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:
Showing 2081 through 2090 of 3,067.00-
Cheap and fast - 2003 Acura TL
By gfeld - May 2 - 10:00 amThis has to be the most affordable sports sedan on the planet. Where else can you lease 260hp for a little more than $300/mo? A 2 dr accord is almost the same price. Why buy Honda when you can buy their luxury brand for not much more?
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Worth every penny - 2005 Acura TL
By battrl - April 30 - 7:23 amLove driving this car! Wasnt sure about moving to FWD after having a RWD BMW, but the transition was easier than expected. Still, make no mistake - there is a difference. Highway gas mileage is awsome (30-33 mpg), but city could use some improvement (20-22). Interior design is awesome with large, well-placed buttons. The navigation system blows away BMWs, and really adds to the functionality of the radio.
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Best bang for the Buck!! - 2007 Acura TL
By Byron - April 28 - 11:53 amI traded my 06 BMW 530i for the TL Type-S. My BMW had less horsepower and less torque and cost 15k more money. Honestly, I have more fun driving the TL Type-S.
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Acura 2.5TL Premium Sedan - 1996 Acura TL
By Joannie621 - April 24 - 2:00 amIf I could buy this car brand new, I would! I have driven and experienced just about any other car out there- and Im always happier and more comfortable in my Acura. The car is classy, sporty, and reliable. Mine has 125K miles and running amazingly. I have driven about 60 miles a day to college for the past 4 years and my car has never let me down. Now I can afford any other car but seriously dont want to give it up!
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Recently purchased - 2006 Acura TL
By Montreal-man - April 23 - 4:56 amJust bought my ride on Friday after a one year search (including these testimonials). I compared g35,bmw, audi, nissan before decing on the TL. The car is awesome, fast, powerful, fun to drive with great tech features. The HandsFree link was really important as I am a salesman on the road all-the- time! The stereo rocks, the engine is way too much power performance for what I really need...but damm its fun to leter rip off the line! I opted for the performance package (No NAV system). The brembo brakes stick are a great feature to have. The car is so smooth, quiet that I honestly had a hard time keeping below the speed limit I had to engage the cruise control the 1st time on the highway.
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Amazin99TL - 1999 Acura TL
By neal - April 22 - 2:00 amI got my TL in July 1999. It has 103,000 miles and still drives like a dream. Im thinking about getting a new car but finding it hard to part with my TL. The Bose stereo is amazing! The VTEC engine and TLs performance is amazing! The TL is unbelievably reliable, fast and sharp looking. My only complaint is the wind noise that occurs near the drivers window.
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First Class Sports Sedan - 2004 Acura TL
By Shane Weast - April 19 - 2:00 amOutstanding smooth engine with no torque steer what so ever. Numerous full throttle accelerations(After 750 break-in miles)with no pull at all to the right. Very fast and smooth straight acceleration.
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2002 Acura TL Type-S - 2003 Acura TL
By Charles S. - April 17 - 2:00 amI love the car, it is the best I have ever had, by far! Rides great and fun to drive!
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Its a nice car, but.......... - 2003 Acura TL
By honda tech - April 17 - 2:00 amim overall happy with the car, but found out one bad thing after purchasing the car. found out that some of them were leaking oil from the block. it is not a recall, and the customers are not informed about it. acuras fix for the leaking block is JB weld. this is very disappointing. if i were to find out mine were leaking oil, i would drive it till it ran out of oil. i would let the motor seize up so acura would have to warranty the whole motor.
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My TL - 2004 Acura TL
By sbell - April 12 - 9:03 pmThis is a great car! Its fast and sporty, but it still allows me to be mom. It comes fully loaded and handles like a dream. Tons of trunk space and a fun car to drive. I would buy this car again and highly recommend it. We shopped it against other cars with the same options; it was thousands more.
