1999 Acura 3.2TL...Continued

We looked at:

Roominess And Comfort: The new TL is wider and longer overall than the car it replaces. In fact, the interior space increased enough to move the car from the compact into the mid-size category. This improvement is most noticeable by the car's rear-seat occupants. This is as it should be. After all, one generally buys a sedan to accommodate passengers. The spacious front seat area was comfortable for driver and passenger alike during the ride-and-drive in British Columbia. Plenty of elbow, head, shoulder and leg room for varying-sized riders and drivers.

Although we didn't put the automatic climate control system to much of a test as the weather was nearly perfect during our press visit in Whistler, the system kept us comfortable whatever our altitude. The only weather variation we noted was watching the outside temperature gauge fluctuate as we sped up and down mountain roads. The outstanding Bose music system with AM/FM stereo/cassette and in-dash CD player made the experience even finer.

Other touches that provided an added level of comfort on our luxurious drive were easy-to-use cup holders and a convenient front door storage bin for the indispensable route maps.

Driving Position: It's easy to find a just-right position to effectively navigate the TL. The 8-way power driver's seat moves every which way including up and down. The tilt steering wheel, leather-wrapped, of course, provides further adjustments. The controls are driver-friendly, conveniently located and sized for easy use. The audio controls on the steering wheel offer safe driving assistance. Visibility is excellent, further aiding a confident driving adventure.

Cargo Space: The TL's trunk is a very respectable 14.3 cubic foot size. If needed, the locking trunk pass-through provides space for long items.