Maybe it is because I have been out of my 2004 TL for a while but my new 2009 TL SH-AWD sure does not seem to be as quick as my 04. I have 500 miles on it now and hope it will loosen up a bit, but I sure am not sold on the power on the car. Maybe it is the lack of torque compared to my other cars, but it sure seems much slower than my 04.

 

Look at the numbers. The 4G TL is about a 5.9" - 6.2" 0-60 car. What was your '04 TL?

 

No idea what the 04 was, but checking the numbers the 09 is a 6.5 second car, as per C&D who normally gets the fastest times. It is not a matter of numbers, but feel, and this car doesn't have the torque I expected.

 

Did you not test drive it before buying/leasing it?

 

Please check out all the threads about 0-60 times with the TL. In summary, testing was done with torque braking. In the SH-AWD this starts the car in 2nd. Motortrend has already had a re-test and was surprised about the 1/2 second drop in 0-60 and 1/4 mile times.

As far as it 'feeling' slower. It's a heavier car and could feasibly be slower immediately off the line. After 1-2 seconds it's no contest. Some of your perception may be how smoothly the power is delivered. Refinement != Slow

 

There's a number of previous threads that bring numbers over 6 seconds into question. The train of thought is that the testers are trying to brake torque the car, which the TL does not allow you to do. It will launch in second and then downshift to first killing the 0 to 60. See this thread here.

This engine has a very smooth powerband, especially for a Honda engine. I remember seeing a dyno somewhere, but I can't find it right now.

I understand what you're saying about torque though, as I had an 04 350Z (not the rev-up engine.) The original VQ35DE had a stupid amount of torque down low. The J37A4 is a much more refined engine.

 

Most likely due to the weight factor. Olu hit the nail on the head with his comment:

I have the same feeling sometimes with my TL SH-AWD: it doesn't seem or feel like it pulls but when I watch my speed, I'm way over the speed limit! Overall, I feel the ride is quite refined so you don't feel the speed climbing but it is and at a quick pace... lol

 

If power is your main priority, then you bought the wrong car. Like others have said, the 4G's acceleration is decent, but you have to know how to manipulate the car properly.

If you really want the "push you into the seat" feeling, you should've gotten a 335i or a G37 or a V8-powered car.

 

Yes, G37 will get you what you want at the price of TL.

 

If you had a 6MT that could very well be the case otherwise it sounds like you need to put some mileage on. The engine is past the initial break in point but it is no where near loosend up, you should notice the biggest difference after your first oil change and gradually a little more at a time after.

 

Honestly...

i just hit about 2k miles today (i know, i drive alot)

Not ONLY did the car "loosen up" and get zippier.. my exhaust note CHANGED ALOT...

the car sounds bad-ass !!!! (for a stock honda exhaust system)

 

Ummm...yeah...A 335i or G37? I am in Chicago now and need a good AWD car because my CLS55 doesn't go well in the winters here, plus you cannot get winter tires in 19" size for the car and 18"s don't fit over the AMG brakes. I couldn't get rid of the CLS because it is perfect but needed a good all season car. I think the CLS has just a little more push you in the seat power than what you mention above.

 

If power and AWD are your primary goals, I'd recommend the WRX or Evo over the TL, G37, Mercedes, and BMW.

 

This thread has to be some sort of joke. OP is comparing an Acura TL SH-AWD, BMW 335xi, and an Infiniti G37x to a $90k Benz CLS55 AMG.

They've not even close to being in the same class.

What is the point you're trying to make OP? Perfectly logical AWD alternatives that provide more performance were given in an attempt to assist you.

 

The WRX and EVO are definately powerful AWD cars and great values.....but also much less refined and less luxurious than the TL, G37, and the German sports sedans. The WRX and EVO also project too "ricey" of an image for some people to get past the other stuff.

 

PetesTL you looooove to disagree with me . I do agree with your assessment. I was merely saying if power is your primary goal these rides run circles around the similar priced awd luxo sedans.

 

Not really a disagreement, Olu.......I mean it's true that the EVO and WRX have really no peers in their price class....just that when it comes down to it, these cars are maybe just too ricey and too rough around the edges for everyday driving for most people.

 

EXO/WRX = rice



but fast as hell....

if you can afford a CLS55... then your best bet to satisfy your needs would be a 335xi, S4 or RS4

 

since funds don't seem to be a big concern, RS4 or the S5

 

If money's no object, how about a Porsche Carrera 4S, or the new Porsche Panamera or even a Lambo Murceilago?

 

Money no option? You guys are thinking small

 

lol... isnt the bugatti RWD?

 

no

 

Everyone, the OP never said money was no object. He wanted a good all season car. He bought the TL. He's not happy w/ the 'feel' and 'power'. Let's get this thread back on topic. Thanks.

 

Well, I'm sure that within the next 1-2 years, there'll be a lot of aftermarket performance parts for the 4G. Some modifications here and there and maybe even adding a supercharger will help things quite a bit.