2011 Acura TL - Interior

INTERIOR OVERVIEW

The 2011 TL's interior represents the pinnacle of Acura's driver-oriented sport sedan thinking matched with outstanding luxury. The interior has a "dual personal" layout, with a feeling of personal space for each of the front seat occupants. Sweeping shapes and high quality materials blend a luxury aesthetic with a feeling of advanced technology. Typical of Acura, the driver's control layout is meticulously engineered for intuitive, ergonomically correct functionality. In keeping with Acura's pursuit of the latest in functional convenience, the TL incorporates more useful technology than ever before. In the case of versions equipped with the Technology Package, the TL incorporates advances never before seen in an Acura.

Building on the excellent interior packaging of its TL predecessor, the 2011 TL gains an additional 1.1 inches of rear legroom and 0.4-inch of rear shoulder room. Seating is specially engineered, with high-damping foam in the front seats for excellent comfort. Both a supportive 10-way adjustable power actuated driver seat and an 8-way adjustable power actuated passenger seat are standard. TL SH-AWD® models get special high-bolster front seats for greater support during cornering. Additional standard luxury features include front seat heaters and a dual-mode, dual-temperature automatic climate control system which includes automatic humidity control and features rear seat vents to help keep the entire passenger cabin at the selected temperature.

True to its mission as a performance luxury sedan, the TL offers its driver a carefully crafted cockpit that puts all functions within easy reach. The leather-wrapped steering wheel has racing-inspired paddle shifters and illuminated controls for frequently used functions. LED backlit gauges frame a high-resolution Multi-Information Display that allows access to multiple electronic functions and customizable feature settings.

A powerful 8-speaker audio system with 6-disc CD changer, AM/FM radio, XM® Radio with Note function music reminder, Dolby® ProLogic® II and Bluetooth® Audio is standard, as is USB port connectivity (for items such as an iPod®, iPhone®, or removable USB mass storage device) and an auxiliary jack interface (for portable MP3 music players). Standard Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® wireless telephone interface makes it easy to send and receive telephone calls on a compatible cellular phone without the driver needing to take hands off the wheel or look away from the road.

The Technology Package (available on TL and TL SH-AWD®) adds a range of advanced features designed to offer the driver increased connectivity to the world around them and added driving enjoyment. Keyless Access System with pushbutton start lets the owner enter and drive the TL without needing to use a remote fob or keys. Inside, there are luxurious full-grain Perforated Milano Premium Leather seating surfaces. The Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ has an 8-inch full VGA high-resolution color display positioned high in the center of the instrument panel where it is closer to the driver's line of sight. With navigation data stored on a built-in hard disk drive (HDD) media storage device, the Navigation system boots up and operates faster than ever before.

The navigation system includes AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting™ along with AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ with radar image maps. For the ultimate in connectivity, the AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System allows direct communication between the TL and Acura, including the ability to make automated appointments for vehicle service.

The Technology Package also features a 3D metallic trim applied to the instrument panel and doors of the TL. Constructed using Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) technology, the trim makes use of a lightweight plastic base covered by a thin layer of textured metal film applied on the top. As a result, the trim looks and feels as if it was constructed entirely of metal. However, the trim is lighter weight, it can be easily formed to contour tight curves or odd shapes and it won't dent like metal.

The TL's renowned Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system returns as part of the Technology Package. The audio system includes a 440-watt Digital Sound Processor amplifier, a 10-speaker surround sound array, and a built-in 12.7 GB hard disk drive (HDD) media storage system that allows the owner to download and store up to 3,000 songs* from CDs for later playback. The Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system offers DVD-Audio, DTS™, CD, AM/FM radio, XM® Radio with Note function music reminder, Bluetooth® Audio, and USB port and AUX jack connectivity.

*Approximate capacity based on an average size of 4.0 MB per song at a 128kbps bitrate

Interior at a Glance

  • Leather-wrapped 3-spoke steering wheel with illuminated fingertip controls
    and racing-inspired paddle shifters
  • LED backlit gauges with progressive illumination
  • High-resolution Multi-Information Display (MID) allows access to multiple electronic functions and customizable feature settings
  • Compass
  • 10-way adjustable power-actuated driver seat (8-way power seat with 2-way power lumbar support)
  • 8-way adjustable power-actuated front passenger seat
  • High/Low heating for front seats
  • Milano premium leather seating surfaces on Technology Package
  • Unique sport seating on SH-AWD® model
  • Solar-sensing, dual-zone, dual-mode automatic climate control system
  • Automatic humidity control system
  • 5-position straight gate transmission shifter
  • Tilt and telescoping steering column
  • Electronic cruise control
  • 8-speaker audio system with 6-disc CD changer, AM/FM tuner, XM® Radio with Note function music reminder and Bluetooth® Audio
  • USB port connectivity (for items such as an iPod® or USB mass storage devices)
  • Auxiliary jack interface (for portable MP3 music players)
  • Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® wireless telephone interface
  • Power moonroof with tilt, auto-open/close, auto-reverse and key-off operation
  • 2-position memory function (for seating position, outside mirror adjustments, radio presets, climate control settings, MID presets, and more)
  • Molded carpet insulation for superior fit and acoustic damping
  • LED interior illumination and map lights

Technology Package (Available on TL and TL SH-AWD®)

  • Keyless Access System (with Smart Entry and pushbutton ignition)
  • Perforated full-grain Milano leather seating surfaces
  • 3D metallic interior trim on instrument panel and doors
  • Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ and rearview camera
  • 8-inch full VGA high-resolution color display
  • AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System
  • AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting™
  • AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ with radar image maps
  • Interface dial provides quick, intuitive access to navigation, audio, climate control and other features
  • Acura/ELS Surround® premium 10-speaker audio system with DVD-Audio, DTS™, CD, AM/FM tuner, XM® Radio with Note function music reminder, Bluetooth® Audio and 3,000-song* hard disk drive (HDD) media storage system, and a 440-watt Digital Signal Processing (DSP) amplifier

STYLING AND MATERIALS

The TL's expressive interior blends luxury and purposeful sporting functionality in equal measure. The quality of interior materials, fit and finish have received close attention to reflect the discerning nature of the TL's target owner. Features like the soft-touch door lining grip, glove box lid and lower instrument panel storage pockets have a rich look and feel. Interior panel gaps are minimized, and low gloss surface finishes have a luxurious look and reduce glare.

