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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  Loving Acura - 2002 Acura TL
  By happywithacura - February 13 - 10:00 am

  We are extremely pleased with our new Acura. If you are not prepared to buy the Type-S model, dont test-drive it. If you are looking for a luxury sedan with sporty feel, excellent handling, premium sound, and comfortable ride, you have found the right car. The Type- S is a slightly tighter ride with improved handling over the regular TL model. However, the smoothness of the ride does suffer some. We are extremely happy with the car and would love to buy another to put next to it in the driveway.

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  Oh my God!! - 2003 Acura TL
  By acuralover85 - February 12 - 12:09 am

  I love my 2003 Acura TL Type S. This is the car of my dreams. Its fast, gorgeous, and reliable. I cant say anything bad about the car really. I have a great amount of head room (Im 6 feet), excellent power, and good gas mileage. The car gets so much looks its outragous. I get compliments on the clean leather interior all the time, and the car has an excellent paint job. I just love how the car came fully loaded with everything. I think I will drive nothing but Acuras from now on.

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  Good car... but a little overrated - 2004 Acura TL
  By Dan - February 11 - 8:05 pm

  I bought this car in early 2004. I like the car very much, the bluetooth functionality is great and I think everyone should have the navi system. I think the sound system is the most overrated feature. I dont listen to DVD-A discs, and dont know anybody that does, so it is completely useless to me. The stereo is grossly underpowered. On the highway, I crank it up as high as it can go without distortion and it is just barely audible. I had a Bose system in my previous car and it was much better sounding. Im surprised it is missing some basic items that a car in this category should have: automatic lights, side mirrors that angle down while in reverse, and a few others.

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  Straight TL Review - 2004 Acura TL
  By SlyGuy0975 - February 8 - 10:00 am

  I have purchased two 04 Acura TLs in the last 3 months. My first purchase was a "Certified" pre-owned with 2,800 miles and was nothing but problems: Constant alignment issue that dealer had difficulty fixing, car shaking above 85 mph, noise coming from center speaker area, drivers door rattling, door trim coming loose, rear sub rattling, memory seats losing its memory, Im sure Im missing a few. After going back and forth with the dealer and about 2K dollars later I dumped that one and got into a new one with 6 miles. No complaints with this new one. So my suggestion would be to purchase a 04 TL that was built later in the year. Seems there were plenty

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  Owners Feedback - 2004 Acura TL
  By RudyE - February 8 - 10:00 am

  Fun to drive and handles well in all types of weather. Audio system is good not quite bose speakers quality. Navigation systems is user friendly. Handsfree system works well with my bluetooth compatible cell phone.

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  Good car for a front wheel drive - 2006 Acura TL
  By matthew Everett - February 7 - 3:36 pm

  My TL was a superb choice in my price category. The only issues I have is they have problems with their front windshield, as mine was broken and I have heard of others, also car should really be a rear wheel drive to counter the stability problems when really putting on the speed, either at start up, or passing. The rear exterior design is very boring with the TSX/RSX more sporty. It should be the other way round IMHO.

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  Great car - 2005 Acura TL
  By Fritz - February 2 - 3:20 am

  To really appreciate the TL you have to first drive a C class, BMW 3 or 5 series and a G35. The acceleration exceeds the performance of both BMW and C class between 30 and 60 mph (freeway entry and passing ability). Although the G35 may be slightly quicker, the TL feels richer, has a better interior and much better curb appeal.

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  I LOVE this car!!!!!! - 2000 Acura TL
  By Gfaze - January 31 - 2:14 am

  I bought this car in October of 2006 after literally years of research. Every time I weighed the choices, the TL always came out on top! The sportshift works great, no transmission issues (knock on wood) and no complaints. Bought it in flawless, mint condition from a local, reliable used car dealer. Its fun to drive, looks sweet (silver), and performs like a champ. I bought it to replace my aging but reliable, 94 Ford Thunderbird LX (V8). It had a lot of overdue maintenance needs and a dying transmission which would have cost more than it was worth. I still miss that 4.6L V8 roar though.

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  Nice Car, Good Package - 2006 Acura TL
  By David Frankenberg - January 29 - 7:26 pm

  Ive had my Acura TL w/NAV a few weeks now. It drives extremly quiet and smooth like a Cadillac. I genuinly dont want to get out of the car! I am a bit dissapointed with the fuel economy (thus far). I am getting around 20mpg city, 28 highway per the TL computer. However, I am just below a half tank now with 150 miles. Something doesnt compute?? I use premium unleaded 93 octane. I dont drive on the highway to work only city roads, this may be why? but I would have liked better. The Nav system is the best! I like that it turns off automatically if I dont need it. Other than the poor fuel economy, the fit & finish, ride, the luxurious features for what I got, everything about the car I love!

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  Happy Buyer - 2005 Acura TL
  By Sue - January 28 - 6:26 am

  The TL is a great looking car and it delivers on promises. Two days after purchase I was on a 2200 mile car. Everytime I opened the drivers door it was a pleasure to get back in. I also enjoyed the compliments of strangers on my great-looking car. The car feels solid and well-built and hugs the road nicely.