1999 Acura 3.2 TL: A Revitalized Contender in the Luxury Sedan Market

In the 1980s, Honda made a significant impact on the luxury car market by introducing its Acura brand. This new line of Japanese luxury cars was not only more refined but also offered a more affordable alternative to many European competitors. Acura quickly became a favorite among consumers, but the 1990s brought challenges as resurgent German brands began reclaiming their market share. Acura struggled to maintain its position, often with models that lacked the allure of its original offerings. However, the brand has revamped its core sedan, the TL, aiming to inject both spirit and value back into its lineup. Is Japan’s first luxury brand poised for a comeback?

Performance: The Heart of the 3.2 TL

From a technical standpoint, the 1999 Acura 3.2 TL may not dive into the deep end with the same agility as its predecessor, the 1999 Acura 3.2 TL, but it brings impressive capabilities to the table. The all-new 3.2-liter V6 engine is the only powertrain option available, redesigned from a 90-degree to a 60-degree V angle. This single overhead cam, 24-valve VTEC engine delivers 225 horsepower, a notable increase of 25 horsepower compared to the previous model. Torque has also seen an increase, now rated at 216 lb-ft.

The engine is paired with a new four-speed automatic transmission featuring Grade Logic Control, a system that adjusts the shift schedule based on throttle position and vehicle speed. This is particularly useful when navigating inclines. Additionally, there is a sequential sport shift mode, allowing drivers to manually shift for a more engaging driving experience. On our test track, the TL zoomed from 0 to 60 mph in 7.6 seconds, completing the quarter-mile in 15.8 seconds at 91 mph.

Our drivers praised the TL’s broader power band and the responsiveness of the engine, particularly in sport shift mode. The revised double-wishbone front suspension, coupled with vehicle-speed-sensitive power steering, provided a driving feel that was highly regarded during spirited maneuvers, especially through the slalom course.

Handling and Suspension

The 3.2 TL’s handling earns top technical scores, thanks to its completely redesigned rear suspension, now utilizing a lightweight, compact five-link design. This advancement keeps the rear end firmly planted during rapid side-to-side transitions, enhancing stability. Real-world driving prowess is also impressive, as the suspension components are mounted to new front and rear subframes. These additions provide the right amount of isolation from road imperfections without sacrificing responsiveness, ensuring a comfortable ride.

The Honda midsize global platform, which also serves as the foundation for the Accord, anchors the TL. Acura has stretched the TL by 1.2 inches to support its longer 108.1-inch wheelbase. The new larger 16-inch wheels accommodate bigger 11.8-inch ventilated front brake discs. The rear features a drum-and-disc brake design, where the discs handle primary braking duties while the drums serve as the parking brake. The ABS-equipped braking system demonstrated consistent stopping power, bringing the vehicle to a halt from 60 mph in just 118 feet, allowing for effective pedal modulation during braking.

Design: Striking a Balance

While the 1999 TL scores high in performance and handling, its artistic expression leaves a bit to be desired. The sedan’s design, although athletic, does not significantly distinguish itself from other vehicles in its class. Its wood-tone trimmed interior is comfortable and accommodating but lacks some amenities expected in an upscale sports sedan.

The gauge cluster is relatively plain, featuring a simple layout in front of a tilt steering wheel. The leather-trimmed seats provide excellent comfort and support, with six-way power adjustments for the driver and four-way for the passenger. The TL’s only factory-installed option, the Acura Navigation System, sits atop the center stack. This system provides directional assistance via GPS data, complete with verbal instructions, enhancing the driving experience.

Just below the navigation system are the climate controls, which integrate touchscreen controls for air conditioning and display readouts for other functions. The Alpine Bose audio system offers 180 watts of sound, ensuring a pleasant auditory experience whether you’re relaxing or cruising down the highway.

Comfort and Space

The rear seating area is designed for comfort, providing adequate leg, hip, and shoulder room for full-size adults. However, headroom may feel cramped for taller passengers. A small lockable trunk pass-through behind the armrest facilitates the transportation of longer items, such as skis. Thanks to the more compact rear suspension, trunk capacity has increased from 13.8 to 14.3 cubic feet, with a wide opening and low liftover height, making loading and unloading items a breeze.

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Competitive Pricing

In an effort to make purchasing the new TL an attractive proposition, Acura has dramatically reduced its price tag by $4,150 compared to the previous model. The new base price stands at $28,495, with the addition of the navigation system and dealer-installed floor mats bringing our test vehicle’s total to $31,514. This pricing strategy positions the 1999 Acura 3.2 TL as a strong value contender in the luxury sedan market, exceeding expectations.

Conclusion: A Strong Return

With its mid-size stature and wholly American-made status, the 1999 Acura 3.2 TL has the potential to teach its competitors a lesson or two on how to make a splash in a crowded pool. The combination of competitive pricing, enhanced performance, and comfortable features positions the 3.2 TL as a compelling option for buyers seeking a luxury sedan without breaking the bank.

This new Acura model successfully performs its dive into the luxury sedan market with a degree of technical proficiency that will be hard for the competition to match.

FAQs

What is the horsepower of the 1999 Acura 3.2 TL?

• The 1999 Acura 3.2 TL features a 225-horsepower engine, an increase of 25 horsepower from the previous model.

What is the starting price of the 1999 Acura 3.2 TL?

• The base price for the 1999 Acura 3.2 TL is $28,495.

What type of transmission does the TL have?

• The TL is equipped with a new four-speed automatic transmission that includes Grade Logic Control.

How does the TL perform in terms of acceleration?

• The TL accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 7.6 seconds.

What are the dimensions of the trunk in the 1999 Acura 3.2 TL?

• The trunk capacity has increased to 14.3 cubic feet, providing ample storage space.

Is the Acura Navigation System available in the TL?

• Yes, the Acura Navigation System is the only factory-installed option available for the TL.

How does the suspension of the TL enhance driving comfort?

• The TL features a redesigned suspension that balances isolation from road harshness while maintaining responsiveness and handling.