cars, Acura Tl Seat Belt
The biggest news for the 2005 model was the addition of SH-AWD, Acura's all-new all-wheel-drive system, which made its debut in the RL and later found its way into other vehicles in the line. The system, which sends torque to the front and rear when needed as well as between the left and right wheels, is designed to improve handling on twisty roads and inclement weather. The setup also helps offset the engine's shortcomings. Many staffers were impressed by the amount of grip the Acura had in switchbacks and enjoyed flicking the paddles while the AWD went to work.
The all-new styling for 2005-which some on our staff claimed their Dads love-merges dark leather on the seats and real wood on the dash with a high-tech center stack that contains a navigation system with AcuraLink real-time traffic reporting. It also has a 10-speaker surround-sound audio system that plays CDs as well as DVD-audio discs. Other luxury touches: electronic tilt/telescoping steering wheel, cool Acura Tl Seat Belt,a power rear sunshade, and XM Satellite Radio. Unfortunately, with the technology came glitches: the XM (and the real-time traffic updates) stopped working intermittently, the pop-open cigarette lighter failed to open, and the accessory fuse blew on at least three occasions, rendering the power ports useless. Minor issues, though surprising to experience in an Acura.
