Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Honda Considers Layoffs And Moving Headquarters?

Takeo Fukui, Honda's CEO said, "If we go beyond (100 yen), we would simply have to transfer more production overseas, cut more temporary workers and even start laying off permanent jobs. Beyond that we could switch to importing more cars into Japan, bring research and development facilities overseas, and in an extreme scenario move our headquarters offshore. It would cause nothing short of a hollowing out of Japanese industry."

[Source]

Monday, December 22, 2008

Acura Cancels Next NSX!

Honda president and CEO, Takeo Fukui, has confirmed that Acura has cancelled the V10 successor to the NSX. He also outlined several actions that the company will take in order to deal with the worldwide economic crisis and the slump in auto sales. Another Acura related news is that Honda has decided to withdraw its prior plan to introduce the Acura brand in the Japanese market around 2010.



For the full details from Honda, here's the link.

Thursday, December 4, 2008

Q & A From The 2009 Winter Edition of Acura's Style Magazine

Q1: I have a 2008 TSX with navigation. Can I update the software to have real-time traffic and weather?
A1: The Navigation System's maps can be updated as they become available. However, functionality features such as AcuraLink Real-time traffic and Weather are year and model specific, and cannot be updated. For map upgrades visit www.owners.acura.com


Q2: Why can't I get any traffic info on my 2008 MDX Navi System?

A2: Currently, Real-time traffic is only available in certain markets; it is likely that you're outside the market areas. Also, be advised that not all roads and highways within each region have flow data available yet. To verify your navi system's settings ensure the "Traffic" selection on the Icon Bar and the traffic icons are both on. Provided through XM NavTraffic, owners can try Real-time traffic free for 90 days. For more information on system coverage zones visit your Acura dealer or the Navigation System owner's manual.


Q3: I had my vehicle serviced, but the old life indicator did not get reset. What do I do?

A3: With ignition swith ON, press the SEL/RESET button on the steering wheel until OIL LIFE is displayed. Press and hold SEL/RESET for more than 10 seconds. Then press the UP or DOWN button to select RESET on the display, and choose SEL/RESET. Consult your Acura Owner's Manual for details.

Friday, November 28, 2008

Entire Acura Line-up Receives IIHS Top Safety Rating

Acura Achieves Historic First in Crash Test Ratings - For the first and only time in the history of Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) testing, an automobile nameplate has earned the prestigious TOP SAFETY PICK rating for every vehicle in its entire line-up. To accomplish this safety milestone, all 2009 Acura luxury sedans and SUVs received the highest possible rating in each IIHS crash test and feature the Acura Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) electronic stability control system as standard equipment.

Click here to read the rest.

Monday, November 24, 2008

Takeo Fukui is 2009 AUTOMOBILE MAGAZINE Man of the Year



Honda's president and CEO, Takeo Fukui, is the 2009 AUTOMOBILE MAGAZINE Man of the Year. Fukui's path to Honda's presidency has seen him move through many of the arenas that are important to the company: R&D, motorsports, and manufacturing. "In an era when platinum-paid executives rarely deviate from the orthodoxy of the crowd, Honda's Takeo Fukui has successfully avoided faddish trends and instead stayed true to the founding principles of Soichiro Honda and his successors." - AutomobileMag.com

Acura Wins Luxury Brand Residual Value Award

Automotive Lease Guide (ALG) has announced its 10th annual Residual Value Awards, honoring the vehicles in each segment that are predicted to retain the highest percentage of their original price after a conventional three-year lease term. The awards are based on 2009 model year vehicles.

For the sixth consecutive year, American Honda Motor Company, Inc. has won the Industry Brand Residual Value Award. Honda also received individual segment awards for the Accord in the Midsize Car category, and the Honda Fit in the Compact Car category.

In addition, Acura, Honda’s luxury division, has won the overall Luxury Brand Residual Value Award for the first time. Although Acura does not have any segment winners, all of its vehicles’ residual values are relatively strong, with the new TL and TSX ranking among the highest in their segments.

Luxury Brand Residual Value Rankings:
1 ACURA
2 LEXUS
3 AUDI
4 INFINITI
5 LAND ROVER
6 BMW
7 PORSCHE
8 MERCEDES BENZ

Only brands above the luxury average were ranked. Below luxury average were the following brands (listed in alphabetical order): Cadillac, Jaguar, Lincoln, Saab and Volvo.

Full details: https://www.alg.com/Newsroom?pid=92

Thursday, October 23, 2008

Happenings in the Acura World

1) The long rumored but never implemented V8 may be a possibility. Honda's CEO admits that Acura will not be able to compete with other premium brands with only the Acura RL's 3.7 liter V6.



[sources]
VTEC.net
AutoBlog.com

2) Acura is looking to expand it's lineup and is currently testing new sport crossover vehicle. The vehicle is supposed to rival Infiniti’s FX and BMW’s X6.



[sources]
LeftLaneNews.com
MotorAuthority.com

3) Acura dealers are painting the grill on the new 2009 Acura TL. This is a bad sign for Acura as they're trying to solidify the Acura brand. Dealers taking matters into their own hands could ruin what Acura is trying to build up in the long run. Plus, what is this going to tell the public?





