Acura Introduces All-New U.S. Built 1999 3.2TL
Creating a New Benchmark in its Class

TORRANCE, Calif., (August 18, 1998) - Acura has introduced an all new, completely re-designed, 3.2TL performance luxury sedan with a 225 horsepower, V-6 engine, a sophisticated new suspension and chassis, and a long list of standard features that are destined to establish the 1999 TL as a new benchmark in its class.

"The TL has undergone such a significant transformation, it completely redefines the near luxury category," said Dick Colliver, Acura's executive vice president and general manager. "Priced at only $27,950, the TL is the most competitively priced vehicle in its class." At the core of the new TL is a compact, newly designed, 3.2-liter, 225-horsepower VTEC V-6, with more power than any of its competitors. This new engine drives the TL to class-leading performance and sets a new standard for refinement and smoothness.

The new 60-degree, 24-valve, V-6 engine is substantially lighter than the previous TL powerplant and is mounted transversely in the chassis, allowing more usable interior volume. Like other Acura models, the 1999 TL features a 100,000 mile tune up interval.

The TL also demonstrates its sophistication by featuring an electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission with a Sequential SportShift system for semi-manual mode or fully automatic operation. In addition, the TL has state-of-the-art Grade Logic Control shift programming and the security of a standard Traction Control System. The Sequential SportShift system complements the sporty nature of this new performance luxury sedan, putting gear selection in the hands of the driver, much like a manual transmission. By moving the console-mounted transmission selector handle to the left of the Drive position into a special SportShift gate, individual shifts can be executed with a quick fore or aft motion of the shift lever.

The TL's chassis is all new and is based on Acura's newest front-drive platform, which features significant advances in torsional and bending rigidity.

Longer overall and featuring a wider track and more interior room, the 1999 TL includes isolated front and rear subframes, and carries its engine on vacuum-controlled, front and rear hydraulic mounts for improved NVH. The newly designed double wishbone front suspension and multi-link double wishbone rear suspension are combined with larger front and rear disc brakes.

The net effect of all these changes is a substantial improvement in the TL's handling and braking feel, enhanced cornering grip and a more spirited driving experience.

The new TL includes several active safety features that assist in accident avoidance, including standard ABS brakes, a new Traction Control System and high intensity discharge (HID) headlights for improved visibility. The TL's key crash protection technologies include: side impact door beams, dual airbag supplemental restraint system (SRS), door panel stiffening structure, side impact absorption pads, five mph bumpers and more.

Designed in Honda R&D studios in Torrance, California, the new TL features a much more aggressive front and rear styling and sweeping, open cockpit-type interior style.

For 1999, the TL offers more standard features than any other car in its class including leather seating, heated front seats, power driver's and passenger's seats, wood-grained trim, automatic climate control, tilt steering column, an Acura/Bose™ AM/FM cassette in-dash CD player with five-speaker system and cruise control. In addition, the TL's standard equipment list includes features that are either optional or not available on many of its competitors; such as a power moonroof, power/heated door mirrors, steering wheel-mounted remote audio controls, keyless entry, two 12-volt power outlets, the HomeLink™ Universal Transceiver System, auto-off headlights and a theft-deterrent system.

The TL is so well-equipped that the only factory option is a state-of-the-art Acura Navigation System. This latest evolution of the Acura Navigation System, available exclusively in the new TL, offers new features that make it easier to use and more versatile. The new larger, six-inch color LCD display now has a picture-in-picture capability, so driver's can see the "big picture" map displayed simultaneously with detailed turning instructions.

"With the wealth of standard features, luxury appointments and a sporty performance, the only thing 'near' luxury about the TL is the price," said Thomas.

Manufactured at the Marysville Auto Plant in Ohio, the 1999 TL debuts as the second Acura model, after the CL, to be designed, engineered and manufactured in the U.S. The TLs 3.2-liter engine is manufactured in Anna, Ohio, contributing to the car's high U.S. parts content.

Like all Acura models, the TL 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.