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119-859: It was replaced in North America with the Acura TL and in Japan with the Honda Saber / Inspire , which were the same vehicle sold through different networks. The third generation, five-cylinder Vigor was developed during what was known in Japan as the Japanese asset price bubble or "bubble economy". Beginning September 25, 1981, Honda produced a variant of the Honda Accord badged as the Honda Vigor for Japan only. The first generation Vigor

238-511: A safety recall in July 2009 for injuries reported by faulty driver's side airbag inflators. In February 2010, another recall was issued for the same problem. In March 2001 for the 2002 model year, the TL got a minor makeover, with a refreshed front fascia, redesigned taillights, a 6 CD in-dash changer as well as a few other features. A Type-S model was also added, adding 35 hp (26 kW) for

357-491: A "SportShift" manually controllable 5-speed automatic with or 6-speed manual . Manual transmission models featured Brembo 4-piston front brake calipers , a Torsen-type limited-slip differential , stiffer anti-roll bars front and rear and performance tires at no additional cost. As of March 2004, Honda offers to the public a factory-sanctioned "tuner package" version of the TL called the TL A-SPEC . This version features

476-460: A "black chrome" grille rather than the standard glossy grille, and exclusive Type-S badging, plus an exclusive new color option, Kinetic Blue Pearl. The interior has Type-S badging on the steering wheel and headrests, more highly bolstered front seats, two-tone seats (only with the Ebony/Silver interior), metal racing pedals, carbon fiber trim, and red interior lighting (as opposed to blue in

595-441: A 5-speed automatic with F1 style paddle shifters or a 6-speed manual transmission . The manual transmission includes a limited-slip differential . Exterior differences include quad exhaust pipes, restyled rear lamps and front fascia, lip spoiler, wider side sills, Brembo brakes, 17-inch dark silver 10-spoke wheels, upgraded suspension which included bigger stabilizer bars, lower front spring rates, upgraded bushings and dampers,

714-953: A 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission with a lockup torque converter. Vehicles with a manual transmission and the CVCC carburetor earned 13.6 km/L (38 mpg ‑imp ; 32 mpg ‑US ) based on Japanese Government emissions tests using ten different modes of scenario standards, and 110 PS (81 kW; 108 bhp), and 23 km/L (65 mpg ‑imp ; 54 mpg ‑US ) at consistently maintained speeds at 60 km/h (37.3 mph). Vehicles with PGM-FI earned 13.2 km/L (37 mpg ‑imp ; 31 mpg ‑US ) based on Japanese Government emissions tests using 10 different modes of scenario standards, with 130 PS (96 kW; 128 bhp), and 22 km/L (62 mpg ‑imp ; 52 mpg ‑US ) consistently maintained speeds at 60 km/h (37.3 mph). Japanese buyers were liable for

833-771: A 7-inch color LCD screen while continuing the multi-AV functionality of previous generations. A V8 engine was deleted, and at the time of introduction, only three V6 engines were available. The XV-G and XV came with the VQ30DET turbo, the XR with the VQ30DE, and the XJ with the VG30E. In January 1997, the XJ-Limited, based on the XJ, was offered the VG20E engine. Super HICAS was also installed on

952-412: A camcorder and watch recorded video. The stereo and video equipment was supplied by Sony. The leather interior was designed with assistance from Poltrona Frau of Italy. The seats were made by Poltrona Frau at a rate of five per day. The interior treatment continued to use the contrasting arrangement used in the larger Nissan Infiniti Q45 with a dark color used for the dashboard, and center console, with

1071-494: A central multifunction display, an eight-speaker 276-watt audio system with a six-disc CD changer, XM Satellite Radio, USB port connectivity (including full iPod control support), and Bluetooth Audio (for streaming music from a cell phone). Both models offer an optional Technology Package, which includes premium Milano leather seats; Keyless Access ( unlock the doors, and start the engine without ever having to use your key, as long as it's in your pocket or purse, or within range of

1190-443: A change in testing procedures, with the engine remaining technically the same since 2004. The 2007 Acura TL features a slightly revised exterior as well as a revised interior with a new steering wheel, redesigned gauges, and footwell lighting, in addition to new interior and exterior colors. The 2007 TL (non Type-S) received suspension changes to improve ride comfort. Also new for the 2007 model year were LED turn signal repeaters on

1309-500: A color LCD screen, that was installed in the dashboard below the A/C controls that allowed passengers to watch broadcast TV if the transmission was in Park and the parking brake applied. As before, the screen was not touch sensitive, and didn't offer a CD-ROM based navigation system. The display also showed AM/FM stereo settings. The video entertainment system also had RCA connections to attach

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1428-707: A companion to the Fairlady Z , allowing Nissan to sell a badge engineered version of the Skyline and Laurel. The Leopard was cancelled as a result of the Nissan Revival Plan , a casualty of overproduction. It was succeeded by the Nissan Fuga . The first Leopard (also known as Leopard TR-X) was introduced in September 1980 as a contender in the upper medium class of cars. The Leopard was positioned as

1547-543: A different bellhousing. The transmission is identical between the base model and Type-S. The block on the base model's 3.2-liter engine was changed to accommodate for the new bellhousing. The most notable addition during the 2007 revision is the return of the Type-S edition of the TL. The Acura TL Type-S received the Acura RL 's 3.5-liter J35A8 V6 tuned to 286 horsepower (213 kW) and 256 lb-ft of torque with either

1666-410: A few months on the market. The 3.7L engine also uses VTEC variable-lift timing on both the intake and exhaust valves (the base TL and previous models only applied VTEC to the intake valves). SH-AWD ("Super Handling" All Wheel Drive) is a multi-vectoring all wheel drive system designed more for performance than for simply providing traction in adverse circumstances. While cruising, the system sends 90% of

