AC TL

Acura 2003 Model Year Change Summary
Changes for all Acura models including NSX


Acura 2003 Model Year Change Summary

Acura Overview

For the 2003 model year, Acura features performance upgrades on two of its most popular models and numerous other refinements across its entire product lineup. To make the CL luxury performance coupe even more exhilarating to drive, the Type-S model is now available with a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission to go with its 260 horsepower engine. The award-winning MDX luxury SUV gets V-8-like performance from a new 260 horsepower (a gain of 20 horsepower compared to the previous generation) V-6 engine. In addition to the extra power, the MDX receives an all-new, compact 5-speed automatic transmission, a drive-by-wire throttle system and Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) tuned to work seamlessly in conjunction with its VTM-4 four-wheel drive system.
The MDX, 3.2 CL and 3.5 RL luxury sedan also receive styling updates while the 2003 RSX and 3.2 TL will be available in new colors.

3.2 CL

While both the 3.2 CL and the CL Type-S are available with a 5-speed Sequential SportShift automatic transmission, the CL Type-S now offers a new close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission as well.
Models with the new manual transmission also feature:

Helical limited slip differential
Reduced curb weight of 3446 lbs. (compared to 3510 lbs. for the CL Type-S with automatic transmission)
Self-adjusting clutch with dual-mass flywheel
Short-throw shift linkage
Two hydraulic engine mount dampers to counter engine movement
The 2003 CL also receives an array of styling and safety enhancements including:
New 6-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels (3.2 CL)
New 6-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels (CL Type-S)
Revised grille with body-colored surround
Revised headlights with black accents
Revised taillight lenses with clear upper portion
New exhaust finishers
OnStar(R) is standard equipment on CL models equipped with the Acura Satellite-Linked Navigation System
Driver's Dual Stage Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)
CL enhancements (continued):
Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) System added for attachment of compatible child safety seats
Auto-up driver's side window
CL Type-S models with black interiors receive titanium-look trim on doors and center console
Perforated leather door inserts (CL Type-S)
MDX

The 2003 MDX receives a variety of substantial powertrain, styling, comfort and convenience updates. The new 260 horsepower engine and all-new transmission provide outstanding power in a state-of-the-art V-6 package. In addition, the MDX receives Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) to help enhance control during acceleration, cornering and accident avoidance maneuvers.
Enhancements for 2003 include:

Next generation engine increases horsepower from 240 to 260
All-new compact 5-speed automatic transmission
Drive-by-wire throttle
Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)
Revised suspension settings
35 percent increase in dynamic torsional body rigidity for a smoother ride
Refined steering system for enhanced feel and reduced kickback
Available Acura DVD Entertainment System with headphones and remote control
Improvements to the optional Acura Navigation System including:
o Voice recognition
o Enhanced graphics.
o Rearview camera
o Expanded US data base coverage
Dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags
Additional front airbag sensors and new system control logic
New alloy wheel design
Auto-up driver's side window with auto-reverse
Rain sensing windshield wipers (Touring Package)
Auto on/off headlights
New exterior colors:
o Midnight Blue Pearl
o Sage Brush Pearl
o Sandstone Metallic
New interior color - Quartz
Rear splash guards
3.2 TL

For 2003, the OnStar communication service becomes standard equipment on TL models equipped with the Acura Satellite-Linked Navigation System. In addition, the following exterior color changes have been made:

Firepepper Red has been replaced by Redondo Red Pearl
Naples Gold Metallic has been replaced by Desert Mist
Key TL features include:

3.2-liter, 24-valve, SOHC, V-6 aluminum engines producing 225 horsepower (3.2 TL) and 260 horsepower (TL Type-S)
Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC(TM))
5-speed Sequential SportShift automatic transmission with Grade Logic Control
4-wheel independent double-wishbone suspension
4-wheel disc brakes with ventilated front discs and ABS
Traction Control System (TCS) (3.2 TL)
Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) (TL Type-S)
Power moonroof
Leather-trimmed seats and door panels
8-way power driver's seat with memory
Automatic Climate Control System
Acura/Bose Music System with 6-disc in-dash CD changer
Remote keyless entry system
Dual-stage, Dual-threshold Front Airbags
Side airbag system with front passenger position and height sensors
Available Acura Navigation System
3.5 RL

The goal for the 2003 3.5 RL was to subtly enhance the RL's already meticulous refinement inside and out. To accomplish this, the RL receives:

Three new exterior colors - Carbon Gray Pearl, Polar Blue Metallic, Champagne Mist Pearl
New interior color - Slate
Three new interior wood colors - Golden Camphor, Auburn Camphor, Eclipsed Camphor
A new taillight lens design with a clear turn signal portion
A new alloy wheel design
The LATCH system for securing compatible child safety seats
RSX

The RSX returns for its sophomore season after capturing a host of awards as a 2002 model including being named to Car & Driver's "10 Best" list. It comes in two versions, the 160 horsepower RSX and the 200 horsepower RSX Type-S. Both provide powerful, DOHC engines featuring Acura's innovative i-VTEC technology, sport tuned chassis and suspension systems and a long list of standard features. For 2002, the RSX receives a new exterior color, Redondo Red Pearl.

Key RSX features include:

2.0 liter, DOHC, 4-cylinder, aluminum alloy engines generating 160 horsepower (RSX) and 200 horsepower (RSX Type-S)
i-VTEC(TM) "intelligent" valve-control system which adds VTC (Variable Timing Control) to VTEC
Computer-controlled Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
5-speed manual or available Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission (RSX)
Close ratio 6-speed manual transmission (RSX Type-S)
Powerful 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)
Automatic Climate Control System
Power moonroof
Premium music system with six speakers and in-dash CD player (RSX)
Acura/Bose(R) Music System with seven speakers and 6-disc in-dash CD player (RSX Type-S)
Meets Low Emission Vehicle-II (LEV-2) standards
Advanced safety features including state-of-the-art front and side airbags
NSX

The NSX has evolved into an icon in the supercar category. It's unique, mid-engine design, aluminum construction and high performance engine continue to make it a favorite of discriminating sports car enthusiasts.
Key features of the NSX include:

3.2-liter, 290 hp, 24-valve, DOHC, V-6 aluminum alloy engine mated to a 6-speed manual transmission
3.0-liter, 252 hp, 24-valve, DOHC, V-6 aluminum alloy engine mated to an electronically controlled 4-speed automatic transmission with lock-up torque converter and Sequential SportShift
Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC(TM))
Titanium connecting rods
Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Drive-by-wire throttle system
All-aluminum unit-body construction
4-wheel all-aluminum independent double-wishbone suspension
17-inch forged alloy wheels
Ultra-high performance tires
Driver's and passenger's front airbag (SRS)
Electronic immobilizer system
High Intensity Discharge headlights (HID)
Perforated leather-trimmed seats and door panels
Acura/Bose(R) Music System