Temple of VTEC Rumors and News - Acura Announces Pricing For TL A-SPEC Performance Kit

Torrance, Calif. 11/20/2003 -- The TL A-SPEC package is the latest high-performance accessory offering from Acura and features a variety of components designed specifically for Acura's best-selling sedan. The Acura A-SPEC performance package for the 2004 TL will go on sale December 1, be priced at $5,200 plus dealer installation, and like all A-SPEC kits, be covered under a full factory warranty. The TL A-SPEC kit will include:

-High performance, track-tuned shocks and springs
-Lightweight 18x8.5 alloy wheels
-High performance Yokohama 235/40VR18 95W tires
-Performance brake pads (automatic transmission-equipped models)
-Aero kit featuring front air dam, chin spoiler, side skirts and choice of deck lid or rear wing spoiler
-A-SPEC steering wheel
-A-SPEC badging

"The TL A-SPEC package takes our high-performance accessory program to the next level," said Acura's manager of accessory marketing, Stony Furutani. "Each component, the suspension, the bigger wheels and tires, even the aero kit, is designed to further enhance the TL's impressive performance."

Acura launched its A-SPEC program (formerly Acura Factory Performance) at the 2002 SEMA show with the debut of a performance kit for the RSX Type-S Sports Coupe. The program was spearheaded by Makoto Tamamura of Honda Access Corporation, the developer of the chassis and suspension for the NSX supercar. Its goal is to provide complete dealer-installed accessory packages that highlight Acura's high performance image and conform to Acura's exacting quality standards.

The 2004 TL, which went on sale last month, was dramatically redesigned and enhanced to appeal to performance driving enthusiasts. It features bold new styling, a powerful 270-horsepower engine, sport-tuned suspension and an assortment of leading- edge technology. The TL A-SPEC kit accentuates the aggressive new styling while making the car even more responsive and fun to drive.

The suspension package features track-tuned shocks and springs that lower the car approximately one inch. This package was developed concurrently with the production TL suspension and designed specifically to meet the needs of the most demanding performance enthusiast. To achieve track-like handling in all driving conditions, the spring rates have been modified and a unique balance of compression and rebound damping has been designed into the A-SPEC suspension components. This suspension tuning technique is also utilized in the NSX supercar to help provide the ultimate in handling.

The A-SPEC kit also includes 18-inch alloy wheels. Designed using a new, advanced manufacturing process that provides forged strength and rolled manufacturing ease, the wheel rims are thinner yet stronger than a cast alloy wheel. Also, while they are one-inch larger in diameter, and half an inch wider than the production TL wheels, the A-SPEC wheels are only slightly heavier. They are shod with high performance AVS ES100 235/40VR18 95W Yokohama tires designed specifically for the TL A-SPEC package. These tires provide excellent ride quality, especially for a 40 series aspect ratio, as well as optimum grip and predictable response under high performance conditions.

While 2004 TLs equipped with 6-speed manual transmissions feature powerful 4-piston Brembo front brakes, the A-SPEC kit for automatic transmission-equipped models includes high- performance brake pads. These pads substantially improve fade resistance while providing superior pedal feel and reduced stopping distance.

The package comes equipped with an aero kit that includes either a deck lid or rear wing spoiler. In addition to highlighting the TL's performance-oriented styling, the aero kit helps improve the car's aerodynamics, with wind tunnel testing indicating improvements in both coefficient of drag and coefficient of lift. Interior modifications include a thicker, racing-style A-SPEC steering wheel as well as A-SPEC badging.

Acura A-SPEC is a complete dealer installed accessory package that addresses the demands of performance enthusiasts by providing enhanced handling, aggressive looks, quality and durability, while maintaining the legendary Acura driving experience.