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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  Keeps on Going... - 2002 Acura TL
  By speedie - May 28 - 2:00 am

  This is still a thrill to drive three years later. An "E-ticket" ride!

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  Fun and Flaws - 2005 Acura TL
  By Jeffish - May 27 - 12:20 pm

  I have owned the car for 7 months. It offers a poweful driving feel, easy to maneuver in small and tight traffic situations and is quite stylish on the outside and the inside. Seats are comfortable and the heated seat feature for the 2005 model is nice on cold winter mornings and nights. Great acceleration and brakes provide security.

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  Bigmoses Toy - 2003 Acura TL
  By casjak - May 24 - 10:00 am

  My all-time favorite! This one has just the right amount of everything, without being a overkill.

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  Acura for life - 1999 Acura TL
  By Javier Sola - May 24 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car with a 160k miles and now the car has 207k miles!! I just wrecked it and there is no question about it, Im buying another but probably a 2000 b/c of the 5speed tiptronic system. Great car which will last forever.

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  I Love My TL - 2000 Acura TL
  By SC924 - May 24 - 2:00 am

  The TL was eventhing I wanted in a sport seden. The ride & power was great. It has been problem free for the last 5 yrs. The only time its been in the repair shop was for brakes!!!! Im looking foward to getting the same service from my new o4 TL!!!!!!

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  My New 04 TL - 2004 Acura TL
  By SC924 - May 21 - 10:00 am

  Its better than I thought it would be!!!!!!

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  Excellent Car for the Price - 1996 Acura TL
  By shadowfenrir - May 21 - 2:00 am

  I bought this for $13000 ($10000US) after selling my 90 4Runner for gas reasons. This car is good on gas for its size (about 10L/100km or 24mpg in city driving and 6.3L/100km or about 30mpg on the highway). It is very comfortable with its nice leather bucket seats (although the leather isnt as high class as in the newer cars, or even as in the older lexus cars, but its good). The engine is very responsive and refined even at high RPM, but the transmission tends to shift at weird times. I havent had any problems at 160000km(100000mi) other than c/v boots needing replacement. Great car!

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  Best sport sedan for the money - 2003 Acura TL
  By chipp1 - May 19 - 10:00 am

  I shopped around for this type of vehicle for over three months bouncing back and forth between BMW 325i and the G35 and the Acura type S. It came down to overall performance, ergonomics, standard features, and known reliability. Dollar for dollar the Acura beats the others hands down. I got the black pearl with chrome wheels with parchment interior, a beautiful combination. Nothing but compliments so far.

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  4th transmission before 4th year anniver - 2000 Acura TL
  By javawater - May 19 - 2:00 am

  Love the car except for a major problem - transmission. Acura had just placed a 4th transmission in my car. I am trading it in for something else because my 100k warranty is about to expire and at the rate its been, I expect to have a 5th transmission in one year.

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  great vehicle - 2002 Acura TL
  By keithr - May 19 - 2:00 am

  I have had the TL for about a year now. Ive owned a Legend and Accord in the past, however, the Tl is the best yet. Smooth horse power, great ride, and complete package:-)