Acura, known for its sporty and luxurious models, is bringing American coupe drivers home in style with its CL Series of luxury sports coupes, the first Acura model designed, engineered and manufactured exclusively in the United States. With a bold exterior design and best-in-class luxury appointments, the sporty CL Series is pioneering a resurgence in the luxury coupe market.
New for 1998, the 2.2CL is replaced by the 2.3CL featuring a more powerful 2.3-liter, 150 horsepower engine. The 3.0CL features a finely tuned 3.0-liter, 200 horsepower, V-6 engine. Both models include Acura's exclusive Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) system for outstanding low-end torque and high-rpm power and both do not require scheduled tune-ups for 100,000 miles.
"We couldn't be more pleased with the runaway success of the CL line," said Rich Thomas, Acura's executive vice president and general manager. "We think the enhancements added to the 1998 models, including a more performance-oriented engine for the 2.3CL, will only boost their popularity with consumers."
New standard features offered on the 1998 CL line include:
- A new vertical fin front grille
- Body colored front and rear bumper skirt and side sills
- Bright machine-finished alloy wheels with distinctive wheel designs for both models
- Steering wheel-mounted audio system controls
- Immobilizer anti-theft system
- Simulated woodgrain trimmed console
Acura's electronically controlled 4-speed automatic transmission is standard on the 3.0CL and optional on the 2.3CL and features Acura's Grade Logic Control System, which reduces "hunting" for the right gear while driving uphill or downhill.
New for 1998, the HomeLink® Universal Transmitter is a standard feature on all 3.0CLs and the 2.3CL with the Premium Package. HomeLink® replaces the need for garage door openers or other electronic control devices that often clutter the visor area. The transmitter can hold up to three codes for remote controlled devices, and will activate the devices by a push of the button. Now CL drivers have access to opening the garage door, turning on lights inside the house or even unlocking their front doors by using the HomeLink® Universal Transmitter.
The 3.0CL offers the highest number of standard features in its class, including an automatic climate control system, premium AM/FM/CD Bose music system, a power driver's seat, power windows and door mirrors, a power tilt-sliding glass moonroof, and a remote keyless entry with security system. The available Premium Package adds a leather-trimmed interior and heated seats to both CL models.
The 2.3 and 3.0CL models feature front-wheel.. drive, four-wheel double-wishbone suspension, four-wheel disc brakes and a standard anti-lock braking system (ABS).
Both models this year feature new exterior colors including, Cardiff Blue-Green Pearl, Iced Teal Pearl and Taffeta White.
Like all Acura models, the 2.3CL and 3.0CLs are 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.