The 2009 Acura TL Base is a Front-wheel drive Sedan. It can accommodate up to 5 passengers. It has 4 Doors and is powered by a 3.5L V6 SOHC 24-valve engine which outputs 280 hp @ 6200 rpm and is paired with 5-speed automatic transmission with manual mode gearbox. The 2009 Acura TL Base has cargo capacity of 371 Liters and the vehicle weighs 1678 kg. In terms of ride assists, the 2009 Acura TL Base has stability control and traction control in addition to anti-lock brake system (ABS). The vehicle has an optional engine as well It offers and. Safety features also include Driver-side front airbag and Passenger-side front airbag. The front suspension is Independent front suspension while the rear suspension is Independent rear suspension. The car also features a Yes It has 17'' alloy wheels as standard. Electronic features include Cruise Control. For convenience, the car has Power windows and Power door locks. There is also a remote keyless entry feature. Moreover, the car has. The steering wheel has audio control buttons. In terms of performance, the car has 306 N.m of torque and a top speed of 240 km/h. The 2009 Acura TL Base accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 7.8 seconds and hits quarter mile at 15.5 seconds. Fuel consumption is 11.6 L/100km in the city and 7.5 L/100km in the highway. The car price starts at $ 39,990
| Name | Base | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $ 39,990 | |
| Body | Sedan | |
| Doors | 4 Doors | |
| Engine | 3.5L V6 SOHC 24-valve | |
| Power | 280 hp @ 6200 rpm | |
| Number of Seats | 5 Seats | |
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic transmission with manual mode | |
| Cargo Space | 371.0 L | |
| Maximum Cargo Space | 371.0 L | |
| Wheel Type | 17'' alloy wheels | |
| Series | TL IV (UA8/9) | |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive | |
| Horsepower | 280 HP | |
| Torque | 306 N.m | |
| Top Speed | 240 km/h | |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h (0-60 mph) | 7.8 s | |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) | |
| Fuel Consumption (City) | 11.6 L/100km | |
| Fuel Consumption (Highway) | 7.5 L/100km | |
| Gear Type | auto | |
| Weight | 1,978 KG | |
| Brand | Acura | |
| Model | TL | |
| 0-400m (Quarter Mile) | 15.5 s | |
| 0-400m (Quarter Mile) - Speed | 148.2 km/h | |
| 0-800m (Half Mile) | 25.8 s | |
| 0-800m (Half Mile) - Speed | 166.7 km/h | |
| Modifications (MODS) | ||
| Modifications Cost | $ 0 |
| Used Condition | Trade In Price | Private Party Price | Dealer Retail Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outstanding | $ 6,772 | $ 8,956 | $ 10,310 |
| Clean | $ 6,189 | $ 8,173 | $ 9,387 |
| Average | $ 5,022 | $ 6,607 | $ 7,539 |
| Rough | $ 3,855 | $ 5,041 | $ 5,692 |
Acura addressed customer requests in its full redesign of the 2009 TL; it's now bigger, quicker and easier to maneuver at slow speeds. However, its controversial styling could be a hit or miss with consumers.

From now on, there will be no more chicken-(expletive) designs from Acura. At least, that's what one company official tells us. Acura's new goal is to be bold and brash, with aggressive lines and audacious details. The 2009 Acura TL accomplishes just that. Gone is the previous TL's wedge shape with side cut lines, replaced by prominent wheel arches and a new-look front end dominated by a shiny alloy grille. Some say the grille resembles a guillotine, or a vegetable slicer. Folks have gotten creative in their derision, but as BMW has proven, changing the status quo with a bold new styling direction can pay dividends. Acura is hoping to follow in those footsteps.

Underneath the midsize TL's radical new styling is a car that addresses many key customer complaints and requests. There's more interior room, a more powerful V6 engine, new technology features and lighter steering weighting to help with parking lot maneuvers. There are also two TL models available: the base car and the more athletic SH-AWD model. The latter's name indicates the sophisticated all-wheel-drive system that manages the model's 306 horsepower (the base car makes 280) by eliminating torque steer and providing impressive cornering abilities. Though last year's TL Type-S and its available manual transmission are no more, the SH-AWD carries on most of that car's finely tuned performance characteristics.