1785-417: A front disc/rear drum system. ABS was available as an option on the 4-wheel disc brake models. Base model Vigors rode on 13-inch steel wheels with hubcaps, while more expensive models had the option of 14-inch alloy wheels. As established with the first generation car, the luxury content was also extensive compared to luxury equipment from competitors at the time. Some of the items on the top level 2.0Si included

1904-403: A front passenger-side airbag cut-off switch and indicator and extra stitching on the front seats. There were several minor changes made (such as changes in seat belt anchor mounts) which are not published. The 2006 TL received a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) and a new engine management system to help reduce torque steer. The new horsepower rating of 258 hp (192 kW) is due to

2023-407: A growing U.S.-Japan trade deficit . Ultimately a deal was reached which avoided the tariffs. The first-generation Acura TL had standard features including dual airbags, anti-lock brakes, automatic climate control, a cassette/CD player sound system, and power windows and locks. Leather was standard on the more upscale 3.2 TL, while the 2.5 TL featured a firmer suspension setup. Like its predecessor,

2142-583: A higher annual road tax over other Honda products with smaller engines. Items that were optional on the Accord, such as cruise control, air conditioning with automatic fan speed control and thermostatically monitored temperature, power windows with driver's one-touch express down, and power steering, were standard on the Vigor. A trip computer that displayed mileage, driving time, and fuel economy, which Honda called in sales brochure literature "Electronic Navigator,"

2261-551: A larger coupe and sedan above the top level Nissan Bluebird 810 with the six-cylinder engine. The Leopard coupe was introduced after the Toyota Chaser but before the Toyota Soarer . The angular body, available as a two-door hardtop coupé " personal luxury car ", and a four-door hardtop sedan, which featured very slim C- and D-pillars and large glass surfaces. The coupé featured a "glass-to-glass" rear window sharing

2380-477: A lighter shade color used inside for the seats, interior door panels, headliner, carpet, and carpeted floor mats. The drivers window switch was both one-touch express down and double-sized, i.e., the same width as two conventional window switches, with the front and rear passenger window switches further down and the window lockout switch installed next to the front passenger switch. The front passenger and rear passenger window switches were thumb activated, installed at

2499-435: A monthly subscription after the complimentary 3-month subscription expires from Acura for XM radio , which provides over 100 digital channels via satellite. With the optional Alpine -designed navigation system, the third-generation TL can also accept voice commands like "find nearest police station" or "go home." The DVD navigation system features an 8-inch (200 mm) touchscreen LCD , which allows for easy viewing of

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2618-527: A power tinted glass moonroof, optional four-wheel anti-lock brakes, optional colored LCD digital instruments (speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, and engine temperature), tilt steering with speed-sensitive power steering, cruise control, power windows, power door locks, electronic AM/FM stereo radio with cassette and four speakers (high power) with subwoofer and amplifier, intermittent front wipers (variable), 4-wheel disc brakes (front: 2-piston calipers with ventilated front discs), and optional leather interior. At

2737-466: A rear cargo cover for the hatchbacks. The higher trim level ME-T hatchback and the ME-R included delayed interior illumination ("theater lighting"), four coaxial speakers with the stereo system, power windows and locks, disc brakes front and rear, and speed-sensitive power steering. The vehicle was the same, but there were some differences in the equipment available between the Accord and the Vigor. Producing

2856-489: A smaller insert that flows better with the headlights and creates a sleeker profile. Aside from cosmetic changes, the 2012 TL was equipped with Honda's 6-speed automatic transmission to improve performance and efficiency. This transmission features downshift rev-matching with throttle blip and the ability to downshift two gears at a time. Additional new features include ventilated seats , new 60GB HDD, blind-spot information system , and upgraded wheels. The 2012 TL retains both

2975-474: A sporting feeling, and the suspension setting would modify both the steering feel and the shift points on the automatic transmission. A multi-link suspension was installed on the front wheels to accommodate the adjustable ride height shock absorbers. The Leopard F31's production run lasted seven years, ending in June 1992 due to lagging sales. Seven years was very long by period Japanese standards, nearly equaling

3094-534: A suspension tuned by Makoto Tamamura , an indication of the TL A-SPEC 's aggressive engineering. In addition, an underbody kit, spoiler, limited edition A-SPEC steering wheel, "A-SPEC" badge on the back, and 18-inch (460 mm) wheels are standard issue on the A-SPEC package. When installed at purchase, the car's 4-year/ 50,000 miles (80,000 km) warranty applies to the package as well. The third-generation TL

3213-530: A total of 260 bhp (194 kW) at 6100 rpm and 232 lb⋅ft (315 N⋅m) of torque at 3500-5500 rpm. It also featured 17-inch (430 mm) wheels, firmer seats and suspension. A large percentage of these vehicles exhibited problems with the automatic transmission necessitating replacement. In response to the recurring problem, the manufacturer extended the warranty covering the transmission to 109,000 miles (175,400 km) or 7.75 years for all 1999 - 2002 models and 2003 partial per VIN. Acura dealers replace

3332-502: A vehicle with two different names allowed Honda to sell the car at different sales channels in Japan; the Vigor was sold at Honda Verno dealerships, and the Accord was sold at Honda Clio dealerships. The fully equipped Vigor three-door hatchback offered cargo-carrying flexibility over the first generation Nissan Leopard coupé, which was not a hatchback, an approach shared with the first and second generation Toyota Supra . In 1997, Honda reused this approach to add an enhanced version of

3451-603: The Honda Verno dealer network. The main difference between the two cars were the front grille; the Inspire and Saber were also available with a 2.5 L Honda J-series V6 exclusive to the Japanese market. The very first 1999 Acura TL (2G) was assembled on August 4, 1998. The only option on the sedan was a CD-based navigation system. The 1999 TL's navigation system stored the maps in zones; there were 5 different zones for

3570-699: The Nissan Store locations in Japan. The Leopard's more traditional coupé styling was offered as an alternative to the Fairlady ZX's fastback appearance. Trim packages started with the top-level Ultima Grand Selection with the 3.0 V6 engine, the Ultima with the 3.0 V6 (later the Ultima received the 3.0 V6 turbo), the XS-II Grand Selection with the 2.0 V6 Turbo, the XS-II with the 2.0 V6 Turbo,