[sources]
AutoBlog.com
VTEC.net

Monday, September 29, 2008

6-Speed Manual for 2010 Acura TL

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

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

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

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

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

[Source] HondaNews.com

Sunday, September 28, 2008

Art Osborne, Acura Designer, Explaining the 2009 TL

Art Osborne, Acura designer from the Torrence, Cali., studio does a walk around explaining the design of the 2009 TL. Describing the "keen edge dynamic" philosophy used to fuse together high tech machine with human emotion.

2008 Acura MDX "Unfolding" Commercial

I think this is one of the cooler Acura commercials.

Saturday, September 27, 2008

Acura's Largest Media Campaign To Date

The effort, via RPA, Santa Monica, Calif., includes a series of five 30-second TV spots that elaborate the idea that the TL is the most powerful Acura ever built. With their focus on metaphors of power and strength and design, the art-house ads diverge from previous Acura ads that were rich in computer graphics and focused on in-car technology.

The effort--comprised of five TV spots, with three starting now and two later--elaborates the power theme with creative that shows slow-motion video of an object impacting and crashing through a barrier, then emerging as the TL. One shows a bullet entering a bottle and smashing through the back of it with voiceover saying: "Precision is power"; another shows a fist smashing through a board with a "Strength is power" message. And one shows a diver leaping from a board and entering the water, and proclaims: "Grace is power."

An agency representative says the brand did not have to hammer the high-mpg message because consumers associate the brand with high fuel economy. "At the same time, the Acura target audience is buying vehicles for different reasons. The theme of 'Power' communicated throughout the campaign doesn't just refer to horsepower," she says.

[Source] MediaPost.com

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

The 2009 Acura TL will cost...

For the first time ever in an Acura vehicle, the newly redesigned TL will be available with a choice of two different VTEC® engines while also offering both front wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive (TL SH-AWD®) models.

MSRP pricing for 3.5-liter V-6 equipped TL = $34,955 (w/ Tech Package = $38,685).

MSRP pricing for the 3.7-liter V-6 powered TL SH-AWD® = $38,505 (w/ Tech Package = $42,235) In addition, the TL SH-AWD® with Technology Package is also available with an exclusive 19-inch alloy wheels and high-performance summer tire package for an MSRP of $43,235.

Destination and Handling of $760 remains unchanged and is not included in the MSRP.

