What's new for 2009

CONFIRMED:

RL: Acura's largest car gets a makeover for 2009. No, the RL still doesn't have a V8, but it does get a bigger V6 (3.7 liters and 300 horsepower) coupled to a standard all-wheel-drive system. The exterior has been updated and the interior gets a once-over, with more room for back seat passengers and -- I'm quoting from the press release -- "easier-to-use front seat belts".

TL: Acura's best-selling sedan gets a complete re-do for 2009. Base models get a 3.5 liter V6 and front-wheel-drive, while the SH-AWD model features a 3.7 liter V6 and all-wheel-drive. Bolder styling and an updated navigation system -- complete with real-time traffic and weather radar -- are among the TL's new features.

TSX: Acura's smallest car is also all-new for 2009, but you can expect more of the same: though slightly larger than the current TSX, it uses the same 2.4 liter four-cylinder engine. A diesel version is expected for calendar year 2009; it will be powered by Honda's 2.2 liter i-DTEC diesel.

• 2009 Acura TSX test drive

RUMORED:

NSX: It's been a long wait, but Acura's supercar is expected to return in 2009 or 2010. If it does materialize, expect the new NSX to be a complete break from the previous mid-engine NSX.