Just test drove the new TL after seeing the picks and reviews of the new model. Looking to trade in my 325ci for more room and 4 doors. Overall, very impressed with the quality of the interior, features, and exterior design. Engine was very impressive as well. However, I felt the steering to feel way overboosted, light and a tad slow. Felt way more luxury than sport, even in comparison to the wife's QX4.
Anyone feel the 18 inch rims or the A Spec shocks would remedy these issues to some degree? Perhaps grippier tires? The rest of the car is so impressive, I could probably get used to the light steering, but I'd love to be able change it if I could.
Thanks for any insights.

 

I feel the same way about the lightness of the steering wheel. Even the Accord, has a better road fell thru the steering wheel. I think Acura chose to make the steering fell more luxury than sport as r_liebo mentioned above. I, too, may just have to get used to it.

 

BMW made this same mistake when they redisigned the current 3 series. They overboosted the steering, and owners complained so much about the lack of feel that BMW offered a free fix to all purchasers of the 1st year models, while fixing it out right the second year of production.

Still holding out hope the 18 inch rims may add a little feel and weight to the steering on the TL, but I think it is what it is. Kind of a shame the steering is so light -- it really takes away from the driving experience of what otherwise is an extremely impressive driver's vehicle.

Wonder if the MT has any better steering feel than the auto with as a result of the performance enhancements?

 

Each new generation of the TL has had "number steering".

I find the 2nd generations to be a big heavier than my 1st generation... BUT... the 2nd gen TL has far less road feedback. I prefer my first gen steering.

Personally the best steering feel ever was in an '01 Honda Prelude, fairly heavy but with lots of feedback.

 

I thought the steering in the TSX was better but the TL not bad. The TSX was downright nimble, loved it. If you would be happy with just a little more room than your BMW3 the TSX would be worth a try.

 

Point well taken with the TSX. Haven't driven it, but all the reviews I've read seem to indicate Acura got the "Sport sedan" idea right with that car. However, it isn't big enough for my needs, and doesn't have enough power for my tastes since I am now forced to switch from 5 speed to automatic.

Back to my original quesition, does anyone have any thoughts on the impact 18 inch rims may have on improving steering feel and weight, if any?