2007 Acura TL Review

The front-wheel-drive 2007 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. 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, traction control.

Aside from the potent V6 and six-speed stick, the Type-S adds stiffer springs, 17-inch alloy wheels, Brembo disc brakes, sport exhaust, distinct exterior and interior styling, and active noise cancellation.

The only option on the TL is for 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 newest TL 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.
The 2007 model year brings a revised exterior and interior to Acura's TL, plus the return of the TL Type-S. Outside is a larger grille, new bumpers, revised head and taillights, plus new alloy wheels. The TL Type-S gets a larger (3.5L vs. 3.2L) 286-horsepower V6, firmer rolls bars, and stiffer springs for better handling. see less