AutoSpies 2004 "Car of the Year" is the TL
12-05-2003, 06:21 PM
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AutoSpies 2004 "Car of the Year"
The winner is....The 2004 Acura TL
2004 AutoSpies.com “Car of the year”
2004 Acura TL- Simply the best “Bang for the buck” in the sub $60K category. Yes, it's really that good!
4.5 stars (out of 5)
The good: 95% of a 5-series and E-class, better in some regards, obsoletes any BMW 3-series without an M or performance package in its name, $35K LOADED!, The design is better than the 5 and 3, tied with the E, Engine performance/sophistication is wonderful, The stereo could be the best in any car, XM radio standard, navigation system is the best we’ve used (we especially like the touch screen calendar and calculator), bluetooth wireless phone implementation is the bomb, $15-25K less than the others (It makes us wonder how much longer BMW and Mercedes can get away with pricing at so much of a premium…After driving the TL we can tell you they are definitely not worth the huge price difference), better ergonomics than the 5 and E, great residuals so it leases well, unbelievable gas mileage (24.89 MPG on our first tank full!), very comfortable and roomy cabin.
The bad: Suspension is not as sophisticated as the 5 and E, Manumatic tranny is sub-par compared to the E, 5 and 3, trunk lid feels lighter than a piece of paper (doesn’t give us the warm and fuzzies about our chances in a possible rear end collision), Trip computer controls should be on the turn stalk or steering wheel instead of on the dash, no midrange control on the stereo, it's FWD.
The ugly: Dealer price gouging, virtually impossible to get a Navigation version car without paying a premium or waiting a LONG time to get one.
2nd place- Bentley Continental GT
3rd place- Audi S4
4th place- Mercedes-Benz E500
5th place- BMW 330i performance package
Full details on the 2004 Acura TL
All-New Acura TL Performance Luxury Sedan Features More Performance, Sportier Handling, Distinctive Styling and Cutting Edge Technology
The all-new 2004 Acura TL performance luxury sedan features a new powertrain, significant chassis enhancements and aggressive new styling designed to solidify the TL's place in the increasingly competitive performance luxury market. Along with the added performance, the TL also receives an assortment of class-leading innovations and industry firsts including DVD-Audio surround sound, XM(R) Satellite Radio and hands-free phone connectivity utilizing Bluetooth technology as standard equipment.
"We've taken the TL to a new level of performance, style and handling and added some exclusive new technology that increases our competitive edge," said Tom Elliott, Executive Vice President, Auto Operations. "We've increased the horsepower to 270 and that means the new TL, whether equipped with a manual or an automatic transmission, offers more performance than the previous TL Type-S model."
The 2004 TL's 3.2-liter, 24-valve, all-aluminum VTEC engine utilizes an 11.0:1 compression ratio, a two-stage intake manifold and a cold air intake to help generate 270 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 238 lbs-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm (up from 225 hp and 216 lbs-ft
for the '03 TL and 260 hp and 232 lbs-ft of torque on the '03 TL Type-S). A retooled exhaust system that includes two close-coupled primary catalytic converters for quicker light off and a secondary underfloor catalytic converter helps to generate extra horsepower while improving emissions from ULEV to ULEV-2 standards. Despite the added horsepower, EPA fuel mileage ratings are 20 mpg city/28 mpg highway for models equipped with an automatic transmission and 20 mpg city/30 mpg highway for models equipped with a manual transmission.
In addition to the new powerplant, the 2004 TL features a drive-by-wire throttle system, which eliminates the need for a mechanical connection between the accelerator pedal and the engine. Evolved from the drive-by-wire system in the NSX supercar, this system is custom tailored to match the unique performance characteristics of the TL. It provides responsive acceleration, modulates the throttle during automatic transmission shifts for improved smoothness and allows throttle control to be incorporated into the TL's new Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) logic.
On sale this fall, the 2004 TL will be available with a choice of a 5-speed Sequential SportShift automatic transmission, or a close-ratio 6-speed manual, a first for TL. The new 6-speed manual features a short throw shift linkage, large diameter shift cables and multi-cone synchronizers for optimum shift feel.
TL models with the 6-speed manual transmission are equipped with a limited slip differential, which proactively distributes torque between the driving wheels to help maintain traction, and creates more neutral handling and extremely responsive steering feel.
