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Our test car was the TL with SH-AWD ("super-handling all-wheel drive, " one of my favorite overblown Japanese brand phrases) equipped with the 3.7-liter V6 and new-for-2012 six-speed automatic (previously a five-speed).
WSJ: 2012 Acura TL With SH-AWD Review: A Good Grille and a Better Car Behind It | Rumble Seat by Dan Neil
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Based on the A7, the four-door coupe pairs a 560-horsepower V8 engine from the S8 sedan with an AWD eight-speed automatic transmission.
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Incidentally, Acura's SH-AWD also makes the RDX the best-handling compact crossover out there, at least until the Porsche Cajun is ready.
WSJ: 2012 Acura TL With SH-AWD Review: A Good Grille and a Better Car Behind It | Rumble Seat by Dan Neil
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Seventeen-inch wheels and tires are standard on the base model, with 18-inch rims and rubber optional there and standard with AWD, where 19 inchers are alternately offered.
FORBES: 2012 Acura TL Review: Balancing Act
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And, of course, AWD is especially welcome when the elements become inhospitable, which is when rear-drive cars tend to lose their poise.
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Trunk space is adequate with 13.1 cubic feet of space (12.5 with AWD), though the rear seatbacks do not fold flat to expand its cargo-carrying abilities.
FORBES: 2012 Acura TL Review: Balancing Act