Soft touch material is used on the instrument panel for a luxury look and feel. The TL has metallic instrument panel and door garnishes with wood grain center panels. The Technology Package has real metal accents on the doors and an instrument panel, while the center panel has a darker metal appearance. All TL models have trim that benefits from enhanced scratch resistance. Considerable effort has gone into the TL to minimize the presence of PVC and Volatile Organic Compound materials (such as Toluene, Xylene, Formaldehyde, and others) in the interior to create a clean and healthy environment for occupants. In addition, a reduction in PVC and VOC reduces hazy fogging that builds up on the inside of the vehicle glass.

For added comfort, the TL armrests are thicker and softer than ever before. Further improving feel and noise isolation, the TL makes use of a fully structured under-carpet floor padding that is molded to the floor's specific shape, delivers no sinkhole areas, offers improved sound damping and provides a flatter overall look for the carpeting.

DRIVER-ORIENTED COCKPIT

As Acura's premiere performance luxury sedan, the TL features a driver-oriented cockpit that builds on Acura's solid history of intuitive functionality. The wrap-around instrument panel design puts important systems and controls within easy reach of the driver. Supportive seating (with even more pronounced side bolsters in the sporty TL SH-AWD® version) helps keep the driver securely in place. The TL's straight gate transmission shifter is simple and intuitive to operate; racing-inspired paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel provide fingertip control of the transmission. The TL features a 4-pod instrument cluster, and graphic digital displays supplement the main easy-to-read analog instrumentation. The TL's many electronic features are designed to be simple and intuitive to operate. Sight lines are clear with important items placed within easy view.

LEATHER-WRAPPED STEERING WHEEL

The TL's steering wheel is wrapped in premium smooth-grain leather with a Euro Lancia stitching style. The TL SH-AWD® steering wheel has contrasting color stitching and is thicker for a sportier feel. Within fingertip reach are a pair of LED illuminated racing-inspired paddle shifters that upshift and downshift the Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission. Paddle shifters are black on the TL and silver on the SH-AWD®.

The steering wheel incorporates the most commonly used controls, allowing the driver to keep hands on the wheel a larger percentage of time. Audio system controls are positioned on the left spoke, as are navigation system controls (if equipped with the Technology Package), including a push-to-talk button to activate the voice recognition system that provides voice control of the navigation system, as well as operation of the climate control and audio system features. Also on the left are controls for Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® system. Located on the right are controls for the MID and cruise control.

Straight-gate shifter assembly
In place of the previous multi-gate, multi-position transmission shifter, the fourth generation TL employs a straight-gate shifter assembly. Located in the center console, the shifter has an intuitive, easy-to-use design and also takes up less space on the console surface.

SEATING

As Acura's premiere sport sedan, the TL has meticulously engineered seating that is designed to offer supportive comfort combined with secure lateral support during cornering. The TL's front seats use padding that is specially tuned for ride comfort and isolation from road vibration. A supportive 10-way adjustable (8-way adjustable seat with 2-way adjustable lumber support) power-actuated driver seat is standard. All driver's seat power adjustment settings (except power-adjustable lumbar support) can be stored in a pair of user profiles— one for each of the two key fobs that come standard with the TL. An 8-way adjustable power-actuated front passenger seat is standard on all TL models and includes height and seat-cushion tilt adjustments for greater comfort.

TL's equipped with the Technology Package have soft, perforated full-grain Milano premium leather seating surfaces. SH-AWD® versions have special French seams (with a Euro-style double stitch line) along with front seats with increased side bolster height and revised shoulder-area design to provide greater support in spirited driving.

All TL models have front seats with standard active front head restraints. In the rear seat, a convenient push-button release on each outboard headrest allows it to be manually folded down when not in use— thus providing a 7-percent increase in rearward visibility. The center rear headrest is vertically adjustable for passenger comfort.

Redesigned front seat seatbacks now have roomier soft map pouches in place of the previous hard pockets. The outer rear seating positions are well bolstered to combine long-trip comfort with solid lateral support.

MULTI-INFORMATION DISPLAY

Positioned between the tachometer and speedometer, a high-resolution LCD Multi-Information Display (MID) gives the TL driver instant access to critical information. Controls positioned on the steering wheel allow the driver to cycle the MID display through multiple screens of information. With enlarged screen area, higher resolution and the ability to display varying font sizes, the MID is clear and easy to interpret.

There are two individual trip computers built into the MID system, with easy tracking of overall mileage, trip mileage, average and instantaneous fuel economy, average speed, fuel range and elapsed time. The MID also displays outside air temperature as well as the percentage of engine oil life remaining. The Maintenance Minder™ system alerts the TL driver of upcoming maintenance needs via the MID and should a fault occur with the vehicle, specific warning information will appear. The MID also allows the driver to set a variety of functional preferences for different TL systems.

INTERIOR LIGHTING

The TL's interior is designed to be just as functional and inviting at night as it is during the day. Upon entering the TL, the meter gauge cluster progressively illuminates to give the driver a welcoming feel. When the door is opened, the instrument lighting comes on; then when the ignition is switched on, it brightens progressively to 100-percent illumination. The illuminated instrument needles and indicator lights then come alive, indicating that the car is ready to go. When the drive is over, the instrument lighting progressively dims.