The TL's state-of-the art chassis and 4-wheel independent suspension have been redesigned to handle the added horsepower while delivering sporty, precise handling and an improved ride. A new standard Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system works in concert with thedrive-by-wire throttle system to provide enhanced control during acceleration, braking and cornering. While the 2-channel VSA in the previous TL Type-S model modulated the throttle and braking to the two front wheels, the 4-channel system standard in the 2004 TL orchestrates the throttle and each of the vehicle's four disc brakes to seamlessly integrate traction control, Anti-lock braking and stability enhancement for increased driver control.
The 2004 TL features 17-inch 5-spoke wheels and 235/45R17 Bridgestone all-season tires that, when combined with 4-wheel disc brakes and Anti-lock braking, help it outperform the previous TL Type-S in braking performance. Another added feature is Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), which continuously and automatically adjusts the pressure to the front and rear brakes depending on how the vehicle is loaded. A new Brake Assist feature utilizes a microprocessor to help the driver apply full brake pressure during accident avoidance situations.
TL models with the 6-speed manual transmission receive Brembo 4-piston front caliper brakes with larger rotors to further enhance braking and are also available with 17-inch high-performance tires.
To match its high performance powertrain and chassis, designers gave the TL aggressive new styling. They began with a wider, more muscular stance accented by large wheels and tires, distinct fender blisters and minimal wheel arch-to-tire gaps. Working upward from there, they utilized bold character lines and a fusion of edge and organic design, to portray an image of muscular tension, helping to make the car look fast and lean from any angle.
In the front, the TL features a bold hood design and an aggressive front fascia with an angular headlight treatment and a new lower air intake system that accents the styling while ensuring a steady flow of fresh air to the engine and cooling system. Hood lines begin at the front grill and run up along the top surfaces of the vehicle in one bold, unbroken stroke. Distinct character grooves run below the sleek cabin on each side of the car, stretching from the front side marker across the side of the car to the rear marker. A short rear deck, with a pronounced lip and a V-shaped break below the trunk, express the car's aggressive nature. Dual exhaust pipes with bumper-integrated exhaust tips further accent the car's muscular style.
The interior of the 2004 TL has been modernized with upgraded materials, more standard amenities and several high tech features not offered by other cars in the segment including the first automotive application of a multi-channel DVD-Audio System as standard equipment. The Acura/ELS(R) Premium 8-speaker Surround Sound System with DVD-Audio, DTS(TM) and CD, 6-disc Changer, AM/FM Tuner and Dolby(R) Cassette delivers a whole new level of audio fidelity. This DVD-Audio system, developed with Grammy-winning music producer Elliot Scheiner, utilizes six distinct channels (compared with two on the typical premium sound system) to deliver sound resolution 500 times greater than CD. The premium system plays standard CDs, DVD-A discs, and DTS-enabled CDs and incorporates XM(R) Satellite Radio for over 100 channels of premium quality sound.
The TL is also the first automobile to offer a Bluetooth-based hands-free phone system as standard equipment. The system, called HandsFreeLink(TM), enables a Bluetooth wireless interface with mobile phones allowing calls to be made and received using the TL's voice recognition and audio interfaces. To make a call, drivers push the steering wheel-mounted HandsFreeLink button, which connects their phone to the system. The driver then says the number to call or indicates an entry stored in the system's phone book. The voice recognition system responds, confirms the number or phone book entry and dials. The number being dialed as well as other calling information is shown on the Multi-Info Display. The HandsFreeLink system can be programmed to accept up to 6 different phones, and up to 50 numbers may be stored in the system's phone book.
The latest generation of the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition is available on the TL as a factory-installed option. This easy-to-use navigation system features a menu of 293 voice commands, an 8-inch touch screen display, a comprehensive destination guide with more than 7 million points of interest spanning the continental United States, 3-D graphics for freeway on and off ramps and turn-by-turn voice guidance.
To ensure proper maintenance intervals and reduce the number of service visits, the 2004 TL features an innovative new Maintenance Minder system that automatically monitors the vehicle's unique operating profile and alerts the driver when certain types of routine service, including oil and filter replacement and tire rotation, are needed. When the TL is started, Maintenance Minder information is displayed on the Multi-Info Display located on the instrument panel beneath the fuel gauge.
In addition to the new technology, the 2004 TL features a long list of interior enhancements including, Dual-zone, Dual-temperature Automatic Climate Control, an enhanced keyless entry system and user-programmable interior lighting.
