By now, most of Acura fanatics are aware that the 2008 model has ended production. The new 2009 model should be hitting our shores sometime later this year. Dan Carney, an MSNBC contributor reviews the 2009 Acura TSX and the bag of goodies this new ride has to offer. (Here is the article)

Couple of things to note:

• The engine comes in with a revamped 2.4-liter four-banger. The horse power remains relatively unchanged, but there’s a slight bump in the torque department.
• A diesel engine will be available, giving you approximately 40mpg and I’m almost certain that a significant bump in torque will be be present in this “new” engine.
• Unfortunately, diesel probably means that poor Californians probably won’t see this diesel model due to our strict emission standards. (Sucks to be me)

How does this affect the leasing world? Well, for one, right now its probably the best time to snatch up the remaining 2008 TSX sitting in the lots. I’m almost certain that they can be had at invoice price or maybe slightly below, same goes for the 2008 TLs where I got an offer for almost $1000 under invoice last month ($29,631). I actually didn’t manage to get a quote on the TSX because they only had 1 left…nasty Silver, no thanks.

The TSX is well appointed and comes standard with many features that are optional in cars in its class (for far less). So if you don’t mind having to rev past 5000 rpm to squeeze the most out of that 4-cylinder engine, TSX is not a bad choice. However, if enjoy the rush of low-end torque, wait for the diesel version.

In an attempt to top Chrysler, Toyota recalls nearly 540,000 Corolla and Matrix cars with power windows. These involved 2003-2004 model years…apparently, they can loose a few bolts at the bottom of the power window assembly. I can tell you who’s got a few nuts and bolts loose alright! In any case, it sometimes makes me wonder if Toyota’s “Quality” is overstated just because they happen to be successful in commercializing Hybrid vehicles. Anyway, I’d take a Honda over a Toyota on most days anyway.

If you got a 2003-2004 Corolla/Matrix, I would suggest taking it to the dealer soon, specially since repairs are free of charge.

Toyota Recalls Nearly 540,000 Cars

You know, with gas prices climbing this quick, I just might rethink my whole sports sedan/coupe choices for my next lease. Maybe Honda Fit might work out a tad better. I personally don’t believe in Hybrid technology. Why? because you are still using gas. All this crap about “oh I’m Green cuz I drive a Hybrid”, PLEASE! You still use gas, just less of it. Now even electric powered cars aren’t exactly green, unless you know for sure your electricity comes from “green” sources. If its coming from the burning of coal, then it kind of defeats the purpose now doesn’t it? I’m no alternative fuel guru, but these type of things just make sense.

Anyway, there is speculation that during the summer we’ll peak at $4 gas for regular. I’m thinking more like “exceed”. Next month’s Memorial Weekend signals the beginning of the driving season, so be ready for a nice fat price hike by our friends at Big Oil.

Gasoline prices could peak at $4 this summer

And if you can stomach it…

Oil chiefs say high prices not our fault

Makes you sick, doesn’t it?