"But for pure sport driving, does it challenge the BMW? Sorry, not quite. Here the TL runs up against the inherent limitation of its front-drive platform, namely, grinding, fun-robbing understeer at the absolute limits. Manufacturers pursuing the extreme sporting end of the market continue to gravitate to rear-drive layouts. But most consumers seldom if ever drive that way, and many appreciate the all-weather benefits and packaging advantages of front-wheel drive. Those drawn to the new TL on those grounds will not be disappointed."
-AutoWeek

Sounds about right to me.

There are plenty of other assorted production cars that run at least 11:1 CR and are calibrated to run on 91 octane gas. Like the RSX-S, for example. The Celica GT-S runs 11.5:1.