The 2004 TL incorporates a wide array of the latest safety technologies including standard side curtain airbags to help protect vehicle occupants from head and neck injuries in the event of a side impact. To ensure that the airbag covers the front and rear side windows instantaneously, compressed helium inflators deploy the curtain in a mere 0.015 seconds. The
TL is also equipped with dual-stage, dual-threshold driver's and front passenger's airbags, and side airbags for the driver and front passenger. The passenger's side airbag uses seven sensors in the seatback and side bolster to determine the height and position of the occupant. If the sensors detect that a child or small-statured adult is leaning into the deployment path of the side airbag, deployment is prevented.
Like all Acura models, the 2004 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.
Acura TL Performance Luxury Sedan Features Exciting New Technology
It is First North American Vehicle Equipped with Standard DVD-Audio Surround Sound and a Standard Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System
The all-new Acura TL performance luxury sedan is the first vehicle in North America equipped with a standard DVD-Audio 5.1 surround sound system and a standard hands-free phone system. Acura's top-selling sedan also features an assortment of other high tech amenities that make it one of the most comprehensively equipped cars in its class. These amenities include standard XM(R) Satellite Radio with over 100 coast-to-coast digital stations, an available voice recognition navigation system, and an innovative Maintenance Minder system.
The Acura/ELS(R) Premium 8-speaker Surround Sound System with DVD-Audio, DTS(TM) and CD, 6-disc Changer, AM/FM Tuner and Dolby(R) Cassette comes standard on the 2004 TL and plays DVD-Audio (DVD-A) discs and CDs. DVD-A 5.1 music discs contain up to seven times the data capacity of a CD. This extra space is put to good use as DVD-A discs are recorded in six channels (surround sound) instead of two (stereo). The result is a huge increase in fidelity, 24-bit resolution compared to 16 bits for CD, and digital surround sound with 500 times the resolution of CD audio.
The TL's new sound system was developed with Grammy-winning music producer/engineer Elliot Scheiner, considered one of the world's leading authorities on 5.1 surround sound mixing and DVD-Audio. Scheiner, who has produced albums for a long list of music legends including Steely Dan and Fleetwood Mac, worked with Acura to develop a cutting edge system tuned specifically for the 2004 TL.
"It has been a thrill to join in the development of the Acura / ELS Surround Sound System for the new Acura TL," said Scheiner. "While mixing DVD-Audio tracks in the studio, I have often imagined how incredible it would be to have a similar experience in my car. The way the Acura / ELS Surround Sound System captures and recreates this experience is simply amazing. DVD-Audio will be a 'must have' feature for all premium audio systems."
The 8-speaker TL audio system was designed to take advantage of the six discrete music channels available with the DVD-Audio format. Speakers are located on the top of the instrument panel near the A-pillars, with a dedicated center channel speaker in the middle of the dash. The two front doors have specially designed drivers, which reproduce the enhanced frequency response and dynamic range of DVD-Audio. Two identical drivers are located in the rear parcel shelf flanking an 8-inch powered subwoofer. Center speaker and subwoofer level controls built into the head unit allow for fine-tuning of the audio output to suit the driver's individual taste.
In addition to playing DVD-A discs and CDs (including DTS-enabled CDs), the TL sound system also plays XM(R) Satellite Radio, which is provided as a standard feature. Broadcast from the world's largest digital radio facility and powered by two satellites located over the east and west coast, XM Satellite Radio provides over 100 coast-to-coast, digital radio channels, 35 of which are commercial-free. Programming includes 70 music channels and 30 channels devoted to sports, talk, children's programming and entertainment. A three-month subscription to the XM Satellite Radio service is included with purchase of the vehicle and customers are able to continue service after that time for $9.99 a month.
The TL is also the first vehicle in North America equipped with a standard Bluetooth hands-free phone system. The Acura HandsFreeLink(TM) system enables a Bluetooth wireless link with compatible mobile phones, so that drivers can place and receive calls using the TL's voice recognition and audio interfaces. Up to six phones can be paired with a few simple commands. Once a phone is paired, the HandsFreeLink system senses when the phone comes within 30 feet of the TL and automatically establishes a wireless link.
