I am currently looking at purchasing an 05 TL and I was wondering if the A-Spec package is a factory installed option or a dealer installed option

 

Usually Dealer

 

Always dealer, never factory.

Unfortunately.

 

but i heard that it will not be A SPEC any more. or something like that.. that it will change.. does anyone have pics or knows what the few changes will be...??

 

Sounds like everything will be the same except the color of the rims... Alloy instead of Gunmetal...Optional Chrome as well.

 

This is from Acura's Website...
A-SPEC™ KIT

The Acura A-SPEC kit is a complete dealer installed accessory package that addresses the demands of performance enthusiasts by providing enhanced handling, aggressive looks, quality and durability. The Acura TL A-SPEC kit includes a suspension package, 18-inch alloy wheels, high-performance brake pads for the automatic transmission model, an aero kit and a sport steering wheel.

The suspension package features track-tuned shocks and springs that lower the car approximately one inch.

The A-SPEC kit also includes 18-inch alloy wheels, which are shod with high performance AVS ES100 235/40VR18 95W Yokohama tires designed specifically for the TL A-SPEC kit.

While the 2005 TL with 6-speed manual transmission features powerful 4-piston Brembo® front brakes, the A-SPEC kit for automatic transmission-equipped models includes high-performance brake pads.

The package also comes equipped with an aero kit that includes either a deck lid or rear wing spoiler.

To learn more, please contact your Acura dealer.

 

The new rims are "chrome look" which are painted to look kinda like black chrome.

Here they are on my '04

http://www.cardomain.com/memberpage/692867

 

The dealer told me that they brought the car to display at Laguna Seca. It was A-Spec'd by the factory and sold to the local dealership.

 

I'd double-check that statement with the dealer. I am almost sure that the A-Spec (even in 05) is dealer-installed. Orange Cream mentioned above what the website says (unless that has not been updated yet).

 

Actually, sorry for the vague pronoun there. I mean that they (the dealer) told me that Acura brought the car to an event in Laguna Seca in July, and then sold the car to the dealer. The dealer got the car with the A-Spec already installed. He was able to give me a good deal because it didn't affect their allocation (on the A-Spec vehicles). I think it is a rare case that Acura installed this A-Spec kit.