Like all Acuras, the TL is a showcase for the latest automotive gadgets. The base car comes standard with iPod and Bluetooth connectivity, and the optional Technology Package is a cornucopia of electronics goodies. An excellent hard-drive navigation system, real-time traffic and weather forecasts, adaptive climate control and a superb surround sound system will have technophiles playing around in their car while it's parked. Given the TL's price, it all comes at quite the bargain and Acura predicts most TLs will be so equipped.

Our opinion of the 2009 Acura TL varies depending on the model. The base TL with no options is really nothing more than a dressed-up Honda Accord V6, and as such, it's not the best choice. The Technology Package makes it slightly more persuasive, but we really think the SH-AWD model with its more powerful V6, better handling and all-wheel-drive traction is the one to get. But there are many other choices in the entry-level luxury sedan game such as the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, Cadillac CTS, Infiniti G35 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, along with non-luxury choices like the Hyundai Genesis, Nissan Maxima and Volkswagen CC. Acura's new TL stands out thanks to its roomy interior, competitive price, high-tech features and reputation for reliability, but we certainly suggest taking a good look around as each vehicle here has its own area of appeal.

The 2009 Acura TL is a midsize luxury sedan available in base and sport-oriented SH-AWD trim levels. The base TL comes equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, a sunroof, heated side mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control, rear ventilation controls, eight-way power front seats with heating and driver memory functions, a tilt-telescoping steering column, leather upholstery and Bluetooth phone connectivity. Also standard is an eight-speaker stereo with in-dash six-CD changer, satellite radio, Bluetooth audio connectivity, auxiliary audio jack, USB port and dedicated iPod interface.

The TL SH-AWD adds all-wheel drive, a more powerful engine, 18-inch alloy wheels, upgraded brakes, more aggressively bolstered front seats, upgraded metallic trim and upgraded leather upholstery with contrasting stitching.

The Technology Package available on both trims adds a hard-drive-based navigation system with voice recognition, real-time traffic, real-time weather forecasts, GPS-linked and solar-sensing adaptive climate control system, keyless ignition/entry, a rear spoiler, rearview camera and a 10-speaker Panasonic/ELS surround-sound system with DVD audio and 12.7 GB of digital music storage. All TLs can be equipped with more aggressive tires, while the SH-AWD can be equipped with 19-inch wheels.

The base model 2009 Acura TL is front-wheel drive and is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 280 hp and 254 pound-feet of torque. The all-wheel-drive 2009 TL SH-AWD gets a 3.7-liter V6 that makes 306 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque. The all-wheel-drive system is capable of transferring different levels of power to individual wheels to maximize traction and grip through turns and in inclement weather. Both TL models come standard with a five-speed automatic that includes automanual steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. Fuel economy for the 3.5-liter TL is 18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, while the SH-AWD returns 17 city and 24 highway.

All 2009 Acura TL models come with antilock disc brakes with brake assist, stability and traction control, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and active front restraints.

Since both 2009 Acura TL models feature different engines, different drive wheels, different wheel sizes and different electronic steering calibrations, they are very different to drive. The base TL is more for comfort-minded buyers who should find the 280-hp V6 more than ample for commuting. The steering's low-effort response, however, feels decidedly artificial, and the car lacks the previous TL's nimble nature.

The SH-AWD is a different story, as the "Super Handling" part of its acronym proves to be more than just hyperbole. By apportioning more power to the outside wheels during cornering (it's the same principle that makes a tank turn), the TL exhibits excellent grip and control. The SH-AWD TL's electric steering also exhibits more weighting and feedback, resulting in a more natural feel. It's not as communicative as the old TL's power hydraulic steering and the car doesn't feel as agile, but the newfound maneuverability at lower speeds is a trade-off most consumers should be happy to make. In addition to the inclement weather benefits of all-wheel drive, SH-AWD also allows for the model's 306 hp to offer lively thrust without the torque steer.

Along with the litany of standard and optional high-tech features, the 2009 Acura TL features a thoroughly high-tech design. The center stack juts out in a waterfall fashion toward the driver, which puts climate, audio and navigation controls right at hand. The steering wheel also features a number of buttons for audio, cruise control, the trip computer, Bluetooth and the Technology Package's large number of voice commands. With either trim (and its subsequent LCD display), a direct iPod interface is standard and one of the best available.

