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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  Best Overall Value - 2003 Acura TL
  By Normin - November 19 - 10:00 am

  This car comes with everything: leather, HIDs, size airbags, 6 CD in- dash BOSE stereo...etc. The only factory installed option would be a Navigation system. Features like these would drive the cost of either the BMW or Infiniti over $35K. I paid $29K flat for the type S. Great acceleration and fun to drive. It makes you want to drive really fast. Im very happy with the purchase. And because its a Acura(Honda), I know that the reliability factor is high. Can the same be said about BMW or Infiniti ?

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  Great Car, Great Value - 2005 Acura TL
  By Randy - November 19 - 12:26 am

  After driving a BMW 330 CiC for a few years I can say that this car is faster, but doesnt handle quite as well. The sound system on this car is superior. I love the XM Radio feature. The navigation system on the BMW, although not a DVD and in some ways not as complete, was more accurate. This one takes some getting used to and I frequently cant find a place that I am looking for. This car is fun to drive, fast, comfortable and offers a superior sound system. The back seats have plenty of room.

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  Great Value - 2003 Acura TL
  By DeezNets25 - November 16 - 3:30 pm

  Great acceleration, excellent ride quality, quiet ride, tons of room.

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  what a car - 2005 Acura TL
  By Slavka - November 16 - 8:13 am

  I had it for three weeks now. What a fun drive. I love the stick shift. I test drove their automatic and it just doesnt feel the same. Navigation is great. Free trial of XM is really making me think that I should subscribe. Bluetooth is really helpful when driving stick. Voice recognition didnt work well at first, but then I learned how to speak so "she" will understand me. Just came back from autoshow, and (not comparing to those exotic cars or anything higher then $50K) this is best designed vehicle on the market right now, both exterior and interior (IMHO)

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  Goodbye oldpaint - 1999 Acura TL
  By GR8CAR - November 14 - 5:41 pm

  Bought this car in 2004 with 42K, had 83K when some knucklehead ran a red light and I tagged him. Solid car, fun to drive, engineering, trim, I miss it. Id buy another in a heartbeat.

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  Nice Ride - 2007 Acura TL
  By whulik - November 14 - 12:23 am

  I have had the TL-S for a week now and I love it. Im sure a sports car purist would find plenty to gripe about, but its NOT a sports car, its a sporty sedan. And as a sporty sedan the TL-S excels. The engine is excellent with lots of low end torque and a wide power band. Handling is crisp but will not rattle your teeth loose. The interior is very well laid out, quiet and comfortable. All in all, its as near perfect as a car can get.

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  Transmission Problems at 56K - 2002 Acura TL
  By nldud - November 12 - 2:00 am

  I loved my car until transmission troubles! Car hesitates to shift when you first accelerate and then when it does shift, its a really hard jerking motion. Acura dealership replaced the A and B shift solinoid but problem is not resolved. Its a good thing I bought the extended warranty! Everyone kept telling me Acura will last for 300K but Im not going to find out. My 94 Nissan Sentra was still running smooth at 160K when I sold it to buy the ACURA. I took excellent care of the vehice had all the oil recommended oil changes and routine service schedule maintenance.

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  2007 TL Base Sedan - 2007 Acura TL
  By Richey02hg - November 11 - 12:26 pm

  Bought a black exterior with black interior base 2007 in December 06. I love everything about the car except the gas mileage is a little below what I expected, I drive about 70% street and 30% highway and I constantly get 20 MPG at best. Also, I wish the low fuel light would not be so premature. It usually turns on and I only have to fill up 14.5 or 15 gallons so there clearly has to be 2 or more gallons left in the tank. But other than those minor issues. I love the car. Its roomy and comfortable yet still has a very sporty drive and all the features seemed to be well planned out to make as easy as possible for the driver.

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  Love My TL - 2006 Acura TL
  By Steve P - November 10 - 11:40 am

  This is my 3rd Acura. Had an 03 TL, and 04 TSX. For overall performance including power as a big factor for me, the new TL gets my nod. Im a sucker for horsepower though. Love the fit and finish, smooth delivery of power, and well-engineered handling. A quiet cabin allows for a high-end listening experience with well-mixed DTS type DVDAs . Be careful what you buy, some of these high end discs sound no better than your average CD in the TL. Some reviewers have complained about a lack of bass. It is available, you just need to give the TL the proper source material. The TL is money well spent.

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  2006 acura TL - 2006 Acura TL
  By cnn.com autos - November 8 - 1:51 pm

  I expected it to be quick and comfortable. It turned out to be both. I recently made a 2500 mile trip and it was excellent. I do not believe the 33 mpg listed by the onboard computer and premium fuel was a cost factor. I recommend it highly.