Robert Peirce wrote:
> I drove a 6-speed the other day. I found the torque steer was poorly
> controlled, the shift was sloppy and the brake pedal too soft, although
> the brakes were excellent. I am comparing to an RL and an NSX.
>
> Is this typical or did I have a poor example? This one was a demo unit
> with about 1100 miles on it.
>

Acura sells only a handful of 6 speed TLs so no surprise that it isn't
well engineered. (Compare with the new Infiniti G35 sport 6-speed that
has a standard limited slip differential.) Acura seems confused about
whether or not they build sporty cars. For example, consider the NSX
that hasn't had a major upgrade, other than price, for 15 years. A base
2006 Corvette can blow it off the track. Or their sportiest sedan, the
TSX, an upgraded home market Accord. The TL is a decent near luxury car
'cause they can be had at a discount. My mother likes her's. The new RL
is a sales failure; grossly overpriced, under-powered and under-styled
(according to many press reports).

Try a 2007 Infiniti G35 or M35/M45 or wait a year or so for the new TL
that will have to compete with the G35 and BMW 3-series. I suspect
Honda will have to throw in their SH-AWD system as standard equipment.
I wouldn't be surprised to hear they've dropped the manual
transmission, though.