To place a call, the driver pushes the steering wheel-mounted "talk" button and says, "call" or "dial." The driver then says the number to be called or indicates an entry stored in the system's phone book. The system confirms the number or phonebook entry via the audio system and dials.
When HandsFreeLink detects an incoming call, it mutes the audio system, displays the incoming number on the Multi-Info Display screen and notifies the driver with a tone. The driver answers the call by pushing the "talk" button. The system also includes a handy "transfer" feature, which allows drivers to transfer an existing call from his phone to HandsFreeLink or vice versa with the push of a button when entering or exiting the vehicle.
When placing or receiving a call, information that is typically displayed on the user's mobile phone display, such as the number of an incoming caller, the strength of the phone signal and battery life is displayed on the Multi-Info Display located on the right side of the instrument cluster.
The 2004 TL also features the latest generation of the Acura Navigation system with Voice Recognition' as a factory-installed option. This latest-generation navigation system features an 8-inch touch screen display, coverage of virtually all roads in the contiguous United States and over 7 million points of interest (POI). Unlike many navigation systems on the market, the Acura navigation system can be controlled with simple, easy-to-use voice commands. To utilize the voice command menu, the driver presses the "talk" button on the steering wheel and says one of 293 commands. A microphone located in the overhead console picks up the command and the navigation system responds accordingly. Synergy between the navigation system and HandsFreeLink also allows hands-free dialing to any of the points of interest listed in the system.
To ensure proper maintenance of the TL, a new Maintenance Minder system monitors the oil service life and coordinates maintenance interval timing for service items such as oil filter, tire rotation, air-cleaner, automatic transmission fluid, spark plugs, timing belt and coolant, automatically alerting the driver when maintenance is needed. When the ignition is initially turned on, Maintenance Minder system icons are displayed on the Multi-Info Display indicating whether or not service is needed, and if so what kind.
While Acura customers have come to expect the brand to deliver the latest technology, the 2004 TL sets a new benchmark within the entry luxury segment. In addition to the above-mentioned features, the TL comes equipped with a long list of standard amenities including keyless entry with customizable features, 10-way power seating, which includes power lumbar support (driver's side), high intensity discharge (HID) headlights and a 1-touch power moonroof. The 2004 TL will go on sale at Acura dealers nationwide October 6, 2003.
Like all Acura models, the 2004 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.
2004 AutoSpies.com “Car of the year”
2004 Acura TL- Simply the best “Bang for the buck” in the sub $60K category. Yes, it's really that good!
4.5 stars (out of 5)
The good: 95% of a 5-series and E-class, better in some regards, obsoletes any BMW 3-series without an M or performance package in its name, $35K LOADED!, The design is better than the 5 and 3, tied with the E, Engine performance/sophistication is wonderful, The stereo could be the best in any car, XM radio standard, navigation system is the best we’ve used (we especially like the touch screen calendar and calculator), bluetooth wireless phone implementation is the bomb, $15-25K less than the others (It makes us wonder how much longer BMW and Mercedes can get away with pricing at so much of a premium…After driving the TL we can tell you they are definitely not worth the huge price difference), better ergonomics than the 5 and E, great residuals so it leases well, unbelievable gas mileage (24.89 MPG on our first tank full!), very comfortable and roomy cabin.
The bad: Suspension is not as sophisticated as the 5 and E, Manumatic tranny is sub-par compared to the E, 5 and 3, trunk lid feels lighter than a piece of paper (doesn’t give us the warm and fuzzies about our chances in a possible rear end collision), Trip computer controls should be on the turn stalk or steering wheel instead of on the dash, no midrange control on the stereo, it's FWD.
The ugly: Dealer price gouging, virtually impossible to get a Navigation version car without paying a premium or waiting a LONG time to get one.
2nd place- Bentley Continental GT
3rd place- Audi S4
4th place- Mercedes-Benz E500
5th place- BMW 330i performance package
Full details on the 2004 Acura TL
All-New Acura TL Performance Luxury Sedan Features More Performance, Sportier Handling, Distinctive Styling and Cutting Edge Technology
The all-new 2004 Acura TL performance luxury sedan features a new powertrain, significant chassis enhancements and aggressive new styling designed to solidify the TL's place in the increasingly competitive performance luxury market. Along with the added performance, the TL also receives an assortment of class-leading innovations and industry firsts including DVD-Audio surround sound, XM(R) Satellite Radio and hands-free phone connectivity utilizing Bluetooth technology as standard equipment.
