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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Just a very good automobile - 2005 Acura TL
By tomgutshall - April 29 - 8:29 pmHave owned a AcuraTL from 1996 and this 05 is the best so far. Cant wait for the 09 to come out
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Love my TL-S - 2002 Acura TL
By snowman81 - April 27 - 6:18 pmGreat car. Tranny problems exist in some CL/TL/MDX but Acura has provided an extension on the warranty to 7yr/100,000 miles. Other than that the car is wonderful. Ive added a few things for my preference to get a little more juice out of the engine and changed the suspension, however, stock the car does extremely well. A great combo of sport and luxury with the Type S.
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Great Car - 2004 Acura TL
By Royal Flush - April 26 - 2:00 amRides great,good accleration and mileage.Better than my Lexus GS300
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Bargain Luxury - 2004 Acura TL
By eam3 - April 26 - 2:00 amI have been trying really hard to find major faults with the car and the biggest one I can find is the fact that its front wheel drive (Im a fan of rear wheel drive myself). Other than that, this car has exceeded my expectations by a huge margin. Its smooth, comfortable, well made, reliable, luxurious, fun to drive and has a stereo that is just out of this world. I cannot recommend this car enough. My wife wants to trade her 2002 Volvo S60 T5 on a new TL for her now!
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This is as good as it gets. - 2004 Acura TL
By RTodd - April 26 - 2:00 amOutstanding car. Best manual transmission Ive ever driven. Amazing standard features -- you have to hear this stereo in 6-track DVD audio. The real reason to buy this car is the way it drives -- feels solid on the highway, but really maneuverable on twisty roads, and it corners like its on rails. Cant tell you about reliability cause its brand new.
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Not my 94 Honda - 2006 Acura TL
By CTsteve - April 23 - 9:23 amPicked up my wifes 06 TL on Saturday, 3/25. Black, camel interior, navi and six speed. The car is a beauty. We broke her in with a 300-mile city (Manhattan), highway (I 95) drive. First impressions: the six-speed is very slick. Brembos work as advertised. Navi is mighty interesting: "GW Bridge Upper Level." Wow. Still, I have to do my homework on this device to really understand its capabilities. Suspension is solid, couldnt detect any torque steer on such a short sample. Quiet cabin, comfortable seats. XM Radio sounds pretty good through the standard hifi. So far, so good.
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Bold - 2009 Acura TL
By Bold - April 22 - 5:10 pmI compared the RL with the TL and there is no comparison. The TL has a better drive, better gas mileage, more pickup and cost $5,000 less. I was surprised that the two models are about the same size. The AWD is great in the snow. I previously had a BMW 750 and am not disappointed. It takes time to learn how to use all the features.
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one hot car - 2005 Acura TL
By oznow - April 22 - 7:18 amOverall I luv the Acura TL. Its a blast to drive.
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Excellent Car. - 2003 Acura TL
By Jason - April 21 - 3:08 pmI purchased this car new almost 3 years ago - thus far, it has been flawless. Nothing has gone wrong with this car. It is quick, it is comfortable, it handles well, and its held up well both inside and out. I have had to avoid 3 accidents with emergency braking and manuvering - each time the car has reacted perfectly along with the anti-lock brakes - the cars performance has kept me out of accidents on both wet and dry roads. My only expenses to date have been the regularly scheduled checkups recommended by Acura (every 7,500 miles - which include oil changes). The dealers service department has been very good as well.
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This car is SILLY! - 2005 Acura TL
By lindo - April 21 - 1:57 pmI fell in love with this car the first time I saw it and ad to get one. I went with the 6spd/man just for the fun of driving it. The clutch and shifter are awsome! Its a short-throw shifter and the clutch is very forgiving. The only problems Ive noticed are teh performance tires, Ive already had to replace one because the radial came lose...and Acura refused to pay for it!!! and the other thing I noticed is when you honk on it...it tend to lose traction pretty easily on the front end. Other than that...its a sweet ride and my favorite car Ive ever owned...which includes a mustang cobra convertable...I would definatley buy again!
