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By Acura Company
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Strengths: |
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Luxury, performance, and reliability, all in one; loaded with features; tremendous value. |
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Changes: |
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2008 is a carry-over year for the Acura TL, following the 2007 mid-cycle revision. As such, very little changed. |
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Value: |
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The 2008 Acura TL skillfully combines power, luxury, safety, and reliability in a practical package, all while remaining at the lower end of pricing in its segment. Its appeal is broadened further with the Type-S satisfying the performance enthusiast. |
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Overview: |
The front-wheel-drive 2008 Acura TL continues to offer one of the best combinations of luxury and performance in its segment. The entry-level engine is a 3.2L SOHC V6 that produces 258 horsepower and is paired with a five-speed sequential SportShift automatic transmission. A 286-horsepower 3.5L V6 is standard in the resurrected Type-S.
It is mated to a six-speed manual transmission, but can also be ordered with the same five-speed found in the base TL.
Regardless of the engine, you get a roomy, comfortable four-door sedan that comes with standard features more often found in the top-echelon luxury cars. An eight-way power driver's seat, heated front seats, a power moonroof, and dual zone climate control are just a few of the luxury items. The audio system is outstanding, with XM satellite radio found alongside the standard six-CD changer and surround sound DVD audio.
Every TL also comes packed with safety features, including side, front, and curtain air bags, anti-lock brakes, and traction control.
Aside from the potent V6 and six-speed stick, the Type-S adds stiffer springs, 17-inch alloy wheels, Brembo disc brakes, a sport exhaust, distinct exterior and interior styling, and active noise cancellation.
The only option on the TL is for a satellite navigation system, which happens to be one of the very best systems available. It includes voice-recognition and real-time traffic information. Since the nav system is standard on the Type-S, aside from selecting the transmission and the color, the only decision to make on Acura's performance flagship is whether or not to swap the all-season tires with summer performance treads.
But more important than the gadgets is the driving experience, and the TL is a wonderful mixture of fun and relaxation.
With the Type-S, it verges on exhilarating. |
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