The Acura 3.2 TL builds on its leadership in the near-luxury class with a host of enhancements and the addition of a high-performance Type-S model with a 260 horsepower engine and sport-tuned suspension. Both models went on sale in March of 2001.
"The TL continues to dominate the luxury performance sedan market and the new Type-S transforms the TL into a true enthusiast's car," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president, sales. "With its impressive 260 horsepower V-6, race-bred, Sequential SportShift™ 5-speed automatic transmission, sport-tuned suspension, and 17-inch wheels and tires, the TL Type-S is designed to thrill even the most discriminating drivers. At the same time, it delivers all the hallmarks the TL is famous for--including advanced safety engineering, comprehensive standard luxury amenities, and superb Acura quality. It's a remarkable machine."
The TL's all-aluminum, 3.2-liter, 24-valve V-6 engine uses Acura's patented Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC™) system to produce both abundant low-rpm torque and exhilarating high-rpm horsepower. The TL produces 225 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 216 lbs.-ft. of torque at 4700 rpm.
The TL Type-S further builds upon its impressive engine foundation with a dual-stage induction system, a low-restriction dual-outlet exhaust, a larger-diameter throttle body, an increased compression ratio, and high-performance intake valves and camshafts. In addition to boosting horsepower to 260 at 6100 rpm, these enhancements help the Type-S engine achieve its maximum 232 lbs.-ft. of torque over an exceptionally broad range -- from 3500 rpm all the way to 5500 rpm.
Both TL engines utilize a direct ignition system with knock control, which helps to optimize power and fuel efficiency by ensuring a properly timed spark at all engine speeds. Equipped with platinum-tipped spark plugs and a long-life timing belt, all TLs are designed to run for 105,000 miles before requiring a major scheduled tune-up.
Both TL models are equipped with a 5-speed automatic transmission featuring Sequential SportShift™. Sequential SportShift allows the driver to shift gears semi-manually simply by moving the gear lever fore or aft in a special SportShift gate. The transmission can also operate with the convenience of a conventional automatic transmission. Thanks to its wide ratios, the transmission enhances acceleration while also reducing engine rpm during highway cruising -- improving fuel efficiency and reducing engine noise.
In keeping with Acura's commitment to the environment, the TL delivers its impressive performance while also achieving low tailpipe emissions. Both the 3.2TL and TL Type-S models are classified as Low Emission Vehicles (LEV). In addition, the California-model 3.2 TL meets stringent Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) requirements. The TL achieves EPA Fuel Mileage of 19 mpg city/29 mpg highway.
To exploit its high-adrenaline powertrain, the TL's chassis has been engineered to deliver extraordinary levels of control and responsiveness. The highly rigid, unit-body structure of the TL supports a race-bred, four-wheel-independent double-wishbone suspension with front and rear stabilizer bars and a front shock-tower bar. For even greater cornering capability, the TL Type-S features additional suspension enhancements including firmer springs, increased damping rates, and a larger rear stabilizer bar. Both TL models are equipped with a standard 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for secure stopping power. The TL wears V-rated, all-season Michelin tires (205/60R16 size) on 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels; the Type-S sports 215/50R17 all-season, high-performance Michelins on 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels.
Revisions to the TL's exterior enhance its sporty appearance for 2002. The front end is completely redesigned with a more aggressive grille, reshaped headlights, and revised badging. Fog lights are now standard and in the rear, the TL's taillights have clear upper lenses for a new look. Three new exterior colors are available for 2002: Anthracite Metallic, Aegean Blue Pearl (TL Type-S), and Eternal Blue Pearl (TL).
Inside, the TL continues to offer a warm, inviting cabin ambiance with a truly remarkable level of standard luxury amenities. New for 2002 is a standard, 6-disc in-dash CD changer that compliments the impressive Acura/Bose™ Music System. Among the many other standard features are an Automatic Climate Control System with micron air filter, a power moonroof, a keyless entry system, auto-up driver's window, heated power front seats, leather seating surfaces, and handsome wood-patterned trim.
To enhance its dynamic personality, the cockpit of the TL Type-S is trimmed with sporty, perforated-leather seats and steering wheel, a metallic-face instrument panel, a perforated-leather shift knob with a "Type-S" emblem, and ebony wood-patterned trim to compliment models with a black interior.
The only factory-installed option available on the TL is the DVD-based, Acura Satellite-Linked Navigation System. Using mapping data of the continental United States (stored on a single DVD-ROM disc) and directional inputs from Global Positioning System (GPS) satellites, the system can direct the driver to any one of more than 3.7 million points of interest with a few quick touches of the large, 6-inch color LCD touch-screen display in the dash.
The 2002 TL reflects Acura's dedication to occupant safety and security. Both TL models have a highly rigid, computer-designed structure and incorporate a vast arsenal of standard safety technologies. Among these are xenon high intensity discharge (HID) headlights for outstanding nighttime visibility, an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and traction control, dual-stage driver's and front passenger's air bags, and side air bags for the driver and front passenger.
The passenger's side air bag uses a system of seven sensors in the seatback and side bolster to determine the height and position of the occupant. If the system detects that a child or small statured adult is leaning into the deployment path of the side air bag, it prevents deployment.
The TL Type-S also incorporates the Acura Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system. VSA helps the driver maintain control during acceleration, high-g cornering, and accident avoidance maneuvers by constantly monitoring lateral stability and applying brake force to either front wheel and managing the throttle and fuel injection systems to help bring the car back onto the driver's intended path.
Many of the Acura TL's performance, safety, and convenience technologies were designed and engineered at the Honda R&D facilities in the United States. The TL and its coupe sibling, the CL, were designed and engineered in the U.S. and are assembled in Marysville, Ohio.
Like all Acura models, the 2002 TL is covered by a comprehensive 4-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty. Additional ownership benefits include Acura Total Luxury Care (TLC), which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service, and trip routing.
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