. This was no small step for the company to take, but it could certainly be deemed a giant leap in combined performance and fuel economy.

Now this small turbo-four might not be able to reach warp-speed, or indeed transport you from place to place in a blink of an eye like Captain Kirk’s ride. It is however, more than capable of setting your pulses racing, especially when compared to most SUV-style vehicles and it can even give one or two sports sedans a run for their money.

On the road, power is sent through a five speed auto transmission with modern paddle shift controls behind the steering wheel, to an all-wheel-drive system similar to that found on the companies RL model. The RDX comes with a fully independent suspension system, MacPherson struts are fitted to the front and the rear utilizes a multi-link design. I would call the ride firm but friendly and I found the handling characteristics of the vehicle to be exceptionally good. The package is finished off with some nice looking 18 inch rims and tires which not only add to the looks but further enhance its road handling capabilities.

We now get to the interior and this is where the new RDX pilots take a big leap into the future. The first thing that you notice is the distinctive steering wheel, which has an ultra-modern look to it and seems to carry the familiar logo as its spokes. The dashboard layout is equally impressive and appears extremely well put together. Its three pod instrument design makes the reading of the gauges simple and the controls fall readily to hand.

The vehicle boasts a whole host of state of the art technical features like Satellite navigation and blue-tooth connectivity. The 6.5 inch LCD display screen (8 inch if upgraded) dominates the center dash and is controlled by a large knob which first appeared on their RL model. This controls all of the screen menus and I found it extremely easy to use, especially when trying to input street names into the navigation system.

There is comfortable leather seating for five and, although the cargo area is not as large as some of its competitors, Acura have made good use of additional storage sites. The centre console is truly worthy of note as it appears to be of normal size, except that it can hold a notebook computer, possibly even two. It has been well thought out as there are flaps inside which fold up so the box can be made as deep as you wish. That’s clever!

Acura states that this vehicle is aimed at the young professionals and I’d say that they have their sights bang on. It boasts stylish good looks, coupled with above average performance and more than enough room for most people’s requirements. It has all the modern technical features that buyers are seeking and wraps the whole package up nicely in an up-market wrapper.

I found the RDX to be a very forward thinking and futuristic design. Although I love the retro-look vehicles that we are seeing nowadays, this blast into the future approach is also cool. If this is what the future holds for car manufacturing, I say great. Now if I could only find that teleport button!

Features

“The RDX Prototype represents the forward thinking that will be seen in the next generation of Acura light trucks,” said John Mendel, senior vice president, Auto Operations. “It is loaded with leading edge technology and it exemplifies what we call intelligent performance: a sporty, luxurious and functional SUV that has outstanding performance yet is also fuel efficient.”

The Acura RDX features an all-new 2.3-liter i-VTEC(R) four-cylinder turbocharged engine that generates 240 horsepower and 260 lbs-ft of torque. This is the first application of forced induction technology in Acura history. The revolutionary i-VTEC Turbo technology uses a variable flow turbocharger, which is exclusive to the RDX, and provides dramatic performance benefits while maintaining excellent fuel efficiency. To complement the all-aluminum high-performance engine, the RDX utilizes Acura’s steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters to manually operate the 5-speed sequential SportShift automatic transmission.

Acura’s Super Handling-AWD system is tuned specifically for the new RDX platform. SH-AWD’s sophisticated electronic controls automatically distribute torque fore and aft, as well as splitting the rear torque left to right. The result is dramatically enhanced handling, traction and stability during sporty driving as well as in inclement weather. A sophisticated chassis with fully independent front and rear suspension complement the SH-AWD. Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA(R)) combines with large disc brakes and ABS to enhance control.

Safety

The RDX is built on an all-new global light truck platform. Reflecting Acura’s commitment to safety through innovation, the Acura RDX is equipped with the Advanced Compatibility Engineering(TM) (ACE(TM)) body structure and additional state-of-the-art safety features. The ACE structure helps to disperse collision forces over a larger frontal area. The system also helps to provide enhanced protection for vehicle occupants while at the same time increasing compatibility with other vehicles in a frontal collision. Front, side and side curtain airbags, in addition to rollover sensors add an extra measure of safety.

Exterior

The chiseled exterior styling combines with a generous greenhouse to provide excellent visibility for driving in city traffic or on twisty mountain roads. RDX employs a compact upper body with an aggressively raked belt line, sporty wheel flares and a substantial hood that flows down from the windshield to an aggressive Acura signature five-sided grill. Custom 19-inch alloy wheels give the RDX Prototype an aggressive stance. Dual exhaust tips, HID headlights, and a rear spoiler add to the sporty appearance of the vehicle.

Interior

Inside, the Acura RDX combines richly appointed materials with a sporty, driver-oriented cockpit. The center console features an innovative storage system, which allows for hidden and lockable storage of a briefcase or laptop computer. The prototype’s interior features an assortment of leading-edge technologies, such as the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition(TM), AcuraLink(TM) satellite communication system with real time traffic and HandsFreeLink(TM) wireless telephone interface. A premium Acura/ELS(TM) DVD-Audio system is tuned to deliver rich surround sound to the cabin.

The RDX offers seating for five and a versatile rear cargo hatch allows for easy load-in and storage. The second row seats split and fold flat into the floor, providing ample cargo space for an active, on-the-go lifestyle.

The RDX will be assembled at Honda of America Manufacturing in Marysville, Ohio and will go on-sale in the summer of 2006. Pricing has not been determined.

07_Acura_TL_04

The TL’s interior is subtly revised with a new 3-spoke steering wheel, new gauges and model specific ambient lighting, which is blue for models without navigation system.

From the moment it went on sale, the TL was set apart from its competitors by the combination of high-tech innovations, such as the standard 225-watt Acura/ELS Surround Premium 8-speaker Sound System with 6-disc CD, DVD-Audio, DTS and Dolby Pro Logic II.

Powertrain
The 2007 TL is offered with two available engines. It was under its roof an all-aluminum 3.2-liter V6 with 24 valves and Acura’s Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control System (VTEC), which delivers 258 hp and 233 lb-ft of torque.

An all-new electronically controlled 5-speed automatic is the standard transmission in the TL. This transmission has more torque capacity than the one it replaces, but is more compact. The Acura’s Sequential SportShift system, inspired by Formula One racecars, gives the driver the flexibility of a self-shifting automatic or the control of a manual. This year, the system has been re-programmed for smoother operation and improved the gear holding capabilities.

Both TL engines meet the strict CARB LEV-II ULEV standards with the Acura’s unwavering commitment to the environment. Also, thanks to the close-coupled catalytic converter system and under-floor catalyst, the cold-start emissions are improved.
The TL engine strong low speed torque and throttle response are given by Acura’s VTEC. At low speeds, the intake valves have lower lift and are open a comparatively short period of time during cylinder filling, while, at high rpm – where breathing is critical – the valves switch to high-lift, long duration mode to give best volumetric efficiency possible.

At 4700 rpm, the engine’s powertrain control module (PCM) triggers the opening of an electric spool valve that routes the pressurized oil to the small pistons in the intake valve rocker arms. The TL’s broad torque curve and superior peak power are the result of the engine’s intake valve lift and opening duration, continuously adjusted to suit the operating engine speed.

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Body
Aggressiveness and power, agility and endurance are embodied by the TL’s design. Starting with the stance of the vehicle (how it looks and sits on its suspensions), the designers worked towards a look of poise, with a promise of agility and power.

The underbody aerodynamic performance is enhanced by several different polypropylene panels, which include a curved valance beneath the front fascia. This allows the air to attach to its smooth radius at high speeds and to be directed into the radiator.

Chassis
The TL has excellent dynamic properties, as it shares a rigid platform with a performance-tuned suspension and large tires. This large tire contact patches enhance braking and handling with all-season tires. Also, the TL uses torque-sensing, variable power-assisted rack and pinion steering.

The stability during cornering and at high speeds is improved by the hydraulic steering dampers, which are built into the system. A one-way kickback valve decreases kickback to the steering wheel that can be caused by road irregularities. When it senses the irregularities, the hydraulic valve closes, impeding troubles to the steering wheel.

Interior
With the dynamic and distinctive look, the TL interior continues the longstanding Acura tradition of highly functional driving environments. It echoes a clear sport message, due to the sharp handling agility and power. The luxurious roots of the TL can be found in its fine details and rich surface finishes. The instrument panel and the console are revealed by sweeping aluminum-alloy accents with a new pattern for 2007 wrap around the doors. The interior of the TL is warmed by wood patterned accents.
Throughout the handsome interior of the TL, comfort and convenience items are integrated. Cup holders in the front console and rear seat armrest, a generously sized glove box, and rigid map pockets with removable sunglasses holders on the front doors are included. In the console immediately in the front of the shifter, there are two covered storage areas: one for the four CD/jewel case and the other for the 12-volt accessory socket.

Inside the main center console, beneath the armrest, there is room for another 10 CDs or six DVD-A case. A leather-covered sliding armrest and a flocked upper tray for call phone storage are also found with this two-tier design.

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Safety
A comprehensive array of safety technologies, high-grade materials and advanced construction techniques were developed for the 2007 TL.
In the front passenger seat, weight sensors are incorporated to determine the total weight on that seat. The front airbag will not deploy if the total weight is less than 65 pounds and a warning message appears on the instrument panel.

A position sensor in the seat shows the driver how the airbag will be deployed in case of a frontal collision. The front airbag is designed to deploy in dual-stage mode, if the seat is close to its forwardmost position.

Adjustable rear outboard head restraints and side curtain airbags are also featured by the TL. In addition, the use of high-tensile steel in critical areas and computer modeled crush areas help to ensure a high level of passenger protection.

The TL offers its occupants the following Acura safety technologies:

Front 3-point Emergency Locking Retractors (ELR) with pretensioners
Front seat-belt load limiters
Front four-way adjustable head restraints
Front height and position sensors
Front driver and passenger seatbelt warning system with chime .
Rear center three-point seat belt
Rear outboard two-way adjustable head restraints
Tether anchors
Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system for rear outboard positions
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

In the Acura’s line-up of performance luxury sedans, the TSX sports sedan complements the sporty TL and the luxurious RL. Like other Acura products, the TSX is considered a stepping stone providing luxury sedan buyers with an entry point to the Acura brand.

The TSX driving character is sharply focused on the sporty end of the scale, to keep with its European competitors, such as Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series. The sophisticated geometry of the multi-link rear suspension helps the TSX corner flat and resist acceleration lift and braking dive. The TSX is equipped with P215/50R17 Michelin MXM4 V-radiated tires, 4-wheel disc brakes and electronic driver aids including Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with traction control and ABS.