Monday, September 1, 2008

Acura to Enter LMP1 Class in 2009 ALMS

Acura Motorsports will enter the LMP1 class in the 2009 American Le Mans Series.
Acura's entry into the most powerful and technically advanced division in ALMS will feature two Acura ARX-02a prototype sports cars developed by Honda Performance Development (HPD).
De Ferran Motorsports and Patrón Highcroft Racing will campaign the new Acura LMP1 cars, which are being designed in concert with Wirth Research in England. Testing of the new Acura LMP1 cars is scheduled for November.
Acura will also continue in the LMP2 category with the Lowe's Fernandez team competing on the 2009 ALMS tour.
Acura entered sports-car racing in 2007 by fielding Acura-powered LMP2 prototype cars on Michelin tires for Andretti Green Racing, Highcroft Racing and Lowe's Fernandez Racing in the 12-race ALMS series. The three-car contingent marked the first factory motorsports program in Acura's 20-year history. De Ferran Motorsports was added to the Acura lineup in 2008.
In the past year and a half, the Acura machines, with 3.4-liter, V-8 powerplants, have scored five LMP2 class victories, as well as an overall win by Patrón Highcroft Racing and drivers David Brabham and Scott Sharp earlier this year at Lime Rock Park. Acura cars also have recorded four overall pole positions.
"Since launching the Acura American Le Mans Series program in 2007, our goal has always been to compete at the highest level of sports-car racing," said John Mendel, Executive Vice President of Auto Operations for American Honda Motor Company, Inc. "The LMP1 class of the American Le Mans Series represents the pinnacle of sports-car racing in this country, from both a competitive and technological standpoint. As we prepare to elevate Acura to Tier One status among luxury road cars, we feel it only appropriate to make this move to the uppermost level of American Le Mans Series competition, as well."
The Acura Motorsports program featured the first racing engine and chassis primarily designed and developed by HPD, Honda's wholly-owned racing subsidiary. It also marked the first time HPD had taken on concurrent motorsports programs in both the American Le Mans Series and the IndyCar Series.
"This is the logical next step in our business plan," said Erik Berkman, HPD president. "The Acura sports-car program has energized HPD's associates and met numerous objectives during its first two seasons of American Le Mans Series competition. We feel we are fully prepared to take on this new challenge."
De Ferran returned to active competition this year by forming de Ferran Motorsports, with the former Indy 500 winner and multiple series champion serving as both driver and team owner. The legendary Brazilian racing figure recently served as Sporting Director for the Honda Formula One racing team before establishing his new ALMS team. De Ferran and young star Simon Pagenaud have driven the No. 66 Panasonic ELS Surround Acura ARX-01b in five races this season.
"I am delighted with our team's relationship with Acura and my longstanding involvement with Honda," said de Ferran, "and we have taken another important step with this new announcement. We are a young team, but de Ferran Motorsports has a great depth of experience and talent within its ranks. We are driven to produce a contending Acura Motorsports sports-car program. We look forward to the challenge competing in the LMP1 class and putting Acura at the forefront of American Le Mans Series racing."
The Patrón Highcroft Racing team, owned by team principal Duncan Dayton, has been the most successful of the Acura entries in 2008, taking the overall and LMP2 win at Lime Rock in July and LMP2 class victories at Long Beach, Road America and Mosport, Ontario, Canada. Brabham and Sharp drove the No. 9 Patrón Highcroft Racing Acura ARX-01b to all four victories. Brabham, the only ALMS driver ever to win in all four series classes, has won overall poles at Houston last year and Lime Rock this season for the team.
"Our relationship with Acura and HPD has been extremely beneficial to Highcroft Racing and we are proud to have been chosen as a part of Acura's new LMP1 program in 2009," said Dayton. "We have had a very collaborative effort with Acura, HPD and Wirth Research over the past two seasons. We started with a good business plan and have been competitive throughout our ALMS program. Adding Patrón as our major sponsor strengthened our Acura program, and we have had a very successful 2008 campaign. Now, moving to the LMP1 class, we expect to continue the progress that we began two years ago. The 2009 season will be exciting for Acura and the Patrón Highcroft Racing team."
Lowe's Fernandez Racing campaigns the No. 15 Lowe's Acura ARX-01b prototype with drivers Adrian Fernandez and Luis Diaz of Mexico. Lowe's Fernandez Racing, formed in the fall of 2000 by Fernandez and motorsports veteran Tom Anderson, is in its seventh year of competition, and the team has claimed victories in the Champ Car (CART), IndyCar (IRL) and Grand-Am Series.
"We have had an outstanding sports-car program with Acura the last two years," said Fernandez. "We started with the Lola chassis and the move to the Acura car was a great improvement for our Lowe's Fernandez team. Now, we will concentrate on racing for the LMP2 point championship, as well as winning many races. Our luck hasn't been with us as much as we would like. But our association with Acura has been outstanding and we are pleased to be continuing our relationship. We want to be right in the thick of the LMP2 title chase in 2009."
Acura's racing operation reflects the manufacturer's position as a leader in automotive performance and technology, and the American Le Mans Series provides an arena for competition against other car makers in the tough sport of endurance racing. Acura Automobile Division was launched on March 27, 1986. The prestigious marque, based in Torrance, Calif., has established a number of automotive firsts, including the first all-aluminum production car (NSX) in 1991. Acura offers premium performance vehicles from more than 260 U.S. dealers.
Honda Performance Development (HPD) was founded in 1993. Located in Santa Clarita, Calif., HPD is the technical operations center for Honda and Acura's high-performance racing cars and engines. HPD coordinates Honda's participation in the IndyCar Series and Acura's activities in American Le Mans Series.
[Source] Hondanews.com

