The Acura TL is essentially a new model for 2004. The best-selling
car from Honda's premium division has new dimensions, more
power, more safety features and new styling. Nothing short
of a major redesign would seem fitting for the car that
customers annually flock to, and Acura certainly hasn't
fallen short of that mark.
The upgrades start with a new body. The 2004 Acura TL has
the same wheelbase as before, but loses 6.3 inches in overall
length. This doesn't cut away any of the interior comfort
however, but it does give the sedan a more compact, aerodynamic
feel.
Available Models
The 2004 Acura TL is only offered in one trim level.
Interior Features
The four-door Acura TL sits five passengers with ease. The
total cargo volume is a handy 12.5 cubic feet of space.
Though there's only one trim level, it is pretty much stocked
with standard features. Leather upholstery with heated front
seats, an aluminum interior trim and a sunroof are standard.
A new feature for 2004 is Acura's HandsFreeLink, which employs
the audio system as a hands-free, wireless link to any cell
phone in the vehicle.
Satellite radio is also standard for 2003. It teams up
with a 6-disc CD changer for hours of listening enjoyment.
For options, there's a navigation system with voice command.
It responds to as many as 293 pre-programmed commands.
Exterior Features
2004 Acura TL models get 17-inch wheels. Manual-transmission
versions are available with high-performance tires instead
of the standard all-season treads.
Performance
The new 2004 Acura TL promises to outperform its predecessor.
Under its hood is an all-aluminum, 24-valve, 3.2-liter V6
engine. It gives the TL a whole new level of strength: 270
horsepower at 6200 rpm and 238 lb-ft of torque at 5000 rpm.
The standard transmission is a 5-speed automatic setup
with a manual shift gate. However, there's also a 6-speed
manual transmission model that basically replaces last year's
Type-S trim. It receives firmer suspension, Brembo-brand
front brakes and a limited-slip differential.
For exceptional control, the 2004 Acura TL is given Acura's
Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) and Traction Control System.
VSA adjusts brake pressure and engine power to help correct
understeer and oversteer, while traction control works monitors
wheel slip while accelerating or driving on slippery surfaces.
Safety and Security
Some of the standard safety features included with the 2004
Acura TL are antilock 4-wheel disc brakes with brake assist,
dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags
and an emergency inside trunk release.
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