The 2.4-liter i-VTEC 4 cylinder engine of the TSX produces 205 hp at 7,000 rpm and 164 lb-ft at 4,500 rpm. Either a 6-speed manual transmission (with a lightweight magnesium case) or a 5-speed SportShift automatic offer quick and precise gear changes.

An aggressive demeanor is enhanced by the TSX’s body retaining the superior aerodynamics. The sporty appearance of the TSX is given by a 5-sided Acura grille, more angular side markers and bumper-integrated fog lamps. The nine-spoke alloy wheels are highlighted by more substantial side sills. The short, high trunk lid terminates sharply to help air separate cleanly off the back of the car at top speeds. The aggressive look is also given by the rear bumper and taillights.

Comfort is provided by a dual-zone climate control system and a power moonroof with sliding shade. The standard 360-watt Premium Sound System, the 6-disc in-dash CD changer, the cruise control and the functions of the optional latest-generation Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition are controlled by the steering wheel-mounted switches. A HandsFree Link wireless phone interface, an auxiliary jack for digital music players and Acura’s Smart Maintenance System are also included in the TSX equipment.

Exterior

To emphasize performance, the TSX’s rigid and aerodynamic body is styled. The wheels are pushed to the corners of the body by its 105.1-inch wheelbase to allow more interior space, white the rounded cabin serves as an efficient aerodynamic shape.

The TSX features, in front a sporty headlight treatment with thin, angular turn signals, and a low, powerful looking bumper, with integrated oval the signature Acura grille. Also, large air openings beneath the front bumper guid airflow to the radiator.

On the body sides, a crisp style line starts at the top of the front fender flare and gradually rises to the rear. A high level of structural strength and rollover protection are offered by thick C-pillars. Luxurious look, feel and operation are revealed by the chrome-plated door pulls. The precision engineering and attention to detail are given by the exceptionally narrow body gaps.

In the TSX’s back, the rear window slopes at a shallow angle to meet a short, high trunk lid, which ends sharply to help air separate off the back of the car at high speed, reduces turbulence and enhances stability and fuel economy. The taillights and the rear bumper have a non-aggressive appearance.

Interior

The TSX is a driver’s car. Its interior is a study in driving efficiency, being equipped with modern and concise instruments and all controls have a satisfying mechanical feel. This makes you feel at home and in complete control.

The fit and finish of the materials transcend the class, which makes the TSX more than just a hard-edged sports sedan. There is a tangible feeling of quality, starting from the supportive perforated leather seating, to the dual zone automatic climate control system and the 360-watt Acura premium sound system.

Interior At-A-Glance

• Cockpit designed for performance driving
• Large, easy-to-read LED backlit analog instruments
• Small-diameter, leather-wrapped 3-spoke steering wheel with tilt and telescope feature
• Leather-trimmed seats
• Supportive, performance-oriented front bucket seats
• 8-way power driver’s seat with adjustable lumbar support for superior comfort and 2-position memory
• 4-way power adjustable passenger seat
• Comprehensive luxury features, including automatic dual-zone climate control system, power windows, power door mirrors, and keyless entry system
• 8-speaker, 360-watt Acura Premium Sound System with 6-disc in-dash CD changer and MP3
• Comprehensive safety features including side curtain airbags (see the Safety section for information on all TSX safety features)
• XM Satellite Radio
• HandsFreeLink(R) wireless phone connectivity
• Roomy interior with seating for five passengers
• Blue LED ambient lighting
• 60/40 locking split-folding rear seatback
• Homelink(R) remote control system
• Keyless entry system with window controls, panic button and entry callback chirp
• Digital media auxiliary jack
• The Multi-info display on instrument panel
• A high level of interior finish, including a “seamless” passenger airbag cover that blends into the instrument panel
• Available Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition

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Powertrain and Performance

The 2007 TSX is powered by an advanced 2.4-liter DOCH i-VTEC in-line 4-cylinder that produces 205 hp SAE net (Rev 8/04). The combination of the i-VTEC “intelligent” valve control system, which features Variable Timing Control (VTC) makes the TSX engine offer formidable power, impressive fuel economy and very low exhaust emissions

The four-valve-per-cylinder and free-flow intake and exhaust systems of the all aluminum powerplant combine to provide 205 hp at 7000 rpm. A remarkable achievement considering this engine’s outstanding horsepower output are the strong 164 pound-feet of torque at 4500 rpm and the 22/30 City/Highway EPA mileage rating.

The TSX engine is also very clean, despite its power output. Strict Tier 2-Bin5 and Low Emission Vehicle-2 (LEV-2) standards are met in the rear-mounted exhaust layout, close-coupled catalyst and advanced Programmed Fuel Injections (PGM-FI).

The TSX is delivered with either a 5-speed SportShift automatic or a 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission. The manual gearbox features a lightweight magnesium alloy case and multi-cone synchronizers and give this transmission a light, quick action and very short shift throws.

At the driver’s option, the 5-speed SportShift automatic can function as a conventional automatic transmission or can be shifted manually for hands-on sporting fun. Combined with the drive-by-wire throttle system, the shift logic of the SportShift transmission results in quick, smoothly controlled shifts.

The innovative Maintenance Minder System of the TSX automatically monitors the vehicle’s unique operation condition to show the driver when maintenance is required. This system is designed to eliminate unnecessary maintenance procedures, which help reduce environmental impact and operating expenses, thus ensuring that major issues are addressed on time.

Safety and Security

Safety begins with the dynamic traits of the vehicle, i.e. how the vehicle can help its driver avoid an accident. For this, the TSX uses latest technologies to offer substantial improvements to overall safety. Such “active safety” or accident-avoidance capability include the standard Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with traction control, and anti-lock braking system (ABS).

Passive safety engineering provides occupant protection when an accident is unavoidable. In the TSX, the passive safety begins with the vehicle’s structural rigidity and extends to the front seatbelt pretensioners and load-limiter and to its airbag system. These include front SRS dual-stage/dual-threshold airbags, side airbags with position sensors on the passenger side, and side curtain airbags. The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) unit has sensors on the front passenger side, which allow it to illuminate and then flash the seatbelt reminder light if the passenger side seatbelt is not fastened.

9362-2006-Acura-RSX

The Acura RSX is the replacement for the Acura-badged version of the Integra, marketed by Honda Motor Corporation in North America and Hong-Kong. In Japan, Australia, New Zeeland, and elsewhere, this vehicle is still sold as the Honda Integra. In North America, it is available as base and Type-S trim levels, while in Japan and Oceania the Integra IS/Integra Type-S and Type R versions are sold. More confusingly, the Type-R sold in Oceania is very similar to the Type-S sold in North America, and in Hong-Kong, Singapore, and other places, only the base version is available.

In the design of RSX, an entirely new platform was chosen by Honda to base it on, instead of re-engineering the previous Integra/Civic platform. This was a major change of the former 1998 revision of Integra, making this platform the first entirely new entry-level chassis Honda had debuted since 1994. due to its more efficient and luxurious nature, the Acura division decided to market the car as the Integra’s replacement and badged it as the RSX. Acura expected to use the RSX to help gain more brand recognition and respect from older, wealthier clients who were tempted to see the company’s offerings, especially the Integra, as sporty and reliable, but not as mature and luxurious.

Performance

As weight is the enemy of high performance, the body of the RSX is constructed from advanced, weight-saving materials, to keep it agile. The front seat frames and the engine valve covers are made of strong, lightweight materials. Other body parts, such as the hood, front fenders, the trunk lid and its frame are aluminum, while the significant use of high-tensile steel helps enhancing the robustness, minimizing the overall mass.

The exterior of Acura RSX is also modeled to dispense the wind gracefully. The principles of modern race cars were applied here, which inspired the RSX sharply chiseled styling that combines a steeply hood and cabin – forward design. Also, its motion is improved by smaller design features, such as gently tapered side panels, curved glass in the doors, and rear quarter-panels, which helps improve both high-speed stability and fuel efficiency.

The RSX is propelled by its intelligent design, starting with a 155-hp, 2.0-liter, 16-valve system. It also serves to inspire a clever bit of engineering – the i-VTEC system that provides both low-rpm torque and high-rpm power, reaching a maximum pull of 139 lb-ft at 4,000 rpm. The weight is reduced by the aluminum-alloy blocks and cylinder heads, and the friction is reduced by the forged-steel crankshaft rides on micropolished surfaces. Power and precision, as well as durability are achieved with up to 100,000 miles to enjoy before its first scheduled tune-up.

The RSX does not apply to fluid and filter changes or periodic inspections, so you must refer to the maintenance section of the owner’s manual to determine all adequate maintenance intervals.

A choice of either low-end torque or high-end horsepower is offered by conventional valve systems. With no compromise, the RSX is equipped with Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control, which uses dual cam profiles on a single shaft. The system uses a cam profile that creates low valve lift and short valve opening duration in order to boost torque at low engine speeds. As engine speed increases, this system switches to a cam profile with higher valve lift and longer duration, boosting high-end horsepower, which means higher power throughout the entire rev range.

To gain more power refinement, the RSX engine takes advantage of the intelligence of the Variable Timing Control which allows the intake camshaft timing to vary according to the amount of power wanted by the driver. The combination between the dual cam profiles of i-VTEC and the Programmed Fuel Injection for precise, efficient fuel use makes the RSX give you up to 27 mpg/city and 34 mpg/open road.

The clever engineering used by the RSX delivers both high performance driving and environmental responsibility, due to its certification as a Low-Emission Vehicle that meets stringent government emission standards.

The RSX offers the best of both worlds – the ease-of-use and the convenience of fully automatic transmission and the shift-for-yourself fun of Sequential SportShift. The combination of the five speeds with the 2.0-liter engine’s abundant torque gives the transmission a broader range of engine speeds, boosting acceleration and fuel economy.

Every rpm count is made with the RSX’s quick-shifting 5-speed manual transmission, which features a short-strike shift linkage for more precise feel and quick shifts. It has a smooth and progressive engagement, with low clutch-pedal effort, thanks to its refined hydraulic clutch unit. Long clutch life is maintained by durable clutch friction materials.

The RSX’s Grade Logic Control System is designed to recognize ‘gear hunting’ that other transmissions meet on steep roads and downhill stretches, and adjusts the shift schedule accordingly. Only if the suspension system is paired, the drive train capabilities go. This is done by the RSX’s racing-inspired double-wishbone rear suspension system. The design of the double-wishbone helps maximize tire-to-pavement contact and its geometry has been optimized for a distinct linear feel while cornering.

The RSX easily maintains its stability and flat cornering stance, as the road bends. It relies on front and rear stabilizer bars, combined with high-performance, gas-filled shock absorbers that dampen wheel movement, make the RSX ride smoothly over bumps.