3689-614: The Cedric Gran Turismo and Gloria Gran Turismo to save on manufacturing and production costs. There were four available trim packages, starting with the XV-G, equipped with rear seat passenger comfort and convenience features, followed by XV, XR, and XJ. Because this version was essentially a reskinned Cedric and Gloria, the all-new telematics in-car navigation system called Compass Link was installed as an extra cost option in all trim packages beginning with this generation using

Honda Vigor - Misplaced Pages Continue

3808-584: The Honda Inspire holding the position of entry level luxury sedan below the Honda Legend in Japan. The Inspire of this era was instead sold as the seventh generation North American spec Honda Accord. It is powered by a 270 hp (201 kW) – later revised to 258 hp (192 kW) based on the new SAE measurement standard for horsepower – and 233 lb⋅ft (316 N⋅m) of torque, 3.2 L 24 valve SOHC VTEC V6 engine mated to either

3927-594: The Honda Legend . The Vigor competed with the Toyota Cresta and the Nissan Laurel in Japan. The rear lighting implementation consisted of the license plate installed in the bumper, with a black trim piece between the rear tail lights and the word "Vigor" inscribed. The Accord installed the rear license plate between the rear tail lights. This engine used the SOHC 3-valve-per-cylinder CVCC-II setup, mated to

4046-668: The Infiniti J30 , all J30s/Leopard J Feries were manufactured in Tochigi, Tochigi , Japan . The series used a MacPherson strut front suspension with a multi-link suspension rear suspension and Nissan's upgraded proprietary four wheel steering technology, Super HICAS . The nameplate J Férié derives from the French jour férié , for holiday. The word Ferie was (almost) shared with the Honda Civic Ferio marketed at

4165-617: The Nissan Maxima ), but used a platform based on the Nissan Skyline R30 . The Japanese version had side view mirrors mounted on the front fenders and (uniquely) had small wipers attached to the top of the mirrors to remove accumulated rain and dirt from the surface of the mirrors. A list of the various trim levels and engines that the Leopard was available with at its introduction. The 2-liter engine gave Japanese buyers

4284-489: The Vigor , this generation TL was a 4-door pillared hardtop, with frameless windows. In 1997, Acura added a standard power moonroof to all TL models. Additionally, all Acura TLs received a variable-speed intermittent wiper setting. The 3.2 TL had 205/65/15 tires and a V6 motor. The sport-targeted, 5-cylinder 2.5 TL was further fitted with new alloy wheels . For 1998, Acura made several previously optional features standard on

4403-591: The 2.5 TL. 1998 was the last year of TL production in Japan, as the model was being redesigned for production in the United States. In 1998, Honda revealed the TL-X concept car , showing a preview of the second-generation TL which would debut in fall that year. The second-generation TL (now called 3.2 TL ) was released in 1998 and was now derived off the US-market Honda Accord platform. It

4522-916: The 6-speed automatic transmission. The 6-speed manual transmission will continue to be offered. The 2012 model is also 3 dB quieter on the highway. It is a version of front-wheel-drive 2013 Acura TL with distinctive 10-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels, a color-matched deck lid spoiler, trunk-mounted Special Edition badging, Keyless Access System with Keyless Access Remote, pushbutton start, choice of 4 body colors (Bellanova White Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl, Graphite Luster Metallic and Silver Moon Metallic) matched with an Ebony interior leather upholstery with contrast stitching, Sequential SportShift 6-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifter system, 10-way adjustable power driver's seat, an 8-way adjustable power front passenger's seat, power moonroof, 276-watt audio system with eight speakers, dual-zone dual-mode automatic climate control system with automatic humidity control. The vehicle

4641-440: The Accord installed the license plate indented on the trunk lid. The trim level designations were 2.0 Si, MXL-S, MX, MXL, and MF. May 1987 saw the introduction of the 2.0 Si Exclusive, adding electric retractable side view mirrors as standard. An automatic shift-lock system was added in September 1988 on the "MXL Super Stage" trim level. The second generation Vigor also benefited from Honda deciding to employ double-wishbones at both

4760-513: The AcuraLink satellite capability has been expanded to incorporate 76 markets (up from 38 markets for the 2007 model). The first fourth-generation Acura TL rolled off the assembly line on September 23, 2008. Debuted for the 2009 model year, the Acura TL featured a more aggressive interpretation of Acura's latest styling vocabulary, known as "Keen Edge Dynamic." Featured prominently on

4879-539: The DVD GPS navigation system option. These were separate independent systems, each with their own GPS receivers. The OnStar system was based on a dated Motorola analog cellular technology operating over 1G AMPS. Because of this and the failure of Acura to offer a digital upgrade, the TL OnStar system became defunct in 2009 when US carriers were allowed to turn off analog AMPS cell tower equipment. In October 2003,

Honda Vigor - Misplaced Pages Continue

4998-456: The ELS audio system, audio CDs are automatically ripped to the hard drive upon insertion for future playback. The navigation system also stores its map data on the hard drive (as opposed to the previous model's DVD-based storage), producing faster boot times. For the 2012 model, Honda offered new front and rear styling, updating the controversial "beak" insert in the front grille by replacing it with

5117-575: The ES as an entry-level luxury model. Poor sales and no improvement in market response led Honda to drop the model, and production ended on May 13, 1994. The Vigor was replaced by the 1996 Acura TL / Honda Saber . Acura TL The Acura TL is a car that was manufactured by Acura , the North American luxury division of Honda . It was introduced in 1995 to replace the Acura Vigor and

5236-536: The Leopard received a mild facelift and with it, the under-performing 2.8 was dropped from the lineup. In June 1984 a limited Turbo Grand Edition with the 300ZX 's 230 PS (227 hp; 169 kW) 3 litre VG30ET turbo V6 engine joined the line-up. The car shared many components with the six-cylinder version of the Nissan Bluebird (910) , sold in North America as the Datsun 810 (and later renamed

