Honda Accord SR-9 Study Unveiled in Shanghai, Looks Better than Acura TSX

One of the new models at the Shanghai Auto Show that managed to momentarily escape our attention is the Honda Accord SR-9 concept study that was designed in cooperation with the firm's Chinese joint venture, Guangzhou Honda. Compared to the European-spec Accord and the North American market Acura TSX (they are the same cars), the Accord SR-9 features a newly designed front bumper with concave surfaces and a restyled grille with honeycomb inserts.

The show car also featured a set of side skirts and beefier seven-spoke alloy wheels. Even though the styling mods are minimal, the tweaked fascia would be a welcome change for both the European-market Accord and the Acura TSX.

New Acura TL Gets 6-Speed Manual Gearbox in 2009

It looks like Acura’s trying to reach out to those that actually enjoy driving a car. Starting from next fall, the Japanese automaker will offer a new 6-speed manual gearbox on the 2010 TL SH-AWD model. Aside from the fact that it’s the first time that Acura has ever paired its all-wheel-drive system with a stick-shift, the new close-ratio 6-speed manual is approximately 110 lbs lighter than the Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission currently offered in the top-spec TL. -Continued

Furthermore, the 2010 TL SH-AWD 6MT models also benefit from suspension upgrades that include special coil spring and shock absorber rates tuned for flatter cornering with reduced pitching motions under acceleration and braking. The manual models also employ firmer engine and transmission bushings along with a sportier tuning for the steering wheel system.

According to Acura, the addition of a manual transmission, an all-new clutch system and suspension changes yield an 88 lb. reduction in overall vehicle weight and at the same time, improves weight distribution by 1-percent compared to the automatic model generating a 58/42 ratio versus the 5AT's 59/41 ratio.

Acura Prices 2009 TL Sedan from $34,995

The final piece of the 2009 Acura TL (click here for details and high-res images) puzzle fell into place today with the announcement of the luxury sedan’s pricing. The all-new TL will go on sale at Acura dealerships in the U.S. on September 24th with all-wheel-drive models following in November. The starting price for the front-wheel drive model equipped with the 280HP 3.5-liter V6 engine is $34,955. If you add the Technology Package that includes a navigation system, a premium audio system, keyless entry with push-button ignition and interior upgrades, the price rises to $38,685. -Continued

The more powerful all-wheel drive TL SH-AWD model that is equipped with a 305HP 3.7-liter V6 engine carries an MSRP of $38,505, while the TL SH-AWD with the Technology Package will cost you $42,235.

In addition, the TL SH-AWD model with Technology Package is also available with bespoke 19-inch alloy wheels and high-performance summer tire package for an MSRP of $43,235. Have in mind that Acura will also charge you a destination and handling fee of $760 as it is not included in any price.

Standard features on all TL models include a power moonroof, dual-zone adaptive climate control, 10-way adjustable (8-way power seat with 2-way power lumbar support) driver seat, 8-way adjustable power front passenger seat and steering-wheel-mounted F1-style paddle shifters for the Sequential SportShift automatic transmission. In addition, an 8-speaker 276-watt audio system with 6-disc CD changer, AM/FM radio, XM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth Audio, USB port and AUX jack connectivity and HandsFreeLink wireless telephone interface are standard.