All of the TL's interior switches are LED illuminated, making them easy to locate at night, including switches on all four doors, the steering wheel and the overhead console. In addition to front and rear LED overhead interior lights and fade-on/off LED map lights, the TL also has low-level LED interior cabin lighting. Blue ambient LED lighting in the ceiling illuminates the front center console and additional LED lights illuminate the front foot wells.

The glove compartment and the center armrest compartment are internally illuminated. The front doors have courtesy lights that illuminate when the doors are open. To prevent battery discharge, if any interior lights are left on, they will turn off automatically within 15 minutes after the last door is closed (or will turn off instantly when the car is locked using the Keyless Access Remote).

The TL's overhead console provides control over multiple lighting functions. The rear LED map-light controls can be locked out, to prevent rear passengers from illuminating the map lights.

INTERIOR CONVENIENCE

The TL interior offers an array of storage and convenience features for the driver and passengers. The front center console is internally illuminated, includes a 12-volt power point, and a USB port that allows for easy connectivity of items such as an iPod®, iPhone® or a removable mass storage device. The USB port is located alongside a traditional AUX jack (that allows the connectivity of a MP3 music player) in the center console's lower storage compartment.

A leather-covered padded armrest tops the center console, and includes a slide-out tray that is ideal for holding a cellular telephone, iPod® or other small items. A double cupholder is positioned ahead of the console, and can accommodate large beverage cups and bottles. A sliding cover conceals the cupholders when they're not in use. A covered coin holder is positioned ahead of the transmission shift lever, and there is additional storage for small items such as a cellular phone on each side of the console that remain within easy reach. Rear seat passengers have a fold-down padded center armrest that incorporates a pair of covered cupholders.

Inside the glove box compartment is a separate shelf that allows the stowage of the TL User Manual as well as important papers such as registration and insurance. The separate shelf arrangement not only keeps paperwork neatly contained, but it also frees up storage space in the main glove box compartment. The TL's roof console includes sunglasses storage along with controls for interior lighting, HomeLink® and the power moonroof.

CARGO-CARRYING VERSATILITY

The 2011 TL has a roomy, 13.1 cubic-foot trunk while the TL SH-AWD® has a 12.5 cubic-foot trunk (the TL SH-AWD has a smaller trunk due to floorpan intrusions required to make space for the SH-AWD rear differential). The trunk can be opened via a remote release mounted on the driver's door panel, by pushing the exterior release button on the trunk lid when carrying the Keyless Access Remote (part of the Technology Package), or with a manual release accessible through a lockable rear seat trunk pass-through. There is also an emergency glow-in-the-dark trunk opener located inside near the trunk latch. A security switch is located in the locking glove box that allows the trunk to be locked to prevent access by parking valets.

DUAL-ZONE, DUAL-MODE ADAPTIVE CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM

The TL has a dual-zone, dual-mode adaptive climate control system with air filtration that lets the driver and front passenger independently set temperature modes to their individual liking. The rear seat is kept comfortable by way of a pair of large adjustable vents located in the rear of the center console.

The climate control system performs with very little operation noise. The adaptive climate control system layout is easy to interpret with labeling that includes pictographs and text. For greater passenger comfort in cool climates with bright sunshine, the system can automatically supply warm air to the footwell areas while providing cooler air to the upper vents that supply areas of the interior warmed by the sun.

An auto humidity control system cabin humidity sensor allows the system to automatically adjust humidity control based on specific conditions. This patented system predicts the condition in which window fogging is likely, then lowers humidity in the interior by orchestrating the air conditioning, air outlet mode, temperature and fan blower speed. The system can also improve passenger comfort in cold winter driving by increasing cabin humidity by reducing the operation of the air conditioning system. As a result, less use of the air conditioner has a side benefit of reducing fuel consumption.

TL models with the Technology Package use the GPS navigation system to contribute to overall passenger comfort thanks to a 3D solar-sensing feature. The navigation system determines the position of the sun relative to the driver and passenger based on continuously updated vehicle position information. Combined with information from a solar sensor located on top of the instrument panel, this feature lets the climate-control system automatically adjusts the temperature and airflow from side to side as needed to compensate for asymmetrical solar heating and to maintain the set cabin temperatures.

8-SPEAKER PREMIUM AUDIO SYSTEM

Built in concert with Panasonic, the audio system in the TL and TL SH-AWD® (non Technology Package equipped models) is an 8-speaker design with a 6-disc CD changer, AM/FM tuner, XM® Radio with Note function and Bluetooth® Audio. The CD system can read MP3 and WMA files and includes the Radio Data System (RDS) and Speed Volume Control (SVC).

The system can play audio material from a variety of sources:

  • 6-disc changer:
    • CD audio
    • MP3 or WMA files (on CD)
  • AM/FM radio with Radio Data System (RDS)
  • XM® Radio with Note function music reminder
  • Bluetooth® wireless audio
  • USB port connectivity for items such as an iPod®, iPhone®, or removable mass storage device
  • Auxiliary jack for connection of a portable MP3 player

The TL's 276-watt premium audio system uses a Digital Signal Processing (DSP) amplifier to drive a soft-dome tweeter mounted in each A-pillar along with a 3-inch Super Dynamic Range speaker that is positioned in the top in the instrument panel. 6.7-inch mid-range speakers are positioned in each front door, and on either side of the rear parcel tray. An 8-inch diameter subwoofer is placed in the center of the rear parcel tray, and uses the trunk as an acoustic enclosure.

