Superb handling
With stiffer anti-roll bars, springs and shocks, the TL Type-S is very agile and manoeuvrable. However, I still feel a little body roll in curves, which left me perplex; after noticing this, I checked out the tires to discover that, in the dead of May, the car still has its winter boots on. This car has a lot of mileage, so I think that I'm the last person to drive it before it gets taken off the press fleet.

The Type-S is easily recognizable by its exclusive 17-inch alloy wheels.

Competition
This TL Type-S costs $46,300, and the only option is the $1,300 automatic. You can also check out these sporty luxury sedans and their pricing once they're similarly equipped:

Audi A4 3.2 Quattro with navigation and options, $54,495;
BMW 335i with navigation, $60,745;
Dodge Charger R/T with navigation and options, $45,835;
Infiniti G35 Sport M6 with navigation, $49,740;
Lexus IS 350 with Sport Package, $53,950;
Lincoln MKZ with navigation and options, $43,314;
Nissan Maxima 3.5SE 4-seat with Navigation and Sunroof Packages, $46,448;
Saab 9-5 with navigation and options, $48,855;
Subaru Legacy 2.5GT Spec.B (navigation included), $44,995;
Volkswagen Passat 3.6L with navigation and options, $48,605;
Volvo S60 T5 with navigation and options, $56,095.

In short, the Type-S is very well-equipped for the price. The BMW and the Audi are compacts with mid-size price tags. The Charger, IS 350, MKZ, Maxima and Passat are only available with an automatic. As for torque steer, there are worst offenders than the TL in this bunch. And if you want a navigation system in the IS 350, you have to choose the Luxury with Navigation Package, and the price climbs to $59,950... ouch.

Conclusion
Acura may still not be a brand with the prestige of BMW or Mercedes-Benz, but it has created a sporty, comfortable, fast, attractive and inexpensive sedan. The TL Type-S has a few little shortcomings, but in general, it's a great cruise missile that has all it needs to please its owner. The models mentioned above are all competent sedans, but if I had to choose, I'd have a hard time making up my mind between the Type-S and the G35. Come to think of it, the fact that the TL is front-wheel drive doesn't matter all that much.


Powerful, growling and reasonably-frugal engine
Bang for the buck
Luxurious cockpit and impressive sound system


Touch-screen climate controls
Mild torque steer
Tight for three people in the back seat



A tape deck???


Photo Credit : Philippe Champoux