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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  Follow-up - 2007 vs 2006 review (1/6/07) - 2007 Acura TL
  By JR - November 28 - 9:57 pm

  With 12,000 miles on the TL: Good points - the car runs better now - improvements in both gas mileage (31 MPG straight highway trip) and a smoother shifting transmission (too much shift shock before). Bad points - the car developed various squeaks and rattles over the last 11 months - glovebox, center speaker, driver vent, instrument cluster, etc. - most of them now fixed. The colder weather has brought an annoying drivers door & window rattle. The interior headliner (roof) was replaced twice due to its two layers separating. Also, knowing the Acura service department employees on a first name basis is getting old. I prefer just oil change visits like with my previous 2 Acuras.

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  260 HP - Great Sports Sedan! - 2003 Acura TL
  By E-DUDE - November 21 - 10:00 am

  The best built near luxury car value on the market. I have no complaints other than the engine needs to be “tweaked” a little by the dealer after a 5,000 mile burn in Car is definitely in the BMW class as far as I’m concerned, a lot better value and more affordable Car is comfortable, yet sporty, has great power and handling and is an excellent value for the money. If reliability, great performance, decent styling and good value are important – this is your car! The engine and transmission are finely tuned and work well together, the “S” type is definitely the way to go when you’re going to spend somewhere around $30/k anyway

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  TL pleasure to drive - 2005 Acura TL
  By Robert - November 20 - 11:46 am

  I have driven the car now for three weeks, 2k miles. I tend to be a "spirited driver", so driving this car has been a nice experience. The only drawback is the torque steer resulting from the FWD on takeoff. I am used to rwd systems, so it comes as a surprise when your steering wheel doesnt correct when accelarating and turning at the same time, as when merging into uncoming high speed traffic. Highly recommend in every other respect. Like the XM radio feature too.

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  Love my TL - 2006 Acura TL
  By jbm - November 20 - 7:30 am

  All it took was sitting inside my car and the beautiful interior... driving only sealed the deal. I didnt choose the navigational system, didnt feel the need to spend the money. Other than the tires on my car, I love it. The tires are not suited for the car and have a "flat spot" that causes the car to shutter at 50 mph until the tires are warmed up.

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  Good for the price - 2007 Acura TL
  By rich1950 - November 18 - 10:48 pm

  Fast and stylish, great interior and sound system.

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  Purrfect - even while being totaled.... - 2005 Acura TL
  By Fiddler - November 16 - 1:34 am

  Loved this car - so much fun. The only problems were rear visibility - I scraped the rear bumper more than once and road noise. A few days ago the car was hit in the front side by a guy in an 87 Lincoln Town Car (89,000 lbs of metal) going through a red light about 30 MPH. It took off the whole front 2 feet of the car. Air bags deployed properly, the cockpit was completely protected and my sweetie, the sole occupant and driver, walked away without serious injuries. I spent a week thinking I might want a different car, just for something fun, but eventually decided (happily so) that a new 2007 Acura TL would be great. So thats what I have now.

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  Fun car - 2004 Acura TL
  By R Dey - November 15 - 2:00 am

  Just bought it, excellent car. Looks a lot like BMW 745i from the side. Feels completely in control.

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  Best 30 thousand dollar sudan-out-there - 2004 Acura TL
  By customer-bri - November 15 - 2:00 am

  I love the car had test-drove Lexus 300is, and infinity, but the TL with all the features and horsepower it was the winner.

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  Fun to Drive - 2004 Acura TL
  By Jewels Rubin - November 15 - 2:00 am

  Comfort and fit and finish are exceptional. And,its fun to drive.

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  Awesome - 2004 Acura TL
  By JPinTustinCA - November 15 - 2:00 am

  I looked at the 530, the G35 and the C230 Kompressor... the new TL beats them all hands down. So much more car for the money, there is simply no comparison.