Acura CL Sales Figures

The Acura CL

The Acura CL was a mid-size four-passenger coupe produced for the 1997–1999 and 2001‑2003 model years. As Acura’s first model assembled in the United States, the CL replaced the Legend coupe and served as a stylish two-door counterpart to the TL sedan. It blended Honda reliability with luxury features like leather seats, premium audio and available navigation.

Model Overview & Generations

First Generation (1997–1999): Built at Honda’s East Liberty, Ohio plant, the original CL rode on a modified Accord platform. The entry-level 2.2CL used a 2.2‑litre inline‑four making around 145 hp, while the 3.0CL housed a 200‑hp SOHC V6. All models were front-wheel drive and paired with a four‑speed automatic. In 1998 Acura replaced the 2.2‑litre engine with a 2.3‑litre 150‑hp I4. The coupe offered amenities such as leather upholstery, a power moonroof and Bose sound, but sales were modest.

Second Generation (2001‑2003): After skipping the 2000 model year, the CL returned for 2001 on the TL’s platform and was built at Marysville, Ohio. The standard 3.2CL used a 3.2‑litre SOHC V6 producing 225 hp with a five‑speed automatic. Acura also introduced the first Type S model: the 3.2CL Type S, tuned to 260 hp and 232 lb‑ft of torque with revised intake, cams and higher compression. A six‑speed manual transmission with limited‑slip differential was offered for 2003. Despite improved performance and features, the CL was discontinued after 2003 as coupes fell out of favour and Acura focused on sedans like the TL and future TSX.

Sales Data & Trends

The CL never achieved high volumes. U.S. sales peaked in the late 1990s but remained modest compared with four‑door Acura models. As consumer preferences shifted toward sedans and later SUVs, Acura ended CL production after the 2003 model year. The TL sedan effectively filled the role of a midsize luxury offering, and Acura’s performance coupe enthusiasts would later gravitate to the RSX and, more recently, the Integra Type S.

Acura CL U.S. Sales Figures

The table below provides annual sales for the Acura CL in the United States based on manufacturer data.

Annual Sales Data

Related Models: The CL succeeded the Acura Legend coupe and was eventually replaced by the Acura TL sedan. Coupe enthusiasts may also consider the Acura RSX and the modern Acura Integra.

Sources: Acura/Honda media releases, Wikipedia, Autoevolution, MotorTrend and other automotive publications.