Acura light trucks take center stage for the 2007 model year with the introduction of the all-new RDX entry premium SUV and the second generation MDX luxury SUV. Featuring Acura's first turbocharged engine and the groundbreaking Super Handling-All Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™) first found on the RL luxury sedan, the RDX packs the utility of an SUV with the performance of a sports sedan. Launching this fall, the all-new MDX will once again raise the bar in the luxury SUV segment. Equipped with Acura's most powerful engine ever, a 3.7L V-6 and coupled with SH-AWD™, the MDX skillfully combines luxury, performance and utility for an exhilarating driving experience. Additionally, the TL Type-S returns to the Acura lineup, bringing with it more performance, a sportier suspension and race-inspired styling. Other Acura models receive changes for the 2007 model year, including new trim packages for the RL luxury sedan and the addition of safety equipment to the TSX sports sedan.
"The 2007 Acura lineup is the most diverse in the division's history," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president, sales. "With the introduction of two all-new SUV's in the MDX and RDX plus the addition of a sportier TL to the lineup, Acura is once again staying ahead of the competition and introducing the right products at the right time."
For the 2007 model year, similar to 2006, horsepower and torque specifications for all Acura models in current press materials reflect Society of Automotive Engineers (SA) J1349 (Rev 8/04) net calculations that went into effect in January of 2005. These new calculations reflect a number of significant changes in the way horsepower and torque are measured and cause SAE net horsepower and torque totals published in this year's press materials to differ from those published in previous years. To avoid confusion, all 2007 Acura press materials will specify SAE net (Rev 8/04) after all horsepower and torque figures to denote adherence to the new standards.
RDX
Equipped with Acura's first turbocharged engine and Super Handling-All Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™), the all-new RDX entry premium SUV delivers a new level of driving excitement to consumers seeking sports sedan performance with SUV utility. The RDX's turbocharged and intercooled 2.3-liter 16-valve, DOHC i-VTEC® inline-four engine generates 240 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 240 ft-lbs of torque at 4500 rpm. The innovative variable flow turbocharger provides an exceptionally broad powerband with virtually no turbo lag produced. A 5-speed automatic transmission with F1®-style Sequential SportShift Paddle Shifters can function as a conventional automatic transmission or, at the driver's option, be shifted manually via steering-wheel-mounted paddles. The electronically controlled Drive-by-Wire Throttle System™ and automatic transmission work together to execute shifts, resulting in exceptionally quick and smooth gear changes. The RDX provides an EPA estimated city/highway fuel economy rating of 19/23 miles per gallon.
The RDX rides on 4-wheel independent suspension - specially tuned MacPherson struts in front and a mutli-link design in back - are specially tuned to complement the SH-AWD system to deliver linear cornering feel, optimum traction and a smooth ride. The standard 18" alloy wheels are fitted with P235/55VR18 99V Michelin high performance all season tires. Large 4-wheel ventilated disc brakes, ABS, Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist provide optimum stopping power.
The innovative performance of the RDX is matched with equally inspired styling. Elegant and decisive styling lines run the length of the body, with muscular wheel arches and short overhangs further adding to the a poised, powerful look. Designed to be easily maneuverable through crowded city streets, the RDX features a low hood line to improve forward visibility and a flush mounted bumper for tight parking situations. The standard high-intensity (HID) headlights command the front corners of the fascia and fenders.
The RDX is so well equipped that only one option package is available. Appealing to audiophile and computer-savvy customers, the Technology Package makes the RDX truly "wired." The available Technology Package includes a 10-speaker Acura/ELS Surround® Premium Sound System with multi-format 6-disc DVD-A changer, AM/FM tuner, and XM® Satellite Radio. The Technology Package also includes HandsFreeLink® wireless telephone interface, AcuraLink™ Satellite Communication System with Real Time Traffic, the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, rearview camera and a GPS-linked, solar-sensing, dual-zone, automatic climate control system. In total, these technologies put the RDX at the cutting edge of the Entry Premium SUV segment.
MDX
Benchmarked against some of the best performance SUVs in the world and tuned on the world famous Nurburgring racetrack in Germany, the completely redesigned 2007 MDX expands on the capabilities - and the appeal - of its highly successful predecessor. Featuring Acura's most powerful engine in its history, a 3.7-liter V-6 engine and coupled with SH-AWD, the MDX pushes the limits of SUV performance while retaining the functionality currently enjoyed by the previous generation MDX. The best in class 3.7-liter, SOHC, VTEC V-6 produces 300 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 275 lbs-ft of torque at 5000 making it competitive with many V-8 engines without sacrificing fuel economy or low emissions. A 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift is designed to satisfy the most performance-oriented drivers.
To obtain the driving dynamics similar to top European sedans and SUV's the MDX features highly tuned steering, suspension and brakes. MacPherson struts in front and separately mounted rear multi-link suspension coupled with the SH-AWD system give the MDX optimum response, stability and consistency.
A new optional Active Damper System gives the MDX outstanding levels of handling responsiveness while maintaining refined levels of ride comfort. The standard 18" alloy wheels are fitted with P235/55VR18 104H Michelin high performance all season tires. Large 4-wheel ventilated disc brakes are the largest ever for an Acura, combined with ABS, Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist give the MDX best in class stopping capabilities.
