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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  Couldnt Be Happier! - 2005 Acura TL
  By C. Moore - January 5 - 5:23 pm

  Researched a lot of vehicles. Test drove the lexus GS 300, BMW 3 Series. While the 3 series offered more low end torque. The TL was the complete package. Overall- roomier,with high quality design and OUTSTANDING performance! 270 horsepower with a boatload of standard features. I love this car! You will not be dissappointed with the Acura TL. Luxurious feel, responsive transmission and a real headturner. Nav system, voice activated command interface, and sport wheels and tire package is awesome! Also comes standard with Hands Free link to auto connect with your blue tooth phone.

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  Do not be fooled - 2006 Acura TL
  By Blazey - January 3 - 5:43 am

  Saw it in the showroom and fell in love with the style. Had to have it so I traded in my BMW. Well, I drove it about 90 miles when I became extremely uncomfortable. I turned on the heated seats to help. they took way too long to heat up and when they finally did, they turned off? Not good... The car had a thousand miles on it when it started rattling and rattling and rattling. Almost slid off the road when driving in snow. Absolutely no traction. When you hit the gas, it hesistates. The car just feels wrong. If you are a driver youll know what I mean. I am certainly going back to BMW! Acura keeps trying but will never catch the Ultimate Driving Machine!

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  50% shop 50% road - 2000 Acura TL
  By tom - January 2 - 10:20 pm

  I bought this car after trading in my Subaru, as fast as I could. The car is a great car when it works. I have had to replace all four tires for belt shift - factory originals, new brakes all around, front rods, and the auto rear mirror. The side air bag light goes on with no one in the seat and the seat belt buckles have been done in the front. This is my 2nd Acura and the dealer has been good about repairs. Once out of warantee get a good mechanic and use original parts, they are expensive but will make a difference. Dont bother with the high end gas it is only expensive.

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  One Year+ Update - 2004 Acura TL
  By Brewster - January 2 - 10:54 am

  We now have 21,000 miles on our TL. After solving the OEM Bridgestone tire problems by installing Michelins, all seems well. As long time Accord V6 owners, though, we have never become satisfied with the overly harsh ride. Our dealer is excellent but is aware of the ride problems for former Honda owners. While we love the car, especially the interior features, the ride really detracts from our overall pleasure. When Acura dropped the older TL and incorporated all the S model features into the new 2004 model, we lost our chance to have the smoother ride. All systems are functioning well and we have not had any excessive warranty items.

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  97 TL, an Excellent Car - 1997 Acura TL
  By Clay - December 31 - 2:14 pm

  Excellent car in every way. At 110,000 miles the dealer replaced the o2 sensor and the spark plugs under the free Acura extended emissions warranty (up to 150,000 miles). Otherwise the car has been extremely reliable with only regular maintenance. Regular maintenance costs were low. The paint and the fit and finish of all interior and exterior parts are still great after eight years of use. And its still comfortable and fun to drive with good acceleration, braking, and handling.

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  A good design not implemented well - 2006 Acura TL
  By gainful - December 31 - 12:00 am

  Replaced my 2003 TL with this car, big disappointment. The 2003 has been silky smooth and this car is jittery and jerky. It has more torque than previous generation, but you get alot more noise in the cabin, and the hard ride shakes the car loose and create rattles. This car is a good buy if you ONLY travel on perfect roads. I am in PA where the roads are like the moon surface, therefore rattles all over the cabin, some even resonate with engine vibration when you hit the gas. Honda is not spending enough time to fine tune the mechanical of this car as it does before, instead, tries to allure customers with a ton of electronics----not a good way to go

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  Just got my car - 1998 Acura TL
  By Deb - December 29 - 10:30 pm

  We reviewed this year for the TL and so far Im delighted. Its beautiful and rides like a dream, although it does have some road noise, but the stereo is awesome. Im confident it will be an excellent car for us. We looked at the 1999-2003 TLs and the transmission problems scared us off. We have a 2002 RL, and although the TL is not as luxurious as that, it is just as fun to drive and it has all the same toys, just a little smaller, and I LOVE this car! The metallic blue paint is just beautiful also, and this car is in perfect shape.

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  ricks pick - 2004 Acura TL
  By Rick - December 29 - 2:56 pm

  Stylish and best bang for the buck. Smooth handling like a sports car. Quiet running.

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  i love my tl - 2003 Acura TL
  By 03tl - December 26 - 10:00 am

  theres only one thing i can say about this car. that thing being i love it. i cant wait till the 2004 model is out so i can get that one

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  Great car! - 2002 Acura TL
  By KDS - December 25 - 6:36 pm

  It may not be the fanciest vehicle, but its a fun and comfortable drive.