acura

Toned-down Acura TL SH-AWD sports latest tech

The last iteration of the Acura TL launched with too bold a look, and after only a couple of years in production, the 2012 version comes out with a toned-down grille piece and more subtle lines. Although the 2012 Acura TL SH-AWD is not as distinctive as its predecessor, its Acura identity remains intact.

And although it doesn't sit at the top of Acura's model lineup (that position is reserved for the RL), the TL SH-AWD shows off Acura's latest technology, and exhibits a level of comfort and luxury that outstrips its siblings. New features for the … Read more

CNET Car Tech: 2012 Acura TL SH-AWD

Last time we drove the TL, it had a huge proboscis and a tasty six-speed manual. Now both have changed, along with a few bits of cabin tech. Brian Cooley takes you for a drive in the 2012 Acura TL SH-AWD to check the tech.

Acura TSX gets wagon utility (review)

With Acura's new generation of cabin tech, the TSX offers all the modern conveniences, including a fast and good-looking navigation system, and an audio system with excellent sound and all the audio sources you could ask for. The fact that Acura adds a wagon version for the TSX mix makes it an even more attractive tech cruiser.

Although the TSX Sport Wagon features a well-designed engine, it doesn't push the car into new realms of efficiency, nor does the five-speed automatic transmission. This old-school tech may not win any fuel economy awards, but it does make the TSX … Read more

CNET Car Tech: 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon

The Acura TSX wagon is sold as the Honda Accord wagon overseas, which is telling. It's a nice car, but it is basically an Accord and just doesn't quite print "Acura" enough. Brian Cooley takes you for a drive to check the tech.

(Full CNET review of the 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon)

CNET Car Tech: 2011 Acura RL

The Acura RL is like a time machine. It has barely changed since its introduction. The good news is that it debuted as an amazing car. The bad news is that there are now lots of amazing cars on the market. Brian Cooley takes you for a drive to check the tech in the car Acura largely forgot.

(Full CNET Review of the 2011 Acura RL)

Acura RL updates come slowly

At one time a tech powerhouse, neglect has let Acura's top sedan, the RL, fall behind its competition. Although its five-year-old tech is by no means bad, it hasn't taken advantage of some current advances. Its engine is solid, but doesn't exploit modern efficiency technologies, it still uses an old navigation system, and Acura has even given its other, less expensive sedans better tech updates.

Acura has made a few important updates, such as giving it iPod support and Bluetooth streaming as audio sources. A six-speed automatic transmission keeps the drivetrain from being completely moribund. And its … Read more

The redesigned 2012 Acura TL available March 18

Acura announced this week that the revamped 2012 Acura TL will go on sale March 18. The midsize TL sedan has a freshened-up look and new detailing.

The 2012 TL's new look incorporates improved aerodynamics with a redesigned front bumper, a revised grille, and a shorter front overhang. The most noticeable change to the rear bumper is the repositioned license plate opening, smaller rear reflectors, and thinner rear-trunk edge trim. The new TL also has body-colored door handles and rear window trim.

"With the 2009 TL, the exterior design was a lot about passion," said Damon Schell, … Read more

Consumer Reports rate some Japanese used cars as 'more reliable'

In the market for a used car? Here's some good news. Consumer Reports today released its list of used cars that rate as more reliable than their brand-new counterparts.

The Consumer Reports' Annual Auto issue lists 11 2008 models with about the same or even fewer problems than comparable 2010 models. That list includes the 2008 Toyota FJ Cruiser and Yaris with a reported 11 and 12 problems per 100 vehicles, respectively. Although Consumer Reports reveals the average 2010 car had 13 problems per 100. Consumer Reports did not rate the FJ Cruiser and Yaris with high in road … Read more

Chrysler to unveil 200 ragtop in Chicago

The 2011 Chrysler 200 convertible and the 2012 Acura TL are among the vehicles that will be unveiled this week at the Chicago Auto Show. Chevrolet, Dodge, Hyundai, Volkswagen, and Chrysler's Ram division also are planning world debuts.

While Toyota will not have a world debut, the automaker is touting its display, which it says will be the largest the Toyota brand has created for a U.S. auto show, covering 45,000 square feet.

As part of the display, an indoor road course will feature Toyota pickups and SUVs. The public will be able to ride in the … Read more

The language of automotive design: Nine brands

In recent years, automotive designers have become very aware that strong design language reinforces a brand. BMW and Cadillac pushed hard in the last decade to create a common look to all models under each brand. The result was that, when you see a Cadillac on the street, you know that it is a Cadillac. No other cars look quite like it.

Other companies quickly got on board. Automotive designers come up with phrases to help their teams focus when designing a new car or a model update. Design languages such as L-Finesse, Keen Edge, and Fluidic Sculpture encompass the … Read more