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

2009 Acura TL - Overview

INTRODUCTION
With athletic and emotional styling, powerful engine performance and a new Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) model, the all-new fourth-generation 2009 TL is nothing less than the most exciting performance luxury sedan in Acura history. Moreover, as the sales volume leader for the division, the TL is also Acura's most important car. In completely redesigning the TL from the wheels up, Acura aimed to enhance literally every aspect of the original model. Featuring a stiff unit-body construction with expansive use of high-strength steel (as well as key aluminum components), unique and dramatic exterior styling, a choice of two powerful VTEC V-6 powertrains (280-hp 3.5L and 305-hp 3.7L), all-new Electric Power Steering (EPS), and a luxurious and technologically advanced interior, the new TL sets the benchmark for the future direction of the Acura division.
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. This means that the TL SH-AWD® is inspiring to drive year-round.
The 2009 TL SH-AWD® makes a significant advance in both on-road performance and driving exhilaration as it significantly surpasses the previous track-tuned TL Type-S in all measurable levels of handling performance. Moreover, not only is the new TL SH-AWD® more exhilarating when pushed on challenging roads, but in day-to-day use it delivers a more rewarding and exhilarating level of driving excitement. Without a doubt, the first ever application of SH-AWD® with the TL sedan - Acura's best selling sedan - marks a new milestone for performance, drivetrain sophistication, and safety. Not only is it the best performing Acura TL ever, but the new TL SH-AWD® is a top performer amongst every vehicle in its class.
The new TL has the visual presence to back up its performance, with exterior luxury cues like genuine stainless-steel trim, LED taillights and dynamic surface lines immediately capturing the viewer's attention.
Inside, TL occupants are treated to an engaging interior which includes advanced LED lighting throughout the cabin, thickly bolstered leather seating and flowing metallic or wood patterned accents. The 2009 TL gains an additional 1.3 inches of rear legroom and 0.5-inches of rear shoulder room, thus making it the most spacious TL ever.
As expected from Acura, the TL's range of standard safety features is exemplary and includes six airbags, active front head restraints, and the advantages of Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) front body design.
In addition, a Technology Package is available on both models. Featuring such items as Keyless Access System with push-button start, Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, AcuraLink® real-time traffic, real-time weather with Doppler-style radar mapping, the Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system, and Bluetooth® Audio the Technology Package offers the most comprehensive electronic array of features ever available on an Acura.
THE ACURA TL MISSION
Altogether, the fourth-generation Acura TL amplifies and refocuses the original TL's mission as a driver's performance luxury sedan. Competing in the entry premium sedan segment, the 2009 TL advances Acura's mission of providing precisely crafted and focused luxury-performance vehicles. A summary of its most powerful attributes includes:
1. Dramatic and unique exterior and interior styling together with a superlative level of luxury and technological appointments. 2. Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) model developed specifically for the performance enthusiast. 3. Available Technology Package combines premium leather seating surfaces with advanced electronic technologies that make driving more enjoyable, efficient and convenient. 4. The latest passive safety features along with top projected safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
LUXURY MARKET STATUS
The 2009 TL enters the competitive luxury market at an ideal time as the segment in which it competes is expected to remain strong into the next decade. The new TL is forecast to share substantially in this success with a projected sales increase to about 70,000 units per year, an increase of 5.8-percent through 2012. Available with the largest and most powerful engine in TL history, along with the sport-driving focused SH-AWD® system (the world's first torque-vectoring AWD system when introduced in 2000), the new TL arrives ready to compete with vehicles like the Audi A4 and A6, BMW 3-Series and 5-Series, Infiniti G35 and M35, Lexus ES, GS and IS sedans, and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and E-Class.
CONCEPT CUSTOMER
Performance luxury sedan customers value vehicle traits, such as dramatic and exclusive exterior styling, emotional and luxurious interior design, and fun-to-drive character. These elements are balanced by an equally keen appreciation for quality, reliability, durability and competitive pricing.
Self-guided, discriminating and technically savvy, these customers also feel that prestige is determined more by life experiences than by pure wealth. In other words, experiencing life, rather than just accumulating possessions, is a powerful driver. For this reason they are interested in vehicles that help them enjoy driving to the fullest - and the 2009 TL is designed to do exactly that. While the 2009 TL is designed to appeal to a broad range of upscale consumers, the target buyer for the TL is expected to be a professional male in his mid 40s with a household income of about $100,000 per year, while the expected TL SH-AWD® target buyer is a professional male in his early 40s with a household income of over $150,000 per year.
POWERTRAIN FEATURES
TL
  • Front engine, front-wheel-drive
  • 3.5-liter SOHC V-6 aluminum alloy engine
  • 280 hp at 6,200 rpm and 254 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm
  • 11.2:1 compression ratio
  • Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC®)
  • Dual-Stage induction system with lightweight magnesium intake manifold
  • Cold-air intake system
  • Integrated exhaust manifolds cast directly into the cylinder heads
  • High-flow sport-tuned exhaust system with dual tips
  • Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system
  • Computer-Controlled Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
  • Direct Ignition System
  • Detonation/knock control system
  • Maintenance Minder™ system
  • 100,000 mile tune-up intervals*
*Does not apply to fluid and filter changes. Exact mileage is determined by actual driving conditions.
TL Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®)
  • Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) for performance handling and all-season capability
  • 3.7-liter SOHC V-6 aluminum alloy engine
  • 305 hp at 6,200 rpm and 273 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm
  • 11.2:1 compression ratio
  • High-silicon aluminum cylinder sleeves cast directly into aluminum cylinder block
  • Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC®) for intake and exhaust valves
  • Dual-stage induction system with lightweight magnesium intake manifold
  • Cold-air intake system
  • Larger throttle-body (69 mm diameter versus 64 mm in the TL) for the Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system
  • Integrated exhaust manifolds cast directly into the cylinder heads
  • High-flow, sport-tuned dual exhaust system with quad exhaust tips
  • Computer-Controlled Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
  • Direct ignition system
  • Detonation/knock control system
  • Maintenance Minder™ system
  • 100,000-mile tune-up intervals*
*Does not apply to fluid and filter changes. Exact mileage is determined by actual driving conditions.
Emissions
  • High-flow close-coupled catalytic converters plus under floor catalytic converter
  • High-capacity 32-bit RISC processor emissions control unit
  • Meets EPA TIER 2 - BIN 5 and CARB LEV II ULEV emissions standards
Fuel Economy
TL
  • EPA estimated 18/26 mpg (city/highway)
TL SH-AWD®
  • EPA estimated 17/25/20 mpg (city/highway/combined)
Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and grade logic control
  • Quick-response Sequential SportShift allows semi-manual transmission operation
  • New straight-gate style console-mounted shifter
  • Steering-wheel mounted F1®-style paddle shifters
  • Paddle shifters operable in both Drive and Sport modes
  • Coordination between Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system and transmission makes for quick, smooth shifts
