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 TL but has some flaws - 2006 Acura TL
  By CPT Keanu - September 15 - 10:59 pm

  Bought in July performs flawlessly on freeway. Quiet & very comfortable love the XM on desolate roads. Awesome highway mileage @ 31mpg going 75+mph! Great exterior & bi-xenons are invaluable. Love the interior blue hue color. To contrast its great features, in city its different. Must drive very very conservative to get decent mpg. Suspension rough over hard surfaces. Steering not responsive like TSX. Been to dealer 6 times driver window rattling, trunk latch inop, headliner sagging took 3 attempts to fix! Now rough idle @ startup & weird idle fluxuations! Our many loaner TSXs are tempting us. Our 99 TL was made better. Never had rattling noises or tranny issues even at 160k what a car.

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  Nice car to own - 2002 Acura TL
  By tst32tl - September 15 - 10:07 am

  Own this car for 5 years and it never had any major problems (except the transmission recall, and they automatically provide extended warranty to 100,000 mi no charge). Very comfortable and nice. Probably will buy the same car when ready to get my next car.

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  Great Entry level luxury car - 2003 Acura TL
  By Rob B - September 14 - 10:00 am

  The process of purchasing this vehicle was a pleasure, we visited several Acura dealerships. We were treated with respect and taken seriously with questions and needs. The car is a fantastic vehicle for those looking for sports car like handling and styling, with the functionality of a family car. The quality is what you expect from Acura, well built, thought our interior, with a stylish and unique, yet understated exterior. The Type-S extra horse power is joy, especially with sequential shifting. Putting the windows down, opening the moon roof and finding a stretch of road all to your self is definitely something I do at least once a week.

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  Best car for the money - 2003 Acura TL
  By Cjitty - September 14 - 10:00 am

  Since buying my slightly used 2003 TL Type S, this car continues to amaze me. Its fast, looks good and there is no car in that class that comes with all the standard features minus navigation.

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  My 2006 TL with Navigation - 2006 Acura TL
  By Michael B - September 13 - 8:42 pm

  I purchased this car on July 19th 2006, and it is by far the best car I have ever owned! I am getting 26-29 mpg all the time. The looks both inside and out make this car look far more expensive than it is. The sound system is INCREDIBLE! I just wish that the DVD- A discs were easier to find in stores and not just on-line!

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  WARNING to driving enthusiasts - 2006 Acura TL
  By enthusiast3 - September 12 - 7:00 pm

  I sure wish I had test driven this car more before buying it. I just traded in my 2006 6 speed TL with only 5,900 miles on it. This car is really nice in some ways and I possibly would have kept it if I had bought it with an automatic, but it definitely is not a "drivers" car. I really wanted to like this car, Ive owned two Accords and two Integras, all of which were great cars w/manual transmissions. I went so far as to replace the stock all season tires with summer only tires and I even thought long and hard about buying the A-Spec suspension, which you can find on e-bay now. I was prepared for a little torque steer, but not for the complete lack of involvement.

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  My third new Acura since 1999! - 2005 Acura TL
  By richard d. ross - September 9 - 2:50 pm

  The seats in my 2005 TL are so comfortable and supportive. I love the Navigation system and Stability system, and the voice command phone, nav, audio, and a/c! This is one responsive and handsome car. I like that Honda/Acura sells you a car with most things already included. It is the right size and is easy to park. All my friends and family love this car.

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  Comfort, Class, & Honda Reliable - 2006 Acura TL
  By DCE - September 9 - 2:27 pm

  My wife needed to replace her aging Jag so we went looking and she drove a 2 year old Acura TL with 47K that was in dealers lot. It was as sturdy as rock - no squeaks, rattles, or signs of aging. And the very best Nav System on any car Ive seen. After driving the competitors, we returned to the dealer and bought a brand new TL. After 5 months, no problems, no regrets. Im the sportscar type (S2000) but I keep finding reasons to drive the Acura. Just wish it was RWD - on hard acceleration from very low speed I can feel the torque steer. Other than that, no complaints.

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  Love my Christmas present! - 2005 Acura TL
  By BWood - September 9 - 2:40 am

  I enjoyed my previous car, a Lincoln LS, but when ready to trade was looking for something a little more sporty. This car has the whole package and looks beautiful in black with grey interior. Lots of technology to learn, but I am looking forward to that too. Navigation is awesome!

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  04 Acura TL - 2004 Acura TL
  By tenncpa - September 8 - 10:00 am

  04 Acura TL is third TL owned and thus far, the best. Performance is smoother, quieter and more refined than 2002 TL- S, which was great car. It is hard to imagine a better car--performance, value and dependability--in this class.