The sound system offers USB port connectivity for items such as an iPod®, iPhone® or removable USB mass storage devices. The USB port is powered and can simultaneously charge plug-in devices while transferring information to the audio system. The USB-connected devices can be operated via the audio system's controls, with filenames and folders appearing on the audio system's three-line text display. The TL's audio system can also play Bluetooth® Audio when paired with a compatible device. Bluetooth® Audio is a wireless transfer music format that is separate from Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® used for telephone voice communication. There is also an auxiliary (AUX) jack connection enabling use of a portable MP3 music player. The AUX connection requires the music player to be controlled via the device's own interface, though the TL's audio system can control volume, or be used to select a different input, such as the radio, CD player or others.

XM® RADIO

XM® Radio is a standard feature with the TL audio system and it provides more than 130 digital channels of programming with near CD-quality sound. The XM® broadcast signal is beamed to two satellites positioned in geostationary orbit more than 22,000 miles above earth. The beams from these two broadcast satellites (one located over the West Coast, one over the East Coast) combine to span the entire continental United States and some of Canada. In addition, there are also more than 1,000 ground antennas to help boost the XM® signal (in metropolitan areas with tall buildings) until satellite reception is restored.

XM® programming includes more than 130 channels devoted to music, sports, talk, traffic, weather, children's programming and entertainment. Of the 130 XM® channels, 69 are commercial-free. When the TL's audio system plays XM®, the display screen shows the current station, song title, or artist's name. A complimentary three-month subscription to the XM® service is included with purchase of a new TL and customers are able to continue the service or cancel any time afterwards.

BLUETOOTH® HANDSFREELINK® WIRELESS TELEPHONE INTERFACE

All Acura vehicles have a standard Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® hands-free telephone interface that is designed to work with a wide variety of Bluetooth® enabled mobile telephones. Bluetooth® is a radio frequency-based technology that allows portable devices (such as mobile cellular telephones, PDAs, laptops and other devices) to communicate wirelessly. The TL's HandsFreeLink® system is compatible with Bluetooth®-enabled cellular telephones that have the Hands Free Profile (HFP). (Some early Bluetooth®-enabled phones do not have this communications protocol, but most newly released phones have HFP.) After the driver completes a one-time pairing process, the TL can communicate wirelessly with the driver's cellular telephone when it is within approximately 10 feet of the car. The telephone needs to be on, but can be stowed in a pocket, briefcase, purse, or anywhere inside the TL cabin.

With Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® the driver can send or answer telephone calls without removing their hands from the steering wheel. When a call comes in, the incoming caller's telephone number is displayed on the Multi-Information Display (MID) that is located between the tachometer and speedometer. In addition, the telephone ring tone is played over the TL's audio system. If the driver chooses to answer the phone call, a press of the steering wheel-mounted "Pick up" button mutes the audio system and the incoming caller is heard over the TL's audio system speakers. Working with an overhead array microphone, the HandsFreeLink® system helps cancel "echo effect" and reduces background noise to improve the transmission quality of the driver's speech.

By activating the system using fingertip controls mounted on the steering wheel, the driver can dial the telephone number by voice. The driver also can store frequently called numbers in the system's memory using unique voice tags. Up to six different compatible mobile telephones, each with a unique "user profile", can be paired with the TL's Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® system at one time. Each telephone profile has its own password-protected call history, phonebook, speed dials and voice tags. With a single paired telephone and the proper password for each profile, a user can access any of the other profiles. This convenient feature means that a person who carries both a work telephone and personal telephone can access both profiles from either telephone.

When equipped with the Technology Package, HandsFreeLink® functions are displayed on the high-resolution navigation system screen, rather than on the MID screen. This provides a versatile interface for HandsFreeLink® operation. Additional information regarding the HandsFreeLink® system can be found at www.acura.com/handsfreelink.

Technology Package

The 2011 Acura TL will again offer a Technology Package that includes:

  • Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ and rearview camera
  • 8-inch full VGA high-resolution color display with wallpaper function
  • AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System that allows communication between the TL and Acura
  • AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting™
  • AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ with radar image maps, 1- and 3-day forecasts, specific area weather and severe weather alerts.
  • Acura/ELS Surround® premium 10-speaker surround audio system with DVD-Audio, DTS™, CD, AM/FM tuner, XM® Radio with Note function music reminder, Bluetooth® Audio, 3,000-song* hard disk drive (HDD) media storage system, speed-sensitive volume control (SVC) and a 440-watt Digital Signal Processing (DSP) amplifier
  • Interface Dial that provides quick, intuitive access to navigation, audio, climate control and other features
  • GPS-linked, solar-sensing, dual-zone, dual-mode adaptive climate control system with humidity control system and air filtration
  • Keyless Access System (with Smart Entry and pushbutton ignition)
  • Perforated full-grain Milano leather seating surfaces
  • 3D metallic trim on instrument panel and doors
  • Chrome accented door handles
  • Rear trunk lid spoiler with integrated rearview camera
  • Michelin Pilot HX MXM4 P245/50R17 98V M+S tires

ACURA/ELS SURROUND® PREMIUM AUDIO SYSTEM

The TL and TL SH-AWD® with Technology Package are equipped with a spectacular Acura/ELS Surround® 440-watt Premium Audio System with 10 speakers. This highly capable audio system is the next generation of the acclaimed Acura/ELS® system offered in the previous generation TL. Although exceptionally capable, the Acura/ELS® audio system is designed to be simple to operate. Clear, large-format head-unit controls and convenient steering-wheel-mounted buttons make operation intuitive. Select audio system functions can also be accomplished via voice commands.

The Acura/ELS® system gets its name from multi-Grammy® Award winning producer/engineer Elliot Scheiner's recording industry-recognized moniker "ELS®." Scheiner's goal in the development of the TL audio system was to capture and reproduce music the way it is heard in the recording studio. The sophisticated ELS® system he developed together with Panasonic is designed to provide studio quality sound to the interior of the TL.

