Newly refreshed 2012 TL flies off Acura of Las Vegas showroom

The newly refreshed 2012 Acura TL arrived at Acura of Las Vegas about two weeks ago, and it didn't take long before the first available models were flying off the showroom floor at Acura of Las Vegas.

Several new features have been added to the latest TL including a revised front grille, improved aerodynamics, updated tail lights and headlights, new 18-by-8-inch five-spoke aluminum wheels and low- profile P245/45R tires.

Additionally, the TL's new performance package includes paddle shifters with a revised drive-by-wire throttle system, much like those found in Formula One racing, and technologies featuring a V-6 engine with new friction-reducing technologies that have increased gas mileage by 2 mpg in the city and 3 mpg on the highway; mileage is now 20 mph in the city and 29 mph on the highway.

The new six-speed automatic transmission has been reworked and, with improvements, plays a big part in improved fuel economy.

However, there are even more impressive improvements to the 2012 Acura TL, including a 60-gigabyte hard drive disk navigation and music system; faster USB connection and a brighter VGA monitor with richer colors.

An advanced package features ventilated front seats and a blind spot information system.

"The TL was already a great product," said General Manager Tim Donnelly. "With the improvements for the 2012 model, it's an even better car. The refined styling of the vehicle will bring a younger buyer.

"The addition of the advanced model, which includes cooling seats, will bring us a more mature buyer."

Sales consultant Louie Doblado, who has been selling Acuras for 21 years, said the 2012 is one of the best models ever produced by manufacturer.

"I have seen a lot of Acuras in my time and the improvements on the new TL are some of the most impressive since the Acura Legend changed in 1991," said Doblado, a 1979 graduate of Bishop Gorman High School . "The technology implemented in these new Acuras comes directly from Indy Car racing and that incorporates much of the safety and performance used in open-wheel racing. I consider open-wheel racing to be the most technologically advanced form of auto racing today."

Jim Turek, a retiree from Las Vegas, was the first buyer of the 2012 TL with the advanced package.

"For the money, it compares very favorably with cars that cost $15,000 to $20,000 more," said Turek, a native of Chicago who has lived in Las Vegas for five years. "I think it's mostly the electronic advancements and the new styling for 2012.

"I also purchased a '99 TL that I had absolutely no problem at all with. We did a lot of shopping and looked at several other models and, in the end, came back to Acura."

Turek's sales consultant Steve Cordero said the car was redesigned to appeal to both male and female buyers.

"I showed Jim the 2012 TL on the showroom and he said he loved it," said Cordero. "Acura buyers are very well-educated and they study a vehicle before making the purchase. Jim knew what he wanted and it didn't take long for him to make up his mind."

Acura of Las Vegas picked a great time to introduce one of its best-ever models since the manufacturer is celebrating its 25th year in the business. The dealership will showcase the 2012 Acura TL April 21 from 5 to 8 p.m.

Acura of Las Vegas, 7000 W. Sahara Ave., is part of the Super Store Auto Group, which has five stores in Southern Nevada and more than 26 in the country.

For more information on Acura of Las Vegas, call 367-7000, or visit www.lasvegasacura.com.