Double Fantasy 2010 Acura RL CMBS and TL SH-AWD TECH

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2010 ACURA RL CMBS

From the very onset the RL smiles at you on approach. The big grin of the chrome grille serves as a fixed reminder to oncoming drivers that this is the driving experience they dream about.

Aesthetically, while the RL is sleek and screams refinement it does have an undeniable edge. The hard lines sloping and shaping the front and rear fascias give the RL its futuristic feel. The perfect touch of chrome gives the RL a hip profile without overstating the sophisticated aspect of the vehicle. Exterior features like the power moon roof with a tilting ability, Xenon Hid headlights, 18-inch Alloy wheels and a keyless access system round out the eye-pleasing look of the RL.

While the updated exterior is the first introduction of the new mid-size luxury sedan, the performance and interior are equally as impressive.

With a powerful 300 horsepower, 3.7L SOHC 24 valve V6 engine coupled with a 5-Speed Automatic Transmission with Sequential SportShift, the RL delivers at the drop of a dime. The RL is a true road gripper with SH-AWD (Special Handling-All Wheel Drive). The curvaceous and sometimes treacherous portions of Los Angeles’ Mulholland Dr. proved to be no match for the Front Double-Wishbone and Rear and Multi-Link Suspension with a grounded and sturdy ride.

The interior of the RL is where this car really shines. Loaded with luxurious amenities and cutting edge technology, the RL satisfies all the senses. Perforated leather-trimmed seats, a powerful 10 Speaker Acura/Bose Surround Sound Systemic, with 6 Disc DVD-A, CD, DTS and MP3 functionality, XM Satellite Radio, 10-Way Driver and Front Passenger Power Seats, Bluetooth Hands-Free, and Power Rear Sunshade allows the driver to ride in style and comfort without compromising luxury.

On the technological side the RL delivers as well. Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition and Rearview Camera provided this driver with fool proof directions to some of the most obscure locations; those off-the-beaten-path boutiques and cafes. The AcuraLink Communication System with Real-Time Traffic and Weather came in handy with the ‘schizophrenic’ tendencies of the 405. The ‘grid-lock’ prone freeway could easily be diverted before it was too late with this feature. The voice-command for the audio and climate controls was an added bonus. Switching from Frankie Beverly and Maze to Sade was seamless as I navigated through musical selections on my iPod via the USB Audio Interface.

MSRP $55,060 For more info visit www.acura.com 

2010 ACURA TL SH-AWD Tech

Often compared to its big brother the RL, the TL is no shrinking violet. Sure the price point may be more appealing to buyers on a budget, but in no way are power, luxury and charisma of this mid-size luxury bandit sacrificed.  Out pacing the RL by 5 ponies, the 305 hp gives the TL a lot of get up and go with a 3.7 SOHC 24-Valve VTEC V6 engine. The SH-AWD (Special Handling-All Wheel Drive) and the High-Flow Sport-Tuned Exhaust System is a natural fit for such an aggressive and luxurious sedan. The “Scrappy-Doo” persona of the TL offers the driver a sporty and luxurious experience. The sarcastic smirk of the front chrome grille serves as a warning in any rearview mirror. 

The driving experience was exhilarating. The engineers tap into their inner road warrior with the handling of the TL. The ‘Special Handling” All Wheel Drive is just that…special. Navigating around corners, whether hair pin (shout out to the Malibu hills) or just your everyday run-of-the-mill circular freeway on ramp, the High-Flow Sport-Tuned Exhaust System, The Electric Power-Assisted Rack-and-Pinion steering, kept the TL low and tight to the road…even at accelerated speeds (of course all with-in the speed limit…wink, wink). I felt like snoopy with the wind blowing my red scarf behind me whipping down the road.

The speed and agility of the TL is complemented by the style of this sporty ride. The TL is sleek with an attitude. Not sporty just for sporty sake, TL blends luxury and style without being too heavy on either side. The Sport Seats with perforated premium leather trim winks at luxury with sly grin (much like the front chrome grille).  The 10-way driver’s seat accommodates any driving vibe; laid back or straight-up on the money in comfort.

Music aficionados will love the concert-quality of the Acura/ELS Surround System with 10 speakers and a Hard Disk Drive capable of holding selections from all your musical heroes. Getting from A to B is a breeze with the Acura Navigation System included in the Tech Package. Voice Recognition and AcuraLink Communication System with Real Time Weather and Traffic sweeten the pot of an already incredible ride. 

MSRP $43,195 For more info visit www.acura.com