Another useful safety feature is the rearview camera, integrated into the spoiler, both of which are introduced in the Technology Package. The paint on luxury brands like Acura is Teflon-esque in its ability to take a punch – or so I’ve read – but why risk scratching it all?
The SH-AWD is mated with a 3.7L 24-valve six-cylinder engine with multi-point programmed fuel injection. It puts out 305 ponies and a testosterone-enhancing 273 lb-ft of torque, more than enough to convey its curb weight of 1,820 kg. When you lift the hood, that engine is seemingly served on a platter. A plastic tray covers all else but the antifreeze tube. This quarantining of the engine is not unique and is becoming increasingly common but remains oddly thrilling.
    2013 Acura TL SH-AWD Elite. Click image to enlarge |
Despite the attractive engine presentation and its power, you don’t hear it much even if you gun it hard or when you switch to sport mode (though heaven knows you feel it!). The TL is exceptionally well soundproofed. The balanced doors are heavy and seal with a satisfying thunk. And the aerodynamics are such that driving with the sunroof open isn’t all that noisy either. Mind, the eight-speaker sound system easily compensates.
It wasn’t all wine and roses behind the wheel, though. The driver’s seat, programmable for two operators, just never quite felt right to me. Plus I found the dash rather high, leaving me feeling like I wasn’t getting the full view over the hood. On the final day I lifted the seat to its maximum, finally attaining that view, but my head was nearly scraping the ceiling, despite the roomy 976 mm of headroom, and I felt like a kid on a booster seat. So, yes, the seat was frustrating, especially within such an otherwise enjoyable driving experience. The steering wheel’s telescopic and tilt ranges are impressively broad, which alleviated the frustration somewhat.
That big engine only takes premium gasoline, so you’ll be paying for the luxury and performance. Furthermore its fuel economy stats are 10.4 L/100 km in the city and 6.8 on the highway. So get familiar with the cruise control early to maximize fuel efficiency. It’s simple to learn and operate. The ‘i’ button just below the cruise control is a useful button too, offering access to much live feedback on your drive.
If you’re not on the highway or stuck in thick traffic, use the paddles to shift throughout the six gears. It brings the feel of the road closer to your hands. Interestingly though, unlike a lot of powerful cars, the difference between the regular drive and sport mode isn’t as noticeable. The TL is always responsive and sporty.
   2013 Acura TL SH-AWD Elite. Click image to enlarge |
So what if you did want to use it as a primary family vehicle — is it practical? There’s less spare legroom in the back seats than you’d think, 920 mm, and though the TL technically seats five, the middle hump is acceptable as a seat only for a small child.
There’s a big trunk – total cargo volume is a spacious 371 L. Despite a long weekend in the country with an electric piano, groceries for six and three suitcases, I had room to spare. (Beneath the floor of the trunk you’ll find a temporary spare tire and jack set.) There’s also decent width, 1880 mm before side mirrors, which not only helps with the cornering, it allows for plenty of elbowroom. You get in and want to stretch out.
