Temple of VTEC Rumors and News - 2009 Acura Model Change Summary

Acura 2009 Model Year Highlights

The 2009 Acura lineup of performance luxury sedans and SUVs continues to build on more than 20 years of automotive excellence. As one of the most innovative nameplates in the industry, Acura captures luxury consumers who are looking for the latest technologies to enhance their driving experience as well as their life. Key technologies such as Super Handling All-Wheel Drive� (SH-AWD�), Bluetooth� HandsFreeLink� connectivity and AcuraLink� with Real-time traffic make Acura a leader in putting useful technologies into the hands of customers. For 2009, Acura continues this technology leadership with the introduction of two completely redesigned models (the TSX sports sedan and the TL performance luxury sedan), a substantially updated RL luxury performance sedan, along with a host of technology and hardware updates throughout the entire Acura line-up.

For 2009, Acura models with the navigation system feature an upgraded AcuraLink� Real-time traffic system that includes the addition of yet another major metropolitan coverage area (Dayton, Ohio)�bringing the coverage total to 77 metropolitan markets�along with a new Traffic Rerouting� feature for the Acura sedans. In addition, all 2009 Acura sedans with the navigation system now feature a new AcuraLink� weather function that delivers current and future weather forecasts, a Note function for XM� Satellite Radio and USB port connectivity for external music players.

RL

The new 2009 Acura RL is one of the most technologically advanced vehicles on the road, garnering accolades from top media outlets. For 2009 the RL benefits from a substantial makeover in the form of an all-new 3.7-liter V-6 engine with a new VTEC system for both the intake and exhaust valves�a first ever application for a SOHC V-6 engine. A new Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission (controlled by steering wheel mounted paddle shifters) sends power to a revised Super Handling All-Wheel Drive� (SH-AWD�) system fit with new 18x8-inch 7-spoke alloy wheels.

Handling is enhanced for 2009 thanks to a revised electric assist power steering assembly, improved steering rack components, stiffer subframe mount bushings, more performance minded coil springs, revised dampers, a larger rear stabilizer bar, along with standard 18-inch wheel and tires.

Externally, the RL employs a revised aerodynamic design that generates enhanced high-speed stability. The Keen Edge Dynamic body design applies to new front fenders and hood, more aggressively styled front and rear bumpers, a redesigned trunk lid that reduces rearend lift at high speed, new lower rocker panel moldings, and an all-new pearl paint technology the provides improved luster. In addition, the 2009 RL makes use of a bold new front grille that is book ended by redesigned front headlights.

The 2009 RL interior includes redesigned 10-way adjustable (8-way power seat plus 2-way power lumbar support) front seats that now feature with six levels of heating/cooling adjustability. Roomy pull pockets are added to the front door panels, longer front seat belt buckles are added to ease belt connection, more room exists for rear seat passengers and Blackwood interior trim is now available. To further improve NVH isolation, the new RL makes use of more sound deadening material, a new acoustic glass windshield and an all-new Active Sound Control system that helps cancel out interior noise. In addition, revised HVAC and audio controls make for more simple function while new vent outlet adjusters provide easier operation.

For 2009 the new RL ups technology with the addition of high-tech items such as AcuraLink� weather (enabled through XM�s new NavWeather� system), a new Note function for XM� Radio, upgraded Zagat� restaurant information, Traffic Rerouting�, improved voice recognition now with over 700 voice commands, and a new feature that allows for automated service appointment scheduling.

For 2009, Acura will again offer three different trim packages on the RL:

RL: in addition to the potent new 3.7L V-6 engine and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive�, the RL is equipped with standard Bose� Surround Sound audio system, Bluetooth� HandsFreeLink� connectivity and solar sensing climate control.

RL with Technology Package: includes Acura Satellite Navigation System with Voice Recognition�, AcuraLink� Real-time traffic, AcuraLink� weather, rear view back-up camera, Active Front Lighting System (AFS), ventilated front seats, and a wood/leather steering wheel and shift knob.

RL with Technology Package plus CMBS�: in addition to the Technology Package features, the CMBS� equipped model includes Acura�s Collision Mitigation Braking System� (CMBS�), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), and genuine wood instrument panel trim.

TL

The all-new, completely redesigned 2009 Acura TL employs dramatic new styling along with a luxurious interior that includes more driver relevant technology than ever. Featuring the most powerful Acura engine ever, the 2009 TL will be available in two distinctive versions including the first ever application of Super Handling All-Wheel Drive� (SH-AWD�) on TL. Available in the fall of 2008, the new TL will deliver a driving experience that achieves new highs within the performance luxury sedan category.

