Love It, Hate It: Presenting The New Acura TL

Bold new design. Innovative good looks. Eye catching appeal. These are some of the words automakers use to describe a new model, particularly one that has somewhat of a controversial look to it. Ford has done that recently with its Flex wagon, Subaru with the first generation Tribeca, and you can expect more of the same from Acura when the all-new TL goes on sale this Fall.

Late last week, American Honda released the first photograph (pictured above) of the next generation Acura TL and the grill is sure to spark a lot of jabber. Perhaps not as polarizing as the Ford Flex, but you’ll probably either like the new look or wish they stuck with something closer to the 2008′s design.

Acura isn’t saying a whole lot about the new TL just yet, other than to boast about its “dramatic styling” and its luxurious, technology-friendly interior. The TL will feature what Acura says is its most powerful engine ever and be available in two distinctive versions including the first ever application of Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®).

The timing of the TL’s release should help spark sales which is a good thing as Acura’s year-to-date sales of 77,914 (through June 30th) are down 14.3% versus 2007. Most luxury brands are experiencing a drop in business this year as the US works through its current economic doldrums.

Further Reading

All-New 2009 Acura TL to Debut This Fall

2009 Acura TL first official photo, details released