2002 Acura TL Type-S

A driver-selectable 5-speed automatic distinguishes the Type-S from regular TLs, as does the Vehicle Stability Assist traction-control feature.

The new Type-S is just as capable of handling passengers as it is of handling a challenging back road. In keeping with the already well-established TL philosophy, the Type-S only comes one way: fully loaded. Save for color, the sole choice faced by prospective buyers is whether to acquire one with or without a DVD-based navigation system. The TL's massive roster of standards includes leather upholstery, automatic climate-control air conditioning, power windows/locks/mirrors, keyless remote entry, tilt steering column, cruise control, front/front-side airbags, Bose AM/FM/CD stereo with new 6-disc in-dash changer, powered and heated front seats, power moonroof and an anti-theft system with alarm. Expanding on that basic theme, the Type-S package adds special perforated leather trim, a metallic-look gauge cluster and ebony faux-wood trim in place of the ersatz walnut found in the base TL.


Balancing this magnum load of hardware is an equally generous measure of driver friendliness. A multitude of adjustments makes it easy to get comfortable behind the wheel, and solid attention to ergonomic detail puts virtually every major control stalk and switch within easy reach. Save for the fact that fine-tuning the air-conditioning setup on NAV-equipped cars such as ours could only be done via a menu screen on the LCD display, general operations are commendably straightforward. Although occupants of the aft quarters won't find this Acura's rear bench seat quite as accommodating as its well-formed front buckets, a pair of average-sized adults can ride in reasonable comfort, and three-across is at last possible for shorter stints.

The 2002 TL Type-S is so well equipped that it offers only one option: a DVD-based navigation system.

Stepping up to Type-S adds $2,350 to the price of a standard TL, which opens at $28,880 and commands $30,880 if fitted with a navigation system. Our test vehicle stickered at $33,710, including $430 in destination fees. Given its comprehensive equipment level and impressive performance capabilities, Acura's new TL Type-S offers an intriguing and decidedly legitimate alternative to well-established competitors like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedans. (www.acura.com)