"We've taken the TL to a new level of performance, style and handling and added some exclusive new technology that increases our competitive edge," said Tom Elliott, Executive Vice President, Auto Operations. "We've increased the horsepower to 270 and that means the new TL, whether equipped with a manual or an automatic transmission, offers more performance than the previous TL Type-S model."
The 2004 TL's 3.2-liter, 24-valve, all-aluminum VTEC engine utilizes an 11.0:1 compression ratio, a two-stage intake manifold and a cold air intake to help generate 270 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 238 lbs-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm (up from 225 hp and 216 lbs-ft
for the '03 TL and 260 hp and 232 lbs-ft of torque on the '03 TL Type-S). A retooled exhaust system that includes two close-coupled primary catalytic converters for quicker light off and a secondary underfloor catalytic converter helps to generate extra horsepower while improving emissions from ULEV to ULEV-2 standards. Despite the added horsepower, EPA fuel mileage ratings are 20 mpg city/28 mpg highway for models equipped with an automatic transmission and 20 mpg city/30 mpg highway for models equipped with a manual transmission.
In addition to the new powerplant, the 2004 TL features a drive-by-wire throttle system, which eliminates the need for a mechanical connection between the accelerator pedal and the engine. Evolved from the drive-by-wire system in the NSX supercar, this system is custom tailored to match the unique performance characteristics of the TL. It provides responsive acceleration, modulates the throttle during automatic transmission shifts for improved smoothness and allows throttle control to be incorporated into the TL's new Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) logic.
On sale this fall, the 2004 TL will be available with a choice of a 5-speed Sequential SportShift automatic transmission, or a close-ratio 6-speed manual, a first for TL. The new 6-speed manual features a short throw shift linkage, large diameter shift cables and multi-cone synchronizers for optimum shift feel.
TL models with the 6-speed manual transmission are equipped with a limited slip differential, which proactively distributes torque between the driving wheels to help maintain traction, and creates more neutral handling and extremely responsive steering feel.
The TL's state-of-the art chassis and 4-wheel independent suspension have been redesigned to handle the added horsepower while delivering sporty, precise handling and an improved ride. A new standard Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system works in concert with thedrive-by-wire throttle system to provide enhanced control during acceleration, braking and cornering. While the 2-channel VSA in the previous TL Type-S model modulated the throttle and braking to the two front wheels, the 4-channel system standard in the 2004 TL orchestrates the throttle and each of the vehicle's four disc brakes to seamlessly integrate traction control, Anti-lock braking and stability enhancement for increased driver control.
The 2004 TL features 17-inch 5-spoke wheels and 235/45R17 Bridgestone all-season tires that, when combined with 4-wheel disc brakes and Anti-lock braking, help it outperform the previous TL Type-S in braking performance. Another added feature is Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), which continuously and automatically adjusts the pressure to the front and rear brakes depending on how the vehicle is loaded. A new Brake Assist feature utilizes a microprocessor to help the driver apply full brake pressure during accident avoidance situations.
TL models with the 6-speed manual transmission receive Brembo 4-piston front caliper brakes with larger rotors to further enhance braking and are also available with 17-inch high-performance tires.
To match its high performance powertrain and chassis, designers gave the TL aggressive new styling. They began with a wider, more muscular stance accented by large wheels and tires, distinct fender blisters and minimal wheel arch-to-tire gaps. Working upward from there, they utilized bold character lines and a fusion of edge and organic design, to portray an image of muscular tension, helping to make the car look fast and lean from any angle.
In the front, the TL features a bold hood design and an aggressive front fascia with an angular headlight treatment and a new lower air intake system that accents the styling while ensuring a steady flow of fresh air to the engine and cooling system. Hood lines begin at the front grill and run up along the top surfaces of the vehicle in one bold, unbroken stroke. Distinct character grooves run below the sleek cabin on each side of the car, stretching from the front side marker across the side of the car to the rear marker. A short rear deck, with a pronounced lip and a V-shaped break below the trunk, express the car's aggressive nature. Dual exhaust pipes with bumper-integrated exhaust tips further accent the car's muscular style.
