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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  This is Acura quality??? - 2005 Acura TL
  By SadPanda - June 29 - 1:23 pm

  I did a lot of research before buying my TL. Every car I looked at had *something* wrong with it, so its hard to get a good picture of reliability from the forums. Acura has a great reputation though. I decided to pony up $6K more than I had intended to spend to ensure I would not have buyers remorse. Nine days after the purchase I totally regret buying this car. The lack of quality is a joke. A very bad joke. Im ready to eat $1000 if the dealer will buy the car back from me. My previous two cars - a 92 GMC Sonoma and 00 Mustang GT - didnt have ONE problem in the first year, let alone 3-4 in the first 9 days like this TL. :(

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  Great car, but... - 2005 Acura TL
  By jimh615 - June 29 - 12:58 am

  My TL is nice to drive, hampered only by seemingly constant nit-picky little problems like the auto window up stopped working, the check engine light came on, the brake rotors warped (I have the Brembo brakes), a rear seat belt was installed wrong, third gear was hard to get into (a new lubricant solved that), rear part of roof liner came loose, clutch pedal became rough and ratchety. The navigation system software (algorithms) are horrible. No matter what setting you use, it will take you all over the place before getting you there. The trip computer has a number of miles to empty its worthless!! When it reads 0 miles left, you can still go 70 miles on the highway and have fuel.

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  TL 04 - 2004 Acura TL
  By Lou Van Horn - June 27 - 2:00 am

  Sporty vehicle, good acceleration and handling

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  2004 Acura TL - 2004 Acura TL
  By gracey - June 27 - 2:00 am

  I have only had the TL for one week but it is everything the reviews say it is. The fit and finish is excellent inside and out. It had no defects or problems. I had an Audi A4. This car is a much better value and reliablity should be much better.

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  The Blind Spot - 2004 Acura TL
  By kristin1 - June 27 - 2:00 am

  I have had my car for about a month and have loved everything about it except one thing, the blind spot. The Blind spot on both sides is enough to drive you crazy. If you are sitting in traffic you can watch cars disapear into it.

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  What a Ride!!!!! - 2004 Acura TL
  By BeachBum5 - June 27 - 2:00 am

  In all honesty, this has to be one of the best cars of 2004. Test drove everything else above and below this category and nothing comes close for the all mightly $$$$$$.

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  Greatest TL - 2004 Acura TL
  By AmyLou - June 27 - 2:00 am

  Fantastic inside, outside and under the hood.

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  Love This Car - No Problems - 2002 Acura TL
  By AcuraTim - June 26 - 10:00 am

  Having owned this car for exactly one year I want to go on record as saying I have not had any problems. All Ive had to do is change the oil every 4000 miles. I have 22000 miles so far and have not experienced any transmission problems. This care is a lot of fun to drive - and I feel it is fast, responsive, and handles quite well. It is also a very comfortable car to drive.

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  2003 Acura TL Type-S - 2003 Acura TL
  By vman - June 25 - 10:34 pm

  Upscale Accord. Wish I chose the G35 or 330i which had better resale and reliability. Ride is jittery, stiff and not comfortable on city trips. Leather is low quality and went out of shape. Good room inside and seats are OK on long trips. Very thin paint. Squeaks and rattles appeared after first year. CD player broke 4 times. Like any big FWD sedan, the TL eats up front rotors on a regular basis coz they are nose heavy cars. I had tranny issues covered by the P/T warranty. Acura extended the trans warranty but long-term use became doubtful. Resale value took a big hit due to the tranny recalls of TLs and other Hondas. This could have been a good car if they offered it in stick.

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  Very nice car, high reliability - 1998 Acura TL
  By TLW - June 25 - 9:15 am

  I bought my 98 2.5 TL about 5 years ago, I also paid $1200 for the extended warranty to 100K miles. I never got to use the warranty. At 107K miles now, D4 light is out, and I have replaced both oxygen sensors as well as doing the scheduled 104K miles timing belt / water pump service. I also replaced the battery a couple years ago, and new brake pads. Im due for replacing the AT fluid and filter. All in all, this car has been excellent. My car with 107K miles drives and feels like a new car - nothing loose or sloppy, and the throttle response is very smooth.