Is the 2001 Acura CL a good car?
The 2001 Acura CL is a mid-size luxury coupe that has garnered attention for its blend of performance, comfort, and reliability. As an experienced auto service provider, I’ve worked on numerous Acura models, including the CL, and I’m here to provide an in-depth look at whether this car is a good choice for potential buyers or current owners.
Performance and Engine Options
The 2001 Acura CL comes with two engine options: a 3.2-liter V6 engine producing 225 horsepower in the base model and a more powerful 260-horsepower version in the Type-S trim. Both engines are paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission, which was advanced for its time, featuring a SportShift manual mode for added control.
Drivers often praise the car for its smooth acceleration and responsive handling, especially in the Type-S variant. However, some owners have reported issues with the automatic transmission, which is a known weak point in this model. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help mitigate these concerns.
Interior Comfort and Features
The 2001 Acura CL offers a luxurious interior with high-quality materials and a range of features that were ahead of its time. Standard features include:
- Leather upholstery
- Heated front seats
- A power moonroof
- Automatic climate control
- A premium audio system
The cabin is spacious for a coupe, providing ample legroom and comfort for both the driver and passengers. The trunk space is also generous, making it a practical choice for daily use or road trips.
Reliability and Maintenance
One of the standout qualities of the 2001 Acura CL is its reputation for reliability. With proper maintenance, these cars can easily surpass 200,000 miles. Common maintenance tasks include regular oil changes, timing belt replacements, and brake servicing. However, as mentioned earlier, the transmission can be a weak point, so it’s essential to monitor its performance and address any issues promptly.
At Kevin’s Autos, we’ve serviced many Acura CLs over the years, and we’ve found that staying on top of routine maintenance is key to keeping this car running smoothly. If you’re considering purchasing one, a pre-purchase inspection is highly recommended to identify any potential problems.
Pros and Cons of the 2001 Acura CL
Here’s a quick summary of the pros and cons of the 2001 Acura CL:
- Pros: Powerful V6 engine options, luxurious interior, reliable with proper maintenance, good value for a used luxury coupe.
- Cons: Known transmission issues, limited rear-seat space (common for coupes), aging technology compared to modern vehicles.
Conclusion
The 2001 Acura CL is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable and stylish luxury coupe. While it does have some known issues, particularly with the transmission, these can often be addressed with proper care and maintenance. If you’re in the market for a used car with a blend of performance, comfort, and affordability, the Acura CL is worth considering. At Kevin’s Autos, we’re always here to help with inspections, repairs, and maintenance to keep your car running at its best.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Acura a high maintenance car?
Cost of Acura Maintenance
Acura is a luxury brand, but the cost of the vehicles don't carry the higher luxury price tag. They are also not expensive to maintain. According to YourMechanic.com, Acura ranks 11th out of 30 on a list of the most and least expensive cars to maintain.
Why was the Acura CL discontinued?
The Acura CL was discontinued after the 2003 model year. The coupe market was shrinking in favor of larger SUVs and crossovers, and Acura decided to shift its focus to other vehicle segments.
How many miles does an Acura CL last?
MotorAsk.com – “Acuras can last anywhere from 250,000 to 300,000 miles with proper maintenance. According to Acura owners, some of the brand's vehicles can even last 400,000 miles or more in ideal conditions and with a responsible owner…
What is the mpg on a 2001 Acura CL Type S?
Fuel Economy
| City | 17 mpg |
|---|---|
| Highway | 27 mpg |
| Combined | 20 mpg |
What does CL mean in Acura?
The Acura CL is a model of automobile manufactured by Honda's Acura brand from 1997–1999, and from 2001–2003. The CL is often thought to have been a replacement for the Acura Legend coupe.
What is the difference between Acura CL and CL Type S?
While the regular CL featured a 225 hp (168 kW) V6, the Type-S boasted a 260 hp (194 kW) V6 with 17-inch wheels, a firmer suspension, slightly larger brakes, and firmer seats. At the time, the Type-S was the most powerful front-wheel drive vehicle Honda had ever manufactured.
What was the last year of the Acura CL?
However, with the CL's sister car, the TL, coming up on a redesign for the 2004 model year, the CL was dropped from Acura's lineup with no mid-size luxury coupe replacement. Total Acura CL sales from 2000 until 2003, when the last new model was sold, was less than 31,000 units.
Are acuras good after 100K miles?
Acuras remain reliable after 100,000 miles because of high-quality engineering, provided regular maintenance is done.
Is Acura a good car to buy used?
In summary, Acuras make excellent used vehicle purchases thanks to their reputation for reliability, lower ownership costs compared to other luxury brands, and strong resale values. Models like the MDX, RDX and TLX have proven long-term durability, with many lasting well past 200,000 miles with proper maintenance.
Is a 2001 Acura a good car?
Among the 263 owners who provided feedback on the 2001 Acura CL for Kelley Blue Book, consumer sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with 98% recommending the vehicle. Consumers rated the vehicle's comfort 4.8 out of 5 stars, performance 4.8 out of 5 stars, and value 4.8 out of 5 stars.