Interior quality and craftsmanship are quite good, but some may feel that it lacks the luxurious, glossy wood ambiance of competitors like the Lexus ES 350, Cadillac CTS and Hyundai Genesis. In particular, TLs without the Technology Package feature cheaper-looking metallic trim and audio switchgear, which gives the cabin the impression of belonging to a snazzied-up Honda Accord. On the flip side, the SH-AWD model's available two-tone color scheme, higher-quality alloy trim and contrasting stitching are a nice touch.

The TL's cabin is quite roomy, and drivers will appreciate the wide adjustment range for the well-bolstered driver seat. The rear seat is spacious and offers enough headroom for passengers more than 6 feet tall. Large flip-up headrests provide protection for occupants, while clearing rear vision when nobody's back there. The trunk holds 13.1 cubic feet of luggage, a bit less than typical for this class of car.

With two powerful engine choices, the 2009 Acura TL is poised to stake its claim in the affordable performance sedan segment. The SH-AWD model's 305-horsepower V6 – the most powerful engine ever offered by Acura – delivers smooth acceleration, and the five-speed automatic transmission promises quick, nearly seamless shifts, regardless of whether the gearbox is set to regular drive mode or being manipulated with the paddle shifters. Competitors offer more torque for better response when the traffic light turns green, but the TL's available all-wheel-drive system helps level the playing field. The SH-AWD can push more power to the outside rear wheel in a corner, transforming the TL into a fun family sedan on winding back roads. On the flip side, the SH-AWD version carries with it a ride that's stiffer than that of the base TL.

SH-AWDAll-wheel-drive capability has been available on other Acura models for years, but 2009 marks the first pairing with the popular TL. Dubbed SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive), the system improves handling in inclement weather while also enhancing cornering ability on dry pavement, and is available only with the TL's 305-horsepower, 3.7-liter V6.Technology PackageEven in standard guise, the 2009 Acura TL is well-equipped, but the Technology Package ups the game with its DVD-Audio system and 440-watts of surround sound. At the heart of the package is AcuraLink, a satellite system that provides real-time weather and traffic information with a convenient rerouting feature.

Those already impressed by previous TL interior treatments just might become ecstatic with the 2009 model. There's more than one inch of added rear leg room, and SH-AWD versions feature deeply-bolstered seats and a thick, leather-wrapped steering wheel. The driver's seat in the base TL could use a bit more support for long drives, but there's no need for improvement when it comes to the cabin's quality materials. The Technology Package, with its real-time traffic and weather information, is a handy if pricey addition for busy urban-dwelling commuters.

Redesigned for 2009, the TL is longer, wider and taller than the 2008 model and offers a much bolder appearance. Most notable is the large grille, but every body panel features more contours and curves than the previous model...or most other sedans, for that matter. Base TL models ride on 17-inch alloy wheels; the new TL SH-AWD rolls on 18- or 19-inch alloys, and it has cooling ducts on the front bumper, four tailpipes instead of two and unique badges that say, not surprisingly, SH-AWD.

Unlike many of its competitors, the 2009 Acura TL comes with most of today's must-have features as standard equipment. Those include HID headlights, power moonroof, 276-watt sound system with auxiliary and USB input jacks, hands-free telephone interface, power/heated front seats and mirrors, and leather upholstery. SH-AWD models add sport seats with more robust bolsters and contrast stitching and all TLs protect occupants with six airbags and Acura's Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) front body structure, technology designed to dissipate crash energy.

For 2009, the TL lineup is available with one major option, the Technology Package. In exchange for roughly $ 3,700, buyers will enjoy a 440-watt Acura/ELS surround sound system with DVD-Audio and a 12.7-gigabyte hard drive, keyless ignition, and a rearview camera. More impressive is the voice-activated navigation system, complete with an eight-inch high-resolution screen, real-time traffic information and rerouting guidance, and weather reports including Doppler-style radar maps just like you'd see during the six o'clock news. Go with the TL SH-AWD for a sport-tuned chassis, 18- or 19-inch alloy wheels (as opposed to the TL's 17s), and available high-performance tires.

