Overview & Reviews
The Acura TL has traditionally been one of the better choices available for a midsize luxury sport sedan. Though the TL typically does not deliver the excitement or prestige of competing European sedans, it counters with exceptional value and above-average durability and reliability.
The current (fourth) generation may have upped the ante, but cutting-edge technology and bracing performance are nothing new for the TL. Older TLs are still known for their engaging handling and plentiful amenities and should make a fine choice for a used luxury sport sedan.
Current Acura TL
As Acura's midsize sedan offering, the TL offers a roomy interior, a powerful V6 engine and available all-wheel drive. It also boasts a host of gadgets and gizmos that should keep most luxury shoppers satisfied.
There are two trim levels: a base model and the sportier SH-AWD. Base cars (which are front-wheel drive) are motivated by a 3.5-liter V6 that kicks out 280 horsepower. As its name suggests, the SH-AWD version is all-wheel drive, and it's powered by a 3.7-liter V6 good for 305 hp. A six-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters is standard on both trims and a six-speed manual is available on the SH-AWD.
Base models are pretty well equipped, offering standard features such as 17-inch wheels, xenon headlights, a sunroof, leather upholstery and an eight-speaker stereo with an in-dash six-CD changer. In addition to all-wheel drive and a more powerful engine, the SH-AWD adds upgraded brakes, 18-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, sportier steering feel and performance-themed upholstery and metallic trim.
TL enthusiasts cherish the car for its cutting-edge gadgetry, and the current model does not disappoint. Standard features on base models include Bluetooth connectivity, satellite radio, a USB port and a dedicated iPod interface. Optional tech treats include a navigation system that offers real-time traffic and weather updates and a sound system with digital music storage capability.
In reviews of the Acura TL, our editors hailed its abundance of high-tech amenities, its roomy cabin and its sophisticated stereo system. They called out a few missteps as well, such as the car's bland interior and the fact that base models are hampered by uncommunicative steering and unremarkable brakes. Thanks to its much crisper handling and braking, the SH-AWD TL is a more compelling choice than the base model. The current TL is also one of just a few vehicles to earn a top grade in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's revised crash test standards.
Used Acura TL Models
The current (fourth)-generation TL debuted for the 2009 model year. Compared to earlier TLs, the current model boasts a brasher look, highlighted by aggressive lines and a dramatic-looking front grille. The current model offers more interior room than the third-generation TL, as well as more power under the hood, and its ride is more compliant than that of its predecessor. There have been only a few changes since. Most notably, 2009-'11 TLs had a five-speed automatic transmission (compared to the newer six-speed auto) and a more controversial-looking grille.
The third-generation TL was available for model years 2004-'08. This TL was distinguished by its chiseled exterior styling, firm suspension tuning, powerful V6 and impressive level of standard equipment. Both a six-speed manual transmission and a five-speed automatic with shift paddles were available.
Two versions of the TL were offered in this era: base and Type-S. Base-model TLs built in model years 2004 and '05 were rated at 270 hp, while 2006 and later models were rated at 258. Note that this revision merely reflected a change in the standard horsepower rating system -- the TL's engine was unchanged.
Type-S Acuras were equipped with a 286-hp 3.5-liter V6. They also featured a sport-tuned suspension, Brembo high-performance brakes and unique styling elements that included quad tailpipes. Unfortunately for enthusiasts, the Type-S was on hiatus for the first part of the TL's model cycle and didn't hit the market until 2007.
Both versions of the TL came with an attractive, well-built interior designed with a more sporting intent in mind. In road tests, we were impressed with this Acura TL's comfort and dynamic abilities but ultimately found that its front-wheel-drive setup hampered its ability to match the handling dynamics offered by top rear-drive sport sedans. The Type-S upped the performance ante somewhat, boosting power while adding crisper handling.
For a majority of shoppers, a used TL from this era will provide a good mix of fun, comfort and convenience at a reasonable price. Changes during the model cycle were few, but the TL received a midlife freshening for 2007, including minor exterior and interior styling tweaks and an upgraded navigation system.
The second-generation Acura TL was built from 1999-2003. Though it was less exciting than more recent models, our editors gave this TL very positive reviews during its run. Improvements were made throughout this period, and the car had a number of TL firsts, including Honda's VTEC variable valve timing and an optional navigation system. The powerful Type-S version, which debuted in 2002, should be strongly considered by buyers interested in increased performance. Regardless of specific trim level, just about any used second-generation model should serve the used-sedan shopper well.
The original Acura TL debuted in 1995 as a replacement for the unloved Acura Vigor. Two versions were offered: a 2.5 TL with a 2.5-liter inline-5 engine and a 3.2 TL with a 3.2-liter V6. Both models were available throughout the first generation's run, which lasted pretty much unchanged through 1998. As there is now little price difference between the two, we suggest consumers interested in a first-generation used TL go for the more powerful 3.2.
