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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  Overall Satisfied - 2005 Acura TL
  By Acuraman - April 12 - 5:26 am

  This car has it all for the price. It was nice to see that Consumer Reports has this car TOP PICK two years in a row. Navigation easy and reliable compaired to other automakers.

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  Transmission horror - 2002 Acura TL
  By dgytoronto - April 12 - 2:00 am

  First day off the lot and it was back in the shop. Got a new transmission and a computer. Just got the car back last week with another new tranny @ 40000 km. The new one is also giving sloppy gear changes and will shift unusually on hills. I wonder how long this will last for? Dealer was mediocre - missed the problem on several visits. They said that they get kept in the dark about the problem transmissions by Honda. I dont think that they can build them to handle the big horses this car can put out.

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  Awesome Car! - 2004 Acura TL
  By Shelley - April 9 - 10:00 am

  As a former owner of a 2000 Lexus ES300 I can actually say I love this car even more.It is so fun to drive,I find reasons to do so even with gas prices these days. Its fast,sporty, comfortable and the sound system is amazing.Heads turn as I drive by.And to think I almost didnt even consider an Acura.I test-drove the BMW 3 series,Infiniti G35 & the Lexus ES330..the TL blows them all away!

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  Great Car - 2004 Acura TL
  By David Feather - April 9 - 10:00 am

  This car is the ultimate sports sedan for someone looking for a comfortable, reliable ride that can comfortably move them through their commute briskly.

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  Fun to drive and turns heads - 2005 Acura TL
  By Mike_in_Jax - April 6 - 1:50 am

  This is probably the most fun car that I have ever owned. I just wish I had waited to get a 6 speed manual with navigation. I got the automatic, which is fine, but the manual seems so much faster.

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  Fun To Drive - 2004 Acura TL
  By Mainline - April 2 - 10:00 am

  Great car and so fun to drive. Glad I stayed away from the BMW. More money for alot less. Love the navi system and the great DVD sound. Satellite radio is also a plus.

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  Happy Acura Owner - 2000 Acura TL
  By mmarco - March 30 - 2:00 am

  This is a great car with above average performance from a smooth engine, quite operation (quiter than our Lexus), and excellent comfort. Were going to buy the new 2004 3.2.

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  3.2TL is a sure thing - 1998 Acura TL
  By wpit - March 29 - 2:00 am

  wonderful car, fast, affordable, and stylish.

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  270 Horsepower! - 2005 Acura TL
  By Xtine - March 28 - 10:00 am

  What I love most about this car is that from the outside you would never imagine this car had so many toys, or could do so many things. The navigation system has so many features including reverse phone number look- up, displays common places such as post office, gas stations, banks, has a calculator, calandar, etc. and is so easy to understand. At first I bought Navi for "looks" but I use it all the time. I also purchased XM radio which I use daily and when driving out of town. No need to buy any more CDs. This vehicle looks sharp on the inside and out. Not to mention all the power underneath the hood.

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  Another happy TL owner - 2003 Acura TL
  By s.lentz@verizon.net - March 25 - 2:00 am

  My neighbor owns an Audi and a Mercedes. Took him for a ride - he thought this was a $35,000 car. Yeah, the interior isnt fancy, but after 9 years in a Ford Probe, Im not complaining. The ride is comfortable, handling is good, and plenty of acceleration for those beltway merges (you know where youre stuck behind someone going 45 and the lanes on either side are going 70).