The TL's audio system also includes a Note function for XM® Radio which is designed to be a convenience for owners who want to make note of a song heard on XM®. With the touch of a button, the Note function records the current song title and artist name in text form, along with captures a short audio excerpt of the song. The Note function records up to 10 seconds of each selected song and can store a total of 30 song excerpts.

The Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system can play material from a wide variety of sources:

  • Single disc player:
    • DVD-Audio
    • CD audio
    • DTS CD
    • MP3 or WMA files (on CD)
  • 3,000-song*, 12.7-GB hard disk drive (HDD) media storage system
  • AM/FM radio with Radio Data System (RDS)
  • XM® Radio with Note function music reminder
  • Bluetooth® Audio
  • USB port connectivity for items such as an iPod®, iPhone®, or removable USB mass storage device
  • Auxiliary jack connectivity for a portable MP3 player

*Approximate capacity based on an average size of 4.0 MB per song at a 128kbps bitrate

The audio system's wide range of formats means it can play audio program material from most common sources. The addition of a hard disk drive (HDD) media storage system means the TL's owner can download CDs to the 12.7 GB hard drive for later playback. Only original CDs and uncompressed CD-R files can be copied to the hard drive (other formats, such as DVD-Audio, MP3/WMA, DTS CD, USB, Bluetooth® audio and AUX inputs can not be recorded to the hard drive).

The hard disk drive (HDD) media storage system is shared with the navigation system and is partitioned to hold about 3,000 songs. The hard drive's fast file-access time speeds search and retrieval of tracks, and allows tracks to be shuffled by album, artist and genre.

On-board information provided by Gracenote® (formerly CDDB®) allows the system to display the artist, album name, track name, and genre for the program material stored on the hard disk drive (HDD) media storage system. Gracenote® uses a multi-step recognition method to enable identification, categorization, and organization of digital music. The Gracenote® database is updated quarterly to include new audio releases. The TL owner can download Gracenote® updates at www.acura.com, and then load them onto a USB thumb drive or CD-R which, in turn, can be downloaded into the TL's audio system. Without the Gracenote® update, newly released audio tracks will play on the Acura/ELS® system, but will play without accompanying text information on genre, artist, album name and track name.

The Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system also offers USB port connectivity for items such as an iPod®, iPhone® or removable USB mass storage device. Moreover, the audio system can play Bluetooth® Audio when paired with a compatible device. (Bluetooth® audio is a music format that is separate from Bluetooth® used for telephone voice communication.) These devices can be easily operated and navigated via the audio system's controls.

The audio system's AM/FM radio tuner includes the Radio Data System. RDS allows digital information sent in FM radio broadcasts to display on the vehicle stereo items such as program information, artist/song info and time. XM® Radio with Note function music reminder is integrated into the receiver to provide more than 130 channels of digital program material with near-CD quality sound. A text display provides information text on the XM® program material. There is also an auxiliary jack connection for MP3 music players. This basic audio connection requires the music player to be controlled via the device's own interface, though the TL's audio system can control volume— or can be used to select a different input, such as the radio, CD player or others.

The TL audio system plays DVD-Audio discs, an advance in reproduction technology that delivers over 500-times higher resolution than traditional CD audio. DVD-Audio delivers smoother, fuller and far more accurate sound through six discrete channels.

Speakers/amplification
The Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system's 10 speakers create an accurate and dynamic listening experience for all seating positions. Compact 1.5-inch titanium-dome tweeters are positioned in each A-pillar with a 3-inch Super Dynamic Range (SDR) driver centered in the top of the instrument panel. Two more of the 3-inch SDR drivers are positioned in the rear door. 6.7-inch SDR drivers (four in all) are in each front door and on each side of the rear parcel shelf. An 8-inch Super Low Distortion Driver (SLDD) subwoofer is located in the center of the rear parcel shelf to give the system impressive low-end power and clarity. The speaker array is driven by a 440-watt Digital Signal Processing (DSP) amplifier positioned in the right wall of the trunk.

ACURA NAVIGATION SYSTEM WITH VOICE RECOGNITION™

TL models equipped with the Technology Package have the latest generation Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ with rearview camera. Compared to the previous generation TL, the 2011 TL has a navigation screen with four times better resolution.

Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ features summary:

  • 8-inch full VGA color screen for convenient viewing, positioned high and close to the TL driver's line of sight
  • Ultra-fast hard-drive data (HDD) storage system
  • Navigation coverage includes the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico
  • Improved route calculation time (3 seconds or less)
  • Improved Point Of Interest (POI) search time
  • AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System
  • AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting™
  • AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™
  • Voice recognition function with over 700 navigation commands minimizes the need for manual character entry
  • Voice recognition system recognizes city and street names as spoken words
  • Simplified system operation with clear visual prompts to guide voice navigation
  • Interface dial simplifies control of the system and is accessible to driver and front seat passenger
  • Audio system automatically mutes for turn-by-turn voice guidance in either male or female voice (voice guidance can be turned off at any time)
  • Voice recognition operates key audio and climate control functions
  • Highly directional array microphone for more precise Voice Command recognition
  • On-screen picture of highway interchanges indicates which lane(s) to use to stay on route
  • 3 language choices for all destinations (English, French and Spanish)
  • Destination memory recalls current trip addresses, previous destinations and user address books
  • Split-screen mode features a simultaneous "map view" and selective route visualization
  • Trip routing can avoid user-selected areas
  • Make calls to on-screen points of interest with Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®
  • Trip routing can include up to five user-chosen way points
  • Rearview camera provides rearward view with parking guidelines on navigation screen when transmission is in Reverse
  • Available DVD can be purchased by owner to update navigation system database
  • Store and display owner image files as wallpaper on navigation screen (store up to 10 images each for Driver 1 and Driver 2)

Enhanced database:

  • Point Of Interest (POI) database includes approximately 7 million locations with high level of data accuracy
  • Fuzzy POI and address searching simplifies and speeds searches
  • Improved restaurant POI logic simplifies searching
  • Business and recreation directory of virtually the entire continental United States (complete with phone numbers)
  • ZIP code entry speeds address input
  • Directory categories include restaurants (searchable by type of cuisine), lodging, shopping, airports, hospitals, recreation areas and more
  • Zagat Survey™ restaurant guide provides detailed information and reviews on restaurants in database, which can be read on-screen or heard over the audio system
  • Scenic Route drive route listings organized by state
  • Exact addressing locates approximately 80-percent of addresses at their actual GPS coordinates (instead of estimating their location based on linear street number)
  • Destinations are searchable by GPS coordinates

System Operation
The Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ tracks the TL's position based on data from up to 12 orbiting Global Positioning Satellites (GPS). If GPS reception is blocked by a tall building, tunnel, or parking garage, within the TL an internal gyroscopic system and a speed sensor track the location of the vehicle to keep the mapping information current and reliable until satellite reception is restored. The TL's navigation system stores its mapping data on an internal hard disk drive (HDD) media storage system. The same drive is also partitioned and used by the audio system to store audio files. Much faster than the DVD-based system used previously, the HDD is the key to dramatic improvements in the system's search and routing speed. The system can be updated annually with the latest mapping information by inserting an update disc into the audio system's slot-loading CD/DVD drive. Updated DVD data discs are available for purchase on an annual basis online at www.acura.com, by calling 888-549-3798, or can be ordered in-car via the TL's AcuraLink® system.

The navigation system can be controlled using the interface dial by choosing menu options or by spelling out a word (e.g., an address, business name or place). Characters on an on-screen keypad can be selected using the Interface Dial. For voice operation, the driver simply presses the "Talk" button located on the steering wheel and then says any of a number of preset command phrases. The system responds to over 700 command phrases, as well as to spoken city and street names. Voice recognition capability saves time and simplifies operation of the system.

The audio system is automatically muted when the "Talk" button is pressed, and an overhead array microphone receives the command from the driver. Commands can be given in plain speech, like "Display gas stations," "Find nearest hospital," or "Find nearest Chinese restaurant." The TL's voice recognition technology allows the owner to simply speak city and street names aloud, and the system responds by displaying matches available in the database.

Points of interest on the map (such as restaurants or grocery stores) can be displayed or you can have the system provide turn-by-turn navigation— all by voice command. The massive point-of-interest database includes telephone numbers, which can be dialed by using the Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® system or via the driver's cellular phone.

Rearview camera
When the transmission is placed in Reverse, a rearward view from a rear spoiler-mounted camera is displayed on the navigation system screen. To make it easier for the driver to judge distance and clearance, on-screen guidelines indicate the vehicle's width, as well as distances of 0.5-, 1-, 2-, and 3 meters from the back of the TL.

Wallpaper image display
To further customize the TL's interior, the navigation system allows the storage of up to 10 images each for each driver (two TL drivers total) on the built-in hard disk drive (HDD) media storage system. Any one of the stored images can be displayed as a full-screen image on the navigation display when the display is not otherwise in use. To avoid driver distraction, there is no "slide show" function. JPEG images can be loaded from a home computer onto a USB storage device, such as a thumb drive. Then the thumb drive can be plugged into the TL's USB port that located in the center console. Using on-screen menus, the images can then be transferred to the TL's internal hard disk drive (HDD) media storage system. Each driver can then choose among their stored images for display, or set the system to not display wallpaper.

INTERFACE DIAL

Most frequently used electronic functions in the TL have dedicated controls placed on the instrument panel or on the steering wheel. Voice control of navigation, climate control, audio and communications functions are available, while the interface dial positioned just ahead of the center console-mounted shift lever provides another avenue of control. The Interface Dial can be operated like a joystick to select function menus displayed on the navigation screen. A downward push of the controller selects the highlighted item.

Functions controlled by the Interface Dial include:

  • Audio
  • Navigation
  • Climate control system
  • AcuraLink® Satellite Communications System

ACURALINK® SATELLITE COMMUNIATION SYSTEM

The Technology Package includes AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System that allows two-way communication between Acura and the vehicle, providing customers with the latest information specific to their vehicle.

Once the owner has enabled the data-transmission function, the owner's Bluetooth® enabled cellular telephone is used in cases where communication from the car to the Acura Telematics server is needed. In addition, while driving, the AcuraLink® system allows the TL owner to make automated appointments for vehicle service. The data connection from the server to the vehicle is enabled even if the monthly XM® Radio service is not in effect.

Each AcuraLink® message is prioritized by importance; high priority messages are displayed immediately while normal messages trigger an icon on the navigation display. To avoid distraction, some low priority messages show up only on vehicle start-up. The owner can choose to read or listen to a message immediately, or archive it to be retrieved at a later time. AcuraLink® messages consist of a limited amount of text plus expanded details via Text-To-Speech.

Messages that can be sent to the TL include Maintenance Minder™ (information regarding the next required maintenance), Quick Tips (information to help maximize the benefit of TL features), Feature Guide (supplements to the TL Owner's Manual) and Diagnostic Info (detailed information and instruction should an onboard system issue arise). The TL owner has complete control over the types of messages they receive. All AcuraLink® preferences can be set via the Owner Link™ website (www.ahm-ownerlink.com).

AcuraLink® can provide the owner with important information that previously has been unavailable. For example, if a warning light should appear on the TL instrument panel, AcuraLink® can automatically send a trouble code along with the sensor data associated with the fault to the Acura Telematics Server. The code is analyzed, and a message is sent back to the TL— such as "A software issue has been detected. It is OK to continue driving. The repair is currently being developed, so you do not need to visit your dealer at this time." A separate AcuraLink® message will be sent to the TL when it's time to visit the dealer to have the system repaired. AcuraLink® can tell the owner if a particular fault is serious enough to cancel a trip, if it can be dealt with later or if it requires special driving techniques.