The interior of the 2004 TL has been modernized with upgraded materials, more standard amenities and several high tech features not offered by other cars in the segment including the first automotive application of a multi-channel DVD-Audio System as standard equipment. The Acura/ELS(R) Premium 8-speaker Surround Sound System with DVD-Audio, DTS(TM) and CD, 6-disc Changer, AM/FM Tuner and Dolby(R) Cassette delivers a whole new level of audio fidelity. This DVD-Audio system, developed with Grammy-winning music producer Elliot Scheiner, utilizes six distinct channels (compared with two on the typical premium sound system) to deliver sound resolution 500 times greater than CD. The premium system plays standard CDs, DVD-A discs, and DTS-enabled CDs and incorporates XM(R) Satellite Radio for over 100 channels of premium quality sound.
The TL is also the first automobile to offer a Bluetooth-based hands-free phone system as standard equipment. The system, called HandsFreeLink(TM), enables a Bluetooth wireless interface with mobile phones allowing calls to be made and received using the TL's voice recognition and audio interfaces. To make a call, drivers push the steering wheel-mounted HandsFreeLink button, which connects their phone to the system. The driver then says the number to call or indicates an entry stored in the system's phone book. The voice recognition system responds, confirms the number or phone book entry and dials. The number being dialed as well as other calling information is shown on the Multi-Info Display. The HandsFreeLink system can be programmed to accept up to 6 different phones, and up to 50 numbers may be stored in the system's phone book.
The latest generation of the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition is available on the TL as a factory-installed option. This easy-to-use navigation system features a menu of 293 voice commands, an 8-inch touch screen display, a comprehensive destination guide with more than 7 million points of interest spanning the continental United States, 3-D graphics for freeway on and off ramps and turn-by-turn voice guidance.
To ensure proper maintenance intervals and reduce the number of service visits, the 2004 TL features an innovative new Maintenance Minder system that automatically monitors the vehicle's unique operating profile and alerts the driver when certain types of routine service, including oil and filter replacement and tire rotation, are needed. When the TL is started, Maintenance Minder information is displayed on the Multi-Info Display located on the instrument panel beneath the fuel gauge.
In addition to the new technology, the 2004 TL features a long list of interior enhancements including, Dual-zone, Dual-temperature Automatic Climate Control, an enhanced keyless entry system and user-programmable interior lighting.
The 2004 TL incorporates a wide array of the latest safety technologies including standard side curtain airbags to help protect vehicle occupants from head and neck injuries in the event of a side impact. To ensure that the airbag covers the front and rear side windows instantaneously, compressed helium inflators deploy the curtain in a mere 0.015 seconds. The
TL is also equipped with dual-stage, dual-threshold driver's and front passenger's airbags, and side airbags for the driver and front passenger. The passenger's side airbag uses seven sensors in the seatback and side bolster to determine the height and position of the occupant. If the sensors detect that a child or small-statured adult is leaning into the deployment path of the side airbag, deployment is prevented.
Like all Acura models, the 2004 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.
Acura TL Performance Luxury Sedan Features Exciting New Technology
It is First North American Vehicle Equipped with Standard DVD-Audio Surround Sound and a Standard Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System
The all-new Acura TL performance luxury sedan is the first vehicle in North America equipped with a standard DVD-Audio 5.1 surround sound system and a standard hands-free phone system. Acura's top-selling sedan also features an assortment of other high tech amenities that make it one of the most comprehensively equipped cars in its class. These amenities include standard XM(R) Satellite Radio with over 100 coast-to-coast digital stations, an available voice recognition navigation system, and an innovative Maintenance Minder system.
The Acura/ELS(R) Premium 8-speaker Surround Sound System with DVD-Audio, DTS(TM) and CD, 6-disc Changer, AM/FM Tuner and Dolby(R) Cassette comes standard on the 2004 TL and plays DVD-Audio (DVD-A) discs and CDs. DVD-A 5.1 music discs contain up to seven times the data capacity of a CD. This extra space is put to good use as DVD-A discs are recorded in six channels (surround sound) instead of two (stereo). The result is a huge increase in fidelity, 24-bit resolution compared to 16 bits for CD, and digital surround sound with 500 times the resolution of CD audio.
The TL's new sound system was developed with Grammy-winning music producer/engineer Elliot Scheiner, considered one of the world's leading authorities on 5.1 surround sound mixing and DVD-Audio. Scheiner, who has produced albums for a long list of music legends including Steely Dan and Fleetwood Mac, worked with Acura to develop a cutting edge system tuned specifically for the 2004 TL.
