Enhancing its appeal to upscale driving enthusiasts, the Acura 2003 3.2 CL luxury performance coupe will offer in March 2002 an all-new, close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission to complement its powerful 6-cylinder VTEC™ engine and high performance chassis. In addition, the 2003 3.2 CL features more aggressive styling and an array of interior enhancements including an optional OnStar® communications service.
"For performance enthusiasts, the addition of a manual transmission makes driving this powerful and responsive sport coupe even more rewarding," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president, sales. "We have given the CL the performance attributes driving enthusiasts demand, a powerful engine, ultra responsive handling and cutting edge technology, combined with the latest luxury appointments and safety features."
For 2003, the CL Type-S model comes with either the new 6-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed Sequential SportShift™ automatic transmission. The 3.2 CL model comes exclusively with the 5-speed Sequential SportShift automatic transmission.
The CL Type-S model's all-new, close-ratio 6-speed transmission is lightweight and compact and delivers smooth, responsive shifting. This manual transmission features the latest in Acura technology including:
- A shifter linkage designed for short strokes and constructed of large diameter cable for more direct shifting feel
- Close gear ratios to provide responsive engine control
- A self-adjusting clutch to ensure a consistent pedal engage point throughout the life of the clutch
- Brass multi-cone synchronizers to reduce shifting load
- New transmission refinements for reduced shift shock
- Dual-mass flywheel for improved NVH performance
In addition, to give drivers more precise control of the car when cornering, the CL Type-S with 6-speed manual transmission comes with a new limited slip differential. Unlike many limited slip differentials, the CL Type-S uses a set of gears to direct the appropriate amount of torque to the right and left driving wheels by sensing wheel spin. If the inside tire loses traction and starts to spin as the car negotiates a tight turn, the differential redirects torque to the outer tire. This transfer helps keep the inside wheel from spinning, allows the driver to apply throttle sooner through turns, helps maintain a more neutral handling balance and results in an extremely responsive steering feel.
All 2003 CL models are powered by 3.2 liter, 24-valve, all aluminum, V-6 engines featuring the patented VTEC™ (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) system. The 3.2 CL's engine produces 225 horsepower and 216 lb-ft of torque, providing quick acceleration and effortless cruising. The CL Type-S delivers 260 horsepower at 6100 rpm, and 232 lb-ft of
torque between 3500 and 5500 rpm due to the addition of several elements including a high volume, dual-stage induction system, a low-restriction dual-outlet exhaust and an increased compression ratio. Platinum-tipped spark plugs and other long-life components allow the 3.2 CL to run for 105,000 miles before the first engine tune up. EPA fuel mileage for the 3.2 CL and the CL Type-S with 5-speed automatic transmission is 19 mph city and 29 mph highway. Estimated fuel mileage for the CL Type-S with 6-speed manual transmission is 19 mph city and 28 mph highway.
To convey the sleek, aggressive look of a high-performance coupe, the 2003 3.2 CL has received styling updates inside and out. In front, the grille receives a body-colored surround and a more aggressive air intake in the bumper lower, while in the rear, the CL gets a new tail light lens with a clear upper portion and a sporty exhaust pipe finisher. Both the 3.2 CL's 16-inch wheels and the CL Type-S model's 17-inch wheels have been restyled to portray a lightweight, high performance image.
All CL models come with a leather-trimmed interior. The center console on the CL Type-S with manual transmission has been redesigned to accommodate the new shifter mechanism, hand operated parking brake and a redesigned cup holder with sliding shutter cover. Easy-to-read instruments are backlit for maximum visibility and CL Type-S models feature sporty metallic-faced gauges.
One of the most fully-featured coupes available, the 3.2 CL luxury performance coupe is equipped with a comprehensive list of features including an Acura/Bose® Music System with in-dash 6-disc CD player, Automatic Climate Control, a power moonroof and heated front seats. The DVD-based Acura Satellite-Linked Navigation System, which includes over 3.7 million points of interest and a 6-inch, color LCD display, is a factory-installed option.
For 2003, the 3.2 CL receives several new safety, convenience and technology features including the Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) child seat restraint system and a dual-stage driver's front airbag. Models equipped with the Acura Navigation System also include OnStar®, a 24-hour, in-vehicle communications and assistance service that gives the driver access to a vast array of available services - from emergency roadside assistance to route and location guidance and online concierge services.
All CL models are equipped with standard Xenon High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights for excellent nighttime visibility, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and driver's and front passenger's airbags with a dual stage inflation system.
The CL Type-S with Sequential SportShift automatic transmission adds a unique Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system that monitors wheel speed and lateral (cornering) stability to seamlessly integrate traction control, anti-lock braking and stability control functions. This innovative VSA System is designed to assist the driver in maintaining control during acceleration, cornering and sudden collision-avoidance maneuvers by applying brake force to the right or left front wheel as necessary, and managing the throttle and fuel injection systems.
Like all Acura models, the CL 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.
Acura offers a full line of premium performance vehicles through a nationwide network of nearly 260 dealers. The Acura line-up features six distinctive models including the exotic NSX supercar, the 3.5 RL flagship luxury sedan, the best-selling 3.2 TL luxury performance sedan, the 3.2 CL luxury performance coupe, the new race-bred RSX sports coupe, and the award-winning MDX luxury sport utility vehicle. For more information about Acura vehicles, please visit www.acura.com. For media inquiries, please go to www.acuranews.com.