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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  Average Car - 2007 Acura TL
  By So So car - August 1 - 1:49 pm

  I bought Type S in Feb 2007. The cars engine is great, acceleration is superb, looks are great. However, interior material quality is one of the worst I have seen in new cars. Too much rattling. I had a rattling sound coming from behind steering wheel and even the dealer couldnt figure it out. More rattle from the middle by cup holder. If the windows are down, they rattle as if some screws are loose in the door panel. I am seriously thinking about trading it in. I have been a Acura fan for years but this TL Type S experience has left a bad taste in my mouth and probably never go back to Acura.

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  Nice balance - 2007 Acura TL
  By John - August 1 - 11:23 am

  I test drove the BMW 335i coupe, Lexus ES 350 and this car. Loved the balance in this car and costs a lot less than the BMW. While not as solid in handling and performance as the BMW, the Acura TL-S has more creature comforts and almost as good handling for a lot less money than the BMW. The Lexus was great but not very solid at handling as the Acura TL.

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  One Sweet Ride! - 2003 Acura TL
  By G Wis - July 30 - 7:07 pm

  Performs great. Handles well, gas mileage is adequate (but uses highest octane) and the car has a nice sporty appearance. I drive this car to work daily.

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  All-Around Champ! - 2004 Acura TL
  By Stephen Caton - July 30 - 10:00 am

  I am an admitted car nut so when it was time to buy, I did major research. I started out with a pretty big list of $35k and under candidates but quickly narrowed the group to the Acura TL, the Infiniti G35, the Nissan Maxima, the Audi A4 and BMW 325. While the Audi and Infiniti are very nice and the Maxima is a lot of car for the dough, the TL simply dominates in this class when you consider all-around goodness. There is no better combination of performance, safety, features and design in this price range. I would go so far as to call the TL the finest effort from Acura to date! The BMW doesnt even come close, which makes one realize how overpriced that brand has become.

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  From a 2001 to a 2004 Acura TL - 2004 Acura TL
  By bclarkcd - July 30 - 10:00 am

  While I enjoyed the luxury feel of the 2001 Acura TL, compared to the new 2004 TL it was simply too sedate. The new TL is even more comfortable and just as quite to drive, but much more fun. Its more powerful engine is much more so and its handling is far superior. The improvements in interior features and the many new ones added make me feel like Ive stepped up a couple of notches in style and performance. The new TLs appearance is much sportier and quicker looking. I love it from any perspective.

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  Luxury with Performance - 2007 Acura TL
  By Chris - July 30 - 9:11 am

  This car has all the luxury features that are in similar offerings like Lexus, MB, Cadillac, et.al., but also has performance to go with it. Yes, you can purchase a Bimmer, but would you get all the standard features of this vehicle for the same price?? No. Just returned from a 800 miles road trip, and the car returned 31 miles per gallon. Excellent for a brand new car, usually it takes time for the engine to break in and get the advertised figures on the window sticker.

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  Acura TL Rules! - 2003 Acura TL
  By pollardra - July 28 - 11:48 am

  The Acura TL is the best car I have ever owned, and if I were to buy another car today, I would get another TL. It comes loaded with every possible convenience and option standard (except navigation), and it is a terrific value. I plan on keeping my car for many years to come. Acura sets the gold standard.

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  Love it!! - 2004 Acura TL
  By Grace - July 27 - 10:19 am

  Love my Acura TL! It is fun to drive and very comfortable. I feel the car is priced well when comparing to European cars with similar features. When I have family and friends in the car with me they always compliment the ride and what a nice car it is. I agree!! Only 2 complaints about this car: 1) Poor turning radius. I previously owned a Honda Accord which could easily do a "U" turn or whip right into a parking spot, not so with the Acura TL. 2) Several blind spots due to side curtain airbags and head rests. The side curtain airbags require extra caution when turning at intersections and looking for pedestrians in the cross walk. Head rests add to blind spots for lane changes.

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  Former Audi Owner - 2003 Acura TL
  By Spud - July 27 - 2:00 am

  Best for the price

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  Very nice - 2006 Acura TL
  By Dennis - July 27 - 12:51 am

  Overall, an excellent car and just a few misses on interior fit like lining up the aluminum trim on the right side of the dash with the door trim. Some interior ticks and creaks now and then from the dash. Nice materials though. Power, comfort, lots of do-dads and nice sound system. Too bad DVD audio did not make it universally. Hard to find good DVD audios. Handles like a front driver and lots of understeer but controllable and improved from the 2002 model. Rides nice and not too noisy for a Honda product. Stock tires a joke and wear fast.