2001 Acura 3.2 CL
Good as Gold
photos & story by Eric Schofield

When Acura plopped the 2001 3.2 CL at our doorsteps, it brought out all sorts of comments from the staffers.  We heard…
“Yuck!  Who puked on the car?”
“Killer color – this is something James Bond would drive.”
“You can’t very well get lost in a parking lot with this baby.”
”If exclusivity is what you want… exclusivity is what you’ll get!”
and the list goes on and on.

Acura’s “golden child” is a major overhaul from it’s predecessor.  The previous model, 2.2 CL, fit in nicely between the smaller performance oriented Integra and the TL sedan.  But critics complained that it too closely resembled the Honda Accord Coupe and that it needed a personality of its own to wear the Acura badge.

It is improbable that any one could mistake the new CL with an Accord.  The focus has definitely been shifted towards performance with a healthy dash of luxury and the Type S takes performance to a higher level over the base CL model.  The look is drastically different though relatively sedate for a sports coupe.

The 3.2 CL shares the same power plant as the 3.2 TL, Acura’s stunning 3.2 liter 24-valve VTECH V6 engine.  The S Type produces 35 more ponies than the base model, 260 hp total.  This is accomplished by means of a better breathing exhaust system – larger catalytic converter and higher flow dual mufflers. Other changes include domed pistons which ups the compression rate, different intake valves and different camshafts.  Despite the boost in power, the hit on fuel economy has been minimal.  The base 3.2 CL is EPA rated at 19 city / 29 highway.  The Type S comes in at 18 city / 28 highway.

The Type S shouldn’t be confused with the hardcore performance of Type R designations used for the fastest Integra.  The Type S is certainly aimed at a more mature audience, one that can appreciate raw instantaneous power as well as comfort and amenities.  The Type S compares very well when faced with established European coupes that cost thousands more. 

The styling of the Type S was generally well received but many staffers felt it lacked something.  Perhaps there was too much resemblance with the more tame and sedate TL.  A sports coupe should be a little more “wild”, something akin to Mel Gibson’s character, William Wallace, in Braveheart. A gentleman at times but deep down inside, an animal awaiting to burst free.  The gentle curves and sloping deck appeared too sedate for some staffers.  Don’t get me wrong, the total package is very pleasing and speaks highly of class, distinction and luxury.  A little more attitude would be appreciated, that’s all.

The interior design is conservative as well but is very well appointed.  Our test model nearly matched the 3.2 TL we tested only months before sans the DVD based navigation system.  Everything was well placed, the fit and finish was excellent and the seats were sumptuous with exceptional lateral support to better hold you in place during hard cornering.  The power adjustable front seats are heated and move forward automatically to allow easier entry into the back seats.

Acura is making a habit of outfitting their automobiles with most of the frills one would want in an automobile.  The navigation system is the only option and other amenities which are often add-ons for other manufacturers are standard... 6-disc CD changer, AM/FM/Cassette stereo, power windows, mirrors, doorlocks, and power moonroof are all standard.  Also included is an automatic climate control system with micron air filtration to keep the cabin clean and relatively allergen free.

Safety features abound with the CL series.  Four-wheel antilock disc brakes, traction control, front and side air bags, front and rear crumple zones, and side-impact protection beams are standard on all 2001 Acura 3.2 CL's. Vehicle Stability Assist is standard on the Type S as well.

Styling	Amenities	Ergonomics	Power	Handling	Comfort	Roominess	Cargo Space	Fun to Drive	Bang for Buck	TOTAL
8	9	9	9	8.5	9	8.5	8	8.5	8.5	86