Acura chose the 2011 Chicago Auto Show to take the wraps off its new 2012 TL model, which has undergone what we would describe as a classic mid-cycle freshening.
What does this entail? Well, the 2012 Acura TL still retains its aggressive character dominated by a revised grille that’s complemented by new foglight surrounds, headlights that have a different color tint and taillights with more red and less chrome. What’s more, the front and rear bumpers have been slightly reshaped, adding horizontal lines to the fascias to break up the chunkiness and give the TL a wider presence.
Mechanically, the TL will continue with its fantastic V-6s, led by the 305-bhp 3.7-liter that’s employed in the all-wheel-drive model. New, though, is a 6-speed automatic transmission that Acura says improves both performance and fuel economy—the revamped TL will achieve 2 mpg more in the city (20 mpg) and an additional 3 on the highway (29 mpg). Further enhancing overall vehicle efficiency is reduced internal friction in the 3.5-liter V-6, plus some aerodynamic improvements to the underbody.
Other significant details: Acura, the first OE to introduce HDD Navigation, upgraded the 2012 TL’s capacity to 60GB for improved functionality and greater music storage. Also, a New Advance Package includes a blind-spot information system, vented front seats and upgraded wheels. The hot rod TL SH-AWD model will also be much better behaved on snow and ice, thanks to the availability of new 19-in. all-season tires. Last, all new 2012 Acura TLs have reduced interior nose (it’s 3 dB quieter on the highway), thanks to the filling in of various cavities with acoustic materials, and some improved interior materials help make this already impressive near-luxury sedan that much more refined.
No prices were announced, but they will likely start at around $35,000.