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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  This car is Great! - 2004 Acura TL
  By TLGuy - April 2 - 2:00 am

  I traded in my 92 Accord and felt right at home in this car. Certainly everything was much much nicer and had alot more toys, more power, but it didnt lose its "honda-ness" that I just cant explain. You would have to own a honda/acura for 12 years like me to understand. Look forward to 12 more trouble free years!!!

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  What a ride! - 2007 Acura TL
  By Azeemdadream - April 2 - 1:33 am

  First and foremost, I have to say this car turns heads like no other Ive driven. It looks good and sounds even better. Ive had the car for less than 2 weeks and cant stop finding reasons to go outside and drive it. The quad exhaust has this deep thundering hum when dropping from 3rd to 2nd. On the flip side of this, with the windows closed on the highway, its like sitting in a serene park. You almost want to turn down the stereo just so you can here the pindrop silence. The back up camera is all you need to reverse and the auto flip mirrors are just an added bonus. This car has so many features that I dont even know where to start. Love the car and hands down wouldve bought this again

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  Acura 3.2 TL Type S - 2003 Acura TL
  By banksign - March 31 - 10:00 am

  Truly a fine automobile. Quiet, comfortable interior. It has power to spare; step on the accelerator and the engine jumps to life. Fun to drive, Bose music system is always a plus. Lots of standard features for a reasonable price.

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  4 years and still great - 2001 Acura TL
  By AcuraDon - March 26 - 9:39 pm

  I have had this car for over 4 years. I have had warped brakes, a bad CD player and a bad blower fan. Other than that I have had no issues with this car at all. I have loved every minute of driving it. My lease expires in June (54 month lease. I would recommend this car to anyone. I am considering keeping it, but I will likely buy a new 2005 TL. It has been a great ownership experience. I have had other good reliable cars (Toyotas) but none were as fun as this TL.

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  Smooth - 2003 Acura TL
  By Mulligankid - March 26 - 2:00 am

  Very well built, smooth & highly refined auto. Smooth shifting transmission, peppy engine but could be more powerful like in the S type or the 04s.

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  2004 TL Rocks - 2004 Acura TL
  By Driver52 - March 26 - 2:00 am

  Acura is brankd that just keeps getting better. The new TL is powerful, fast, and handles just great. Interior comfort, and luxury appointments hit the mark. The XM- equipped sound system is a dream. The sedan is so much fun to drive, I even take it as a welcome change from my 2001 CL-Type S!

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  Japanese Reliability & Fun - 2002 Acura TL
  By Mike - March 25 - 9:03 pm

  I purchased my car as a Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle from an Acura dealership and have no real complaints. The car is responsive, fast, and gets around 32 miles per gallon (not bad for 260 HP). It cruises down the interstate barely turning over 2000 RPMs at 75 MPH and red lines at 6900 RPMs. She has a lot of juice, especially off the line. The front seats, however, are not very comfortable and your rear gets sore on long rides. The buckets simply arent deep enough and there isnt enough padding. As far as reliability, I live where it is -40 below in the winter, no plug-in, and no garage, and the car fires right up. Too bad they ruined TLs with the new 2004 design (yuk!).

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  One gals opinion - 2005 Acura TL
  By Bobbie Manheim - March 23 - 1:20 pm

  Great get up and go. Drives smooth with good acceleration. This car appeals to both men and women. Definite buy for the price.

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  Good Car - 2004 Acura TL
  By Rudy G - March 22 - 10:00 am

  I have 5000 miles on the car and there are a few problems, but have not had it in the shop yet. Either the computer is not calibrated correclyy or the gas tank is smaller than 17 gallons as stated in the manual. There is an occasional surge of power (watch it on the tach) when breaking. An occasional rattle or two (minimal), but I can live with those. Ride is harsh on rough roads. Understeer is noticeable, but it is on any FWD car with power. Fit and finish is suspect in a couple of areas(interior front door seams),especially bugs me as dealer spent a lot of time lauding the fit and finish. Caliper is the logo, etc.

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  BMW Slayer - 2004 Acura TL
  By BrianD - March 22 - 10:00 am

  Test drove the BMW 325i, 330i, Infiniti G35 sedan and coupe, Maxima 2004, Camry, Honda Accord, Lexus IS300, and this car slayed them all. Awesome acceleration, gorgeous interior.. by far the best ive seen in a car under 40k, awesome look, and the best sound system Ive heard in a car... ever. Fully loaded from the start, can you really pass this up for some of these wastes of money?