The 2007 MDX is longer, wider and lower than the previous generation MDX yet maintains the same weight thanks to use of high-strength steel as well as aluminum and magnesium. The MDX is also equipped with the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, which distributes collision forces through the structure during a frontal accident while helping to retain the integrity of the passenger compartment. The MDX features a distinctive exterior styling with aggressive fender flares and a bold Acura five-sided grille. The sleek exterior masks the third row seating capacity and ample cargo space.
The MDX interior features a driver oriented cockpit and a 4+3 seating concept which emphasizes comfort, luxury and style of the front seats and the outboard second-row positions. The MDX continues to feature class leading cargo capacity, with a maximum of 83.5 cubic feet available when the two rows of seats are folded flat.
Loaded with the latest technology, the MDX features a standard 8-speaker Acura Premium Sound System, XM Satellite Radio and a MP3 Auxiliary jack. In addition, several packages allow consumers to get the exact features they are looking for including an available Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition and real time traffic information, an Acura/ELS Surround Premium Sound System and DVD rear entertainment system.
TL
The 2007 Acura TL storms into the midsized luxury market with revised exterior and interior styling, an improved navigation system with AcuraLink™ satellite communication system with real-time traffic and the re-introduction of the Type-S performance model. Featuring 286 horsepower from a new 3.5-liter V-6 engine, the TL Type-S is a complete performance package that includes a re-tuned suspension along with unique exterior styling and interior trim that delivers the emotional thrill of a high performance luxury sedan without sacrificing comfort and convenience.
The 2007 TL also receives several changes among them are an all-new, more compact 5-speed automatic transmission and improved coordination between the vehicle's Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system and its transmission for smoother shifts. The TL also features a re-tuned suspension for an emphasis on ride comfort and newly designed front fascia, headlights and taillights.
In addition to what is already found on the 2007 TL, the all-new 2007 TL Type-S adds several features. The high performance powertrain and sport tuned suspension are paired with a choice of a 5-speed automatic or six speed manual transmission. Exclusive Type-S black chrome front fascia, headlight and taillight design and 10-spoke alloy wheels in Dark Euro Silver give the vehicle a sinister appearance. On the interior, the Type-S features carbon fiber and chrome interior trim, a standard Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ and rear view camera as well as AcuraLink™ satellite communication system with real-time traffic and Active Noise Cancellation.™
Type-S also comes in an exclusive exterior color: Blue Pearl Kinetic.
RL
The Acura RL continues to be one of the most technologically advanced vehicles on the road, garnering accolades from top technical outlets like CNET and PC Magazine. Combining the best of the performance, design, technology, style and safety, the RL connects the driver to the road like no other vehicle. The innovation built into the RL begins with the 3.5-liter VTEC™ V-6 engine, generating 290* horsepower and 256 lbs-ft of torque. In addition to developing abundant power, the RL engine meets tough LEV2-ULEV emission standards and delivers excellent fuel economy of 18/26 mpg (city/highway).
For 2007, the RL adds several new interior features including a standard MP3 auxiliary jack and passenger seatbelt reminder. A new rearview camera is also available for RL equipped with navigation. To complement these new features and to give technology savvy buyers exactly what they are looking for, the 2007 RL is now available in three distinct trim levels: RL, RL with Technology Package and RL CMBS/PAX Package.
- 2007 RL includes all the standard features previously found on 2006 RL with the exception of the features included in the Technology Package.
- 2007 RL with Technology Package includes the standard features found on the RL and adds Acura Satellite Navigation System and AcuraLink™ with Real Time Traffic, rearview camera, Active Front Lighting (AFL) and an enhanced wood interior.
- RL with CMBS/PAX Package includes all features in the Technology Package and adds Acura's Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS) and Michelin PAX Run-flat tires. Introduced last year, CMBS uses a millimeter-wave radar unit mounted inside the front grille to detect vehicles ahead and monitor potential rear-end collisions, alert the driver when the likelihood of a collision increases, and help reduce the impact on front occupants by tightening the seatbelts and applying the brakes should a collision prove to be imminent. The Michelin PAX System run-flat tire technology helps provide enhanced safety and security with continuous mobility of up to 125 miles at 50 mph following a tire puncture. RL with CMBS/PAX also adds the convenience of Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC).
TSX
The TSX continues to be a hot seller for Acura, winning over customers who are looking for sporty performance, a stylish exterior and the latest in technology and top accolades from automotive media (TSX was named to Car & Driver's 10Best list for the third consecutive year).
The TSX is powered by a 2.4-liter i-VTEC™ four cylinder engine that produces 205 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 164 lb-ft at 4500 rpm. The TSX is available with either a 6-speed manual transmission (with a lightweight magnesium case) or a 5-speed SportShift™ automatic that offers quick and precise gear changes. Thanks to its i-VTEC® intelligent variable valve timing and lift, the engine provides a broad, useable powerband that's uncommon in a 4-cylinder engine, together with a stirring high-rpm power rush. While powerful, the TSX retains excellent fuel economy with a city/highway EPA estimated 22/31 miles per gallon for TSX equipped with the automatic transmission.
For 2007, the TSX receives additional safety features and is now equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
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