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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  No regrets - 2004 Acura TL
  By still love it - November 2 - 9:56 am

  Have owned the car for about 15 months and have about 10,500 miles on it. I still get the new car giggles and look forward to driving the car beyond my very short commute. Have had a couple of fit and finish issues that were resolved by the dealer (replaced pasenger seat cover, replaced third brake light cover), have had no other problems. The biggest surprise is that the tires are only expected to last for about 15K miles because of the speed rating are of a softer material (per the dealer). Will likely search for a comparable tire with a lower speed/higher wear rating. I do not have the rattles or

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  Luxury at Honda Prices - 2002 Acura TL
  By tinmantt - October 31 - 10:00 am

  This has been the best car Ive owned. Had European cars including Volvo, Audi, etc., but as an overall experience, they cant compete.

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  Too many rattles - 2004 Acura TL
  By Steve - October 31 - 12:46 am

  The 2004 TL was the first car purchase that truly excited me. I actually had to order one and wait 6 weeks. 1 1/2 years later, the leather seats look horrible. The car rattles everywhere! The rims are scared because of poor design. The dealer doesnt seem to care about any of these problems dismissing them as simple wear. This is not the build quality I expect from Acura. My Accord has better leather and a better build. Perhaps Im a victim of an early production model, but Acura really blew it. Im now looking to sell the car.

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  2nd one / nicer than the 1st - 2005 Acura TL
  By Robert Hammers - October 27 - 9:10 pm

  My wife and I traded our old Acura CL type s for the Acura TL and absolutely love this car...

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  Wont Buy Another One - 2003 Acura TL
  By turkey-trot - October 27 - 10:00 am

  My wife has owned this car for less than two years. We were sold on its so- called reliability and resale value. In 35,000 miles weve had front pads and rotors replaced, water pump replaced and now the transmission has to be replaced. Were scared to death of what might come next after the warranty expires. This thing has been pampered and its falling apart. Maybe KIA built this thing instead of ACURA. Its got to go.

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  Just Keeps Going - 1999 Acura TL
  By lsmac - October 25 - 2:02 pm

  Bought this car new. It now has 197,000 miles. 28mpg all the time. Have stuck to the manual for maintenance. Some dash lights dont work and door lock relay needs replacing. Only non-maintenance item was to clean the EGR valve at 80k. I do this myself now. Takes two hours. Engine has never been opened. Ditch the Michelin Tires. Get Toyo Proxes TPT for less than $500 and last 50k.

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  Not what I expected - 1999 Acura TL
  By Ric - October 24 - 11:52 am

  My first Acura and possibly my last. Performance with the four speed is reasonable but nothing great. Gas milage only so-so. Interior design is certainly above average. Nice car to sit in for the most part. Seats showing wear earlier than suspected. Tranny had to be replaced at about 50000mi. Left me stranded on a hwy. Now having trouble starting the car when it has been raining for afew days. Dealer cant seem to find the reason. Overall I am disappointed. Have had better experiences with a Maxima in the past. Not much better than my old Taurus SHO and that is not saying much!

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  one time Acura owner - 2003 Acura TL
  By Not A Fan - October 23 - 5:01 pm

  The engine power is good, even if it is too high in the rev band. The transmission takes awhile to downwhift far enough to reach the power band when you step on it. You need to manually downshift first if you know you are going to need it. Fit and finish is nowhere near what I expected, considering what is written about these vehicles. The dash is warped, the rear passenger door is coming apart. This was purchased with low miles, and there is no reason for this. Ergonomically, it lacks. The moonroof controls may as well be in the trunk. If you turn the head lights on before it is pitch black outside, the numbers on the tach and speedometer literally disappear.

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  Performance, at a price! - 1996 Acura TL
  By Comfortable, zippy - October 21 - 10:57 am

  Fell in love with this car, a local trade-in, at Toyota dealership. Had 90K miles, but had been maintained by Acura as a leased car. Soon learned that parts were VERY expensive, as was service by Acura dealership. I love its style and features. Tight quality, firm shift, responsive handling. Handles extremely well - has saved my grace a couple of times with its quick response in heavy traffic.

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  Great Car for the price - 2003 Acura TL
  By Ambuj - October 21 - 10:00 am

  I was contemplating BMW 3 Series, Audi Q, Lexus, Infinity G35 and Acura. You cant go wrong with an Acura. Absolutely awesome for its price. You have the reliability of Honda and all luxury features are standard. It has a personality,its plush and makes you feel good. most of the non-Acura folks that have driven it have loved it. And on top, its depreciation rate is lower than its peers mentioned above.