User Reviews:
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New TL is the best car for the money - 2004 Acura TL
By VINORL - February 8 - 2:00 amIm impressed to this point. The preformance to price ratio on this vehicle is phenomenal. Some aspects of the exterior design are a little clunky but overall the perception is good. The interior is nice although the silver psuedo chrome feels a little tacky. The center console doesnt feel as clean without the navigation unit, it looks like they tried to fill space and came up a little short. The drive is taut and responsive. The only major dislike is that its not RWD. On a scale of 1 to 10 this car is a solid 8.
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Great Handling - 2006 Acura TL
By Wedan - February 7 - 5:04 pmThe TL is a great performing car. Cost of the TL was very attractive to me when compared to an equally equipped Cadillac CTS or Lexus 350, Infiniti etc. The quality has been exceptional. Other than following the computer for regular maintenance, the TL will probably never see the mechanic. The reliability of Acura is tops.
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A great car being turned in from a lease. - 2013 Acura TL
By Steve Stallings - February 7 - 10:54 amThe only thing I noticed that bothers me is the transmission shifts from first to second to quickly. Its better with faster takeoff. Otherwise this is a great car and I plan to lease a 2016 before the lease ends in March. I also had a 2010 TL that I loved.
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Best Bang for the Buck - 2003 Acura TL
By kcwang007 - February 6 - 10:00 amAlthough it was tempting to get an Audi A4 or BMW 3 Series, with all the added options, it would be $4k-$8k more than a fully equipped TL-S (with navi and underbody kit/spoiler). The new Infiniti G35 is nice, however, I didnt like the interior as much and the rear looks really ugly. Performance is quite similar. Acura really has a great product because its a great value and its not too flashy, but itll burn a lot of cars on the road.
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Good Value - 2005 Acura TL
By jbarker007 - February 4 - 12:23 pmI decided to go back to the Honda line of cars, felt they were a better value than others. I am coming from a 99 Lexus ES 300, loved the car, but wanted something a little sportier. It took a little while to get used to the stiffer ride, but I have now adjusted and am having a great experience. I test drove the MB E320 before this car, and better sense came over me. Give me the TL and $20K cash any day. The Acura has a tight feel and great get up and go. I feel it is one of the better looking cars on the market, and the upkeep should be more cost effective than the other brands. Looking forward to many years with this car.
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Nice Car - Rides like a Honda - 2008 Acura TL
By John S - February 3 - 2:41 pmI downgraded from a 2005 BMW 5-Series sedan because I needed a cheaper ride at this point in my life. This car is handsome, well built, and chock full of extras that cost at least $10K in the BMW 328xi that I was considering.
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Best car Ive ever owned! - 2004 Acura TL
By John R - February 2 - 8:08 pmThis is an excellent car. The performance and handling of this car is awesome. The styling, even 4 years after I bought it is still a head-turner. Two things I would change if I could: 1) move to rear wheel drive to eliminate the torque steer and 2) improve gas mileage in the city - I average 17-18 with careful driving. Highway is awesome - 33-34mpg. I hear the 09 TL may move to RWD. Hopefully that will happen. Any way about it, I would buy this car again without blinking. One additional note - get the nav... you wont regret it!
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Thought it would be better - 2006 Acura TL
By seca - February 2 - 2:28 pm06 TL, auto, nav, only 13k miles. I expected so much more from this car. Many random noises, rattles. Very annoying. Window creaking - dealer wouldnt fix. Build quality not great. Interior materials / plastics are low end, as is leather. Best part would be engine and nav. I can honestly say that my old Saab is more solid w/higher quality materials, and our CLK is built like a tank and has not had a problem in 5 yrs, unlike multiple problems with the TL. Ill be selling the TL for a GS 350 or 335, which are both much better built. Given build quality issues, I cannot recemmend the TL.
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Excellent car for under $30,000!!! - 2003 Acura TL
By Gordon w - February 1 - 10:00 amBest value in its class!!! Everything standard!!! Superb quality!!! Engine is wonderful... Faster than the competition!!! I own one and theres only one car Id rather have than this. An ACURA RSX!!!
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Now has 214k - 1996 Acura TL
By upotn pt - February 1 - 7:40 amBack on 2/16/04 I wrote a review when the car had 154k. Well, it now has 214K! Its getting a bit tired now, uses a bit of oil, leaks a bit of oil, bunch more rattles and sqeaks. HOWEVER you cant go wrong with a first generation TL!! Best car I have ever owned. I am in the process of looking to buy for another 96-98 TL with say 100k miles. Ill be giving my TL to my oldest teenager. He loves the car.
