"The best-selling car at Honda's upscale Acura division enters 2006 little-changed. The TL is based on the Honda Accord platform, but has different styling, powertrains, and more upscale features. The only engine is a 258-hp V6 with a choice of a 6-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission with manual shift gate. TLs with manual transmission include a firmer suspension, Brembo-brand front brakes, and limited-slip differential. They're also available with performance tires instead of all-season treads. Every TL comes with 17-inch wheels, ABS, antiskid system, front side airbags, and head-protecting curtain side airbags. Also standard are leather upholstery with heated front seats, aluminum interior trim, sunroof, satellite radio, and an in-dash CD changer that plays DVD-Audio discs. TL also comes with Acura's HandsFreeLink, which employs the audio system as a hands-free, wireless link to cell phones. A navigation system with voice command is optional."

"A freshening of some kind is said to be in store for the 2007 or '08 TL. One source says it could be fairly extensive and include available all-wheel drive, which we'd welcome. A clean-sheet makeover isn't likely until model-year '09 or 2010 to keep in sync with the design cycle of its Honda Accord parent."

"Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Midsize Cars sport interior dimensions similar to Midsize Cars. Premium Midsize Cars offer more luxury, performance, and prestige when compared to Midsize Cars. This segment is one of the industry's fastest-growing categories.
Our Best Buys include Acura TL, Cadillac CTS, and Infiniti M. Our Recommended picks include the Acura RL, Infiniti G35, Lexus ES 330, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
New or significantly redesigned models include Lexus GS, Lincoln Zephyr, and Mercedes-Benz CLS."

Acceleration
"Strong, though best above 3500 rpm. Test automatic-transmission TL did 0-60 mph in about 7.0 sec. Automatic downshifts smoothly, promptly for good midrange response. Manual-transmission test car did 6.2 sec 0-60. Manual has silky, short-throw shift action, but clutch engagement can be abrupt. "

Value
"This Acura is an impressive blend of sport and luxury. Its only real dynamic flaw is the tendency toward torque steer--pulling to the side--during rapid acceleration in the manual-transmission version. Still, the TL is a solid Best Buy, delivering high refinement, solid workmanship, and lots of features at hard-to-beat prices."

Ride
"Stable, controlled, though tauter than comfort-minded rivals like Lexus ES 330. Manual-transmission models' handling-focused suspension gives even firmer ride, especially with the performance tires. Notably rigid body structure."

Economy
"Test manual-transmission TLs averaged 17.7-23.3 mpg, depending on driving conditions. Test automatic-transmission version averaged 23.0 mpg. Acura recommends premium-grade fuel."

Noise
"Wind rush modest, but available performance tires roar intrusively. Engine note sporty but subdued."

Comfort - Front
"Comfortable seats with good lateral support for spirited driving, though some testers say they're firmer than necessary and too sharply contoured. Sufficient space for 6-footers, but cockpitlike design makes for cozy feel."

Comfort - Rear
"Tight head room for taller riders. Seat cushion low to floor, oddly shaped, lacks thigh support. Leg room gets tight if front seats are more than halfway back. Entry/exit requires negotiating narrow lower door frame."

Controls
"Clear gauges, well-marked controls. Cutting-edge DVD-Audio sounds terrific. HandsFreeLink easy to use. Navigation system doesn't absorb primary audio/climate functions, but does complicate some adjustments, takes time to master, and often needs screen brightness changed to suit light conditions. Cabin near top of class for fit/finish, materials quality, and standard amenities like leather upholstery and heated power front seats."

Cargo Room
"Smallish trunk, but usefully shaped. Low liftover, but constricted opening. Lid hinges intrude, but are covered to prevent cargo damage. Rear seatback doesn't fold, has small center ski pass-through. Modest in-cabin storage. "