Although motion is the natural state of the RSX, if you command the brakes, it will obey without hesitation. This is because of its 4-wheel disc brakes system with ABS. the RSX is equipped with 10.3-inch ventilated rotors and 10.2-inch solid rear rotors to help cool brakes after a hard stop. An increased master-cylinder size offers a solid, more linear feedback to your braking foot just to enhance brake feel.

When braking hard on low-friction surfaces, sensors monitor your wheel speed for skid, to help you retain steering control.

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Safety and Security

The RSX’s ABS system pulses the brake pressure to a wheel if it detects lockup. Between eye-catching style and practicality, there is a line, which make the RSX walk with grace. Excellent outward visibility is provided by halogen headlights while advancing its sporty image. Three lamps-low beam, high beam and positioned light are incorporated in its design.

Power-operated, body-colored, heated outside mirrors help clear snow, ice and mist during bad weather, giving a clearer view of the road.

The RSX instrument panel features large-format, white-on-black analog gauges, which glow red for easy night viewing, to encourage your undivided attention to the road. Easy on the eyes are the rear overhead map lights, and the power-window switches illuminate with a soft, white light.

The prime real estate for the horizon straight ahead is the RSX’s windshield. Below the hood line sink duly uncluttered and aerodynamic, hidden-pivot speed-sensing, variable intermittent windshield wipers.

To supplement the 3-point seat belts at each front seat position, the dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags and front side airbags are integrated.

To provide substantial occupant protection in an impact, the RSX’s body structure integrates door beams and a stout floor crossmember, which is designed to remain rigid and to protect passenger from side impacts. In case of a front or rear impact, front and rear crumple zones are constructed to deform in a controlled manner, dissipating impact energy and allowing the RSX compartment to retain much of its structural integrity.

If the driver sits too close to the steering wheel, sensors tell the driver’s airbag to deploy at a lower rate and for front passengers, weight sensors will disable the airbag if a passenger weighing less than 65 pounds sits in the seat.

Both outboard rear seats feature the LATCH child sea-t mounting system.

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Luxury and Comfort

Several safeguards are built into the RSX, namely, its keyless entry system. From up to 30-feet away, you can lock and unlock the doors and rear hatch at the push of a button. The remote also features a panic button, which activates the car’s horn and lights.

Curvy roads are no match for the RSX’s sporty bucket seats and integrated headrests. They were designed to keep you intact and tuned-in to the scenery that swirls around you. To keep you grounded, the front seats have a firm back and bottom cushion, and an adjustable lumbar support in the driver’s seat allows the seatback to conform to your posture preference. To keep you centered, substantial seat bolsters hug you, no matter how sharp the corner.

Acoustic enlightenment is within reach when you’re surrounded with full, rich sound from the RSX’s 6-speaker Sound System. With the cabin’s acoustic landscape in mind, each of the six speakers are precisely tuned and positioned for full fidelity. It features an AM/FM tuner, an in-dash CD changer and a cassette player.

A high-speed S-turn gets your adrenaline pumping, but you remain cool under pressure. Doing the dirty work is an automatic climate control system. You can plan ahead, selecting the desired temperature, and the system will maintain it. Or control it manually. In this cockpit, you won’t be overruled.

Whether it’s the moon, the stars or the high-rise lights of the urban jungle, the RSX’s power-operated moonroof can be adjusted in two ways—raised slightly for airflow, or opened horizontally for unobstructed views. The moonroof’s tinted glass and sliding sunshade help block out radiant heat.

Competitors

Unlike Chevrolet Cobalt SS, the Acura RSX offers Side-Impact Airbags standard and has a better Highway and City Mileage. The Cobalt SS has standard leather seats and produces 50 more horsepower (205 vs. 155).

Of Ford Mustang and Acura RSX, the Mustang features a larger engine (4.0L vs. 2.0L), a CD changer and produces 55 more hp (210 vs. 155). Besides, the RSX features ABS and Side-Impact Airbags and has a better Highway and City Mileage.

Mitsubishi Eclipse GT its equipped with a standard Traction Control, a 6-speed Manual Transmission, a larger engine and produces 108 more hp, when the RSX has a better Highway and City Mileage and it costs $3.074 less.

The advantages of the Pontiac G6 GT compared to the RSX are: the Traction Control and Automatic Transmission are standard and the engine is larger. The only advantage RSX has is that it costs $1,575 less.

The MDX features a new 3.7-liter SOHC VTEC V6 with an output of 300 hp and 275 lbs-ft of torque.

Three option packages will be available when the car is on sale in allmost a month. The Sport package has active dampers, high-zoot leather and alloy wheels. The Technology package includes DVD Nav system with real-time traffic updates, rearview camera, and automatic climate control. The Entertainment package has a rear-entertainment system, power tailgate and heated second row seats.

Pricing is expected to be somewhere between $41,000 and $48,000.

Acura has relesed the first official photos for the 2007 TL Type-S, so we have no doubt no that the car is a real thing.

The Type-S features a 3.5-liter V6 engine with an output of 286 hp, and includes a re-tuned suspension and S specific exterior styling and interior trim.

The engine is mated to a new 5-speed automatic with paddle shifters, or a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission. The regular TL comes with a 3.2-liter VTEC V6 producing 258 hp at 6200 rpm and 233 lb-ft of torque at 5000 rpm. Both the 3.2-liter and the 3.5-liter meet CARB LEV-II ULEV emissions requirements.

The TL’s exterior features numerous subtle upgrades for 2007 including a new front fascia with a larger grille, redesigned bumper, new headlights and fog lights relocated to the lower bumper.

Changes to the interior include a new 3-spoke steering wheel, new gauges with a spun metal look, and model-specific ambient lighting that is blue on the TL and red for the Type-S.

Overview

The third-generation Acura Integra (introduced in 1994) features a number of technological innovations that enhance performance and handling and provide high levels of safety, durability, efficiency, comfort and ride quality. The Integra is available as a Sports Coupe or Sports Sedan. For 2001 the Sports Coupe and Sports Sedan come in three trim levels &emdash; LS, GS and GS-R. The ultra-high performance Integra Type R Sports Coupe also returns for 2001, and is discussed in detail in its own section.
The Integra has evolved and matured in its three generations. The Integra offers a comprehensive list of standard luxury, comfort and safety features. It features a standard driver’s and front passenger’s air bag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) in all models. Additionally, features such as an AM/FM/CD six-speaker audio system, a power moon roof, windows, door mirrors and locks, Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) and a lumbar/height/tilt adjustment for the driver’s seat are all standard equipment.

Key performance features of the Integra include:

140-hp, 1.8-liter, 16-valve, DOHC, 4-cylinder engine (LS and GS)
170-hp, 1.8-liter, 16-valve, DOHC, VTEC 4-cylinder engine (GS-R)
5-speed manual or an optional electronically controlled, 4-speed automatic transmission with the sophisticated Grade Logic Control System (LS and GS)
Close-ratio 5-speed manual transmission (GS-R)
Four-wheel independent double-wishbone suspension
Four-wheel disc brakes
Variable power-assisted steering with rotary-valve steering gear
Key safety features of the Integra include:
Standard driver’s and front passenger’s air bag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) on all models
Standard Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)
3-point outboard seat belts
Projector beam headlights
Side-impact door-protection beams
Side-intrusion shoulder pads

Deeply rooted in NSX heritage, the 2001 Acura Integra line of Sports Coupes and Sports Sedans combine luxury and performance in an affordable and dependable package. For 2001, the Integra line, equipped with sporty engines and a fun-to-drive quotient few cars can match, offers Acura’s respected quality and outstanding value.
The Integra line is anything but entry-level, featuring an aerodynamically aggressive exterior, ergonomic interior, advanced powertrain and superb road manners. As one of the top-selling automobiles in its class for five consecutive years, Integra’s combination of sporty performance and excellent quality offers nothing short of a highly satisfying driving experience.

“From the inside out, the Integra benefits from the same Acura engineering and technologies that enhance the performance and handling in all of our vehicles,” said Dick Colliver, executive vice president, Acura division. “With an impressive powertrain and contemporary styling, the Acura Integra continues as a leader in its segment.”

The third-generation, sporty 2001 Integras feature a number of technological innovations that enhance performance and handling and provide high levels of safety, durability, efficiency, comfort and ride quality. In addition to the high-performance Integra Type R Sports Coupe, the 2001 line offers three models &emdash; LS, GS and GS-R, with a choice of coupe or sedan body styles.

Integra LS and GS models are equipped with an all-aluminum 1.8-liter, DOHC, 16-valve 4-cylinder engine that produces a spirited 140-hp at 6,300 rpm and 127 lb.-ft. of torque at 5,200 rpm. Coupled to either a 5-speed manual or an optional, electronically controlled 4-speed automatic transmission, the LS and GS engines deliver lively response and excellent acceleration, along with smooth shift quality, while long-wearing platinum-tipped spark plugs also allow the Integra to travel 105,000 miles between scheduled tune-ups.

The Integra GS-R is ideal for the driving enthusiast who desires more power. The 1.8-liter, DOHC 4-cylinder has been massaged to produce 170-hp at 7,600 rpm and 128 lb.-ft. of torque at 6,200 rpm. The Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC?) system, first applied in the NSX supercar, is at the heart of the GS-R’s power increase. This VTEC system enables the engine to produce generous low-end torque and outstanding high rpm power to ensure exceptional performance at any engine speed.

In addition, Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI), a dual-stage intake system, and oil jet piston cooling are included to enhance the GS-R’s performance and dependability. Integra GS-R models are available exclusively with a performance-oriented, close-ratio 5-speed manual transmission.

At the heart of the Integra’s sporty handling is a sophisticated double wishbone suspension, variable power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering and fade-resistant four-wheel disc brakes. All Integra models also feature a four-wheel Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) as standard equipment to help the driver maintain steering control under hard braking.

All Integras are equipped with a thorough list of standard comfort and convenience items, including a six-speaker AM/FM/CD music system, a high-capacity air conditioning system, power moonroof, power windows and door mirrors, tilt-adjustable steering column and a vehicle immobilizer anti-theft system as standard equipment. Environmentally conscious consumers will find that all Integras meet Transitional Low Emission Vehicle (TLEV) standards for tailpipe emissions.

To help ensure the security of its occupants, the Integra features a rigid unit-body structure with front and rear crumple zones, side impact door beams and pads, dual airbags and 5-mph front and rear bumpers.

For 2001, all Integras will offer carpeted floor mats as standard equipment and the Integra Sports Sedans will feature an emergency trunk opener. In addition, four new exterior colors have been added to the line including Nighthawk Black, Satin Silver, Titanium and Ruby Red

The 2001 Integras, like all Acura vehicles, are covered by a comprehensive 4-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty. Additional ownership benefits include Acura Total Luxury Care (TLC), which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service and trip routing.

