Acura In Car Technology

Acura's latest infotainment system, the Acura Navigation System With Voice Recognition, is a hard-drive-based unit featuring points of interest, Zagat restaurant ratings, AcuraLink real-time weather and traffic and a vast library of voice commands. The system comes as part of the Technology Package ($3,010-$4,150), which also bundles excellent ELS premium audio systems with advanced connectivity features and full voice control. The nav system, though perfectly adequate, trails some competitors in available features, but the well-integrated and sweet-sounding ELS stereos are a high point, even among luxury cars.

Navigation

• Official Name: Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition
• Price Range: $3,010-$4,150 (must be ordered as part of Technology Package)
• Interface: Toggle-stick and voice-controlled using natural voice commands. Hard-drive-based system.
• Features: AcuraLink real-time weather and traffic with traffic rerouting, Zagat restaurant search with reviews, AcuraLink Satellite Communication System with automated dealer appointments and communication.
• Number of Vehicles featuring navigation package: Available on all models. RL, RDX use an older DVD-based navigation system. Features will vary by model.

Car Audio

• Standard Acura audio systems are high-quality. New available Acura/ELS Surround Sound Systems offer advanced features.
• Interface: ELS systems support full voice control including voice iPod search, control and play using natural commands. Buttons on dash and steering wheel, and joystick control using nav system screen.
• Speakers: Standard audio systems 7 or more speakers, ELS premium systems 10 or more speakers including powered subwoofer.
• Available inputs: USB/iPod, auxiliary input.
• Other features: Hard drive stores digital music files, Bluetooth streaming audio from smartphone.

Car Video

• Acura offers its DVD Rear Entertainment System on the MDX only.
• Screens: 9-inch roof-mounted LCD.
• DVD/Blu-Ray Capability: DVD

Car Gaming

• Video game consoles supported: Major consoles with MDX rear entertainment system.
• Input jacks: A/V, Auxiliary 3.5-mm in, AC outlet

Computers

• Mobile/Rolling hotspot: N/A
• Smartphone-based data connection: N/A

Safety Technology

• SH-AWD (Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive) is available on TL, RDX, standard on ZDX, MDX, RL. Acura’s advanced system combines performance and sure-footed handling in poor weather.
• VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist) uses ABS, SH-AWD, throttle control and yaw, lateral G, speed and steering sensors.
• Back Up Cameras standard with navigation system.

Bluetooth Hands-Free

• Bluetooth HandsFreeLink cell integration service standard on all 2012 models.