With a 3.5-liter V6 now under its hood, the base 2009 Acura TL is nearly as powerful as the 2008 TL Type-S. For those not satisfied with that kind of performance, the TL SH-AWD delivers a new 3.7-liter V6 as well as sport-tuned steering, brakes, and suspension systems. There is one transmission offered – a five-speed automatic with a manual-shift mode and paddle shifters. Fuel economy figures are comparable with the TL's primary competitors.3.5-liter V6280 horsepower @ 6200 rpm254 lb.-ft. of torque @ 5000 rpmEPA city/highway fuel economy: 18/263.7-liter V6305 horsepower @ 6200 rpm273 lb.-ft. of torque @ 5000 rpmEPA city/highway fuel economy: 17/25

One of the Acura TL's selling points has long been its reasonable price, a distinction that holds true for 2009. The base, front-wheel-drive model's Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starts at about $ 35,500, whereas a top-of-the-line, fully-loaded TL SH-AWD goes for about $ 44,000. That makes the 2009 Acura TL a relative bargain, and as such, buyers are typically paying full sticker price. However, like all things in life, prices change, so check the prices before signing on the dotted line. In all likelihood, your dealer won't lop thousands off the bottom line, but take solace in the knowledge that the Acura TL's resale value is on par with vehicles such as the Cadillac CTS and Lexus ES 350 luxury sedans, and bests the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Lincoln MKS.