  • Wide gear-ratio spacing for quick acceleration and good fuel economy
  • Advanced shift-hold control minimizes unwanted shifting during spirited driving
  • Grade logic control system reduces gear "hunting" when climbing hills
Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®)
  • Fully automatic full-time traction and handling system
  • Distributes torque between front and rear axles
  • Distributes torque between left and right rear wheels
  • Provides torque vectoring to directly control the yaw moment of the vehicle
  • Capable of "overdriving" outside rear wheel to enhance handling
  • Understeer is greatly reduced during hard cornering
  • Increases overall cornering grip in dry and inclement weather
*Based on 2009 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 FEATURES
Design & Styling
  • "Motion Surface" body design features a new Acura signature grille, strong character lines and bold, aggressive character
  • Projector-style HID low beam and halogen high beam front headlights
  • Integrated front fog lamps
  • Power tilt/slide moonroof with auto-reverse feature
  • LED illumination for taillights, Center High Mounted Stop Light (CHMSL) and exterior mirror housing-mounted turn signals
  • Advanced underbody aerodynamics
  • Greater overall length, width and wheelbase than third-generation TL
Structure
  • Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) front body structure
  • Frame rails repositioned to inside of floor pan for improved aerodynamics
  • New A, B & C-pillar foam separators
  • Extensive use of high-strength steel
Wheels & Tires
  • 17-inch diameter aluminum wheels; P245/50R17 M+S tires (on TL)
  • 18-inch diameter aluminum wheels; P245/45R18 M+S tires (on TL SH-AWD®)
  • 19-inch diameter aluminum wheels; 245/40ZR19 summer tires (optional on SH-AWD® model)
Steering, Suspension & Brakes
  • New Electric Power Steering (EPS)
  • New dampers with unique dual-stage "blow-off" valve
  • Double wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension
  • Firmer coil springs, dampers, and stabilizer bars on SH-AWD® model
  • 4-wheel disc brakes with dual-piston (front) and single-piston (rear) calipers
  • Exclusive EPS/brake booster tuning for SH-AWD® model
  • Front fascia-mounted cooling ducts for the front brakes on SH-AWD® model
  • Hill Start Assist (HSA) on SH-AWD® model
INTERIOR FEATURES
  • Engaging cockpit designed for performance driving
  • Leather-wrapped 3-spoke steering wheel with illuminated fingertip controls and F1®-style paddle shifters
  • New LED backlit gauges with progressive illumination
  • High-resolution Multi-Information Display (MID) allows access to multiple electronic functions and customizable feature settings
  • Compass
  • 10-way adjustable power driver's seat (8-way power seat with 2-way power lumbar)
  • 8-way power front passenger seat
  • Premium leather seating surfaces
  • Exclusive sport seating and sport steering wheel on SH-AWD®
  • Solar-sensing, dual-zone, dual-mode automatic climate control system with auto humidity control
  • 5-position straight shift gate
  • Tilt and telescoping steering column
  • Electronic cruise control
  • 8-speaker audio system with 6-disc CD changer, AM/FM radio, XM® Satellite Radio, Bluetooth® Audio, and Dolby ProLogic II
  • USB port connectivity (for iPod®, iPhone®, or removable mass storage devices)
  • Auxiliary jack interface (for portable MP3 music players)
  • Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® wireless telephone interface
  • Power moonroof with tilt, auto-open/close, auto-reverse and key-off operation
  • 2-position memory function (for seating position, mirror adjustments, radio presets, climate control settings, MID presets, and more)
  • High-quality surface finishes and materials
  • Molded carpet insulation for superior fit and acoustic damping
Technology Package (Available on TL and TL SH-AWD®)
  • Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ and rearview camera
  • 8-inch full VGA high-resolution color display
  • AcuraLink® satellite communication system that allows communication between the TL and Acura
  • AcuraLink® real-time traffic with all-new Traffic Rerouting™ feature
  • Real-time weather with Doppler-style radar mapping
  • Acura/ELS Surround® premium 10-speaker surround sound system with DVD-Audio, DTS™, CD, AM/FM radio, XM® Satellite Radio, Bluetooth® Audio and 2,500-song* hard disk drive (HDD) media storage system, and ProLogic II
  • Interface dial that provides quick, intuitive access to navigation, audio, climate control and other features
  • Keyless Access System (with smart entry and push-button ignition)
  • Full-grain perforated Milano Premium leather seating surfaces
  • 3D metallic trim on instrument panel and doors
*Approximate capacity
SAFETY FEATURES
  • The 2009 Acura TL features the following safety technologies as standard equipment:
  • Active safety systems
  • 4-wheel disc Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)
  • Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) with Brake Assist
  • Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with traction control (Electronic Stability Control)
  • Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
  • Standard all-season (M+S) tires
  • Available Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®)
Passive safety systems
  • Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) front body structure
  • 3-point seatbelts for all seating positions
  • Front seatbelt automatic tensioning system with integrated load limiters
  • Dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags
  • Dual-chamber front-seat side airbags
  • Side curtain airbags for all outboard seating positions
  • Active head restraints for front headrests
  • Rear head restraints for all seating positions
  • Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH) system in the rear seat
  • 2.5-mph front and rear bumpers
ENGINE & POWERTRAIN
A quintessential component of the 2009 Acura TL's mission as a performance luxury sedan is to provide the maximum possible driving enjoyment for enthusiast drivers. Thus, the TL offers a choice of two all-aluminum powertrains. The standard 3.5-liter V-6 develops 280 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque and drives the front wheels through a sophisticated Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters and Grade Logic Control System. Featuring technologies like a Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system, Computer-Controlled Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI), Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC®) on intake valves and a sport-tuned exhaust system with dual tips, the 3.5-liter engine is targeted to meet California's stringent CARB LEV II ULEV emissions certification, and is projected to return 18 mpg in city driving and 26 mpg on the highway.
The TL takes the driving experience to the next level with the new Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) model, which features a 3.7-liter V-6 engine developing 305 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque - making it the most powerful Acura sedan ever. With additional features including a new cold-air intake system, Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC®) on both intake and exhaust valves, and a high-flow, sport-tuned dual exhaust system with four exhaust tips, the SH-AWD® powertrain truly delivers racetrack-quality performance, while also meeting CARB LEV II ULEV emissions certification and returning projected fuel-economy of 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. The innovative SH-AWD® system is unique to Acura and by employing torque vectoring, in hard cornering under acceleration it can send more torque as well as overdrive the outside rear wheel, thereby creating a "yaw moment" that enhances vehicle dynamics by generating a turn-in effect.
Acura's commitment to sophistication and refinement are equally important, and to this end both engines shine with features like maintenance-free serpentine accessory belts, low-noise and low-drag electric power steering (EPS), and electronically controlled hydraulic engine mounts that reduce vibration. Both engines likewise feature a Maintenance Minder™ system and 100,000-mile tune-up interval. With validation testing conducted from Alaska to Death Valley, from public streets to Germany's famed Nürburgring, and from Japan to New Zealand, the new TL has been proven in an extremely demanding range of driving environments.
BODY & CHASSIS
