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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  Great car, a few rattles though - 2005 Acura TL
  By 2005 Acura TL - November 3 - 10:11 am

  I absolutely love this car, with just two exceptions. The frequent rattles are quite annoying and the leather seats could be more comfortable. Other than that, the car is awesome! Ive actually looked around at other cars, trying to talk myself into buying a new car, but there is nothing out there that is as appealing as the TL. Ill have this car for years and years as long as the upkeep remains minimal as it is now.

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  Acura TL is Excellent - 2005 Acura TL
  By Tim - November 2 - 11:36 pm

  The Acura TL is an excellent investment. It looks great (especially with the underbody spoilers), is very reliable, and gets good gas mileage. You can really feel the 270HP and its very fun to drive. I highly recommend.

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  My Follow Up Review - 2007 Acura TL
  By Gboss - November 2 - 7:58 pm

  11,890 miles into my TL Type-S Automatic. Interior rattles are driving me nuts!! They come out of nowhere! Interior does scratch very easily. Car squeaks. Suspension or something from underneath the car? Not sure but getting it checked out. I think its the suspension. Seat memory settings dont always work correctly. All station presets vanished on me a few times and came back the next day? Ghosts? Other than that the car is awesome! Compliments everywhere! Real rocketship! 286 HP!! Hwy I am getting 29 MPG. Overall AVG 23 MPG. I think thats pretty good!

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  2003 acura tls - 2003 Acura TL
  By webman - November 1 - 10:00 am

  tremendous value no competition. extremely quick,dependable,fun to drive

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  Best car I have ever owned. - 2006 Acura TL
  By Rick Angeli - October 31 - 5:26 pm

  I have owned a Nissan 300 ZX Twin turbo, a convertible Mustang Cobra, Several SUVs, and 3 Honda Preludes. This TL is the best car I have ever owned. I can get from Salt Lake CIty to Orange County CA in under 3 tanks. I have never owned a car that can do that. Its fast, gets good gas mileage, and all my friends and co workers always want to drive it. Ill take this car over a BMW, Audi, or Infinity ANYDAY!!!!!

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  Great car! - 2004 Acura TL
  By leeherman - October 29 - 10:00 am

  The new TL is a well built car with plenty of performance, comfort, and nice features. Its reasonably economical, and I expect it to have typical Honda reliability.

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  Transmission Replaced 3 times! - 1999 Acura TL
  By Kristina - October 28 - 2:53 pm

  This vehicle was my favorite, wanted to keep it forever! Until I had to replace the transmission 3 times, so I dumped it at a pawn shop! Didnt have the conscience to sell it outright to a buyer, because of the tranny issue. I spoke with an employee of Honda Research and Development, and he told me there was an inherent transmission problem that wouldnt go away. He said to buy a Honda product newer than 2002. Other than that, I owned the car for over 4 years. Sexy car, but born with a lifetime defect that ended up costing me money, because the new transmissions were only covered under warranty for 10k miles. Dont buy it! It will cost you money!!

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  Sweet car - 2006 Acura TL
  By scs - October 28 - 2:40 pm

  Researched the 3 series, G35, IS350, and the TL got my vote.

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  I have given the most accurate rating. - 2002 Acura TL
  By kenneth M Peterson - October 25 - 9:07 pm

  I absolutely love this car and if we did not have to sell it we would not. This is a beautiful sport sedan with lots of plush options and it is fun to drive! This car is a real head turner it is black on black leather interior, with all the options with the exceptions of navagation. The powerful engine and handling is very impressive.

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  2005 Acura TL 6spd Man - 2005 Acura TL
  By Brian Miami - October 25 - 5:46 pm

  The Acura TL 2005 has been a great car to own and drive. I went from a German vehicle so the steering and handling took some getting used to - but thats the only flaw in my eyes. Otherwise the car is amazingly well designed.