Acura Vigor models

The Acura Vigor was introduced to the United States market in 1992. Positioned between the more sporty Integra and the more luxurious Legend in Acura's lineup, the mid-size, front-wheel drive Vigor was intended to compete with the BMW 3-Series and Lexus ES300 as entry-level luxury sedans.

For the most part, the Vigor fell short in comparisons to its more successful competition and production stopped in 1994. The Vigor was eventually replaced in the Acura lineup by the 1996 Acura TL.

A version of the Vigor was produced and sold in Japan only as the Honda Vigor by Acura's parent company, Honda from 1981 to 1994. In Japan, the initial Honda Vigor was a sportier, upper level trim of the Honda Accord with standard features such as a trip computer, cruise control, power windows, and power steering. Initially in Japan the Vigor was offered as a four-door sedan and a two-door hatchback, but the hatchback was dropped in 1985.

For its United States debut in 1992 the Acura Vigor was offered in two trim levels, the base LS and the upscale GS. Both were powered by a 2.5-liter, 5-cylinder engine with a standard 5-speed manual or optional 4-speed automatic transmission. All-disc antilock brakes and a driver's side airbag were standard, the GS also offered leather-trimmed interior, four-way powered driver's seat, powered side mirrors, and powered moon roof. In 1993, the automatic transmission was modified to allow for smoother shifting, the grille was slightly redesigned and the interiors received improved sound insulation.

The GS also received passenger-side airbags and color-matched body side moldings. In 1994 in part in an attempt to compete more effectively with the Lexus ES300 the rear seat room was increased and the suspension was softened. Passenger-side airbags were added for both the LS and the GS. The GS also received a standard CD player. Due to continued poor sales the Vigor was discontinued after the 1994 model year.