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Acura's TL strikes an excellent balance on many levels. It delivers quick acceleration performance, style, and comfort. The base TL comes with a powerful 3.2-liter V6 engine, a nicely balanced suspension, a rigid chassis, and classy good looks.

The Acura TL Type-S model boasts a more powerful V6, a sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch V-rated tires, and an electronic stability program. It's quick and fun to drive, with a level of rawness that gives it character.

For 2003, the OnStar communications system has been added to the list of features for models with the optional navigation system.

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Acura TL is available as two models: TL and TL Type-S.

The Acura TL ($28,980) comes fully loaded, and retails for less than many of the other cars in its class. TL offers a strong value. It's powered by a 3.2-liter single overhead-cam V6 rated at 225 horsepower and mated to a five-speed automatic transmission with Sportshift, a semi-manual mode that lets the driver manually select gears.

TL Type-S ($31,330) boasts a 260-horsepower version of the same engine. Type-S comes with an increased steering ratio and a firmer suspension. It also comes with Acura's Vehicle Stability Assist, an electronic stability program that uses anti-lock braking and traction control to keep the car from sliding.

Acura's DVD navigation system, or NAVI, is optional ($2,150) and includes OnStar.