The new 2009 TL takes Acura styling to a dynamic new level. Using the concept "emotion unleashed" as a driver for developing the new body design, Acura designers in Southern California crafted a performance luxury sedan shape with a surface that expresses motion even while at rest. The use of aggressive wheel arches, dramatic character lines along the body side and numerous Acura exclusive design elements (such as the new Acura signature grille) create a powerful and distinctive new shape. Featuring such premium details as genuine stainless-steel body trim, a power moonroof, HID projector-beam headlights and LED taillights as standard equipment, the TL should immediately enjoy a strong foothold in the premium segment.
To meet the demands of the luxury customer, the new TL has grown slightly over its predecessor - while simultaneously exceeding the previous TL's performance and handling. The 2009 TL is 6.2 inches longer overall, 1.8 inches wider and a modest 0.5 inches taller to give it a noticeably roomier interior. The wheelbase and track are also greater; wheelbase increases by 1.4 inches and the track is up by 1.1 inches in front and 1.8 inches rear. The wider track improves cornering prowess while the longer wheelbase enhances ride comfort and interior space.
Further defining the 2009 TL is an all-new unit-body, which positions the frame rails inside (instead of underneath) the floor pan to provide a nearly flat body underside. This frame design improves overall structural strength for enhanced crash safety, while also reducing interior noise and improving aerodynamic efficiency - the reduction in drag in turn enhances fuel economy. The new TL also uses a higher percentage (47.6-percent) of high-strength steel to further improve structural strength while helping to reduce weight. To this end, aluminum is also used for the hood, front suspension subframe and rear suspension knuckles, while foam-filled body pillars help reduce noise in the cabin.
The new TL rides on double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension. Several new technologies further sharpen the TL's handling while significantly reducing noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) inside the car. These technologies include new dual-stage "blow off" style hydraulic dampers, new hydro-compliant bushings (for the engine, transmission, and select suspension components) and a new "smart" engine mount design. The available Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) TL has unique suspension tuning, more aggressive braking-force tuning, front-brake cooling ducts, and special tuning for the new driver-focused Electric Power Steering (EPS) system.
Standard on the 2009 TL are 17x8-inch cast aluminum wheels with Bridgestone Turanza P245/50R17 all-season tires. The available Technology Package has proprietary Michelin Pilot P245/50R17 all-season tires, while the TL SH-AWD® model includes 18x8-inch aluminum wheels with Michelin Pilot P245/45R18 rubber. Available on TL SH-AWD® models are optional 19x8-inch aluminum wheels with aggressive Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 245/40ZR19 94Y summer tires.
INTERIOR
The new TL's driver-focused objective is strongly presented throughout the interior, where a new "dual personal" layout provides a feeling of separate personal space for the driver and front passenger. Sweeping shapes and high-quality materials provide a feeling of intelligent luxury, while a formidable array of standard and available electronics reward the TL occupants with top-flight audio, navigation and communications experiences. On the driver's side, all the controls and instruments are positioned intuitively, allowing the driver to focus on the driving experience while still enjoying Acura's substantial array of electronic aids and conveniences.
Luxury and technology are evident from the moment the TL doors are first opened, and detail after detail underscores Acura's commitment to winning over the luxury customer. From the shape and feel of the door handles and the precision of the door-sill scuff plates, to the richly appointed leather seating and the ergonomic positioning of seat bolsters, armrests and controls, the 2009 TL immediately connects with the luxury customer. But it is the remarkable range of standard features that do the convincing - features like 10-way power driver's seat (8-way power seat with 2-way lumbar support) and 8-way power passenger's seat, steering-wheel mounted F1®-style paddle shifters for the Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission, and an 8-speaker, 276-watt audio system with 6-disc CD changer, AM/FM radio, XM® Satellite Radio, Bluetooth® Audio, USB port and AUX jack connectivity, and HandsFreeLink® wireless telephone interface.
The available Technology Package adds a desirable range of electronic upgrades to the extensive list of standard luxury features, beginning with the Keyless Access System (with smart entry and push-button ignition) and luxurious full-grain perforated premium Milano leather seating surfaces. Designed to integrate seamlessly with the TL driving experience, the electronic features continue with an Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, rearview camera and an all-new 8-inch full VGA high-resolution color display, plus AcuraLink® real-time traffic with Traffic Rerouting™ and AcuraLink® weather with Doppler-style weather radar maps. In addition, an AcuraLink® satellite communication system provides a continual interface between the TL and Acura. An interface dial complements powerful voice recognition capability that provides intuitive access to navigation, audio, climate control and other features. For the ultimate audio experience, the Technology Package includes an Acura/ELS Surround® 10-speaker, 440-watt premium sound system with DVD-Audio, DTS™, CD, AM/FM radio, XM® Radio, Bluetooth® Audio and a 2,500-song* hard disk drive (HDD) media storage.
*Approximate capacity
SAFETY
There is no greater interest and concern for the Acura Division than safety. This extends from safety for the driver and passengers of the new 2009 TL, the safety of occupants of other vehicles, and even the injury mitigation to pedestrians. The new TL provides this with a complement of the latest safety engineering and features. The story begins with the TL's Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure. Introduced to the Acura Division in the 2005 RL and now integrated into the TL for the first time, ACE™ better dissipates crash energy in a frontal collision through dedicated load-bearing frame structures, while also more precisely matching the TL with vehicles of different sizes and with different bumper heights during a frontal collision. By controlling the load pathways in this way, ACE™ helps preserve the integrity of the passenger compartment in a severe crash. With the application of the ACE™ body structure to the TL, the entire Acura lineup is now equipped with this revolutionary safety technology.
While ACE™ is the structural foundation for the TL's safety, its array of industry-leading passive safety technologies is equally important. The list begins with six airbags, including dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags, new dual-chamber front seat side airbags, and side curtain airbags for outboard seating positions. Features continue with 3-point seatbelts and head restraints for all seating positions, while the driver and front passenger also have front seatbelts with an automatic tensioning system with load limiters and an Active Head Restraint System. Rear-seat features include Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH), which permits attachment of up to two child seats.
The TL offers superb accident-avoidance capabilities thanks to features like its double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension systems, new Electric Power Steering (EPS), 4-wheel disc brakes (with ABS, EBD and Brake Assist), Vehicle Stability Assist, standard all-season tires and available SH-AWD®. Additional exterior safety features include daytime running lights (DRL), 2.5-mph front and rear bumpers, and a deformable hood panel, hood hinges and windshield-wiper pivots to help mitigate pedestrian injuries.
The 2009 TL is designed to meet the latest crash-safety regulations, including the new FMVSS214 side crash (the 2009 TL meets this new regulation three years early) and new FMVSS301 rear crash regulations. Internal testing projects that the 2009 TL will achieve the highest ratings in both government National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)** and independent Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) crash testing. Projected ratings include:

