The Acura CL stands as one of those rare automotive treasures that perfectly balances luxury and performance. From August 2002 to July 2003, this refreshed second-generation coupe carved out its own niche in the market, offering a compelling alternative to European luxury coupes.
Few cars manage to capture the essence of early 2000s automotive design quite like the CL. This front-wheel-drive D-segment coupe emerged as a refined evolution of its predecessor, bringing sharper styling and enhanced performance to the table.
Engineering Excellence Under the Hood
The heart of the CL beats with a remarkable 3.2-liter powerplant that produces 225 horsepower. This J32A1 engine incorporates Honda’s legendary VTEC technology, delivering smooth power delivery throughout the rev range while maintaining impressive reliability.
The engine pairs seamlessly with a sophisticated 5-speed automatic transmission, providing both engaging performance and comfortable daily driving. The powertrain combination allows for confident highway passing and spirited backroad driving.
“After 150,000 miles, my CL’s engine runs as smooth as day one. The VTEC transition still brings a smile to my face every time.” – Mike Thompson, CL Owner since 2003
The front-wheel-drive architecture, while unexpected in a luxury coupe, proves its worth through precise handling and excellent traction in various weather conditions.
Premium Interior Experience
Step inside the CL, and you’re greeted by an environment that exemplifies Acura’s commitment to luxury. The cabin showcases meticulous attention to detail with its high-grade materials and thoughtful ergonomics.
Here’s what sets the CL’s interior apart:
- premium leather upholstery with excellent stitching quality;
- ergonomically designed seats with power adjustment;
- driver-focused dashboard layout with clear instrumentation;
- impressive sound insulation for a quiet ride;
- generous trunk space despite the coupe design.
The interior design has aged remarkably well, maintaining its premium feel even by today’s standards.
Technology and Features
The 2002-2003 CL came impressively equipped for its era. The technological package demonstrated Acura’s forward-thinking approach to luxury vehicle design.
“The attention to detail in my CL’s cabin still impresses passengers today. The build quality is something you just don’t see anymore.” – Sarah Chen, Automotive Enthusiast
Every control feels purposeful, and the layout remains intuitive even by modern standards. The audio system delivers exceptional sound quality, while the automatic climate control maintains perfect cabin comfort.
Performance and Handling
The CL delivers a driving experience that perfectly matches its sophisticated appearance. The suspension setup strikes an excellent balance between comfort and sportiness, making it equally capable on both smooth highways and winding roads.
Driving enthusiasts will appreciate these performance aspects:
- responsive steering with good feedback;
- strong braking performance with minimal fade;
- well-controlled body roll in corners;
- impressive straight-line stability;
- confident wet-weather handling.
This combination of attributes makes the CL a truly versatile performer.
The Legacy Lives On
The Acura CL represents more than just another luxury coupe – it showcases the pinnacle of Japanese automotive engineering from the early 2000s. Its blend of performance, comfort, and reliability created a lasting impression on the automotive landscape.
These attributes continue to make it a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking a unique combination of luxury and performance in a classic package.
Pros and Cons
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Robust and reliable 3.2L V6 engine with proven longevity | Limited availability of spare parts due to age |
| Premium interior materials that have aged gracefully | Front-wheel drive may not appeal to purist luxury coupe buyers |
| Excellent build quality with minimal wear issues | Fuel economy falls short of modern standards |
| Strong performance balanced with daily usability | Some electrical components may require attention with age |
| Comfortable and spacious for a coupe design | Limited rear seat access typical of coupe body style |
| Advanced features that remain relevant today | Original navigation system feels dated |
| Value retention compared to European competitors | Limited production numbers affect parts availability |
The Acura CL stands as a testament to thoughtful engineering and design. While it may show its age in certain areas, its fundamental strengths in build quality, performance, and comfort make it a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking a unique luxury coupe experience.