Acura offers a full line of premium performance vehicles through a nationwide network of nearly 260 dealers. The Acura line up features six distinctive models including the exotic NSX supercar, the 3.5 RL flagship sedan, the best-selling 3.2 TL luxury performance sedan, the all-new 3.2 CL luxury performance coupe, the fun-to-drive Integra and the revolutionary MDX luxury sport utility vehicle.

The Acurabot, a highly modified 1994 Acura Integra LS was completely rebuilt over a seven week period between November’s SEMA show and the January 7th start of CES.

Owner Tajai Das of Xclusive Concepts first bought the car in 1998 as a stock, non-Vtec, Integra LS. By 1999 he had begun to customize the car’s appearance, soon taking the Best Vinyl Graphics category at the 1999 Import Revolution show in his native Ontario. “That was it,” Das recalls. “From that moment, I was hooked.”

The Acurabot has since undergone three separate overhauls, each time raising the bar on performance, appearance, and sound. By 2003, Das had assembled what he considered his dream team for the third customization of the Acurabot, and the car took Best in Show awards across Canada, and took the Best Stereo Display at Hot Import Nights Chicago, edging out Blaupunkt’s acclaimed Evil-Z.

The car has always had a Transformers-inspired theme, a nod from Das to his childhood. “When I realized that great showcars had to have a theme, I knew mine was going to be based on Transformers,” says Das. “It unites my childhood toys with my obsession for cars, and I love when someone tells me that they the car brings them back to childhood memories.” In addition to the extensive transformers mural work, the centerpiece of the install features a motorized replica of Optimus Prime, the leader of the Autobots in the transformers franchise.

The most recent overhaul of the Acurabot took place in period between the 2004 SEMA show in November, and the 2005 CES: just seven weeks. “This rebuild is the hardest we’ve ever worked to get a car ready,” comments Das. “In order to get everything we wanted to do finished in time, I had to be creative getting these guys to work to their absolute limits. In the end, we were all absolutely exhausted, but I think we are all in agreement that this is the best work we’ve done yet. The car speaks for itself.”

For Audio reproduction, the Acurabot features four sets of Blaupunkt component speakers in the hood, doors, and trunk. Four 12-inch Blaupunkt Velocity subwoofers are mounted in a rear-seat enclosure, and a fifth is in a roof-mounted enclosure. The fullrange speakers and roof-mounted subwoofer are driven by five Velocity VA2100 amplifiers in the rear seat enclosure, and two VA2200 amplifiers are mounted in the motorized chest of Optimus Prime to drive the four rear-seat subwoofers.

The extensive interior fabrication and audio installation were performed by Phantom Car Audio of Mississauga, Ontario, owned by Dan Baird. The sound and video system was designed and installed by master fabricator/installer Cameron Gunn with Baird and Jeff Schwarz. Gunn’s design features a total of 28 video monitors, including the centerpiece Chicago in-dash fold out monitor/DVD player. Source components for the system also include three standalone Blaupunkt DVD players, an integrated TravelPilot navigation system, and America SIRIUS satellite radio receiver, an under-dash Sony Playstation 2, and two rearview cameras located in the eyes of the motorized Optimus Prime robot in the trunk.

All the work on the project was performed at the BKS Custom shop, owned by Bernard Sandy who was responsible the exterior fabrication, paint, clear and polish work. The airbrush work on both the interior and exterior were performed by Dominique Nguyen, who’s company Dominique Designs shares shop space with BKS.

The car rests on Cusco full coilover system, Type R rear control arms, and Vibrant sway bar and Ti bars. Braking was enhanced with an AEM 13-inch big Brake System, and the ride sits on 19-inch Racing Hart 3-piece CR rims shod with nitto Neo Gen tires. All suspension system components are custom chromed, and braking/suspension system was installed by Simon Rowe of Rowe Tech.

The B18B LS V-Tec conversion motor was bored and stroked to 2.0 liters by Alain Neverette of HTP engineering. It features custom seals, cam gears, rods and pistons, and a polished Vortech Engineering supercharger that was customized to accommodate the Acurabot’s automatic transmission. Custom mapping of the engine software chip was performed by Paul Needring of Nee-Tronics

Years Available: 1986-1989
Original Engine: 1.6-liter DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder, 113 hp @ 6250 rpm, 99 lbs-ft @ 5500 rpm
Original Transmission: 5-speed manual/4-speed automatic

• First Acura model, introduced March 27, 1986

• 1987: No changes

• 1988: engine output increased to 118 hp and 103 lbs-ft torque; redesigned front and rear bumper, restyled interior; LS Special Edition featured body-color wheels and trim, special badges

• 1989: no changes

• 1987: no changes

• 1988: engine output increased to 118 hp and 103 lbs-ft of torque; redesigned front and rear bumper, restyled interior

• 1989: no changes

• Second-generation Integra; double wishbone suspension; anti-lock brakes available on GS models

• 1991: Leather interior available with black exterior, standard moonroof, power door locks on GS, standard power windows on LS

• 1992: introduction of GS-R with 160-hp 1.7-liter VTEC™ 4-cylinder; standard 4-cylinder output increased to 140 hp @ 6300 rpm and 126 lbs-ft @ 5000 rpm; revised front and rear bumpers; 4-spoke steering wheel

• 1993: LS Special Edition features leather interior, high performance tires

• Second-generation Integra; new sedan body style replaced 5-door hatchback in first generation; double wishbone suspension; anti-lock brakes available on GS models

• 1991: Leather interior available with black exterior, standard moonroof, power door locks on GS, standard power windows on LS,

• 1992: standard 4-cylinderoutput increased to 140 hp @ 6300 rpm and 126 lbs-ft @ 5000 rpm; revised front and rear bumpers; 4-spoke steering wheel

• 1993: no changes 

• Third-generation Integra; all new chassis and interior

• 1995: Special Edition includes leather upholstery, sport suspension, rear spoiler, special badges; optional leather upholstery in GS-R

• 1996: six-spoke alloy wheels on Special edition and GS-R; redesigned wheel covers on RS and LS; Body colored side moldings on LS; green-tinted window glass

• 1997: Integra Type-R introduced with 195-hp 4-cylinder, sport suspension, larger brakes, lightweight body; Base engine output revised to 140 hp, 127 lbs-ft; Special Edition dropped; GS model added with 140-hp 4-cylinder, sport suspension and standard leather upholstery; 16-spoke alloy wheels on GS and GS-R

• 1998: Revised front and rear bumper and front and rear light clusters; rear wiper standard on Type-R; tilt and height adjustable driver’s seat in LS, GS and GS-R; leather wrapped shifter and steering wheel standard with leather upholstery; new 15-inch alloy wheels on GS-R; new finished 14-inch alloy wheels on LS

• 1999: RS model dropped; Type-R model suspended; leather upholstery standard on GS-R; 15-inch alloy wheels, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob on LS

• 2000: Type-R returns to lineup with standard air conditioning, simulated carbon-fiber instrument panel, aluminum shift knob, unique upholstery and two Type-R-only colors; LS, GS and GS-R comply with TLEV (transitional low emissions vehicle) rating; platinum-tipped spark plugs used for 100,000 mile tune-up interval

• 2001: floor mats standard on all models

• Third-generation Integra; all new chassis and interior; GS-R with VTEC available in sedan for first time

• 1995: Special Edition includes leather upholstery, sport suspension, simulated wood interior trim, special badges; optional leather upholstery in GS-R

• 1996: six-spoke alloy wheels on Special edition and GS-R; redesigned wheel covers on RS and LS; Body colored side moldings on LS; green-tinted window glass

• 1997: Base engine output revised to 140 hp, 127 lbs-ft; Special Edition and RS dropped; GS model added with 140-hp 4-cylinder, sport suspension and standard leather upholstery; 16-spoke alloy wheels on GS and GS-R; simulated wood trim in GS-R

• 1998: Revised front and rear bumper and front and rear light clusters; tilt and height adjustable driver’s seat standard; leather wrapped shifter and steering wheel standard with leather upholstery; new 15-inch alloy wheels on GS-R; new finished 14-inch alloy wheels on LS

• 1999: leather upholstery standard on GS-R; 15-inch alloy wheels, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob on LS

• 2000: LS, GS and GS-R comply with TLEV (transitional low emissions vehicle) rating; platinum-tipped spark plugs used for 100,000 mile tune-up interval

“Each year, we make enhancements to keep the MDX fresh and ahead of the competition,” said Dick Colliver, executive vice president, auto sales. “We have made powertrain improvements, exterior styling changes, technology upgrades and safety enhancements over the last three years. This year we upgraded the interior to make the MDX even more refined and upscale.”

Interior
The enhanced interior of the Acura MDX emphasizes the vehicle’s versatile yet refined character with standard-setting levels of luxury and functionality. For 2006, on models equipped with the Touring Model the center console and door switches are finished in high quality ebony-colored Zebra wood-pattern and refined satin chrome accents are added to strategic points through the interior.

Three uniquely transformable rows of seats allow the MDX to comfortably seat up to seven passengers. A convenient walk-in feature provided at the right (curb) side of MDX’s second-row seat slides the seat forward with the touch of a lever. Second and third row seats split and fold flat into the floor providing 82 cubic feet of cargo room. Even with all three rows in use, the MDX still offers 14.8 cubic feet of cargo room behind the third row seats.

Features
The MDX is one of the most comprehensively equipped vehicles in its class. Standard features including a power moonroof, multi-function digital trip computer, a synchronized climate control system, two rows of leather trimmed seats, premium sound system, heated front seats and steering wheel mounted cruise control and audio controls. An optional Touring Package adds a variety of premium features. These features include a roof rack, exclusive alloy wheels, upgraded sound system, two-position memory for the driver’s seat and sideview mirrors, and a front passenger’s 8-way power seat.

Acura Navigation System
The Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition(TM) is available as a factory-installed option on models equipped with the Touring Package. The navigation system features a menu of 742 voice commands, an 8-inch display, a comprehensive destination guide with over 7 million points of interest, 3-D graphics for freeway interchanges, on and off-ramps and turn-by-turn voice guidance and access to the Zagat Survey(TM) Restaurant Guide. In addition, all U.S. cities and street names (1.7 million) are accessible through the voice recognition system. The navigation system can be used through the steering wheel-mounted voice recognition button or by using the menu on the touch screen.

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Engine
The Acura MDX’s 3.5 liter, 24-valve, all-aluminum, VTEC(TM) V-6 engine utilizes a high flow dual exhaust system that helps to generate 253 horsepower SAT net (8/04)* and 250 lbs-ft of torque SAT net (8/04). This exhaust system utilizes two close-coupled primary catalytic converters, a secondary underfloor catalytic converter, and large diameter exhaust pipes. The MDX meets stringent LEV-2 ULEV emissions standards. With estimated city/highway ratings of 17 mpg city/23 mpg highway, the MDX delivers better combined fuel economy than most of its luxury competitors.