Crash test
Projected Rating*
NHTSA
NCAP
5-Star
NHTSA
SINCAP
5-Star
IIHS
Frontal Offset
GOOD
IIHS
SICE
GOOD
IIHS
Headrest
GOOD
*Based on internal test results
**Government star ratings are part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) New Car Assessment Program (www.safercar.gov). Model tested with standard side-impact air bags (SABs).
[Source] Honda Press Release

Monday, August 11, 2008

2009 Acura TL Revealed

Not like anyone is going to be surprised or anything, but here it is without any sort of camo, the 2009 Acura TL!



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

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



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

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





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

Serious performance-sedan devotees will choose the TL SH-AWD® to make winding roads their own. Its all-new 3.7-liter V-6 engine produces 305 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque courtesy of greater displacement and additional high-performance features like Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC®) on both the intake and exhaust valves, and a special high-flow dual exhaust system. With projected EPA fuel economy ratings* of 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway, the 3.7L is also targeted to meet California's stringent CARB LEV II ULEV emissions certification. The pièce de résistance on the TL SH-AWD® is the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ system, now available on the TL for the first time.

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

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

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





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

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

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

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





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

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

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

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

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

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





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

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

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

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





The 2009 Acura TL is assembled in Marysville, Ohio and is covered by a comprehensive 4-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty and a 6-year/70,000 mile powertrain limited warranty. Additional benefits of ownership include Acura Total Luxury Care (TLC), which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service and trip routing.







[Source] Acuranews.com

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Acura's First Overall American Le Mans Series Win

David Brabham's last-lap pole run on Friday at Lime Rock Park was trumped by his perform- ance Saturday in the Northeast Grand Prix.

The No. 9 Patrón Highcroft Acura ARX-01b driver put in one of the best maneuvers in American Le Mans Series history with a first-turn outside pass of Timo Bernhard to score Acura's first overall victory in two seasons of ALMS competition in front of massive crowd encircling the 1.53-mile road course.

