Acura CL models

The CL was positioned in Acura's lineup between the Integra and the TL. Both models offered a keyless entry system, 4-wheel antilock disc brakes, and dual airbags as standard features
Originally introduced early in the spring of 1996, the 2.2 CL was offered with a 145 hp, 2.2-liter 4 cylinder engine. In the fall of 1997, the 3.0CL was added with a more powerful 200 hp, 3.0-liter V6 engine. Both engines utilized Honda's VTEC (variable valve timing) design. The 2.2 CL was offered with a standard 5-speed manual transmission and an optional 4-speed automatic, while the 3.0CL came standard with a 4-speed automatic transmission.

The Acura CL, a midsize two door, four passenger coupe, was the first Acura vehicle designed and built in the United States. Manufactured at Honda's Marysville, Ohio facility starting with the 1997 model year, the CL was produced with the front-wheel drive platform as the Honda Accord on which it was based.

The CL was positioned in Acura's lineup between the Integra and the TL. Both models offered a keyless entry system, 4-wheel antilock disc brakes, and dual airbags as standard features. Both also offered a premium trim level that added leather upholstery and Acura's Bose Sound System. In 1998 the 2.2 CL became the 2.3 CL as the engine was upgraded to a 150 hp, 2.3-liter 4 cylinder. Both models also received new wheels, a revised grille and audio controls on the steering wheel. For 1999, the premium trim was eliminated as leather upholstery became standard for both models. The CL was not produced for the 2000 model year as a new, revised CL was in the works.

Acura CL models

The newly revised second generation CL, now a little larger and heavier, was introduced in the spring of 2000 as an early entry to the 2001 model year. Still sharing the common platform of parent company Honda's Accord, the revised CL was offered as the base 3.2 CL with 225 hp, 3.2-liter V6 engine and a more performance-oriented "Sport Edition" CL Type-S with a 260 hp V6 engine.

Standard features on both included leather upholstery, heated front seats, Xenon headlights, power sunroof, automatic climate control, heated mirrors, and a six-disc in-dash CD changer. A touch-screen navigation system was optional. The Type-S CL upgraded the tires from 16 inches to 17 inch wheels and offered firmer suspension tuning and an antiskid system.

For the 2003 model year, a 6-speed manual transmission with limited-slip differential became available for the CL Type-S in addition to the standard 5-speed automatic. Also in 2003, the chrome door handles and outer grille were replaced with those matching the body color. The headlights, taillights, side mirrors and inside trim were also slightly revised. The CL was discontinued due to poor sales after the 2003 model year.