Power-activated Rear Tailgate Expands to More MDXs

Formerly available only on MDX models equipped with the Entertainment Package, the power tailgate feature is now included in the Technology and Sport packages. This decision was made due to customer feedback. "Based on customer feedback, the availability of the popular power tailgate feature will be expanded to approximately 80-percent of all MDX luxury SUVs sold." said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of sales.
Starting April 1, 2008, all MDX models manufactured with either Technology or Sport packages will feature a power-activated rear tailgate. When the MDX is in Park, the power rear tailgate can be operated via a driver's door-mounted button or with the press of a button on the key fob. The MDX's power tailgate simplifies access to rear cargo area and includes an auto-reverse function for enhanced safety. The price for Technology and Sport package models will increase by a modest $550, to $44,245 and $46,345, respectively. Base MDX pricing remains unchanged.

All-New 2009 TSX will Debut at New York International Auto Show

TORRANCE, Calif. - 02/10/2008

Acura announced today it will debut the all-new 2009 Acura TSX sports sedan at the 2008 New York International Auto Show and released an exterior photo of the new model. Scheduled to go on-sale in the spring, the 2009 Acura TSX will be the second generation of Acura's popular entry level sedan and feature numerous advancements in performance, styling, technology and safety.
"The new 2009 TSX speaks clearly to the direction we are taking our Acura sedans in the future," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president auto sales, "The TSX is a significant step in the advancement of our sedan lineup and the continued enhancement of the Acura brand."
Acura unveiled the new 2009 RL at the Chicago Auto Show last week and also announced the company will introduce an-all new TL performance luxury sedan later this year.
The 2009 Acura TSX will be introduced during the New York International Auto Show media days which occur on March 19th and 20th.
Source: AcuraNews.com

In the meantime, here are some pictures of the all-new Honda Accord Euro...

Acura Changes Direction for RL

A lot of car sites have been talking about how the Acura TSX will be the first in the brand to see the new 4 cylinder diesel engine, and how there will be a V6 version most likely for the TL and MDX. Well... isn't news like this just obvious after Honda stated that i-DTEC was coming to Acura? The European has had a diesel Honda Accord, which is the Acura TSX to us Americans, for awhile now. And we pretty much know the TSX will not be getting a V6 option, so I won't waste anymore time on this right now.


European Honda Accords with i-DETC.

The news I found interesting was Acura's goal of becoming a tier 1 automaker in 4-6 years, truly competing with the likes of BMW and Mercedes. One of Acura's weaknesses right now is the current generation RL. The RL is Acura's "flagship" sedan, however it has trouble matching up against other luxury brands, most likely due to the lack of V8 and rear-wheel drive options.


Acura RL

Dick Colliver, executive vice president of American Honda Motor, acknowledged that the Acura RL was the "wrong car" for the segment. A new RL is slated for 2010, and that the car's overall direction will change. Hopefully, this will address the weak sales of Acura's range-topping RL sedan.

[Source] leftlanenews.com

Hmmm... I wonder what they're going to do to the RL. Whatever it is, the next RL should look less like a bloated Honda Accord and have more aggressive styling.