Brabham, who co-drove to his second 24 Hours of Le Mans title last month, came from a 5.5-second deficit with eight minutes remaining in the two-hour, 45-minute feature to move around Bernhard's Penske Porsche on the next to last lap. The native Australian took over the driving chores from Scott Sharp with 90 minutes to go and worked his way from fourth to second on Lap 126. The final 40 laps proved to be an all-out sprint to the checkered flag, as Brabham and Bernhard diced their way through the backmarkers in a thrilling down-to-the-wire finish.









Northeast Grand Prix ALMS Race (Overall)
1. PATRÓN HIGHCROFT ACURA ARX-01b No. 9
2. Penske Porsche No. 7
3. Penske Porsche No. 6
5. LOWE'S FERNANDEZ ACURA ARX-01b No. 15
6. ANDRETTI GREEN XM ACURA ARX-01b No. 26
9. DE FERRAN PANASONIC ACURA ARX-01b No. 66

UPCOMING ALMS RACE:
Event: Acura Sports Car Challenge
Track: Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course Lexington, OH (2.25 miles)
Date: Saturday, July 19, 2008 2:10 p.m. (EDT)
Distance: 2 hours, 45 minutes
TV: NBC-TV, July 20, Noon EDT

Friday, July 11, 2008

Official Release - All New 2009 Acura TL

Completely Redesigned TL to be Most Powerful Acura Ever

The all-new, completely redesigned 2009 Acura TL employs dramatic new styling along with a luxurious interior that includes more driver relevant technology than ever. Featuring the most powerful Acura engine ever, the 2009 TL will be available in two distinctive versions including the first ever application of Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) on TL. Available in the fall of 2008, the new TL will deliver a driving experience that achieves new highs within the performance luxury sedan category.
[Source] Acura Press Release

[Rumors] Spied NSX Prototype Photoshopped Without Camo







Not too fond of the front, but this is only a speculatory photoshop.

Wednesday, June 25, 2008

[Rumors] Speculative Rendering of Next Gen NSX

Auto Express put up some rendering of how the next generation NSX could look like.





Rumored specs-
Engine: 5.5 liter V10 (with cylinder deactivation technology)
Power: 550 hp
Torque: 420 lb-ft
Body: 2+2 ‘hybrid’ aluminum and steel body
Transmission:
8-speed auto with paddle shifters
Drivetrain: modified SH-AWD
Price: $150k+ (USD)
Date: 2010/2011

I got to say, that's a good looking car. I hope the production version looks very close to this. Acura has their hands full trying to become a Tier 1 brand, a good looking and performing supercar will only help.

Check out this link to see the prototype in action.

[Rumors] Video of the Next Gen Acura NSX



Enjoy!

[Rumors] More 2009 TL Pictures





These first set of photos were taken by Josh Fried, a TOV reader, on a trip to Purdue University in Indianapolis.





The second set of photos came from automotivetraveler.com, they were take in California's Mojave Desert.

From what I have seen so far, I think the current generation Acura TL looks better. These spy photos so far give the next generation TL a Nissan Maxima-ish look. I'm also worried about the "Dynamic Power Plenum" grill that is going to sit in front.

2008 (current) Acura TL

Click for all Acura TL photos

Friday, June 20, 2008

Auto-Max Railcar Fleet

Honda has fully deployed its fleet of Auto-Max® railcars, achieving a significant reduction in the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions associated with its automobile distribution activities in the United States. The 400-car fleet of more space-efficient Auto-Max railcars is the only such automaker-operated fleet in use in the United States. Including the Auto-Max fleet shipments, American Honda currently transports about 82 percent of its Honda and Acura automobiles across the country by rail, achieving the highest rail-shipping rate of any automaker.

Each multi-level Auto-Max railcar holds up to 22 vehicles and can hold both trucks and cars to reduce unused space. The result is less fuel usage per vehicle shipped and no compromise to quality. An average bi-level railcar can transport only 10 trucks, generally of a single vehicle type.

Honda's Auto-Max railcars have a 50-year estimated lifespan versus standard railcars, which typically require a major overhaul after just 20 years of service. Honda participated with the Greenbrier Companies (NYSE:GBX) in designing Auto-Max, which is exclusively manufactured by Greenbrier.





Tuesday, June 17, 2008

[Rumors] 2011 RL & NSX

Supposedly, this chopped up TSX test mule is for the 2011 Acura RL. Rumors floating around suggest that the next RL will have a front engine, rear wheel drive layout with a V8 engine under the hood.





[Source] VTEC.net


The following pictures are rumored to be the next generation NSX, or a sub-NSX coupe priced in the $50-60k range. The pictures were snapped around the Nurburgring area in Germany. The next gen NSX is expected to have a new V10 engine with about 500hp and is front engined, with a modified version of SH-AWD that is rear-biased. This vehicle also looks like a 2+2 instead of the old style 2-seater.

According to edmunds.com, "Takeo Fukui, CEO of Honda, has tasked his R&D team with building an NSX that's faster around the Nürburgring than both the Nissan GT-R and the upcoming Lexus LF-A." Tetsuo Iwamura, American Honda President and CEO, confirmed the NSX will be launched in the U.S. in 2010. Honda will also be launching the Acura brand in Japan and Europe around the same time, but the automaker says it will launch the NSX in the U.S. market first.







[Sources]
VTEC.net
MotorTrend.com
Edmunds.com
LeftLaneNews.com

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