Transmission
The MDX features a compact 5-speed automatic transmission with components engineered to provide the durability needed for on-road, off-road and towing use. A wide-ratio design affords a first gear with extra pulling power to start heavy loads and a high top gear for quiet highway cruising. This 4-shaft gearbox utilizes a unique shaft layout that not only reduces size, but also trims gear noise, clutch drag and hydraulic friction.

A drive-by-wire throttle system, eliminates the need for a mechanical connection between the accelerator pedal and the engine, and modulates the throttle during transmission shifts for improved smoothness. It also allows for throttle control to be seamlessly incorporated into the MDX’s VSA(R) logic and directs the vehicle’s cruise control function.

Drive System
For enhanced traction on low friction surfaces, the MDX utilizes a unique VTM-4 four-wheel drive system. Unlike conventional automatic four-wheel drive systems, which react only to wheel slippage, VTM-4 proactively apportions torque from the front to the rear wheels before wheel slippage can occur. When cruising, the system automatically reverts to front-wheel drive for improved fuel economy.

In addition to ample power, the Acura MDX delivers sport sedan-like handling and a smooth, compliant ride. It features a 4-wheel fully independent suspension, 4-wheel disc brakes with 4-channel ABS, dual piston calipers in the front, standard 17-inch alloy wheels and specially designed P235/65R-17 all-season tires to provide stability and responsiveness. Brake Assist, which helps drivers apply full braking pressure in an accident avoidance situation, is also featured. Front and rear stabilizer bars, a wide track and a low center of gravity give the MDX predictable cornering response and help maximize cornering capabilities.

Handling is further enhanced through the application of a standard Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system that works in concert with the VTM-4 and drive-by-wire throttle systems to provide enhanced control during acceleration, braking and cornering. This 4-channel system 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 during acceleration, braking and cornering.

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Safety
The MDX utilizes an assortment of the latest safety features to provide 5-star safety in NHTSA frontal (NCAP) and side (SINCAP) impact tests. A side curtain airbag system helps reduce injury to occupants in all three rows of seats during a sufficient side-impact collision. It deploys from a module in the roof in the event of a sufficient side impact, providing an important and significant level of head protection in the window area. This system also includes a series of rollover sensors designed to trigger the system in the unlikely event of a rollover. Should the MDX begin to tip, the rollover sensors monitor the rate of roll and deploy the side curtain airbags accordingly.

The Acura MDX also features dual-stage, dual-threshold driver’s and front passenger front airbags. The driver’s airbag adjusts deployment force to one of two rates according to input from sensors which monitor the severity of the impact, seatbelt usage and the position of the driver’s seat. The front passenger airbag’s deployment takes into account the severity of the crash, seatbelt usage and the passenger’s weight.

The MDX also offers driver’s and front passenger’s side airbags with occupant position sensors in the passenger’s seat; and the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system on the second row of outboard seats to simplify attachment of compatible child seats.

A direct Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) uses sensors in the valve stem of each wheel to alert the driver when tire pressure drops significantly below the recommended level. If the system detects that tire pressure is low (32 psi is recommended), the low pressure indicator notifies the driver, while a schematic of the vehicle located in the center meter indicates which tire or tires require air.

Warranty
Like all Acura models, the 2006 MDX is covered by a comprehensive 4-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty and, new for 2006, a 6-year/70,000 miles 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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Driving Impressions
The Acura MDX offers an excellent balance of car and truck attributes. It has good highway manners.

Its 3.5-liter, 24-valve VTEC V6 engine generates impressive power, and its five-speed automatic features gear ratios for towing and trail grinding. The shift gate could use a notch between D and 4, as the lever far too readily continues on into that lower gear when shifted out of P or R. Torque peaks at a very usable 3500 rpm with most of the 250 pound-feet available all the way to 5000 rpm. Yet the MDX delivers better fuel economy than most of its luxury SUV competitors, with EPA-estimated City/Highway ratings of 17/23 mpg.

In the paved world, the MDX can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than 8 seconds. Its mesa-shaped torque curve means responsive acceleration around town and for merging and passing at any speed. Off road, it makes up for the absence of a transfer case and a granny gear with a regular low gear that is extra low. Although not up to Rubicon Trail-level ruggedness, venturing onto badly rutted forest service roads or trails leading to fishing sites and trailheads will not overtax it.

The MDX feels secure and much of that comes from a relatively firm suspension, firmer than that on the Lexus RX 330, for example. In tradeoff, the MDX feels a bit bouncier than the RX 330 on rough roads. It also lets more tire noise into the cabin. On pavement the MDX likes to understeer, by design. That means that if you’re too fast into a corner, the front wheels begin to lose grip and want to go straight on at lower speeds than they do in the Infiniti FX35 or in the BMW X5. This encourages you to intuitively lift off the throttle and slow down. The steering is heavier than that in the Lexus, and we prefer that of the MDX. You can feel the wheel slightly tug on your hands when you accelerate hard, a phenomenon called torque steer, but it doesn’t influence your heading. Directional stability is a bit lacking, requiring micro-corrections in steering both on straight roads and in sweeping curves.

The brakes are absolute standouts, responsive and secure, and everything is managed by Acura’s Vehicle Stability Assist system. VSA works in concert with the brake systems’ electronics, all-wheel-drive and electronic throttle to enhance control during acceleration, braking and cornering, orchestrating traction control, anti-lock braking and stability management. On slick roads, for instance, VSA will clamp the brakes on hard if you enter a corner too quickly, and pull the MDX tighter into the corner

An Acura-powered endurance racing prototype will make its competition debut at the 55th Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring in March of 2007, racing against manufacturer-supported efforts from Audi, Porsche and Mazda, and a variety of well-equipped privateer teams.

“As Acura marks its 20-year anniversary, I can’t think of a better racing series to showcase our technology and performance than the American Le Mans Series,” said John Mendel, senior vice president, Auto Operations. “Our entry as a full factory team in the American Le Mans Series will accurately reflect Acura’s position as a leader in automotive performance and technology, and provide us with an arena in which to compete against other manufacturers in endurance sports car racing.”

American Le Mans Series

The American Le Mans Series draws on the heritage of long-distance “endurance” sports car racing in both Europe and the United States as exemplified by the historic 24 Hours of Le Mans. The 10-race domestic series includes the 12 Hours of Sebring – a U.S. fixture since 1952 – plus events at the country’s premier road circuits, including Road America, Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, Laguna Seca, Lime Rock Park and Road Atlanta.

Sports car competition in the American Le Mans Series features multi-class racing of high-tech sports car prototypes and production-based Grand Touring machinery, with both factory-entered manufacturer teams and relentless privateers battling for victory. State-of-the-art technology and engineering, in everything from electronics to aerodynamics to fuel efficiency, are keys to success in the Series. Manufacturers currently fielding teams include Volkswagen/Audi, Porsche, BMW, Ferrari, Lexus, Aston Martin, Panoz and Chevrolet.

The American Le Mans Series is one of the fastest-growing racing series in the U.S., with a rapidly growing fan base attending the events and watching on television. Five of the 10 races in 2006 will be broadcast by CBS, with the remaining five events and Le Mans telecast on the cable/satellite SPEED network, including a prime-time season finale at Laguna Seca.

“We are delighted to have Acura join the American Le Mans Series,” said Scott Atherton, president and CEO of the Series.

The new Acura American Le Mans Series program will feature the first racing engine completely designed and developed in-house by Honda Performance Development of (HPD) Santa Clarita, California, American Honda’s wholly-owned racing subsidiary. It will mark the first time HPD has taken on multiple concurrent motorsports programs in both the American Le Mans Series and the Indy Racing League.

Acura will take part in the full American Le Mans Series schedule, while at the same time Honda continues its long-standing participation in the Indy Racing League, supplying the entire IndyCar Series field with Honda Indy V-8 engines.

“We’re looking forward with great anticipation to entering the American Le Mans Series,” said Robert Clarke, president of Honda Performance Development. “In addition to returning Acura to the international racing stage against other innovative automotive manufacturers, it allows us to continue to grow HPD into a world-class performance company.

In 2007, the Acura race program will feature HPD-designed and developed engines, and chassis from multiple manufacturers, including Lola Cars International, Ltd., of England, and Courage of France. After initial competition in the LMP2 class, plans call for the development of an Acura LMP1 chassis and engine package to compete in the American Le Mans Series, and earn an invitation to the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Honda Performance Development was founded in 1993 as the wholly owned racing subsidiary of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. It has served as the technical operations center for Honda’s IndyCar engine program. HPD last year opened a new, 123,000-square-foot headquarters to increase the company’s racing manufacturing, research and development capacities.

Acura previously participated in the International Motor Sports Association in the early 1990s, providing sponsorship and additional support for the Comptech Racing team in the Camel Lights division. Although not a full factory effort, Comptech and lead driver Parker Johnstone won three consecutive class titles from 1991-93 in an Acura-powered Spice chassis, with 22 race wins in 38 starts, including the historic 12 Hours of Sebring in 1993. In addition, Acura has supported the multiple championship-winning efforts of Peter Cunningham and Real Time Racing in SCCA World Challenge/Speed TV competition.

Testing of the Acura-powered American Le Mans Series cars will begin this summer, with drivers and teams to be announced in the near future.

Features

The all-new 2007 Acura RDX Entry Premium SUV, made its production debut at the New York Auto Show today. RDX combines Acura’s first-ever turbocharged engine with the breakthrough Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) (SH-AWD(TM)), for sports sedan-like handling in a SUV package.

True to form for Acura, the RDX incorporates a class-leading array of sophisticated electronic technologies that are seamlessly integrated to keep its passengers informed, entertained and in touch. The RDX also introduces new safety technologies based on the fundamentals of Acura’s “Safety Through Innovation” initiative.

As Acura’s first Entry Premium SUV, the RDX was the focal point of the development of a special powertrain that would blend 4-cylinder efficiency and 6-cylinder power. The ideal solution came in the form of an innovative new variable flow turbo (VFT) that delivers an unusually broad powerband with little or no lag in throttle response. The RDX is equipped with an all-new 2.3-liter DOHC 16-valve in-line four-cylinder engine with i-VTEC valve control that combines Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) with Variable Timing Control (VTC). With the variable flow turbo working in concert with i-VTEC, the RDX delivers strong power and torque, excellent fuel economy and very low emissions.

