OVERVIEW
The all-new CL coupe is the newest addition to the Acura line that
reinforces the brand's commitment to performance engineered vehicles.
Re-designed and re-engineered from the ground up, the new CL delivers
higher levels of performance, technological innovations, engineering
achievements, passenger safety and overall style.
The all-new CL is larger and more powerful than the first generation CL coupe introduced in 1996. This move upmarket allows the new Acura CL to aggressively compete with Europe's finest performance coupes, including the BMW 328Ci, Volvo C70 and Mercedes-Benz CLK320.
The new CL has been designed to evoke the beautiful lines of classic European Gran Turismo coupes of the automotive past. Styling cues from Acura's own lineage are also evident in the CL, specifically the original Legend Coupe. Though the styling was inspired by the past, the technology is all 21st Century based, encompassing efficient and powerful engines, revolutionary safety features, and high tech computer controlled vehicle management systems.
The new CL coupe is offered exclusively with V-6 power and is available in two distinct models, the 3.2 CL and the 3.2 CL Type S. In the spirit of the Acura NSX supercar, the Type S was designed for high performance driving with class leading technology and power. Producing 260 hp through an ingenious, dual-stage air induction system, the Type S is the most powerful six-cylinder coupe in its class. The 3.2 CL is powered by a 225 hp version of the Acura 3.2-liter V6 engine.
Overall size has increased inside and out; with 96.5 cu ft of interior volume, a 4.6 cu ft increase from the last generation CL. Overall length and width have increased to 192.0 in. and 70.6 in. respectively.
Technologically, the CL incorporates the latest in safety features, including a standard Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system (on Type S only) along with dual-stage passenger front airbags, advanced side airbags with front passenger height and position sensors and standard anti-lock brakes and Traction Control System. The CL also offers the optional Acura Navigation System, which provides satellite-linked nationwide coverage through a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) on-board database.
All these engineering and technical elements combine to form the most comprehensively equipped coupe in its class: the new CL, from Acura.
CONCEPTS AND GOALS
The 2001 model year CL is designed to provide:
- An exhilarating, high-performance driving experience
- Class-leading engine power and torque with outstanding refinement
- Superb handling with solid road feel and cornering abilities
- An elegant Gran Turismo coupe design
- A spacious and sophisticated interior design with ample room for 4 adults
- A driver-oriented ergonomic cockpit crafted with fine materials and an impeccable level of fit and finish
- A thorough approach to safety engineering that combines accident-avoidance technologies with advanced impact-energy management engineering and class leading Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS)
- The most comprehensive list of standard equipment in its class
HIGH PERFORMANCE POWERTRAIN
Driving the all-new CL are two variations of Acura's 3.2-liter
24-valve VTEC V-6 engine. The 3.2 CL 's powerplant creates 225 hp, a
12.5-percent increase from the previous generation 3.0 CL coupe (200
hp). The high performance 3.2 CL Type S produces 30-percent more
horsepower than the previous 3.0 CL with a class leading 260 hp. This
is achieved through an all-new, dual-stage air induction system as
well as numerous other performance enhancements, resulting in
increased power and torque without increased engine displacement.
Both versions of the 3.2-liter engines transfer their power through an electronically controlled 5-speed automatic transmission with the Acura Sequential SportShift system. This sophisticated transmission, similar to the one first introduced in the Acura NSX supercar, allows for smooth shifting and a refined driving experience with uncompromised driver control.
High performance does not necessarily mean high levels of vehicle emissions, as both the 3.2 CL and 3.2 CL Type S meet tough LEV (Low Emission Vehicle) standards while California models (3.2 CL only) meet ULEV (Ultra Low Emission Vehicle) standards.
GLOBAL MID-SIZE PLATFORM
The CL's unit-body is based on the Acura Global Mid-Size Platform
that positions the front drive powertrain in a transverse
orientation, allowing for a greater amount of usable interior volume
and weight distribution. A version of this proven platform design in
the 3.2 TL performance sedan has already received accolades from the
automotive press and consumers alike for its solid construction and
quality engineering. The new CL grows in overall size and is now two
inches longer and half an inch wider. Significant chassis advances
have been made in the areas of torsional and bending rigidity. To
reduce Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH), the front and rear
suspensions are carried on isolating subframes, resulting in low
interior noise levels. Computer designed reinforcements to the CL's
overall structure result in improved crash-worthiness and enhanced
protection of the passenger compartment. The CL's fully independent
double-wishbone suspension fitted with large wheels and tires result
in stable and predictable handling.
ELEGANT GRAN TURISMO COUPE EXTERIOR DESIGN
The long front hood and short rear deck of the new CL has been
sculpted in the tradition of great European designs of the 50's and
60's. Designers also called upon Acura's own lineage of past designs;
most notably, the exotic NSX supercar and the original first
generation Legend Coupe.
STYLISH AND ERGONOMIC INTERIOR DESIGN
To complement the outstanding performance capabilities of the CL's
powertrains, a serious driver's environment was incorporated into the
overall interior concept. All the instruments, comfort and
convenience switches, along with steering and shifter controls are
banked towards the driver. This layout envelops the driver and allows
for complete concentration on the road ahead with minimal
distractions.
In addition to the driver, all three passengers enjoy individual bucket seating comfort with fine-crafted leather surfaces. Though a coupe traditionally limits rear passenger seating space, the CL has been designed to accommodate rear passengers in comfort. Leather inserts on the doors blend elegantly with wood-grained trim accents to provide a luxurious environment while a generous greenhouse allows for superb visibility.