"It has been a thrill to join in the development of the Acura / ELS Surround Sound System for the new Acura TL," said Scheiner. "While mixing DVD-Audio tracks in the studio, I have often imagined how incredible it would be to have a similar experience in my car. The way the Acura / ELS Surround Sound System captures and recreates this experience is simply amazing. DVD-Audio will be a 'must have' feature for all premium audio systems."
The 8-speaker TL audio system was designed to take advantage of the six discrete music channels available with the DVD-Audio format. Speakers are located on the top of the instrument panel near the A-pillars, with a dedicated center channel speaker in the middle of the dash. The two front doors have specially designed drivers, which reproduce the enhanced frequency response and dynamic range of DVD-Audio. Two identical drivers are located in the rear parcel shelf flanking an 8-inch powered subwoofer. Center speaker and subwoofer level controls built into the head unit allow for fine-tuning of the audio output to suit the driver's individual taste.
In addition to playing DVD-A discs and CDs (including DTS-enabled CDs), the TL sound system also plays XM(R) Satellite Radio, which is provided as a standard feature. Broadcast from the world's largest digital radio facility and powered by two satellites located over the east and west coast, XM Satellite Radio provides over 100 coast-to-coast, digital radio channels, 35 of which are commercial-free. Programming includes 70 music channels and 30 channels devoted to sports, talk, children's programming and entertainment. A three-month subscription to the XM Satellite Radio service is included with purchase of the vehicle and customers are able to continue service after that time for $9.99 a month.
The TL is also the first vehicle in North America equipped with a standard Bluetooth hands-free phone system. The Acura HandsFreeLink(TM) system enables a Bluetooth wireless link with compatible mobile phones, so that drivers can place and receive calls using the TL's voice recognition and audio interfaces. Up to six phones can be paired with a few simple commands. Once a phone is paired, the HandsFreeLink system senses when the phone comes within 30 feet of the TL and automatically establishes a wireless link.
To place a call, the driver pushes the steering wheel-mounted "talk" button and says, "call" or "dial." The driver then says the number to be called or indicates an entry stored in the system's phone book. The system confirms the number or phonebook entry via the audio system and dials.
When HandsFreeLink detects an incoming call, it mutes the audio system, displays the incoming number on the Multi-Info Display screen and notifies the driver with a tone. The driver answers the call by pushing the "talk" button. The system also includes a handy "transfer" feature, which allows drivers to transfer an existing call from his phone to HandsFreeLink or vice versa with the push of a button when entering or exiting the vehicle.
When placing or receiving a call, information that is typically displayed on the user's mobile phone display, such as the number of an incoming caller, the strength of the phone signal and battery life is displayed on the Multi-Info Display located on the right side of the instrument cluster.
The 2004 TL also features the latest generation of the Acura Navigation system with Voice Recognition' as a factory-installed option. This latest-generation navigation system features an 8-inch touch screen display, coverage of virtually all roads in the contiguous United States and over 7 million points of interest (POI). Unlike many navigation systems on the market, the Acura navigation system can be controlled with simple, easy-to-use voice commands. To utilize the voice command menu, the driver presses the "talk" button on the steering wheel and says one of 293 commands. A microphone located in the overhead console picks up the command and the navigation system responds accordingly. Synergy between the navigation system and HandsFreeLink also allows hands-free dialing to any of the points of interest listed in the system.
To ensure proper maintenance of the TL, a new Maintenance Minder system monitors the oil service life and coordinates maintenance interval timing for service items such as oil filter, tire rotation, air-cleaner, automatic transmission fluid, spark plugs, timing belt and coolant, automatically alerting the driver when maintenance is needed. When the ignition is initially turned on, Maintenance Minder system icons are displayed on the Multi-Info Display indicating whether or not service is needed, and if so what kind.
While Acura customers have come to expect the brand to deliver the latest technology, the 2004 TL sets a new benchmark within the entry luxury segment. In addition to the above-mentioned features, the TL comes equipped with a long list of standard amenities including keyless entry with customizable features, 10-way power seating, which includes power lumbar support (driver's side), high intensity discharge (HID) headlights and a 1-touch power moonroof. The 2004 TL will go on sale at Acura dealers nationwide October 6, 2003.
Like all Acura models, the 2004 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.
12-05-2003, 07:12 PM
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01-31-2016 09:27 AM