5355-414: The Leopard wasn't available in leather for all trim packages, with a wool interior offered on the top three trim packages. The front passenger seat was also equipped with what Nissan called the "Partner Comfort Seat," where the top portion of the front passenger seat was further articulated to tilt forward, supporting the passenger's shoulders while allowing the seatback structure to recline. The front edge of

5474-622: The SH-AWD model. For this manual transmission model, Acura designed a new self-adjusting dual-mass clutch system for increased holding power and improved modulation compared to the previous generation. Additional differences from the automatic transmission SH-AWD model include more aggressively tuned front dampers and springs, stiffer engine and transmission mounts, unique Electric Power Steering (EPS) tuning, hill start assist, and improved front/rear weight distribution. The fourth generation Acura TL adds further electronic convenience items, now including

5593-524: The Soarer several iterations of its straight six in 2.0, 2.8, and 3.0 liters' displacement, Nissan offered the all-new V6 either naturally aspirated or with a turbo in its Leopard. The displacements of the engines were of either 2.0 or 3.0 liters. The engines offered were the VG30DET , VG30DE , VG20DET , VG20ET , and VG20E . Early 2.0 turbo versions had the single-cam (per bank) VG20ET, but from August 1988,

5712-502: The TL SH-AWD has 245/45R18 tires with optional 245/40ZR19 summer performance tires. Both models use electric power steering rather than hydraulic, and a revised five-speed automatic transmission (2012+ models received the 6-speed automatic) featuring shift paddles on the steering wheel is standard equipment for both models. For the 2010 model year, Acura announced that a 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission would be available for

5831-588: The TL with the new Acura TLX sedan. Production of the TL ceased towards the end of 2014, with the 2015 TLX going on sale in the fall that same year. Your chassis code is linked with your vehicle identification number (VIN). The number after the letters UA is your type and generation code: UA1 = 2.0 Inline 5 (not sold in the US) Nissan Leopard The Nissan Leopard is a line of sport/luxury cars built by Japanese carmaker Nissan . The Leopard began life in 1980 and

5950-517: The Type L-S V6 sharing the equipment package with the Type X-S. The V8 claimed 270 PS (199 kW) in Japanese specifications. This generation was the first time an engine with a displacement under 2.0 L wasn't offered in Japan, and resulted in Japanese buyers being liable for a higher annual road tax bill which affected sales. The previous generation 6-inch CRT TV screen was upgraded to

6069-403: The U.S. Starting with this generation, cabin air filters (also known as pollen filters) were installed as standard equipment and are located behind the glove compartment. In the second year of production, the Acura TL was given a few more features, including a 5-speed automatic transmission with SportShift. The added gear allowed for slightly better fuel economy and acceleration when compared to

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6188-457: The VG30DE engine also increased marginally at the time of the facelift. The new turbocharged 3.0 liter VG30DET engine was available in top-spec form, which produces 255 PS (252 hp; 188 kW). Only the smaller VG20ET and VG20DET engines had intercoolers installed. The companion fastback sports car, the Fairlady ZX, reflected the angular bodywork. Still, the coupé remained exclusive to

6307-579: The VQ series that utilized Nissan 's direct fuel injection engine configuration, which supplied fuel directly inside the engine cylinder instead of inside the intake manifold just before entering the cylinders. As the economic downturn of the post-" Japanese bubble economy " began to take effect, the Leopard suffered diminished sales. This generation was only at Nissan Saito Store locations to bolster sales and no longer at Nissan Store . As it directly competed with other Nissan large sedans and performance cars, it

6426-680: The Vigor hatchback were the TXL, TX, and TU using the carburetor and the TT-i with fuel injection. Vehicles that were fitted with fuel injection no longer used the CVCC system. Some of the standard equipment on the MX-T hatchback and the MG and ME sedans included cruise control, two-position all-wheel auto-leveling suspension, fuel usage computer, AM/FM cassette stereo and two coaxial loudspeakers , flow-through ventilation, velour interior with split folding rear seats, and

6545-604: The XS with the V6 Turbo, the XJ-II with a 2.0 V6 and the base model called the XJ with the 2.0 V6. All models came with a digital instrument cluster, all models except the XS and the XJ came with stereo and cruise control buttons installed in the steering wheel center pad, and both Grand Selection models were installed with a 6-inch CRT TV screen installed in the dashboard below the A/C controls that allowed passengers to watch broadcast TV if

6664-721: The XV-G and XV, with internal model code JHBY33. For the 1998 mid-model refresh, the XJ-4 was installed with ATTESA E-TS AWD and the RB25DET turbocharged straight-six engine, borrowed from the Skyline and Laurel. The straight six was installed because ATTESA-ETS was either mated to the VH41DE V8 from the Cima, or the RB25DET from the Skyline and Laurel, which would've made the Leopard too expensive. The VG-based V6 engines were replaced with

6783-549: The Y32 Leopard) was designed by Jerry Hirshberg , president of Nissan Design International (NDI) and marketed as the Leopard J Ferie , beginning in June 1992 — as a four-door, five-passenger rear-drive sedan. Production began on April 7, 1992 as a 1993 model, and production ended on June 18, 1997. This was the first and only Leopard to be sold in North America, when it was introduced as a Infiniti. The Leopard abandoned

6902-445: The addition of a cellular phone installed in a dedicated compartment in the dashboard above the glove compartment, where a modern passenger-side airbag would now be located. They also offered a choice of a cassette tape changer installed in the center armrest compartment, with a separate single-disc CD player in the dashboard. A CD changer was later upgraded to the center armrest compartment. Catering to Japanese tastes for luxury,

