Acura TL Type-S

The TL Type-S is a more powerful version of the third generation Acura TL luxury sedan. In addition to more power, the Type-S has a number of sporty features that distinguish it from its more conservative sibling.

Power comes from a 3.5-liter VTEC V6 engine cranking out 286 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 256 lb-ft of torque at 5000 rpm. The motor is mated to either a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed automatic with steering wheel mounted F1-style paddle shifters.

All TL Type-S models feature powerful Brembo four-piston front brake calipers and a suspension tuned for enhanced handling. The car also features firmer front and rear anti roll bars, stiffer coil springs and shocks, as well as numerous other sport-oriented suspension refinements. Also available are special 235/45R17 Bridgestone Potenza RE 030 high performance summer tires that further enhance handling.

Comfort and convenience technologies include a 225-watt Acura/ELS Surround Premium sound system with DVD-Audio, Acura Satellite-Linked Navigation System (standard on the Type-S) featuring AcuraLink with real-time traffic information in 76 metropolitan markets, and Bluetooth HandsFreeLink technology that allows drivers to synchronize their cell phone address books with the vehicle.

The TL Type-S boasts exclusive front and rear fascia styling cues, black chrome trim, wider side sills, ten spoke alloy wheels and aggressive quad tailpipes. Both

The car features a driver-oriented cockpit with titanium-colored accents, LED ambient lighting, and spun metal dials. It also features several exclusive interior cues such as aggressively bolstered two-toned leather sport seats, TL Type-S logo embossed on the seat head rest and steering wheel, textured stainless-steel pedals and an Active Noise Cancellation system.

In addition to front and side airbags, TL Type-S is equipped with standard side curtain airbags to help protect vehicle occupants from head and neck injuries in the event of a side impact collision.