Rated output for the RDX engine is <240 horsepower SAE net* at 6000 rpm. In terms of torque, the RDX has the highest output of any engine in the Acura lineup, with 260 lbs.-ft. of torque SAE net* at 4500 rpm. The RDX is expected to return an EPA-estimated 19/24** City/Highway mileage, while meeting strict CARB LEV-2 ULEV and EPA Tier-2 Bin-5 emissions standards.

A 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift is standard. The electronically controlled drive-by-wire throttle and transmission work together to execute shifts, resulting in exceptionally quick and smooth gear changes. The transmission can function as a conventional automatic transmission or, at the driver’s option, can be shifted manually via steering-wheel-mounted paddles.

SH-AWD(TM) is standard in the RDX to maximize available traction while improving handling balance and responsiveness. SH-AWD(TM) is Acura’s patented all-wheel drive system that distributes the optimum amount of torque not only between the front and rear axles but also between the left and right rear wheels. The system’s direct yaw control helps reduce understeer to enhance steering accuracy and add to total cornering power.

Responsive handling is further aided by fully independent front and rear suspensions. The MacPherson strut front and trailing arm-type multilink rear systems are tuned for compliant control, and assisted with front and rear anti-roll bars for flatter cornering. Standard Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA(R)) with traction control further enhances controllability and grip.

Design

The RDX exterior styling further emphasizes the SUV’s sporty athleticism. It has a taut, muscular presence with standard 18-inch wheels and tires that work together with large wheel arches, aggressively raked body sides, a steeply raked windscreen and a short rear overhang. A unique rear hatch, finished with a replaceable panel to reduce the cost of accident repair, allows the rear of the body to smoothly transition to the rear bumper. This permits a more custom look and also eases the act of loading and unloading cargo.

Inside the RDX, the front-seats feature a high “eye point” that provides a confident field of view. The 3-passenger rear seat has a 60/40 split-folding capability and, when folded flat, significantly expands the load area and increases the cargo volume to 60.6 cubic feet of storage. There are multiple interior storage compartments positioned throughout the interior, including a large (and lockable) dual-level center console located conveniently between the front seats that can securely accommodate a briefcase.

The RDX features an array of electronic features that set it apart from the competition. These include a dual-zone automatic climate control system, a Multi-Information Display (MID), and LED backlit gauges with progressive illumination. Also standard is an impressive 360-watt 7-speaker Acura Premium Sound System with a multi-format 6-disc changer, AM/FM tuner, XM(R) Satellite Radio, and the convenience of an MP3/auxiliary input jack for easily connecting audio devices such as an iPod.

Options

Just one optional package is offered on the RDX. The Technology Package heightens the RDX’s appeal to technology-savvy customers with a range of advanced features. The centerpiece is a 10-speaker Acura/ELS Surround(TM) Premium Sound System designed by legendary recording engineer Elliott Scheiner. When playing DVD-Audio discs (DVD-A), this advanced 410-watt system delivers eight discreet audio channels (instead of the usual two) to create an uncannily accurate listening experience. With its multi-format 6-disc DVD-A changer, AM/FM tuner and XM(R) Satellite Radio, the system is as versatile as it is powerful.

The Technology Package also includes several information and communications such as HandsFreeLink(TM) and the Acura Navigation system. HandFreeLink is a wireless telephone interface that is designed to work with many Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones (sold separately). In addition, the AcuraLink(TM) Satellite Communication System with Real Time Traffic allows for 2-way communication between Acura and the vehicle, providing customers with the latest information specific to their vehicle.

The Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition(TM) can display up-to-the-minute traffic information including flow, accidents, construction and weather conditions on freeways in 31 major metro areas (where available). When the transmission is placed in reverse, the Navigation screen displays the image from a rearview camera to make parking easier. In addition, the AcuraLink(TM) Satellite Communication System with Real Time Traffic allows for 2-way communication between Acura and the vehicle, providing customers with the latest information specific to their vehicle.

Technological leadership also extends to safety engineering. The RDX’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering(TM) (ACE(TM)) body structure substantially contributes to passenger safety. ACE(TM) distributes collision loads through the body structure, leaving the passenger cabin more intact for improved occupant protection. Specially designed frame members make the RDX more compatible with smaller vehicles in the event of a vehicle-to-vehicle frontal collision. Likewise, a specially engineered hood and other components help reduce the chances of pedestrian injury in the event of a collision with the vehicle.

Inside the RDX is a full complement of passive safety features. Key technologies include the latest generation of dual-stage, dual-threshold airbags for the driver and front passenger, plus side airbags for the driver and front passenger and side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor for all outboard occupants. Child-seat mounting systems, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children), allow the quick and secure installation of a child seats.

The RDX will be assembled in Marysville, Ohio, on the same line as the Acura TL sedan. It is the first Acura light truck to come from the facility.

The 2007 Acura MDX became one of the many vehicles to be awarded the “Top Safety Pick” award from the Insurance Institute For Highway Safety.

The SUV received the high scores on the crash tests due to its electronic stability control and newly improved head restraints. (The earlier versions of the 2007 MDX were given low ratings on the design.)

“The MDX will once again set a new standard in the luxury SUV segment, just as it did when it was first introduced,” said Dick Colliver, executive vice president, Sales, for Honda. “Bold styling, track tuned performance and the latest technology make the MDX one of the most advanced SUVs on the road.”

Features

The MD-X Concept features a wider track and longer wheelbase that give the vehicle a sportier, performance look. The profile of the concept reveals a refined SUV with smooth, chiseled lines and an elegant form. A dominant character line runs from the front quarter panel to the rear, evoking the feeling of forward movement. The sharply raked D-pillar creates a stealth, aerodynamic appearance while still retaining the third row seating functionality and cargo carrying capability of the current generation MDX.

The Concept sits low to the ground despite the large 20-inch five-spoke custom alloy wheels, while the large wheel arches and flares add to the Concept’s muscular appearance. The sleek cabin features flush mounted windshield glass, which improves aerodynamics while adding to the MD-X Concept’s smooth and flowing design.

“The smooth lines and sleek shape of the MD-X Concept challenge the conventions of SUV design,” said Ricky Hsu, chief designer for the MD-X Concept. “Our goal was to create the image of a sports sedan while maintaining generous interior volume and utility of a SUV.”

The front hood is accented with pronounced character lines culminating in an aggressive five-sided grille, which gives the MD-X its bold presence. The commanding front grille features a dominant center bar running through a solid aluminum face. The narrow, Xenon High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights appear to grow out of the massive grille, giving the overall front-end a strong, distinct look.

“The front end of the MD-X Concept communicates power and prestige,” explains Hsu. “We want drivers to do a double-take when the vehicle passes them on the road.”

In the rear, the MD-X Concept has an integrated rear hatch, which sits flush against the bumper to create a smooth, clean appearance. LED taillights wrap around the cargo hatch adding to the vehicles wide and low appearance. A rear spoiler improves aerodynamics and the integrated dual exhaust pipes add to the SUV’s sporty style.

The next generation MDX production model will be available this fall, bringing a whole new level of performance and sophistication to the Acura light truck lineup. Track-tuned at the famed Nurburging in Germany, the all-new MDX will feature outstanding performance and handling. Equipped with a powerful, class leading V6 engine and coupled with Acura’s exclusive Super Handling All -Wheel Drive(TM) (SH-AWD(TM)), the next generation MDX will re-invent the luxury SUV segment just as it did when it first debuted.

Both Acura NSX engines are equipped with Acura’s patented VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control), a Variable Volume Induction System, direct ignition and a computerized Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) system pioneered in Formula One racing. The NSX engine also features titanium connecting rods, which are stronger and lighter than comparable steel connecting rods.

Features
To complement these innovative powertrains, the Acura NSX chassis features an all-aluminum unit body construction that is 40 percent lighter, yet has the rigidity of a steel structure. The 4-wheel independent double-wishbone suspension features aluminum-alloy control arms and hub carriers that minimize unsprung weight and provide optimum handling. The suspension also features aluminum subframes for the front and rear suspension to further reduce weight. Forged-aluminum alloy wheels reduce unsprung weight while super high performance tires – 215/40 R17 in front and 255/40 R17 in the rear – provide maximum traction and handling.

The NSX’s braking system features large-diameter, ventilated four-wheel discs and an advanced 4-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for confident braking. A sophisticated Traction Control System (TCS) helps limit wheel-spin and enhances control.

Bodywork
The 2005 Acura NSX features a removable roof panel for open-air driving. A sculpted, wedge-shaped body and forward canopy design clearly communicate the car’s high performance personality. Additional features include a body integrated rear spoiler and airfoil, power operated sideview mirrors and Xenon High-Intensity Discharge projector-beam headlights. The NSX comes in seven exterior colors, which can be ordered with a matching or complementary interior color.

Interior
Inside, the hand-stitched, leather-trimmed interior of the NSX is designed to evoke the image of a jet fighter cockpit, providing excellent visibility, easy-to-read instrumentation and supportive, power operated seats. For 2005, the NSX receives a redesigned meter panel surround, a new shifter knob and a keyless entry system. As with all Acura models, the NSX comes with a long list of standard equipment and comfort and convenience features including an Automatic Climate Control System, power windows and door locks, cruise control and a theft deterrent system with electronic immobilizer. For 2005, the premium Acura/Bose Music System has been enhanced with a trunk-mounted 6-Disc CD changer.

Features

Acura TSX is based on the European-market Honda Accord, which is a different car and slightly smaller than the Accord designed for the U.S. market. It’s a superb chassis that’s tight and fun to drive. The 2.4-liter iVTEC four-cylinder engine delivers 200 horsepower and boasts a broad torque curve. This engine is wonderfully tuned and loves to rev.

The result is immediate throttle response followed by a rapid acquisition of speed. That throttle is actually a drive-by-wire accelerator. The six-speed manual gearbox is notably sweet, smooth and quick. The alternative is a five-speed automatic with Sequential Sport Shift. The suspension dances to the tune of a European sports sedan. The brakes scrub off triple-digit speeds without drama and the pedals are set up well for effortless heel-and-toe braking and downshifting. For an enthusiast, the Acura TSX eliminates the lust for European-market cars.

The 2005 Acura TSX model line presents few dilemmas: Simply choose between the six-speed manual gearbox or a five-speed automatic with Sequential Sport Shift. Both models are the same price ($26,990). Then decide whether you want the excellent navigation system ($2,000).

Either way, the front-wheel-drive TSX is powered by the 200-horsepower 2.4-liter double-overhead-cam iVTEC engine and comes with 17-inch alloy wheels with V-rated performance tires. Standard equipment includes perforated leather seating, moonroof, HID headlights, and 360-watt Acura premium audio system with six-disc CD changer and eight speakers. For 2005, XM Satellite Radio hardware is standard, but requires a subscription.

Safety features include Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with traction control and side curtain airbags.