7021-434: The addition of side impact airbags for the front passengers and a change of format for the navigation system. The 2000 TL switched from a CD database to a DVD -based navigation system. The entire continental United States became accessible with the navigation system; it was possible to drive from one coast to the other with the new navigation system. For the 2001 model year, Acura introduced the new CL Type S (2001-2003) which

7140-530: The audio system, to allow for hands-free usage of one's cell phone (provided the phone also supports Bluetooth and is compatible with the HFL's hands-free profile). In Canada, the HFL feature was not available on the base model (standard with A-Spec, Technology, and Navigation packages), though the 2005 model year saw HFL becoming standard in all Canadian models. With the built-in XM Radio tuner, owners can elect to pay

7259-424: The base 3.5L 280 hp (209 kW) 254 lb⋅ft (344 N⋅m) and the SH-AWD models' 3.7L 305 hp (227 kW) 273 lb⋅ft (370 N⋅m) engines but now gets two mpg more in the city (20 mpg ‑US , 12 L/100 km, 24 mpg ‑imp ) and three mpg more on the highway (29 mpg ‑US , 8.1 L/100 km, 35 mpg ‑imp ), thanks to less engine friction and

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7378-536: The base TL). Touch screen navigation is standard and the suspension has been firmed up. The only options are the aforementioned transmission and high-performance summer tires ( Bridgestone Potenzas) rather than the standard all-season tires ( Michelin Pilot MXM4s). The 2008 TL features an improved new immobilizer system, and a separate TPMS warning lamp. The navigation system has been updated to work in Hawaii , and

7497-444: The base model and is tuned for slightly firmer suspension and steering feedback. It is visually distinguishable from the base model on the exterior by its SH-AWD badge on the trunk, quad exhaust pipes (as opposed to dual exhaust on the base model) and larger air ducts in the front bumper to cool the larger brakes (the base model's turn signal indicators in the bumper extend all the way to the center.) The TL rides on 245/50R17 tires, while

7616-512: The car come to a screeching halt, even at freeway speeds. This problem was highlighted in the Los Angeles Times in September 2002. Consumer Reports took note and gave the TL and CL the "black spot," the worst rating for transmission reliability. In response to the recurring problem, the manufacturer extended the warranty covering the transmission to 7 years or 100,000 miles (160,000 km) on American models. A class-action lawsuit

7735-442: The coupe, and changed platforms from the Skyline and Laurel to the longer Cedric and Gloria. The sedan was the only body style offered, and was exclusive to Nissan Store . Its appearance at introduction was distinctive, and the small interior resulted from its rounded styling uncharacteristic of the crowded executive car class at the time, which is now considered an early variant of a four-door coupé . Marketed in North America as

7854-408: The engine when not needed to boost fuel economy. The Saber was discontinued and the new Inspire is being sold at Clio, Primo, and Verno dealerships. The TL became Acura's best-selling luxury sedan in 2004 with more than 79,000 sold that year. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) found the Acura TL had the second lowest fatality rates among midsize luxury cars. The 2005 TL received

7973-417: The final fourth generation TL premiering in 2008 as a 2009 model and ending production in 2014, when it was replaced together with the TSX by the TLX . The TL "Touring Luxury" debuted as 1996 model, first with the 1996 2.5 TL available with the 2.5 L 176 hp (131 kW) SOHC 20-valve 5-cylinder engine from the Vigor. The 3.2 TL used the 3.2 L 200 hp (149 kW) SOHC 24v V6 from

8092-426: The first TL to have all-wheel drive , and replaces the previous TL Type-S . It is powered by a 3.7-liter V6 that produces 305 hp (227 kW) and 275 lb⋅ft (373 N⋅m) of torque, an increase of 19 hp (14 kW) and 19 lb⋅ft (26 N⋅m) over the 3.5-liter V6 of the Type-S. Acura originally advertised it as having 307 hp (229 kW), but revised that claim without any explanation after

8211-517: The first-generation TL, a shorter front overhang and longer wheelbase, fitting for a near-luxury car. The inline-5 engine in the 2.5 TL competed with similar 5-cylinder engines offered in Audi and Volvo models. The first 1996 Acura TL was manufactured at Sayama , Japan on March 28, 1995. Sales of the 2.5 TL began in spring 1995, but the 3.2 TL was delayed until fall because of a U.S.-Japan trade dispute. The U.S. government had threatened to impose 100% tariffs on higher-priced Japanese cars in response

8330-451: The front and rear ends—a layout that spread to other Honda products in subsequent years. While more expensive than competitors' MacPherson strut systems, this setup provided better stability and sharper handling for the vehicle. All had front sway bars, and the upper models had rear sway bars. Brakes were small 4-wheel discs with twin-piston calipers (only available on the JDM 2.0-Si model ), larger 4-wheel discs with single-piston calipers, or

8449-437: The front bumper scanned the road surface and adjusted the suspension accordingly via actuators mounted on all four coil over shock absorbers . There was also a switch on the center console that allowed the driver to change between "Auto," "Soft," "Medium," and "Hard" settings on all models except the XS model, which removed the "Auto" selection. The speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion power steering could also be separately reduced for

8568-470: The front is Acura's controversial "Power Plenum" upper grille. The size of the car has increased slightly, and as a consequence the wheelbase has been stretched 1.4 inches (36 mm) to 109.3 inches (2,780 mm). The car is also 6.2 inches (160 mm) longer overall, 1.8 inches (46 mm) wider and 0.5-inch (13 mm) taller. Rear legroom improves by 1.3 inches (33 mm) and rear shoulder room increases by 0.5-inch (13 mm). Structural rigidity

8687-697: The front passenger seat. As of 1985, the trim levels offered were the MG, ME, and ME-R for the sedan. Earlier trim packages were the VXR, VX, and VL, all using the CVCC-II induction setup. Honda's fuel injection system was offered on the VTL-i and VT-i. The Vigor hatchback was available with the trim packages MX-T and the ME-T until it was replaced by the Honda Integra 2-door hatchback in 1984. Earlier trim packages for

