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:
Showing 1471 through 1480 of 3,067.00-
Slightly too Expensive for what You Get - 2004 Acura TL
By Overrated Acura - September 8 - 10:00 amThe car is very nice, but Acura jacked the price up and now I think I overpaid. The dealer made me think the product was like gold. They said that they were all sold out, for months... Then, lo and behold, one showed up and I bought it for full sticker. I got caught up in the moment and now I am somewhat disappointed. The car is very nice, but not worth 35K. You are much better off getting the 3-series BMW.
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driver - 2006 Acura TL
By milan - September 5 - 3:46 pmGreat vehicle for your money. Cant find better car for that much. Great space also, with perfect rear seats.
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WONDERFUL CAR - 2005 Acura TL
By Olga hostetler - September 4 - 3:47 pmThis car is fun to drive,and its packed with luxury functions. Ive had mine for a little over a year now, Ive had a lexus is300, bmw 325i, and i like the acura tl MUCH better.
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Get the Honda Accord instead - 2002 Acura TL
By sucker - August 31 - 10:00 amThis car is a overpriced honda accord. The suspension is not tuned which cause the car to become a bucket of rattles. Ive visited my dealer 4 times and they have yet to fix everything. If you want a good buy...dont get this car...its a k-mart special...a fake psudo lux car.
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Acura 3.2 TL Excellent Value - 1999 Acura TL
By mark b - August 30 - 2:44 pmThis model was the first year for the redesigned TL - in which Acura enhanced the look and features of the car, while making the price even more attractive. The net result has been a car that is highly reliable, attractive and an excellent value over time. Although this model is a little more plain vanilla than the latest generation TL it is still a pleasure to drive and own.
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Best Car Ive Ever Owned (so far) - 2005 Acura TL
By Bruce - August 29 - 4:26 amI went to buy a BMW 330, but found it cramped inside, with the rear seats uncomfortable. A friend told me about Acura. I would NEVER have considered this car, as Acura was not on my radar. I drove it, and bought one off the showroom floor. Boy am I happy. Where can you buy a car like this with all the standard equipment at this price. FORGET BMW
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2003TL to 2006 TL - 2006 Acura TL
By Bob W - August 28 - 2:56 pmWe loved the 2003, but wanted to get the navigation system and the blue tooth capability. 2006 has more power and more air bags. Great XM radio. great service at the dealer Front head rests are too big blocking view out the side and rear. Passenger seat is too low for short folks. Ride is OK on smooth road, but rough on broken pavement.
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Great car - 2006 Acura TL
By Larry S. - August 28 - 2:36 pmSecond Acura Ive owned. Test drove the competion before I bought but Acura was at the head of the pack. Instrumentation is easy to read and controls are intuitive. The voice command system required close attention to the manual at first and mating my Blue Tooth cellphone to the car required a quick visit to the dealership to set up. The car is very fast off the line and the auto transmission shifts are silky smooth. Great fun to drive and the A Spec package with 18" tires lets it corner like a dream. This extra was definatily worth it.
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Nice! - 2004 Acura TL
By TL lover - August 28 - 10:00 amMy new TL did not disappoint. If you like power, there is plenty, although front wheel drive is not the best off the line. The stereo is great. The exterior is its best feature. The interior is confortable unless you play in the NBA. The blue tooth phone for now is gimicky, as my cel carrier doesnt even have a compatible phone for it. The blue tooth guys need to get all carriers on board for that to work. Rear view vision is an issue until you get used to it, and the "dipping mirror" is more inconvenient than convenient. You also cant make tight turns. But overall, this is an excellent car which I love.
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I Looked at All the Rest - 2004 Acura TL
By Herbstmd - August 28 - 10:00 amI did my research before I bought: BMW 330xi, Audi 4 3.0, Nissan Maxima, Cadillac CTS, and this was the most for the buck. Also more pickup, power, style and technology. As sure footed as a mountain goat! I could not be happier! My family fights as to take this car over the others we have. It reeks of luxury, and not a thing appears wrong with it.