TSX

The all-new second-generation 2009 TSX is larger, more agile, more performance minded and even �more Acura� than ever before. Carefully crafted to honor the original TSX�s vision as a world-class sports sedan, the new TSX has significantly evolved to offer more comfort, convenience, driving performance and safety. It does so with expanded luxury and electronic features, a wider stance for more agile performance, and advanced safety systems. (Additional �09 TL information will be available on August 20th)

Typical of Acura, the TSX offers an exceptional level of standard equipment including a power moonroof, leather seating, power-adjustable front seats, new automatic headlight activation a premium 7-speaker sound system with AM/FM radio, CD player, XM� Satellite Radio, Bluetooth� HandsFreeLink� , and USB port and AUX jack music interface.

A revised 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder engine delivers more average horsepower and torque than before while simultaneously improving fuel economy and meeting the EPA�s aggressive TIER 2 � BIN 5 and CARB LEV II Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) standards for the first time in TSX history.

The 2009 TSX makes use of inside frame rails (a first for any Acura model) that improve aerodynamics underneath the car for improved fuel economy and reduced noise. Another first for Acura are the TSX�s new dual-mode suspension dampers, which provide excellent suspension damping characteristics at both low and high damper speeds. With a 2.4-inch increase in overall length, 3.0-inch greater width and 2.6-inch wider track, the 2009 TSX provides greater interior roominess, more agile handling and improved ride quality.

Engineered into the TSX model for the first time, Acura�s innovative Advanced Compatibility Engineering� (ACE�) front body structure is used along with a broad range of passive safety features including six airbags (dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags, new dual-chamber front seat side airbags, and side curtain airbags for outboard seating positions). In addition, a new Active Head Restraint System is used for the first time on the TSX. Further improving safety are pedestrian-injury mitigation features such as a deformable front hood, hood hinges and windshield-wiper pivots, and a 5-mph front bumper and 2.5-mph rear bumper. The 2009 Acura TSX is expected to achieve the highest ratings in both government (NHTSA*) and independent (IIHS) crash testing� including the IIHS�s TOP SAFETY PICK.

Adding to the impressive list of TSX standard equipment is the available Technology Package, which bristles with leading-edge electronics that make driving more efficient and enjoyable. Features include an Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition�, AcuraLink� Real-time traffic, AcuraLink� weather, and the highly useful AcuraLink� Satellite Communication System. The navigation system features Real-time traffic� covering 77 major metropolitan markets, and offers Traffic Rerouting� with dynamic route guidance to help navigate around slow-downs.

MDX

Considered by many to be the benchmark in the seven passenger performance luxury SUV class, the generously appointed 2009 MDX retains its N�rburgring-tuned sport suspension, Super Handling All-Wheel Drive� and a robust 3.7-liter VTEC� V-6 that delivers a stout 300 horsepower.

In addition to SH-AWD�, an Active Damper System included in the available Sport Package helps give the MDX tight chassis control during performance driving while simultaneously retaining the comfortable, quiet ride that drivers of luxury vehicles demand. In traditional Acura fashion, the 7-passenger MDX has industry-leading standard and available electronics that make the luxurious driver-oriented interior a comfortably connected place to reside.

Initially available only on MDX models equipped with the Entertainment Package, for 2009 a power rear tailgate is now included as part of the available Technology and Sport Packages. In addition, the MDX is available with two new body colors� Bali Blue Pearl and Mocha Metallic.

RDX

The RDX, with Acura�s first-ever turbocharged engine and sure-footed Super Handling All-Wheel Drive� (SH-AWD�) system, improves its market position with further expanded convenience and visual appeal. For 2009, all RDX models receive a 4-way adjustable, power-actuated passenger front seat as standard equipment. Visually, the RDX is different from previous model years with the availability of four new exterior paint colors: Basque Red Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl, Grigio Metallic and Palladium Metallic.

In addition to its �just right� sizing, the RDX impresses thanks to the immediate response of Acura�s first-ever turbocharged engine paired with the agile control of Super Handling All-Wheel Drive� (SH-AWD�). The RDX makes use of state-of-the-art communications, navigation and audio entertainment can be controlled via the driver�s fingertips. Moreover, the RDX delivers its performance minded attributes all while keeping with Acura�s long-established tradition of respect for crisp, contemporary styling and simple, intuitive operation that adds to the driving experience.

Upon its debut, Acura�s RDX 5-passenger crossover SUV generated excellent reviews and it continues to garner top praise including the first place ranking in AutoPacific�s 2008 Vehicle Satisfaction Awards.

*Government star ratings are part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA's) New Car Assessment Program ( www.safercar.gov ). Model tested with standard side-impact air bags (SABs).