2012 Acura TL: Style exchange

No one could say that Acura lacked guts when, in 2009, they introduced the new generation of its luxury sedan, the TL. At the time, the change was beyond radical. Acura was gambling that the new design would attract buyers looking for a more eye-catching car. Just two years later, it’s clear that Acura lost that bet. The sales numbers, which hit their lowest level ever last year, say it all. That’s why barely two years after this generation’s arrival, the manufacturer is going set things straight by making some changes and re launching the model.

A little less outgoing

The new 2012 Acura TL’s aesthetic changes are very subtle. The main objective was to tone down the overly extroverted features while adding a little more sophistication. But you pretty much have to put the 2012 and 2011 versions side by side to notice (see photo). The changes are a little more conspicuous in front, where it was most heavily criticized in the past. The grille is a lot less overwhelming and it doesn’t stretch onto the hood, while the contours are also a lot more delicate. The lights were also revised along with the lower part of the bumper so as to eliminate the overly flashy aspects. The tail end has undergone the same treatment, but it’s a lot less obvious. Note the new exhaust tips and more understated reflectors, while the license plate is now situated a little higher on the bumper. Basically, the new TL has the same basic style, but now it offers a broader appeal. Shakers and movers at Acura  are delighted that old TL buyers seem to like the 2012 edition – they haven’t enjoyed this kind of approval since 2009.

A manual transmission for the posh version

For 2012, Acura not only took the time to correct the car’s appearance, but they targeted a few other elements that were criticized, such as fuel economy. That’s why the main mechanical change is the arrival of a six-speed automatic transmission, which is replacing the five-speed unit that was previously offered. This change, combined with several modifications that improve air resistance, gives the manufacturer a more significant fuel economy, specifically a reduction of a little more than 2.0l/100 km on average.

Under the hood, the front-wheel drive TL has a 3.5-litre V6 featuring 280 horsepower for a torque of 254 lbs-ft. The modifications made to this engine reduce internal friction and thus, help fuel economy. As for the TL with all-wheel drive, known as SH-AWD, it has a 3.7-litre V6 producing 305 hp for a torque of 273 lbs-ft. The SH-AWD is the only one that can be ordered with a six-speed manual transmission. Of course, the idea here is not to make the model more affordable. After all, the TL with a manual transmission comes fully equipped and even comes factory standard with the Technology Package. It’s a version that’s aimed at sport enthusiasts much more than at buyers looking for an entry-level version.

The interior has undergone some changes in its own right, but once again, you’ll have to be paying attention to notice them. The ergonomics and the look of the middle section, where the climate and navigation system controls are located, are much improved. We also like the new red start button – reminiscent of the S2000 sports car – and the new choice of trim. As for the rest, there isn’t much to criticize in the passenger compartment. There are quality materials and an impeccable finish. With regard to the equipment, the advantage of the TL compared to its German rivals is that you won’t have to raid the options catalogue and break the bank to get an adequately equipped car.

The magic of the SH-AWD system

At the wheel, the 2012 TL picks up where the previous generation left off. It’s a car featuring a sporty and inspired ride. It starts with suspensions that emphasizes handling and the shocks are equipped with a specially designed valve that controls the flow of oil within the shock absorbers, which helps it obtain a more dynamic or comfortable ride depending on road conditions. However, if you like Lexus- or Buick-style suspensions, you won’t find what you’re looking for on board the TL. Its ride remains very firm. Acura has also improved the soundproofing, another of the previous generation’s faults. On the other hand, the engine remains very noisy in high gear, which is a little more evident with the manual gearbox.

As for the engines, the 3.5-litre V6 that equips the front-wheel drive versions continues to offer good performances and substantial fuel economy. The 3.7-litre V6 makes the TL a lot sportier. You can forget about seeing a turbocharged four-cylinder under the hood at Acura, it’s not in the plans in spite of how trendy it is.

To truly appreciate the TL, you have to opt for the all-wheel drive SH-AWD. Without a doubt, it’s one of the most efficient systems out there. Other than the possibility of distributing power between the front and rear wheels, the SH system, for Super Handling, can transfer up to 100% for the torque from one side to the other, and that translates to better performances in turns, especially when it’s slippery. We had the chance to do a few laps at the wheel of the TL in a pouring rain. Sure, they aren’t great conditions for a photo shoot, but the rain helped us test out all of the facets of this all-wheel drive. It’s fascinating to see how the system pushes the car toward the inside of turns while optimizing grip. Kudos also goes to the traction control system that intervenes at just the right moment while leaving the driver a little leeway. Basically, although the TL is lagging behind the competition in certain respects, its all-wheel drive is without a doubt its secret weapon.

It remains to be seen if the changes made for 2012 will be enough to win over the clientele to this model and resuscitate its sales figures. We wonder whether it will take more than that...