A-Spec ($4,330) adds high-performance shocks and springs, lightweight 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped with Michelin Pilot all-season performance tires, and an aero kit featuring an air dam, chin spoiler, side skirts and a choice of deck lid or wing spoiler. The kit is installed by dealerships. If you want the better handling without the other stuff, you can have the suspension by itself ($800), but you’ll have to give up the nifty A-Spec badges.

Exterior

Invisible to the eye are aerodynamic undertrays, strategic bellypans that help bring the coefficient of drag down to an impressive 0.27 for the TSX. The backlight (rear window) slopes to meet a short trunk lid, which helps air separate cleanly off the back of the car at speed.

The seven-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels complement the clean lines, and the P215/50R17 tires are low-profile but not radical. Discreet business-like chrome exhaust tips are tucked under the rear fascia at each edge and give the car attitude. Dual exhausts on a four-cylinder are cool.

To get a picture of the scale, the TSX is 183 inches long with a wheelbase of 105 inches; the Acura RSX coupe is 172 inches long with a wheelbase of 101 inches; and the U.S. Honda Accord is 187.6 inches long with a wheelbase of 105 inches.

Interior

The Acura TSX interior feels graceful. Satin-finish or simulated wood trim wraps from door to door, across the center console and steering wheel.

The driver’s eight-way power seat offers good bolstering for comfort and hard driving. The seat fits great and there’s good legroom. The rubber-coated pedals feel good, and there’s a solid dead pedal. The 8000-rpm tach is as big as the 160-mph speedo, because the TSX is all about using the tach. The bright red needles give it just the right neon touch. There’s a tidy three-spoke steering wheel, wrapped skin-tight in perforated leather, just small enough. The shift knob is right, blending function and style with leather and polished aluminum, without compromising the function. You’ve got the E-brake lever at your side, a nice deep console bin, your cupholders and changeholder right there. A fingertip away is a 360-watt sound system with a six-CD player. You’ve got a moon roof, you even have heated seats and heated outside mirrors.

Acura Navigation System

Navigation systems are getting better every year and Acura’s may be the best. It’s easy to program, and gives clear, accurate instructions visibly and audibly. The display is big and crisp. The system uses a combination of hard buttons and context-sensitive on-screen menus. Unfortunately, you have to call up a menu just to switch radio stations, but fortunately, controls on the steering wheel let you bypass this task. The system also takes voice commands. Cool blue ambient lighting illuminates the console controls at night.

Integra-replacement has more vroom – higher price

Banff, Alberta – Goodbye Integra, hello RSX. Acura’s replacement for the sporty Integra hatchback/coupe has been rebadged RSX. Completely redesigned, the 2002 RSX has new exterior and interior styling, a new platform and suspension, two new engines, three new transmissions, new brakes, and more standard equipment.

“We expect the new RSX to attract customers to Acura because of its
performance personality,” says Bill Bunting, Acura Canada Public Relations Supervisor. “The RSX will be the entry performance car to the
Acura family. RSX will also attract current Integra customers with higher
performance and increased features.”

Three trim levels will be offered, the first one exclusive to Canada: RSX, RSX Premium and RSX Type S. They’re scheduled to go on sale, July 12th.

Prices have not been announced, but Acura Canada spokesperson Richard Jacobs says they will be in the mid $20,000 range to the low $30,000 range. That’s a significant hike from the current Integra: the 2001 Integra SE is $22,500, GS is $26,500, and the GSR is $28,500. Type R models go for $31,500.

RSX and RSX Premium models have a new 160 horsepower 2.0 litre DOHC 16 valve i-VTEC (’i’ for intelligent) four cylinder engine that’s lighter and more powerful than the previous 140 horsepower 1.8 litre unit. Its new i-VTEC with VTC (variable timing control) is an improvement over the previous VTEC system because it continuously adjusts valve timing, maximizing torque at low speeds while improving fuel efficiency and exhaust emissions.

RSX and RSX Premium models have a new 5-speed manual transmission with improved shift feel, and a new, optional 5-speed automatic ‘Sportshift’ transmission with manual sequential shift mode (replacing the previous 4-speed automatic). RSX Type S models come with a new, standard 6-speed manual – an automatic is not offered.

Replacing the Integra’s independent double wishbone suspension is new strut front suspension and a more compact rear wishbone suspension – space saving was one of the major reasons for the suspension redesign – the RSX’s cabin is 6% larger and the trunk is 33% bigger than the Integra’s.

Both models have more torque than before (RSX: 141 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm vs 124 @ 5200 rpm; Type S: 142 @ 6000 vs. 128 lb-ft @ 6200 rpm), but I still longed for more. In addition, the Type S engine has about the same amount of torque as the standard RSX engine, but at much higher revs: 6000 rpm compared to 4000 rpm – the base engine is actually more responsive at lower engine speeds typically used for around-town driving.

More impressive was the RSX’s quick, responsive steering, nimble fun-to-drive handling, tight body structure, flick-of-the-wrist manual transmission (both 5-speed and 6 speed), and powerful four wheel disc brakes. These are attributes that belong to the Integra as well, but the RSX takes them to a higher level.

Acura is targeting ’single male buyers in their early 30’s’ with the RSX and expects the Premium model to make up 50% of sales with the standard RSX and Type S each accounting for 25% of sales. Likely competitors will include the Toyota Celica GT and GT-S and VW GTI 1.8T.

Detroit 01/09/2005

The Acura RD-X Concept SUV debuted today at the North American International Auto Show. The RD-X features Acura’s new Super Handling All-Wheel Drive’ system and combines the performance of a sports sedan with the all-wheel drive capability and functional utility of an SUV. Acura displayed a previous design study of the RD-X two years ago at the Detroit show, and this latest concept hints strongly at the production vehicle, which the division has announced will go on sale in 2006.

The RD-X powertrain features the groundbreaking SH-AWD’ all-wheel drive system that debuted on the 2005 Acura RL luxury performance sedan. This system distributes torque not only between the front and rear wheels, but also between the left and right rear wheels. The result is superior traction on all surfaces and in all weather conditions, as well as increased cornering precision.

To complement the SH-AWD system, designers gave the RD-X a highly-refined chassis with fully independent front and rear suspension. Large Brembo disc brakes with slotted rotors, 19-inch, 5-spoke alloy wheels and 255/50R19 tires combine for strong grip and an aggressive look.

At 181.5 inches long, the RD-X fits squarely in the small SUV segment. Its chiseled exterior styling provides both excellent visibility for driving in city traffic or on twisty mountain roads. The RD-X employs a compact upper body with an aggressively raked belt line, ample wheel flares and a substantial hood that flows down from the windshield to a brushed aluminum Acura signature five-sided grill. Generous side sills and fender garnish, dual integrated exhaust tips, wrap-around LED headlights and taillights, and a rear spoiler add to the strong look of the vehicle.
As part of Acura’s commitment to Safety Through Technology, the RD-X is equipped with the Advanced Compatibility Engineering’ (ACE’) body structure. This unique new design enhances protection of occupants during a frontal collision, while at the same time reducing aggressivity to other vehicles.

Inside, the RD-X seamlessly combines an ultra modern driver-oriented cockpit with a sizeable, easily transformable cargo area. The instrument panel and door inserts are trimmed with a combination of ivory leather and ivory suede. Dual front bucket seats, trimmed in tangerine-colored, crocodile-embossed leather with ivory-colored wool headrests are positioned close together rally-style to facilitate easy communication between the driver and the front passenger. Tangerine-colored leather is also used on the steering wheel, door accents, seat backs and center console. The entire headliner and rear cargo bay are trimmed with off-white suede material.

A unique, clear acrylic wing runs across the top of the instrument panel giving the cockpit an ultra-modern, high tech look. Large, metallic gauges sit directly in front of the driver, arranged with tachometer on the left, speedometer in the middle and temperature gauge on the right. Shift indicators showing “+” and “-” are linked to the steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters and integrated into the tachometer and temperature gauges, allowing the driver to track shifts, up and down.

An eight-inch color LCD screen dominates the center of the instrument panel and displays information for the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition, the audio system, and other advanced in-car functions. Like in the RL sedan, navigation, audio, dual climate control and other features are controlled using the Interface Dial mounted in the center of the instrument panel below the display. Similar to a computer mouse, the dial allows the user to easily scroll through menu options, and point and click to select.

The RD-X is equipped with a next-generation version of the AcuraLink’ satellite communication system, which includes real time traffic information and enables communication between the RD-X driver and Acura customer service. In addition to the real time traffic feature, this system boasts advanced features, which allow the driver to access the Internet, read movie reviews, and download music. A hard-drive, integrated into the center console, allows storage of an entire digital music library, which can be accessed at any time.

Instead of side view mirrors, the RD-X employs two small rear-facing cameras located on the upper front corner of the front doors. These cameras transmit a clear view of traffic on both sides of the vehicle to the navigation display. A nine-speaker DVD-Audio system delivers surround sound to all seating positions.

The RD-X’s rosewood covered floor is low and flat, allowing for ample leg room for both rows of seats. A long, vertical moonroof stretches completely over the first and second row seating positions. The rear of the RD-X offers generous storage space for luggage, snowboards, and other items. Grooves in the floor are perfect for securing bicycles. Each side panel holds a subwoofer protected from cargo by tubular aluminum railings.

The RD-X concept highlights Acura’s commitment to expanding its light truck lineup. It will be assembled at Honda of America Manufacturing in Marysville, Ohio.

Acura wasnt clear on the Concept TL’s drivetrain, but be sure it sports something close to the current 260-hp 3.2-L V6 in the TL Type-S. That would mate it up to a 5-speed automatic transmission with one of the best sequential manual shifting modes available today. Fat dual exhaust pipes take care of engine waste, which is expected to be at least ULEV emissions standard.

Compared to the current TL, the new concept is several inches shorter, giving it a sportier appearance. The wedge shaped profile looks wind cheating while slightly exaggerated wheel arches give it a hunkered down, glued to the road appearance. Behind the 19-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels are a bright red set of 4-piston Brembo brake calipers vying for attention.

Xenon high-intensity headlamps flank the modified Acura trademark grille, complete with a thick strip of brushed aluminum trim displaying the brands compass logo at center. The LED taillights are especially attractive, giving the TL a unique presence within the Acura family, as well as separating it from most other cars available today.

One item that wont make production, at least not yet, is a series of jet nozzles that replace the windshield wipers. They shoot high-pressure air from their cowl location onto the windshield to keep it free from precipitation, providing a similar effect to the hot air blasters that dry off your car on the way out of an automatic carwash.