8806-509: The front wheels using half shafts ; this allowed the powertrain to remain slightly behind the front wheels. This also gave the car a 60:40 front-to-rear weight distribution . Comparisons to the Lexus ES 300 , which was roomier and softer in ride, generally favored the Lexus as the more appealing buy for the average luxury car buyer. In contrast, the Vigor was stiffer, sprung, and smaller on

8925-548: The information in this article was translated from the Nissan Leopard article on Japanese Misplaced Pages at ja:日産・レパード . The fourth and last generation of the Leopard, introduced in March 1996, was offered as a hardtop sedan again, using frameless side windows with a "B" pillar . The controversial "J Ferie" appearance and the model name were canceled, and the Leopard shared its chassis, suspension, powertrain, and interior with

9044-401: The inside. In response to the reviews, Acura made several changes to the Vigor for the 1994 model year, increasing rear seat room, softening the suspension, and re-engineering the steering rack to help isolate the driver from road imperfections to make the model more like the ES. The tactics were unsuccessful; buyers favored the more powerful Legend as a sports sedan and still seemed to prefer

9163-471: The launch of the fourth generation Accord in 1989, the Vigor was no longer based on the Accord chassis but a stretched derivative. The third generation Vigor, fulfilling as the top-level sedan at Honda Verno dealerships in Japan, and sold along with the all-new Honda Inspire and the new second generation Honda Legend at Honda Clio dealerships. The Vigor was also sold in the United States , where it

9282-416: The lower trim level XJ-II and the XJ 2.0 V6 without a turbo. The differential was a Nissan R200-type open differential . The suspension was shared with the Skyline and Laurel, using MacPherson struts for the front wheels and a semi-trailing arm rear suspension with coil springs for the rear. If the Leopard was optionally equipped with the " Super Sonic Suspension " system, a sonar module mounted under

9401-464: The mainstay Accord, making a more prestigious model and naming the new car the Honda Torneo . June 4, 1985, saw the introduction of the redesigned Vigor as a four-door sedan only. As before, the Vigor was a luxury Accord . The 1.8  L B18A four-cylinder engine was now offered with dual carburetors and a larger 2.0  L B20A engine was offered Honda's PGM-FI, with the 1.8 L A18A engine as

9520-465: The new naming scheme. The 2.5 TL was positioned as the sporty model and the 3.2 focused more upon a luxurious ride. Moreover, the added power in the 3.2 TL gave it better acceleration. Both engines were mounted in a front-rear, or longitudinal position. This contrasted with the more typical transverse engine mount style, and was intended to provide better weight distribution and reduce nose dive. The engine mount design resulted in an elongated hood for

9639-418: The now Ridgeline -sized 12.6 in (320 mm) front discs and 13.2 in (340 mm) rear disc, still incorporating an internal rear drum e-brake while maintaining hydraulic discs for the foot applied brakes. The bolt pattern on the car is no longer a 5 x 114.3 mm (4.50 in) but a 5 x 120 mm (4.7 in) for this generation. The SH-AWD model also includes some interior refinements over

9758-470: The option of paying less annual road tax : After a mild styling update in late 1982, the car was offered in the following variations: 180X GX, SGX 200X SGX, ZGX 200 Turbo SGX, ZGX, ZGX Super Edition 300 Turbo Grand Edition Most of the information in this article was translated from the Nissan Leopard article on Japanese Misplaced Pages at ja:日産・レパード . The F31 Leopard appeared in February 1986 and

9877-465: The passenger seat cushion was also adjustable. This was created by Dr. Yoshiyuki Matsuoka, who worked for Nissan from 1982. Like the Skyline and Fairlady ZX , the Leopard coupé was a front-engined and rear-wheel drive vehicle. The RE4R01A four-speed automatic with electronic overdrive was used, as well as a five-speed manual transmission, which was only available in the domestic Japanese market on

9996-488: The power to the front wheels and 10% to the rear wheels. Acceleration puts more torque on the rear wheels. The car can put up to 70% of the total available power to the rear wheels to assist with rapid acceleration, and of that 70%, 100% can be pushed to either the left or right wheel in order to assist the vehicle through a corner. The brakes on the new TL have been increased in size, from the older 11.8 in (300 mm) front disc and 11.1 in (280 mm) rear disc to

10115-518: The previous 4-speed automatic transmission with SportShift. With this model, if the driver forgets the 1-2 shift the computer will take over when in sport mode and do the 1-2 up and down shifts, unlike the 4-speed 1999 model. In many vehicles, the 5-speed automatic transmission was very unreliable: as the third gear clutch pack wore, particles blocked off oil passages and prevented the transmission from shifting or holding gears normally. The transmission would slip, fail to shift, or suddenly downshift and make

10234-477: The primary offering. The Vigor had minor cosmetic differences from the Accord, using a different front grille and rear tail lights and a higher specification. The adoption of concealed headlights reflected the popularity of the Honda Prelude , and the new Honda Integra as the Vigor continued to be a companion at Honda Verno dealerships. The Vigor installed the rear license plate in the rear bumper, whereas

10353-626: The quad-cam version appeared. The bodywork was also facelifted in August 1988 and now featured a smoother front appearance, achieving a wind resistance coefficient of 0.32. It was the facelifted version that was exported to the USA, and approximately 12,000 Leopards were sold (with around 6,000 of those being converted to convertibles by ASC ). In the USA, the F31 was called the Infiniti M30 . Output of

10472-436: The road ahead. DVDs with new road information for the navigation system were made annually until 2014. The JDM Honda Inspire debuted around four and a half months earlier (on June 11, 2003) and marked the branching out of the TL line from the Inspire. The Inspire is basically a seventh-generation US-market Honda Accord V6 with minor trim changes, and the addition of Variable Cylinder Management , which shuts off half of

