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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  Noise, noise, & more noise - 2005 Acura TL
  By Mohamad Halabi - January 10 - 3:53 pm

  Sine the minute I left the showroom, I discovered weird buzzing noise coming fromt he drivers side window. Within a couple of weeks, I started discovering more noise from the glove compartment, the center console, the steering column, and the sifter area. After changing three dealerships, and seven visits, the noise is still there. Even my 99 Huyndai of few years back was much quieter!!!

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  1 For the money$$ - 2007 Acura TL
  By KJV from GA - January 10 - 1:17 pm

  Had an 01 CL and traded in for a comfortable 4 door in August. Went for the more affordable Honda Accord EXL V-6 and couldnt get past what I loved about the Acuras performance, handling, craftmanship. Very easy to go from Honda to Acura, not easy to go from Acura to Honda. Im hooked. Went to Acura, and traded the 07 Accord for the 07 TL-Type S and dont understand what I was thinking in August!

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  2005 Acura TL - 2006 Acura TL
  By zydecolady - January 10 - 4:03 am

  Great car - comfortable ride and handling. good gas mileage with city driving better with highway. A fun car to drive

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  Meticulous Owner - 2005 Acura TL
  By Mark - January 9 - 9:50 pm

  I researched and test drove nearly every possible competing vehicle and I previously owned a 2000 Acura TL with Navi. I had transmission problms with the 2000 Acura but Acura rectified the situation to my satisfaction and saved a customer. In addition, I have read that previous transmission issues have been rectified. I am a gadget and value junkie. Acuras combination of the two won me over, again. Sure, there were some features that other vehicles offered that would be nice, but overall no other car offered as much for the price. I have had my 05 TL for three months and have driven it about 5,600 miles with no problems to report and I still love to drive it!

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  Stype is great! - 2003 Acura TL
  By LAdaveH - January 9 - 10:00 am

  I just picked up an S type 3.2 and I want to say that I am very happy with my decision. Acura is more car than others in its class. The car came fully loaded with 6CD chnger, full NAV syst., Onstar services, electric seats (heating option as well) along with way more room in the car. Mercedes and Infiniti wanted so much more for the features that came standard with the Acura. With the money that I saved I can pay for my insurance and gas throughout the year. Most imortant feature on the car is that it drives well...fast, handles well, and the interior is extremely quite. Great car and a great deal!!...260hp helps as well!

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  Acura TL - An Exceptional Car - 2004 Acura TL
  By Linda Cohen - January 5 - 10:50 pm

  This is a joy to own. Its stylish and not like every other car out there. Its sporty, fun to drive and eell equipped.

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  Great Car! - 2007 Acura TL
  By mark - January 4 - 6:03 am

  I test drove the BMW 335i and was very impressed, but after driving the new TL Type S, couldnt resist buying for $10,000 less than BMW! Great looking car, very fast, tech features next to none. Yes, the torque steer is there, but nothing I cant live with. The biggest adjustment for me was getting used to firmer sports seat than the BMW 7 series I was driving, but I guess that was unavoidable. If you want a well built, safe, sporty sedan with high tech options, this is the car. Bluetooth, voice activated Nav, and DVD 5.1 audio are incredible!!

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  Sporty Sedan - 2007 Acura TL
  By Ed - January 3 - 4:24 pm

  After test driving a number of sedans, I chose the TL over the Infiniti G35X. The TL is roomier and has a sporty ride with tight handling. (I loved the growling exhaust of the G35X but my wife thought it was too noisy. Oh well.) So far I havent experienced any rattling and cabin noise which is a common complaint. Im 63" and have trouble positioning the seat and steering wheel for optimal comfort. My hands and arms get sore on long trips. Im clearly biased toward the Acura. This is the third Acura Ive owned. I traded in a 1990 Legend. I hope to keep the 07 TL for many years as well.

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  Bang for the Buck - 2007 Acura TL
  By Acura TL - December 31 - 3:08 pm

  This car is great. I had a 2006 BMW 5 series and this car great compared to its rivals. The interior has a very specious more room . The music system and navi is top of the line and the seats are very comfortable. Belive me this car is very fun to drive.

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  This car ROCKS!!!!!! - 2006 Acura TL
  By GREAT CAR FOR THE PR - December 30 - 2:30 pm

  For the money, this car is outstanding, both in preformance and comfort. I am an outside salesman, and drive many miles. If I take a client out to lunch, they are amazed with all of the features this car has. As a kick, I usually let them drive it, telling them to push it to the limit. Some of these customers drive cars that cost MUCH MORE then what I paid, and they are VERY impressed. I think that I have swayed at least two of my customers into buying a TL. I have always owned Honda automobiles, my last one is still parked in my garage, a 1997 Honda Accord with over 300,000 miles on it. I still drive it, but it is not as fun as my new TL!!!!