Car and Truck pricing can be complicated and sometimes confusing. As an authority on car buying needs we provide information about new cars, such as the Acura RL and all the features it comes with. The RL gets 16 mpg in the city and 22 on the highway, and it has a comparable warranty. The Ford Focus and the Honda Accord are other vehicles that might interest you.

Honda’s transmissions have been among the slickest for decades and the all-new six-speed box in the CL is no exception to the established tradition. The throws are relatively short, the precision surgical and the weighting near perfect. Compared to Honda transmissions, other front-drivers feel like stirring a swizzle stick in the abdomen of a parakeet.

Both fifth and sixth gear in the CL are overdrives; fifth a slight one and sixth a much deeper cruising gear. So the real joy comes in taking the car through those first four cogs, which are spaced rather closely. It’s in those gears that a thorough appreciation for the glories of the Type-S engine leaps forth.

Engine

The 260-horsepower number is impressive, but that comes at a relatively high 6100 rpm. The engines heart is down between 3500 and 6500 rpm where it delivers at least 232 lb-ft of torque, thanks to the Honda’s VTEC variable valve timing system. With a slight induction growl but not much of an exhaust note, the Type-S V-6 has a true, compelling personality that meshes perfectly with the slick trans and engaging differential. This is an engine that pulls for redline with the sort of confidence once solely the province of BMW straight sixes; in particular the brawny 315-horsepower, 3.6-liter six found in the M5 sedan and M6 coupe. That engine had more total horsepower than the Type-S motor, but in character and deportment they’re almost indistinguishable. The 3.0-liter straight six in BMW’s current 330Ci is nearly as sweet as the CL’s V-6, but is rated at just 225 horsepower.

Features

While it’s possible to get a “regular” CL with an engine that makes only 225 horsepower, the majority of CLs are of the “Type-S” variety with their higher-compression V-6 tuned to make 260 horses. Type-S models also get slightly slower and heavier rack-and-pinion steering, and bigger P215/50VR17 Michelin MXM4 tires on appropriate alloy wheels. On five-speed automatic equipped Type-S models there’s also “Vehicle Stability Assist” (VSA) which modifies throttle and braking to aid stability and an integrated traction control system. But both VSA and traction control are dispensed with on the latest six-speed manual version of the car.

While the transmission change is the most obvious difference between the manual and automatic CL Type-S, the more significant change is the adoption of a helical gear limited slip differential in the manual car. Limited-slip diffs aren’t anything new or novel, but they’re still far more effective traction enhancers than the dozens of electronic gizmos and goofball schemes manufacturers have foisted upon the buying public over the last decade or so. Limited slips are relatively rare on front-drivers in particular and driving the Acura CL Type-S six-speed indicates just how desperately every other vehicle needs one.

Includes:

Charlie Baker, who headed up the development team for the then-new ‘97 Acura CL coupe, claimed back in 1996 that his coupe was aimed at the sort of buyer who might consider a BMW 318is coupe.

Sort of. You see, the CL then and now is bigger, more powerful and better equipped than a comparably priced Bimmer. On the other hand, the 318/323/328 coupes were and are more nimble, more purely driver-oriented.

That’s not surprising. After all, the CL was and remains a greatly modified version of the Honda Accord. And back in the ‘97 model year, the CL was, more specifically, a tweaked version of the then-Honda Accord coupe.

What were the differences? The Acura folks scrapped the Accord’s fold-down rear seats in favour of a solid seatback with small ski pass-through. To add stiffness, they used thicker metal in many critical areas and added other structural reinforcements.

The result: a car that feels solid in the driving and made not a peep when riding over bumpy roads or through twisty corners. Of course, part of that driving impression came courtesy of the suspension, which was a revised version of the double wishbone layout of the Accord.

It all added up to a body/chassis combination which delivers a ride more luxurious than sporty. There is good control over big bumps and the little ones you hardly notice at all. Lots of control here. And even at highway speeds, the cabin has all the noise of your local library. Go ahead, carry on a gentle conversation at 100 km/h — even in a used version today.

As for the rest of the chassis, the steering is sharp, brakes strong (four-wheel discs with standard anti-lock) and the standard low-aspect ratio tires (P205/55R16) grippy in all weather yet fuel efficient. Ah, the beauty of Michelin’s Energy MXV4 tires.

At launch in the spring of ‘96, the only engine available was the same 2.2-litre four-cylinder that you could find in the Accord. It’s an excellent four-banger, with most of the roughness smoothed out by balance shafts.

Honda squeezed a lot of performance out of this engine thanks to its patented variable valve timing (VTEC) technology. Honda’s VTEC system adjusts the valve timing according to engine rpm. By playing with the breathing, Honda is able to deliver a powerplant that’s strong over a wide range of speeds. For the record, horsepower was rated at 145.

If you find a used one with the standard five-speed manual, my bet is you’ll really enjoy the drive, reaching 100 km/h in well under nine seconds. The optional four-speed automatic, with an electronic control module designed to virtually eliminate gear-hunting, might be more convenient, but it robs the car of personality and performance.

Acura added a second engine choice not long after the CL went on sale. It was a then-all-new 3.0-litre V6. Horsepower hit 190, a level that really gives the CL some legs.

On the subject of legs, the CL’s cabin has lots of room for four pairs of them, all belonging to adults. In typical Honda/Acura fashion, the CL has a roomy, airy interior, with great visibility and a smart control and instrument layout. All of it looks and feels pretty good, except for the faux wood trim. It looks and feels like…faux wood trim.

The real kicker with this package was standard equipment. Everything from compact disc player to climate control to keyless entry to power windows, door locks and side mirrors. Premium equipped CL models even had leather upholstery.

It’s only been a handful of years since the CL coupe arrived to become the first Acura created and built in North America. Back in ‘96 that seemed to be a major accomplishment. Now, however, Honda has gone on to introduce new models for the North American market such as the made-in-Canada Odyssey minivan.

Still, it’s worth noting the then-new CL was a product of Honda’s large and very active North American research and development division and it was and still is built in the same plant that puts together Honda Civics, in East Liberty, Ohio.

So there’s a case to be made that the CL isn’t an import at all. If you buy that case, then add another difference between the CL and the BMW 318.

Used vehicle prices vary depending on factors such as general condition, odometer reading, usage history and options fitted. Always have a used vehicle checked by an experienced auto technician before you buy.

Jeremy Cato is an award-winning print and broadcast journalist. He is a columnist and feature writer for the Globe & Mail newspaper and his articles are syndicated to a variety of other publications. Jeremy is also a member of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC).

The good: The 2006 Acura RL impresses us with its live traffic display, its voice-command system, and its high-quality audio. It also adds sophisticated collision-avoidance technologies and adaptive cruise control.

The bad: The 2006 Acura RL’s onscreen interface is rather nonintuitive, and its Bluetooth system doesn’t copy over cell phone address books. The engine moves the car fine but feels a little buzzy for a $50,000-plus car.

The bottom line: Our criticisms of the 2006 Acura RL are minor compared to all it has to offer. It’s marketed as a high-tech car and delivers on all fronts, from live traffic on its navigation screen to cutting-edge driving technology.

Specifications: Body style: sedan ; Trim levels: 3.5 ; Available Engine: Gas

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The Acura RL looks sleek and sporty, attractive if not interesting. The sleek exterior styling is designed to suggest abundant power.

In front, a dramatically sloping hood leads down to an aggressive front fascia with angular headlight treatments, Acura’s signature five-sided grille, and distinctive lower air intake openings. The front end is smooth with nicely integrated bumpers and headlamps.

The rear is short to reduce aerodynamic drag and improve maneuverability. The rear three-quarter view is vaguely suggestive of some of the newest designs from BMW, which are controversial. Viewed from the side, the rear deck seems separated from the fenders.

Inside the Acura RL is a luxurious and functional cabin. The seats are comfortable for cruising yet supportive for hard driving. The wide armrests have a nice soft feel. This is a roomy car, though the back seats don’t offer as much room as some of the competition’s do.

The cabin is finished in handsome leather with attractive stitching. Real wood is used sparingly, tastefully around the cabin and it’s not too shiny. Acura says it used the finest materials and exacting attention to detail in the interior design. It shows.

As mentioned, everything described here comes as standard equipment, including the navigation system with voice recognition, which features a large, eight-inch screen. The AcuraLink satellite communications system delivers in-car traffic information in real time for major cities. It’s an impressive feature that could make commuting easier by helping drivers avoid heavily congested areas. It works best in cities that have the infrastructure to support it, and Los Angeles is the best example. Traffic flow is shown by color-coding the highways in three levels (low, normal, and hopeless). Unlike radio reports, which just hit the highlights and don’t provide detailed instructions for getting around tangles, this system uses live data from the highway departments and technology developed by XM Satellite Radio to give the RL driver the level of detail needed to change routes on the fly. The RL is on the leading edge of this technology, and commuters may find it’s well worth taking the time to fully master this navigation aid.

The Acura RL is a driver’s car, with agile handling and a taut, poised feel. It grips the corners, has excellent transient response and stops in a short distance. The ride is a nice balance, firm enough to feel expansion joints but not so firm as to be harsh, and it cruises easily and comfortably. The cabin is quiet, benefiting from a noise cancellation system that reduces road noise and tire noise but especially boom from the engine exhaust.

Acura’s Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive improves the handling of the RL considerably. SH-AWD distributes power not only between the front and rear wheels but also between the left and right rear wheels. The system controls this distribution of power precisely to enhance handling. Essentially, the system overdrives the outside rear wheel in corners to reduce the understeer that is inherent with all-wheel-drive layouts. As a result, the RL doesn’t plow in corners. It simply motors around them.

Acura’s 3.5-liter V6 engine generates 290 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 260 pound-feet of torque at 5000 rpm. That’s impressive power from a V6. (You may note the 2005 RL was rated at 300 horsepower. That’s because of a new horsepower rating system set by the Society of Automotive Engineers. The 2006 RL is every bit as powerful as the 2005 model; nothing has changed. It’s just measured differently.)

Luxury cars with V8 models offer more power and more low-end response, but the RL delivers solid performance. The Acura RL can accelerate from 0-60 mph in less than 7 seconds, so it can compete with a BMW 530i. Acura’s 24-valve, single overhead-cam, aluminum VTEC V6 combines strong power with low emissions and reasonable fuel economy: The RL meets the government’s stringent standards as a LEV2-ULEV Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle and earns an EPA-estimated City/Highway 18/26 mpg.

The Acura RL embraces the agile handling and quick acceleration performance of a sports sedan. The RL is easy to drive and helps keep its drivers out of harm’s way, with the latest in all-wheel drive technology. Yet it rides nicely, coddles its occupants and exudes a sporty, luxurious ambience. Technology enhances convenience, comfort and safety. The new Collision Mitigation Braking System, optional on the 2006 RL, significantly enhances safety.