Trim levels: AT MT

MSRP: $32,650 $32,650

Notes: With the redesign of the Accord for 2003, a new Acura TL was soon to follow. Arriving in 2004, the third-generation TL used the new American Accord platform (the European version of the Accord also reached US shores for 2004 as the Acura TSX). A half-foot shorter than its predecessor, the new TL maintained the same interior room -- its trunk was slightly compromised. No Type-S version was featured in '04, but the base 3.2L engine outstripped the 2003 Type-S in performance, with 270 horsepower driving the front wheels. Such power was not necessarily advantageous, however, as the new TL suffered from torque steer. Front-drive cars power the same wheels that steer, and the engine can overpower the steering if too much horsepower is driven through the front wheels. Thus, while Acura's new TL outstripped some of its competitors in acceleration, its handling was not as sure-footed (a 60/40 front weight bias also affected this). To help counter the torque-steer effect, the manual-transmission model offered a limited-slip differential, in addition to the standard traction and stability control. Well-mannered and genteel, the 2004 TL was clearly sportier, yet it continued to compete well against the more traditional luxury sedans such as Lexus's ES and Infiniti's I35. Clearly intended for a sportier bias, the manual transmission variant added larger anti-roll bars and Brembo front brakes. The interior of the new TL included standard leather upholstery, heated front seats and mirrors (which turned downward when reversing), a CD/DVD player with satellite radio, and a pass-through to the trunk. Xenon headlamps were included, and the only option was a navigation system. The downside of this greatly improved platform and its interior content? A price hike of more than $4500 over the base 2003 model. Nevertheless, the new TL offered good value.

Series: 2004-current

PERFORMANCE