10591-463: The runs of two generations of most Japanese cars. Nobody knows exactly how many Infiniti M30 were produced for the US market, but it has been said that just over 17,000 were made. It is unknown how many were coupés and how many were convertibles; the convertible was only available in 1991 and 1992. 38,000 F31 Leopards were sold in Japan during its seven-year production span. The third generation (internally

10710-592: The same time. Oldsmobile had used the nameplate "Holiday" in the 1950s and 1960s with a hardtop bodystyle. Power came from a 3.0  L VG30DE V6 (shared with the 300ZX ) which produced 210 PS (154 kW) and 192 lb⋅ft (260 N⋅m) of torque . While it shares the Y32 Chassis with the Nissan Cedric / Gloria , it was offered the engines used in the Nissan Cima Y32 where it

10829-469: The second-generation Acura Legend . The model with the 2.0-liter inline-five was not offered in the US market. The debut of the TL signaled Acura's shift from traditional vehicle names to alphanumeric designations. By replacing recognizable names such as Vigor and Legend with a two-letter designation, the luxury maker hoped to focus consumer attention on the Acura name. The TL was the first Acura model to adopt

10948-423: The side mirrors and fog lamps in the bumper. Prior to 2007, the fog lamps were integrated into the headlight housing; Daytime Running Lights now occupy that space (Canadian models have had DRLs there rather than fog lamps since 2004). TL with navigation models sport a new rear view camera with image displayed on the navigation screen as well as XM NavTraffic. In addition to the new standard auxiliary audio jack,

11067-487: The sound system is now MP3 / WMA compatible and offers Dolby Pro Logic II decoding and speed-sensitive volume compensation. The manual transmission option had been dropped from the base TL due largely to extremely low sales (roughly 1 out of 40 TLs sold across America were equipped with a manual gearbox). Acura also introduced a new 5-speed automatic transmission for the 2007 and 2008 model year TLs. Changes include downshift "rev matching", slightly altered gear ratios, and

11186-522: The stereo system that allowed sound modification for various types of music. Production of the Acura variant began in 1991 and the vehicle went on sale as a 1992 model in June of that year, slotting between the Integra and the Acura Legend in North America. To keep the Vigor classified as a "compact" according to Japanese vehicle size requirements , the shorter and narrower CB5 Vigor sold in Japan

11305-466: The third-generation Acura TL (the 3.2 moniker was dropped) was released for sale in North America. Developed mainly in the United States by a team led by Erik Berkman, with bodywork by American Honda designer Jon Ikeda , the new TL was built in Marysville, Ohio, and was derived from the seventh generation US-market Honda Accord . Starting with this generation, this model was not sold in Japan, with

11424-521: The top of the interior door pull handle. The Y32 was the first car sold in Japan to include a passenger-side airbag as standard equipment. One of the numerous reasons the Y32 Leopard did not meet projected sales goals was that its most distinguishing feature was a lack of interior room. It had the distinction of being a mid-size car with the space of a subcompact (less than a Sunny ) due to its sloping roofline and rounded down trunk. The styling of

11543-410: The transmission to 109,000 miles (175,400 km) or 7.75 years for all 1999 - 2002 and 2003 partial per VIN. Acura dealers replace the transmissions under warranty. Transmissions replaced prior to March 2005 usually fail again. Transmissions replaced in March 2005 and later include a redesigned third gear clutch pack reported to fix the problem. Several models in the 2002–2003 years were the subject of

11662-472: The transmission was in Park and the parking brake applied. The screen was not touch-sensitive and didn't offer a CD-ROM-based navigation system. The display also showed AM/FM stereo settings. The video entertainment system also had RCA connections to attach a camcorder and watch recorded video. Sony supplied the stereo and video equipment. On top of that, the Ultima models featured a keyless entry card. The Leopard F31 had few factory options, but dealers offered

11781-472: The transmissions under warranty. Transmissions replaced prior to March 2005 usually fail again. Transmissions replaced March 2005 and later include a redesigned third gear clutch pack reported to fix the problem. Only minor changes occurred for this model year in order to make way for a redesign. One odd and notable addition to only the 2003 model year was the addition of a General Motors OnStar subscription cellular telephone and navigation assistance service to

11900-508: The trim packages were 2.5XS, 2.5S, 2.5X, 2.5W, 2.0G, and the Type W. In North America, the Vigor came in two trim packages: the LS and the higher content GS, and the 2.5 L engine was the only engine available. In Japan, the smaller G20A engine used regular-grade fuel, while the larger G25A engine used premium-grade fuel. One of the optionally available items was Digital signal processing integrated into

12019-410: The two body styles both carried the same price tags. The Leopard featured some industry firsts, for instance a fuel consumption gauge in the dashboard. Originally the Leopard was available with naturally aspirated inline four- and six-cylinder engines of 1,800, 2,000, and 2,800 cc displacement; the largest engine received an electronic engine management system developed together with Hitachi , and

12138-428: The vehicle was more favorably regarded in Japan than it was in the USA. All were built in Tochigi, Tochigi , Japan . Over its lifetime, approximately 70,000 were sold in the United States (more than 20,000 per year for 1993 and 1994; 17,899 in 1995; 7,564 in 1996; and 4,594 in 1997) and less than 8,000 were sold in Japan. Information for this section of the article was translated from Leopard J Ferie.com Most of

12257-467: The vehicle.), a joystick-based (no longer touchscreen) navigation system updated with a new 8-inch (200 mm) full VGA display and the ability to provide weather information and traffic-based rerouting, and the Acura/ELS audio system with 10 speakers, 440 watts of power, DTS CD compatibility for 5.1 surround sound, DVD-A, as well as an internal hard drive with 13 GB of storage dedicated for audio. With

12376-533: The very slim C- and D-pillars from the sedan. The angular appearance was shared with the Fairlady Z , and the coupé was exclusive to Nissan Store Japanese Nissan dealerships while the sedan was exclusive to Nissan Cherry Store . The coupé replaced the Nissan Cedric coupé and the Nissan Laurel coupé. The wind resistance drag coefficient of the two-door version is 0.37. At the time of introduction,

