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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  6 years and counting - 2005 Acura TL
  By Naval Air - November 28 - 2:00 am

  As a retired Naval Aviator, I have a sincere appreciation for performance, reliability and “fit”. I purchased my 2005 TL new with the assumptions that it would provide years of performance and have the road manors to handle long trips without rattling my old bones. Actually, the car has surpassed those expectations and is categorically the best car I’ve ever owned. It has some inherit limitations involving wet or snowy road conditions that may challenge even an experienced driver, but overall it’s a keeper.

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  Awesome Ride - 2005 Acura TL
  By sjd94975 - November 28 - 2:00 am

  I bought my TL new and after doing a bit of specializing, had the stock rims dipped in black chrome, drove off the lot & only return when its time for regular maintenance. I love this car, its sophisticated styling inside & out still make it a head turner 5 years in. It handles great and is very responsive when you need to get going. The large screen Navi is great, XM feature w/ awesome 6 speaker stereo sound, voice command features incl bluetooth cellular...this car has it all. I think my 2005 looks is better than the 2011 I see at the dealership. Never regreted this purchase...ever!

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  Will miss it - 2008 Acura TL
  By fav920 - November 26 - 2:00 am

  My lease is ending after 3yrs of ownership and I am sorry to see it go. I have considered buying it out, but I will be out of warranty. I have been searching for a CPO with low miles to purchase. I did not have ONE bad experience with this car, and although the new style is growing on me, the 08 is much nicer. Great looking, sporty driving, and 50,000 miles without having to replace brakes and/or tires! Thanks, Acura...

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  Roof Rattle - 2010 Acura TL
  By John - November 24 - 2:00 am

  Rattle in the area of forward roof or moon roof area. Had the car to the dealer 3 xs for the same problem. They had the car for 4 days working on the problem. They corrected it by spraying some type of form between outer and iner roof. The rattle is back again (2 months later) worse this time and more so when the sun shade is back and weather is cooler. Going back to the dealer again next week. The rattle and noise is so annoying that you dont enjoy the car. For the price of this car not real happy.

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  2008 base TL - 2008 Acura TL
  By David - November 22 - 2:00 am

  I owned Acura TL 2008 new. Currently, it has 51300 miles and the check engine on. Brought to dealer (Open road acura on route 18 East Brunswick, NJ) they found codes:P0701 and P0704, cleared codes. After 24 h, the light is on again. I bought an OBD device checked with codes: P0300, P0301, P0304, P0306, P0701 and P0704. How could the dealer tech. missed these codes? The car have been at dealer since Nov. 10, 2010 and now Nov. 22, 2010. The car have not been fixed. Dealer told me they contacted Acura tech. but no solution. Acura tech couldnÂ’t solved their on creation?

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  Acura Stinks - 2002 Acura TL
  By Steve - November 21 - 2:00 am

  Be careful of the self dimming mirrors. Bought mine used from a family member with 60000 miles. The mirrors actually have an acid in them. They will leak acid all over your shift lever and the trim (real nice) and melt it. Tranny had the recall done and I am starting to notice problems with it now (currently 68000 original miles). Customer service has got to be the worst in the country. i have had better customer service at a local Sonic drive in. Will never buy another Honda product ever again. The Brakes stink also. The rotors warped and replaced with after market parts and is fone now. Did the work myself and was pretty easy.

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  IM IN LOVE! - 2010 Acura TL
  By IM IN LOVE! - November 18 - 2:00 am

  Never ever been in love with a car before this one. Its just beautiful inside and out. Love its controversial looks, high tech interior and smooth, fast ride. I just love it.

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  A fun everyday 4 door sports car - 2009 Acura TL
  By Bruce Kepley - November 16 - 2:00 am

  Have owned this car since Christmas, 2008, its now heading into Christmas 2010, so two years. I can say that it has been a truly pleasurable experience... The car is quick, agile, comfortable, gets 30mpg (!, surprised) and reliable...has the tech package which is VERY useful, and has a huge WOW factor...my fiance likes the car much more than her Lexus. This is my third Acura, the first, a 1999 model, was the best car that I had ever owned up until that time, the second was a 2002 (all TLs) pretty much like the first, and this 2009 model is fantastic... The only problem that Ive had was with the drivers seat bolster wearing prematurely...worth the money spent...

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  So Far So Good- Blown Away is more like - 2010 Acura TL
  By True Believer - November 16 - 2:00 am

  Man. This car is fantastic! I love the awkwardly beautiful looks on the exterior and the well laid out interior. I cross-shopped several cars in the luxury and near luxury segment and the Acura TL came out on top easily. For the price you get so many things standard, including leather seats, Ipod connectivity, Hands Free Link, Garage Door Link, Heated front seats to name a few things. All this in the base model. And the car drives like a dream. Very responsive in day to day driving. Just a great car all around.

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  I Love This Car - 2004 Acura TL
  By Mike - November 11 - 2:00 am

  This is my second TL. I love the looks of this car. It is still stylish after 6 years and I never get tired of driving it. The standard features that this car has still amaze me. I have had just about zero problems with this car. Had the issue of wearing through my first set of tires at 20K but the suspension fix and new tires at half price fixed that. Second set of Bridgestones are holding up well. I have no major complaints