I'm facing a similar dilemma for my next car. I have a 2001 9-5 Aero, which has had problems, but is an excellent car otherwise, and the 9-3 Aero and Turbo X are even better. The turbo 2.8L V6 is a fabulous engine. I also love Honda generally, and have been impressed by the new TSX. I've driven the TL and the Turbo X, so here's my take:

Purely as a driver's car, the Acura isn't even close to the Saab. The Saab's superior steering, massive turbo torque, and the XWD system elevate it well beyond the Acura. The Turbo X has an irritatingly boomy exhaust, which I'm not sure I could tolerate on a daily basis, but is otherwise fantastic from behind the wheel.

But the Acura is better built, and, unfortunately, for reliability there's simply no comparison. Saab has gotten better of late, but Honda is on a completely different level especially regarding electronics. To me, that peace of mind is really worth something, especially after my 9-5 broke down in rural Southern Illinois a few years ago. It needed dealer service, and the nearest was 165 miles away near St. Louis.

Also, if you drive primarily on the highway and rarely on twisty roads, you might not fully enjoy the Turbo X's performance advantages which relate more to handling dynamics than acceleration. From what I understand, the Acura really comes to the fore on the interstate.

I like the Saab feel enough that, between those two, I'd probably take the Turbo X considering the discounts available these days. The TL is highly competent, but not inspiring. We have a Mazda, so I wouldn't be without reliable transportation. But I'd proably buy a TSX, which would save $8k off the bat, and lots of fuel and repair costs over the long haul. It's not as powerful as the TL, but in my opinion is dynamically superior and more fun to drive. It captures more of the Honda spirit, with a light, agile feel and high revving four.

posted by 147.31.153...

• need buying advice: Turbo X vs Acura TL Type-S, JMR, Fri, 22 Aug 2008 17:46:37
  • 2009 Acura is offered with AWD and 305 HP!!...., Theo, Mon, 25 Aug 2008 10:24:49
    • Re: 2009 Acura AWD and 305 HP -- Auto, Dave Chicago, Tue, 2 Sep 2008 06:01:15
  • Re: need buying advice: Turbo X vs Acura TL Type-S, Ned, Mon, 25 Aug 2008 07:25:53 <-- Viewing This Message
    • Re: Please elaborate on the acura being better built!.., B ill, Sat, 13 Sep 2008 14:05:49
  • Re: need buying advice: Turbo X vs Acura TL Type-S, Ian Glenday , Fri, 22 Aug 2008 19:00:47
  • If it's about the money....., Mike Lynch , Fri, 22 Aug 2008 18:09:35
    • Re: If it's about the money....., JMR, Fri, 22 Aug 2008 19:15:41
      • Its a Honda, JMR!!, PB, Fri, 22 Aug 2008 21:39:34
        • Re: Its a Honda, JMR!!, kkelley, Sat, 23 Aug 2008 15:49:12
          • no comparison, AdamB , Sun, 24 Aug 2008 04:30:32
            • Re: no comparison, kkelley, Sun, 24 Aug 2008 08:46:10
          • Re: Its a Honda, JMR!!, Ian Glenday , Sat, 23 Aug 2008 17:51:00
            • Re: Its a Honda, JMR!!, Kandiru, Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:47:35
              • Re: Turbo X vs TL vs G35, r34, Wed, 27 Aug 2008 09:05:41

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