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Introduction

Once regarded as just a more luxurious version of the Honda Accord, the TL has evolved into a refined sports sedan with wedgy good looks and ample thrust from a 258-hp, 3.2-liter V-6 that is typically Honda smooth and happiest operating at the upper end of its rpm range. There’s also a 286-horse, 3.5-liter upgrade V-6, which hauls the sportier Type-S model. Both engines qualify as ultra-low-emissions (ULEV) powerplants, although both require premium unleaded fuel. Surprisingly, federal fuel-economy projections for the two engines are almost identical: 18 mpg city/26 mpg highway for the TL, 17/26 or 18/27 for the Type-S, depending on transmission. Aside from the obvious difference—power—a major distinction between the TL (standard) and the optional TL Type-S is transmission choice. Both models offer a five-speed automatic, but the Type-S also provides the choice of a close-ratio six-speed manual gearbox allied with a limited-slip differential, and its automatic is equipped with fingertip paddle shifters.

Verdict

Ample power is always welcome, but it’s also the TL’s Achilles' heel. The TL is a front-drive sports sedan in a segment dominated by rear-drive competitors, and its steering wheel jerks to the side under hard acceleration—a phenomenon called torque steer—particularly in the Type-S. All TLs show some reluctance in hard cornering. On the other hand, they handle quick course changes with the best, braking performance is good, ride quality is firmly compliant, and interior space stacks up very well versus competing cars.

Now in its fifth model year, the TL is due for a major makeover in 2009, so updates for 2008 are minimal. Acura has expanded the real-time capabilities of its AcuraLink satellite navigation traffic-reporting system, adding 32 metropolitan markets to its coverage, bringing the total to 76. Beyond that, a tire-pressure monitoring-system warning light and two new exterior colors are the only changes.