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Typically Acura, the TL offers performance, style, and comfort for less money than you might expect. Its powerful 3.2-liter V6 engine, nicely balanced suspension, rigid structure, and classy good looks make the TL a serious contender in both the near-luxury and compact sport-sedan categories.

TL was completely redesigned and re-engineered for 1999. For 2000, Acura replaced the original four-speed automatic transmission with a wonderful five-speed sequential Sportshift. Advanced side-impact airbags were added, while revisions to the engine increased mid-range acceleration and reduced emissions. So the TL enters 2001 mostly unchanged, beyond new carpeted floor mats and an emergency inside trunk release.

> all TL pictures

The 2001 Acura TL - alternately called the 3.2 TL in reference to its 3.2-liter engine displacement - is available as one fully loaded model that retails for $28,550. That's less than many of the TL's current competitors, representing a strong value.

The only option offered is Acura's navigation system, which adds $2000; the system was updated last year with a Digital Video Disc (DVD) player for mapping. No manual transmission is available, although the five-speed Sportshift automatic offers a convenient, sequential manual override.