12495-574: Was badged for the Japanese-market from 1996 to 2000 as the Honda Inspire and from 1996 to 2004 as the Honda Saber . The TL was Acura's best-selling model until it was outsold by the MDX in 2007. In 2005, it ranked as the second best-selling luxury sedan in the United States behind the BMW 3 Series , but sales decreased after the 2008 model year. Four generations of the Acura TL were produced, with

12614-425: Was a higher grade 4-door sedan and 3-door hatchback, with the 1.8 L engine as the only engine available, using Honda's CVCC -II system. The Vigor was a sportier, faster, "vigorous" Accord with a higher level of equipment over the more sedate Accord. Due to the higher level of luxury-oriented equipment, the Vigor helped "set the stage" for the market to accept a luxury-equipped car from Honda, which appeared in 1985 with

12733-512: Was a quicker model of the Acura CL (1996-2003). While it was mechanically identical to the TL, its sales never came close to that of its sibling model, and as a result, it was discontinued in May 2003. The 2001 model received a redesigned cupholder insert. The automatic transmissions in these cars were also defective. In response to the recurring problem, the manufacturer extended the warranty covering

12852-447: Was also standard on the Vigor. All Vigors were also equipped with ELR (Emergency Locking Retractor) seatbelts . One of the optional items on the Vigor was an Electro Gyrocator , the world's first automatic in-car navigation system. Other items included digital instrumentation, four-wheel Anti-lock brakes , a choice of stereo systems from Alpine Electronics , Clarion , and Pioneer , alloy wheels (13-inch), and adjustable thigh support on

12971-505: Was also the first car in the American market to include a 6-disc DVD-Audio system, output through an 8-speaker 225-watt system, engineered by Panasonic and tuned by Grammy Award-winning sound engineer Elliot Scheiner . The system also plays back CDs as well as DTS audio discs, CD-Audio, CD-Rs and CD-RWs but not MP3s . In the United States, all models were also equipped with a Bluetooth HandsFree Link (HFL) system, integrated with

13090-612: Was available with a newly designed 3.2 L 225 hp (168 kW) SOHC VTEC J32 V6 mated to a four-speed electronic automatic transmission with SportShift. The second-generation 3.2 TL (the 2.5 was dropped) was built in Marysville, Ohio , alongside the Honda Accord, at Marysville Auto Plant . These cars were imported into Japan and sold as Honda Inspire in the Honda Clio dealer network, and as Honda Saber in

13209-523: Was available with the 2-litre G20A engine between 1989 and 1992, while only a longer and broader version (CC2 & CC3) with the G25A engine was sold in North America (as an Acura). Honda's longitudinally mounted five-cylinder petrol was the only engine available. The transmission is attached behind the engine, with a driveshaft that sends power to the front of the car to an asymmetrically installed limited-slip differential , which then supplies power to

13328-523: Was badged as the first generation Acura Vigor beginning with the 1992 model year. In Japan, the Vigor competed against the Toyota Cresta and the Nissan Laurel . The Vigor in Japan was available in four trim packages, starting with the Type N, Type E, Type W, and Type X. In May 1991, the Type N package was no longer offered, and the top trim package was the Type S-Limited. Starting in January 1992,

13447-421: Was called NAPS-Z . The 1.8 liter fours were also originally available with a four-speed manual transmission, all others received five-speeds as standard (or an optional three-speed automatic). In July 1981 a two-liter turbocharged engine was added. Available as a GX, SGX, and ZGX, it had the same maximum output 145 PS (143 hp; 107 kW) as did the more expensive and heavier 2.8. In September 1982,

13566-416: Was discontinued in 1999. The Leopard were initially based on the Japanese market Nissan Skyline and Nissan Laurel , then later based on the chassis of their Nissan Cedric and Nissan Gloria contemporaries and were rear wheel drive. Final versions were the contributing factors to Nissan's Infiniti M and J products. The Leopard coupe and sedan were sold exclusively in Japan at Nissan Store locations as

13685-400: Was increased due to the use of high-strength steel in 47.6 percent of the chassis. The base TL is front-wheel drive and is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 that makes 280 hp (210 kW) and 254 lb⋅ft (344 N⋅m) of torque, an increase of 22 hp (16 kW) and 21 lb⋅ft (28 N⋅m) over the previous 3.2-liter V6 . The new TL SH-AWD ("Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive") is

13804-631: Was offered with both the VG30DE and VH41DE V8 . In Japan, three trim levels were offered, the Type X with VH41DE V8, the Type L which had the same equipment level as the Type X with the smaller VG30DE V6 engine, and the Type F offered with the V6 but more modestly equipped. Later updates offered the Type X-S V6 sharing the equivalent content level with the North American V6 equipped J30, and

13923-643: Was only available as a luxury GT coupé. This vehicle shared a platform with the Nissan Skyline R31 , Nissan Cefiro A31 , and the Nissan Laurel C32 to share development costs, benefiting from Project 901 . The Leopard sedan was replaced by the Nissan Bluebird Maxima in 1988. The F31 Leopard was directly competing mainly with the Toyota Soarer , Mazda Cosmo , and the Honda Legend coupé in 1986. Whereas Toyota offered

14042-458: Was produced using domestically and globally sourced parts at Honda of America Mfg., Inc., in Marysville, Ohio. The Acura TL uses Honda's Advanced Compatibility Engineering front end. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) found the 2009-11 front-wheel drive TL models (SH-AWD models not included in study) to have an overall driver death of five deaths per million registered years. In early 2014, Honda announced it would be replacing

14161-433: Was settled to extend the transmission warranty for U.S. owners or entities to 7.75 years for all models made from 1998 to 2002, and some 2003 models by VIN ; however, Canadian owners' warranties were not extended. Transmissions replaced prior to March 2005 usually fail again. Transmissions replaced from March 2005 and later include a redesigned third gear clutch pack reported to fix the problem. Other notable changes include

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