The 2002 model 3.2 CL combines a powerful engine, impressive handling and a comprehensive list of standard features in a sophisticated luxury performance coupe package. Available in two models -- the luxurious 3.2 CL and the high-performance CL Type-S -- the CL is a powerful testament to Acura's commitment to performance engineered vehicles.
"The CL has hit the mark with discriminating car buyers who want luxury car comfort and quality without sacrificing sports coupe power and handling," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president, sales. "With solid performance, and an assortment of standard luxury appointments, the CL strikes the perfect balance between sportiness and sophistication."
Powertrain
Both the CL and the CL Type-S are powered by 3.2 liter, 24-valve, all aluminum, V-6 engines featuring the patented VTEC™ (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) system. The 3.2 CL's engine produces 225 horsepower and 216 lb.-ft. of torque, providing quick acceleration and effortless cruising. The CL Type-S delivers 260 horsepower at 6100 rpm, making it one of the most powerful luxury performance coupes in its class. To achieve its high output, the CL Type-S incorporates several engine enhancements including a high volume, dual-stage induction system, low-restriction dual-outlet exhaust, larger diameter throttle body, increased compression ratio, and special intake valves, camshafts and cylinder heads. These elements also give the Type-S a broad torque curve producing 232 lb.-ft. of torque between 3500 and 5500 rpm.
Both the 3.2 CL and CL Type-S engines feature a direct ignition system with knock control, which ensures a properly timed spark for optimal power and fuel efficiency at all engine speeds. Platinum-tipped spark plugs allow the cars to run for 105,000 miles before their first engine tune up.
Both CL models come with five-speed automatic transmissions featuring Sequential SportShift™, which gives the driver the ability to select gears manually or enjoy the benefits of a fully automatic transmission. The wide-ratio, 5-speed provides quick acceleration while reducing engine rpm at cruising speed, resulting in increased fuel efficiency and reduced engine noise.
High-Performance Chassis
To complement the performance capabilities of the powertrain, chassis engineers gave the CL a rigid unit-body structure featuring isolated front and rear subframes. Coupled with this rigid frame, 4-wheel independent double wishbone suspension with stabilizer bars and a front shock tower bar produce extraordinary handling that rivals Europe's finest luxury performance coupes. The CL Type-S incorporates additional suspension enhancements, including firmer springs, increased damping rates and a larger rear stabilizer bar for even greater cornering capability. Large diameter, 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS combine with high-performance, V-rated, all season Michelin tires -- 205/60R16 on CL; 215/50R17 on CL Type-S, to further enhance handling.
Fully-featured
The 2002 CL luxury performance coupe has been equipped with a comprehensive array of comfort and convenience features. Interior appointments include an Acura/Bose® six-speaker music system with six-disc, in-dash CD changer, automatic climate control system with micron air filtration, power moonroof and leather-trimmed seating surfaces with four individual bucket seats. The CL also includes heated, power front seats with an easy-access, power walk-in feature for easier rear-seat access, keyless remote entry with driver's seat and side mirror memory, a front center console with adjustable armrest and the HomeLink® remote control system.
To further enhance its sporty personality, the CL Type-S features perforated leather seats and steering wheel, a metallic-faced instrument panel and a Type-S-badged, perforated leather shifter knob. CL Type-S models with an ebony-colored interior also sport a unique ebony wood patterned trim on the center console and doors.
Acura Satellite-Linked Navigation System
The sophisticated, yet easy-to-use Acura Satellite-Linked Navigation System is the only factory option available on either the CL or the CL Type-S. A pioneer in the area of in-dash navigation systems, Acura was the first luxury automobile brand in North America to offer a Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) mapping database, providing coverage of the continental United States on a single DVD. The DVD database includes over 3.7 million points of interest, while a large, 6-inch, color LCD display with a matte-finish touch screen reduces glare and fingerprinting.
Leading Edge Safety
Acura technology extends to the area of vehicle safety giving the CL an extensive list of standard safety features. Both CL models are equipped with standard xenon high intensity discharge (HID) headlights for excellent nighttime visibility, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Traction Control System (TCS) along with driver and front passenger Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) air bags with a dual stage inflation system for the passenger's air bag.
Side air bags for the driver and front passenger are also standard and incorporate a sophisticated occupant height and position sensor system in the front passenger's seat, allowing the control module to temporarily shut off the passenger's side air bag if a child or small adult leans into the deployment path of the air bag.
The Type-S adds a unique Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system that monitors lateral (cornering) stability to seamlessly integrate traction control, anti-lock braking and stability control functions. This innovative VSA System is designed to assist the driver in maintaining control during acceleration, cornering and sudden collision-avoidance maneuvers by applying brake force to the right or left front wheel as necessary and managing the throttle and fuel injection systems.
Environmentally Conscious
The CL provides luxury and performance while balancing Acura's commitment to the environment, as both the 3.2 CL and CL Type-S models are Low Emission Vehicles (LEV). The California model 3.2 CL meets Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) standards with further reduced emissions. The CL delivers excellent fuel economy with EPA Mileage Estimates of 19 mpg city / 29 mpg highway.
Like all Acura models, the CL is covered by a comprehensive 4-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty. Additional ownership benefits include Acura Total Luxury Care (TLC), which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service and trip routing.
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