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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  Excellent Value - 2003 Acura TL
  By billbo - December 9 - 10:00 am

  Love all the features. 6CD, Bose system, 260hp engine, sports-shift trany, leg room, interior design is awesome. Test drove a Nissan Altima, Maxima. Pontiac Grand Prix, Kia Altima and everything a could find in its class and this car just fit. What is up with the brakes though? Less than 4,000 and I can hear a grinding sound! Bringing the car in for my first check this week. Paid 27,200 for this car and I want to keep for 10 years.

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  Great Car - Watch the Tranny - 2002 Acura TL
  By KMaude - December 9 - 1:35 am

  Ive had this car for about a year now (85,000 miles) and its been one of the best cars Ive owned (over 12 others). I recently felt a little hesitation in the tranny and took it to the dealer for service. Thank god its still under the factory tranny warranty (7 yrs/100k). The trans needs replacing and thanks to the warranty Ill be getting it for free! Another positive is my dealer loaner is a 2006 3.2 TL with 800 miles on it ... what a great car! I will strongly consider another Acura when purchasing a new car next year.

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  2003 Acura TL - 2003 Acura TL
  By BIG MOE - December 8 - 10:48 pm

  I have been driving this car for about 5 months and i have to say it is one of the best driving cars that I have driven. The handling is amazing, the pick up is quick and the braking is top notch. also the audio system is amazing with the 6 disk in dash cd changer. the only thing that this car needs is a stick. i have to admit it would boost the fun to drive section and would help out with acceleration. One thing that is annoying is the tiptronic transmition. you cant shift in and out of 1st yourself and its a little delayed but its ok cause its an automatic. other then that this is a very good car very realiable and it is an over all good car

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  Good buy - 2003 Acura TL
  By Fred Sanford - December 3 - 7:54 pm

  Excellent vehicle. Very smooth on the road. Acceleration is smooth due to superior computer controlled transmission. Suspension is vastly superior to any car I have owned. Sound system is excellent. Gas tank could be about 5 gallons larger.

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  Good car but not the Acura your used to - 2004 Acura TL
  By TomG - December 2 - 10:50 pm

  My family has had a number of Acuras and Hondas, the 2004 TL though has been the worst yet. Since owning the car Ive driven 30,000 and Ive had to replace the tires as 20,000 and get new brakes at 25,000. Dont get me wrong the car is great but to have to buy a new set of tires and new brakes before 50,000 miles is not right and it ruins Acuras good reputation.

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  Great vehicle - 2005 Acura TL
  By Don - December 2 - 6:00 am

  Roomy, reliable, high performance four door sedan that comes standard with virtually every feature you could want on a modern vehicle. I achieved 30.5 mpg with an 05 TL traveling approx. 2000 on interstates two weeks ago. The A/C was on approx one third of the time and the cruise was set at 74 mph. Not bad considering 270 hp and a 11:1 compression ratio. Handles very well for a FWD vehicle.

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  Love my TL. - 2003 Acura TL
  By jimmym - November 30 - 2:00 am

  After two months and 4,000 miles I can say that Im very happy with my Acura TL - traded in my trusty Accord and have not regretted it for an instant. The acceleration is unbelievable. Gas mileage is much better than I thought it would be on the LA freeways (lots of stop and go traffic). One problem so far: power steering reservoir needed replacing after only 3,400 miles - cracked, leaked and the holding clip came apart and rubbed against the fan belt (loud buzzing noise is what drew my attention). Hmmmm.....hope this is not an omen of things to come.

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  The TL Rocks - 2004 Acura TL
  By hoosier - November 29 - 12:52 am

  I researched tons, narrowed to a G35, 3 series, and TL. TL wins hands down for value--so many options, performance is great and it is solid. Every day I drive the car its fun! Agreed on the factory tires, likely Ill need to replace them when the weather gets bad, outside of that it has everything its a clear choice over the competition. There arent a ton here in DC that I see so its nice to have a unique car that is truly a sleeper. Get the TL.

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  one heck of a fun car - 2005 Acura TL
  By norcalmichael - November 27 - 9:16 pm

  I have loved the TL since it was redesigned last year. After looking at a number of other makes and models I came back to the car I have been wanting. I bought a TL and love it. The quality/reliability is definitely Honda. Amazing the looks from others as well - if you like that sort of thing.

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  Great car, great value, fun to mod - 1999 Acura TL
  By Shaun - November 25 - 12:45 pm

  I have had my DEG (dark emerald green) TL for 2 and a half years and have had no problem with it at all. 117k and still on original tranny and runs better than new. I have upgrades many engine components to pull some great performance (faster than a Type S) out of this car w/o effecting its reliability and actually increasing overall gas mileage from 25 to 28 now. Interior is great, make sure you strip the paint off your shiftknob, it is chrome underneath you know (99 TL only). Exterior is very sexy and elegant, I think it stands out when detailed properly. Stock stereo isnt the greatest, I dont like Bose at all. Low maintenance vehicle and easy to work on yourself. Rotors lasted 100k+.