Nothing succeeds like success. For the 2002 model year, Acura has revitalized its hot-selling 3.2 TL sedan lineup with more refinement, more aggressive styling, and more potent performance with the addition of the Type S model. The Type S treatment, which we so enjoy in the CL coupe, helps the TL complete the transformation from "near lux" to true sports sedan.
Acura has made more than 500 hardware and specification changes to all TL models, the most apparent being the more aggressive visage, featuring standard fog lamps, an air-gulping grille, revised headlamps, and fresh sheet metal. Other styling updates include new wheels and clear taillights. It's an effective look; the sprinkling of garlic the car has always needed. Less obvious are the myriad refinements, such as aerodynamic side mirrors, improved brake feel, reduced road noise, and enhanced radio reception. Standard creature comforts now include a six-disc in-dash CD changer, seat memory, auto-up driver's window, tilt headrests, and 0.8g-endurable cupholders.
The real news for enthusiasts is the Type S, which shares the CL Type S coupe's high-revving 3.2-liter V-6 that routes 260 horsepower to the front wheels via a five-speed "SportShift" automatic transmission. This creamy-smooth single-overhead-cam powerplant provides swift acceleration accompanied by a sonorous, mechanized symphony. Monitoring car dynamics through yaw, lateral, and speed sensors, Acura's Vehicle Stability Assist stability control system can tactfully intervene with throttle and braking to instill confidence and take the edge off driver error.
Steering feel is firmer in the Type S due to a torque-sensing (rather than speed-sensing, as on the base TL) system that applies assist based on input, the resultant torque generated by the tire on pavement, and speed. Combining 205/50VR17 Michelin MXM4 tires and a performance-tuned suspension, the Type S substantially elevates the TL's road-holding abilities with only minor feedback and ride-quality penalties. This more-responsive setup balances well with the powertrain gains, preserving a strong luxury feel and performance edge.
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We're looking for a catch but just can't find one in this case. Acura clearly made a good car better with the 2002 TL and pushes it to great in the form of the exciting, yet well-mannered, Type S. Overall, the TL's performance/price/value ratio only improves.
This article originally ran in April 2001.
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