| Engine | Standard in Trim | Power | Torque | Fuel Consumption - City | Fuel Consumption - Highway | 0-100 km/h | Quarter Mile | Half Mile |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.7L V6 SOHC 24-valve | SH-AWD TECH | 305 hp @ 6300 rpm | 306 N.m | 12.3 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km | 6.4 s | 13.0 s | 24.3 s |
| 3.7L V6 SOHC 24-valve | SH-AWD Technology | 305 hp @ 6300 rpm | 306 N.m | 12.3 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km | 6.9 s | 13.4 s | 25.0 s |
| 3.5L V6 SOHC 24-valve | Technology | 280 hp @ 6200 rpm | 306 N.m | 11.6 L/100km | 7.5 L/100km | 7.8 s | 15.5 s | 25.8 s |
| 3.5L V6 SOHC 24-valve | Type-S | 286 hp @ 6200 rpm | 306 N.m | 12.3 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km | 6.7 s | 14.5 s | 24.1 s |
| AM/FM stereo radio | AM/FM stereo radio with RDS, auxiliary input jack and USB port |
|---|---|
| Air Conditionning | Dual-zone automatic climate control |
| Antenna | Glass-imprinted antenna |
| Bluetooth Wireless Technology | Yes |
| Cruise Control | Yes |
| Driver Vanity Mirror | Illuminated driver-side vanity mirror |
| Front Wipers | Speed-sensitive variable intermittent windshield wipers |
| Fuel Door Operation | Power fuel-filler door release |
| Garage Door Opener | Homelink universal garage door opener |
| Interior Air Filter | Air filtration system |
| Multi-CD Changer | In-dash 6-CD/MP3/WMA changer |
| Number of Speakers | 8 speakers |
| Passenger Vanity Mirror | Illuminated front passenger-side vanity mirror |
| Power Door Locks | Yes |
| Power Outlet | 2 12-volt power outlets |
| Premium Sound System | 276-watt Acura Dolby Pro Logic II sound system |
| Reading Light | Front and rear reading lamps |
| Rear Heating | Rear-seat heater ducts |
| Rear View Mirror | Auto-dimming day/night rear view mirror |
| Remote Audio Controls | Steering wheel-mounted audio controls |
| Remote Keyless Entry | Yes |
| Special Feature | XM satellite radio with 3-month subscription |
| Steering Wheel Adjustment | Tilt/telescopic steering wheel |
| Trunk/Hatch Operation | Remote trunk release |
| Cargo Capacity | 371 L |
|---|---|
| Curb Weight | 1678 kg |
| Front Headroom | 976 mm |
| Front Legroom | 1080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L |
| Height | 1452 mm |
| Length | 4961 mm |
| Rear Headroom | 932 mm |
| Rear Legroom | 920 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2775 mm |
| Width | 1880 mm |
| Exterior Mirrors Mirror Tilt Parking Aid | Outside mirror reverse tilt feature |
|---|---|
| Front Fog Lights | Fog lights |
| Grille | Platinum plating grille |
| Headlight Type | Xenon headlights |
| Headlights Sensor With Auto On | Automatic headlights |
| Heated Exterior Mirrors | Heated outside mirrors |
| Mudguard | Front splash guards |
| Power Exterior Mirrors | Power-adjustable outside mirrors with integrated turn signals |
| Sunroof | Power glass sunroof |
| Tinted Glass | Yes |
| Driver Info Center | Driver information center |
|---|---|
| Floor Console | Yes |
| Floor Mats | Front and rear floor mats |
| Front Center Armrest | Front center armrest with storage |
| Front Seats Active Headrests | Active front headrests |
| Front Seats Driver Lombar | Driver's seat power lumbar support |
| Front Seats Driver Power Seats | 8-way power driver's seat |
| Front Seats Driver Seat Memory | 2-position memory feature for driver's seat, outside mirrors and climate control |
| Front Seats Front Seat Type | Bucket front seats |
| Front Seats Heated | Heated front seats |
| Front Seats Passenger Power Seats | 8-way power front passenger seat |
| Maintenance Interval Reminder | Maintenance reminder system |
| Number of Cup Holders | 4 cupholders |
| Outside Temperature Gauge | Yes |
| Rear Center Armrest | Rear-seat fold-down center armrest |
| Rear Seat Pass-Through | Yes |
| Seat Trim | Leather seats |
| Special Feature | LED blue ambient interior lighting |
| Steering Wheel Trim | Leather-wrapped steering wheel |
| Trip Computer | Yes |
| Drive Train | Front-wheel drive |
|---|---|
| Engine Name | 3.5L V6 SOHC 24-valve |
| Stability Control | Yes |
| Traction Control | Yes |
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic transmission with manual mode |
| Transmission Paddle Shift | Yes |
| Body | Sedan |
|---|---|
| Doors | 4 |
| Engine | 3.5L V6 SOHC 24-valve |
| Fuel Consumption | 11.6 (Automatic City)7.5 (Automatic Highway) |
| Power | 280 hp @ 6200 rpm |
| Seats | 5 |
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic transmission with manual mode |
| Warranties | Bumper-to-Bumper80000/km, 48/Months Emissions130000/km, 96/Months Powertrain100000/km, 60/Months Roadside AssistanceUnlimited/km, 48/Months Rust-throughUnlimited/km, 60/Months |
| Anti-Lock Brakes | Anti-lock brakes |
|---|---|
| Brake Assist | Brake assist |
| Brake Type | 4-wheel disc |
| Child Seat Anchor | LATCH child seat anchors |
| Child-proof Locks | Rear-seat child door locks |
| Driver Airbag | Driver-side front airbag |
| Electronic brake force distribution | Electronic brake force distribution |
| Front Seat Belts | Height adjustable, pre-tensioner |
| Ignition Disable | Theft-deterrent engine immobilizer |
| Passenger Airbag | Passenger-side front airbag |
| Rear Seat Belts | Center 3-point |
| Roof Side Curtain | Side-curtain airbags |
| Side Airbag | Front side airbags |
| Front Anti-Roll Bar | Front stabilizer bar |
|---|---|
| Front Suspension | Independent front suspension |
| Front Tires | P245/50R17 |
| Power Steering | Electric power rack-and-pinion steering |
| Rear Anti-Roll Bar | Rear stabilizer bar |
| Rear Suspension | Independent rear suspension |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System | Yes |
| Wheel Type | 17'' alloy wheels |
Click here to read our latest comparison test involving the Acura TL. What’s New for 2008 Now in its fifth model year, the TL is due for a major makeover in 2009, so updates for 2008 are minimal.
The Good With live traffic and an excellent-sounding stereo, the 2008 Acura TL Type-S features some advanced technology. Its engine produces plenty of power while getting good fuel economy and a ...
Motor Trend reviews the 2008 Acura TL where consumers can find detailed information on specs, fuel economy, transmission and safety. Find local 2008 Acura TL prices online.
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