ACURALINK REAL-TIME TRAFFIC WITH TRAFFIC REROUTING™

With AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™, the TL's navigation screen can display continuously updated traffic information including flow, incidents and construction on freeways in 109 major metropolitan areas within the United States along with three metropolitan areas within Canada. The information is part of the XM NavTraffic® feature (aggregated by NAVTEQ™ from multiple sources including police and highway patrol incident reports and transportation departments). Information is transmitted by XM® satellites to the vehicle where it is graphically displayed (ranging between 1/20-mile to 5-mile scales) on the TL's navigation system.

To see details of traffic incidents, the TL owner can click on an icon on the map by pushing "Enter" on the interface dial. TL drivers can avoid congestion and choose the fastest path to their destination with traffic information that is continuously updated. The system displays traffic incidents, determines average traffic speed and estimates travel time along the chosen route. It can automatically recalculate results as factors change. Plus, XM NavTraffic® alerts drivers of scheduled construction and road closures, plus unscheduled incidents such as accidents and disabled vehicles.

Traffic Rerouting™ can automatically recalculate a "detour" route and display a pop-up box signifying the route change, when traffic congestion or road incidents are detected along the selected drive route. Alternately, the driver can recalculate a route in manual mode simply by selecting "TRAFFIC INCIDENTS" from the Map Info menu followed by selecting the "AVOID" command relevant to an incident.

AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ data services are offered on a subscription basis following a 3-month free trial period. In addition to the on-screen traffic information, TL owners who maintain their XM® Radio service also receive more general audio traffic information that runs on a 2-3 minute loop for selected metropolitan areas.

109 major metropolitan markets
(Traffic flow data and incident reporting coverage vary by market)
Akron, OH
Albany/Schenectady/Troy
Albuquerque, NM
Allentown/Bethlehem, PA
Ann Arbor, MI
Atlanta, GA
Austin, TX
Baltimore, MD
Baton Rouge, LA
Beaumont, TX
Birmingham, AL
Boston, MA
Bridgeport/Stamford, CT
Buffalo/Niagara Falls, NY
Cape Coral/Ft. Myers, FL
Charlotte, NC
Chicago, IL
Cincinnati, OH
Cleveland, OH
Colorado Springs, CO
Columbus, OH
Dallas/Ft. Worth, TX
Dayton, OH
Daytona Beach, FL
Denver/Boulder, CO
Detroit/Warren, MI
Durham, NC
Flint, MI
Fresno, CA
Grand Rapids, MI
Greensboro/Winston Salem/High Point, NC
Greenville/Spartanburg, SC
Harrisburg/ Carlisle, PA
Hartford, CT
Houston, TX
Indianapolis, IN		 Jacksonville, FL
Kansas City, KS
Lakeland, FL
Lancaster/York, PA
Las Vegas, NV
Lincoln, NE
Little Rock, AR
Los Angeles, CA
Louisville, KY
Manchester, NH
Memphis, TN
Merced, CA
Miami/Ft. Lauderdale/ Hollywood, FL
Milwaukee/Racine, WI
Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN
Mobile, AL
Modesto, CA
Napa, CA
Naples/Ft. Myers, FL
Nashville, TN
New Haven/Milford, CT
New Orleans, LA
New York City, NY
Norwich/New London, CT
Ogden/Clearfield, UT
Oklahoma City, OK
Olympia, WA
Omaha/Council Bluffs, NE
Orlando/Kissimmee, FL
Oxnard/Ventura, CA
Palm Bay/Titusville, FL
Philadelphia, PA
Phoenix/Mesa, AZ
Pittsburgh, PA
Port St. Lucie, FL
Portland, OR		 Poughkeepsie/Middletown, NY
Providence, RI
Provo/Orem, UT
Raleigh/Durham, NC
Richmond, VA
Riverside/Ontario, CA
Rochester, NY
Sacramento, CA
Salinas, CA
Salt Lake City, UT
San Antonio, TX
San Diego, CA
San Francisco/Oakland, CA
San Jose/Santa Clara, CA
Santa Barbara, CA
Santa Cruz/Watsonville, CA
Santa Rosa/Petaluma, CA
Sarasota/Bradenton, FL
Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, PA
Seattle/Tacoma, WA
Spokane, WA
Springfield, MA
St Louis, MO
Stockton, CA
Syracuse, NY
Tampa/St. Petersburg, FL
Toledo, OH
Trenton/Ewing, NJ
Tucson, AZ
Tulsa, OK
Vallejo/Fairfield, CA
Virginia Beach/Norfolk, VA
Washington D.C.
Winston/Salem, NC
Worcester, MA
York/Hanover, PA
Youngstown, OH

ACURALINK REAL-TIME WEATHER™

The ideal complement to AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ information is the TL's integrated AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™. AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ can provide up-to-date weather information.

Key features

  • Professional grade weather information provided by Baron Services, Inc.
  • Weather information continually updated to reflect rapidly changing weather changes
  • Weather information for 21 specific metropolitan areas
  • 1- or 3-day future weather forecasts
  • Severe weather alerts
  • Specific area weather information
  • Weather radar image maps

AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ was co-developed with XM NavWeather® to provide a personal weather tracking system for area specific, continuously updated weather conditions between your current location and your final destination. The system focuses on the specific weather on your personal drive route, rather than just offering general weather conditions for a region. AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ information is continuously updated and delivered to the vehicle navigation system via the TL's built-in XM® Radio satellite receiver.

AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ technology is enhanced for specific travel conditions in 21 specific major metropolitan areas. The information focuses on identifying potential weather threats along with current and future forecast weather conditions. The navigation screen displays current weather conditions in an easy-to-read format. By moving the TL's navigation system cursor to the desired location on the map you can obtain weather info for a specific location. Press the "Enter" button and information regarding your current location will return.

Unique Threat Matrix Technology within AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ generates prompts with specific icons (within 46 different categories) that inform the TL driver if the vehicle is headed into oncoming severe weather such as a developing snow storm, ice, wind shear or even a tornado warning. Based on this advance information, the TL driver can choose to reroute before encountering the severe weather. When the display is zoomed out to reveal the entire United States, the radar image map shows current weather patterns across the entire country. AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ offers 1- or 3-day weather forecasts for specific areas of the United States.

XM NavWeather® data is provided by Baron Services, Inc., which deciphers a complex array of National Weather Service information to produce the weather information provided exclusively to Acura owners. TL owners receive a complementary 3-month trial subscription that delivers AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ along with AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ and XM® Radio.

After the complementary subscription ends, AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ is available individually, together with AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ or XM® Radio, or as a combined package of all three features on a monthly subscription basis.

ACURALINK REAL-TIME WEATHER™ INFORMATION

Current Condition Weather Information

  • Clear
  • Partly Cloudy
  • Mostly Cloudy
  • Cloudy
  • Light Rain
  • Moderate Rain
  • Heavy Rain
  • Freezing Rain
  • Heavy Freezing Rain/Ice
  • Snow
  • Heavy Snow
  • Fog

Present Threats

  • Hail Storm
  • Shear Storm (Potential Tornado)
  • Lightning
  • Winds (expressed as Low, Medium, or Heavy)
  • Visibility (expressed as Good, Patchy, Marginal, or Very Poor)

Potential Threats (5- to 15-minute advance warning)

  • Hail Storm
  • Shear Storm (Potential Tornado)

Precipitation Forecast (30-minute advance warning)

  • No Predicted Weather Issues
  • Rain
  • Snow

Current Road Conditions

  • Clear
  • Flooded
  • Slippery
  • Ice, Patchy Ice
  • Snow
  • Heavy Snow
  • Road Closed

National Weather Service (NWS) Warnings

  • Official NWS warnings for 46 threat categories

Current Conditions

  • Temperature and Dew Point
  • Wind (wind speed, wind gusts, and wind direction)
  • Sky conditions (OK, haze, fog, dust/sand, drizzle/mist, smoke/ash, rain, heavy rain, thunderstorm, hail, freezing rain/ice, snow, heavy snow, tornado/funnel cloud)

Future Weather Forecasts

  • Current weather
  • 1- or 3-day forecasts (with separate night and day forecasts for each day)
  • Daytime high and nighttime low temperatures
  • Probability of precipitation (measured in zero to 100-percent)
  • Precipitation type (rain, ice, rain or snow, snow)
  • Chance of thunderstorm (yes/no)
  • Sky condition (clear, mostly clear, partly cloudy, cloudy)
  • Wind (wind speed, wind gusts, and wind direction)

KEYLESS ACCESS SYSTEM

TL models equipped with the Technology Package have the latest generation of Acura's Keyless Access System (with smart entry and pushbutton ignition). The system identifies one of two drivers each time the driver's door is opened (even if it is already unlocked) then automatically sets a multitude of features to a profile preset by that driver. The system sets the driver's seat, steering wheel, outside mirrors, climate control, audio system (and audio system presets) and select navigation system settings. In the event both owners approach the car at the same time, the TL will set the vehicle preferences of the Keyless Access Remote that approaches the driver's door.

The Keyless Access System lets the TL owner gain access to the vehicle without having to unlock it with the remote transmitter or a conventional key. The Keyless Access Remote has a unique digital identity and the TL can be unlocked when the driver pulls one of the front door handles while the remote in his/her possession. When carrying the fob (or if all doors are unlocked), the trunk can be opened by pressing a button located on the TL's rear spoiler.

Once the driver has opened the door and is seated, the Keyless Access System allows the TL to be started by pushing the Engine Start/Stop button positioned on the instrument panel. When leaving the car, a press of the soft-touch button on outside of the door handle locks all the doors. Alternatively, a press of the Lock button on the Keyless Access Remote will also simultaneously lock all the doors. The Keyless Access System will not allow the transmitter fob to be locked in the interior or the trunk of the TL.

The Keyless Access System also features a unique "quick vent" feature (activated by pressing the Keyless Access Remote "unlock" button two times and then holding it) that automatically lowers all side windows and opens the power moonroof to quickly vent built-up interior heat. In addition, turning the key in the driver's door key cylinder to the "lock" position twice (and then holding it the second time), simultaneously closes all open windows and the moonroof.

Built-in Key
The TL will signal the driver when the remote battery is low. A built-in mechanical key is provided as a back up to enter vehicle in the event that the Keyless Access Remote battery should fail. Once inside, the driver can start the car by placing the fob in an illuminated remote port near the Engine Stop/Start button. For security purposes when using a valet parking service, a trunk lockout switch is located inside the glove box. The glove box and the trunk pass-through can be locked with the key. The valet will be able to start and drive the TL using the remote, but if the owner retains the key, the valet will be unable to unlock the glove compartment or trunk.

TL INTERIOR ACCESSORIES

A line of Acura Genuine Accessories was developed simultaneously with the TL to provide personalization for the Acura owner. Like all Acura Genuine Accessories, the TL accessories are covered by a 4-year/50,000-mile limited warranty if installed by the dealer at the time of original vehicle purchase.

  • All-season floor mats
  • Wood rim steering wheel
  • Wood select knob for shifter
  • Ashtray / Cupholder
  • Rear seat covers
  • Trunk tray
  • Upper mount trunk drawer
  • Trunk hooks
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