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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  Great but not without flaws - 1998 Acura TL
  By kwle04 - February 5 - 2:00 am

  Handling is precise and predictable, a sure mark of quality craftsmanship. Not like BMW, but has tight riding - you can feel the contour of road surface in a well tamed manner. Surprizingly reliable driving and traction in various inclement weather conditions - A+. If you make sure that air filter, spark plugs, and engine oil are clean, then you will be surprised with its mileage. Mine has 115,000 miles on it, and drives about 27 miles per gallon faithfully on highway with some inner city driving combined. Today it recorded 27.4miles/gallon on my trip to Richmond. Not too bad at all for such a heavy machine! Definitely a nice bang for the bucks.

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  First Import Ever Owned - 2005 Acura TL
  By Bill - February 3 - 12:23 pm

  I purchased my first import ever after driving nothing but G.M for 35 years. The Acura TL has the style and performance that puts G.M to shame. The vehicle is roomy and has outstanding performance.....Good job on the production of this one boys !!!!!!

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  Can hold a candle to Lexus - 2001 Acura TL
  By Woodsy - February 3 - 2:00 am

  After owning a Lexus, I find this Acura is extremely compatable. Ride, handling and maintanence...Perfect. I would consider purchasing another Acura in the future.

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  Great Car - 2003 Acura TL
  By joek35 - January 31 - 10:00 am

  Have owned the car for only 2 weeks but I love the car. Researched the heck out of cars in this segment and kept coming back to the TL. Looked at the Infiniti G35 (close but Rear Wheel Drive with snow is no good), Lexus ES 300 (great ride but not close in the performance), and 2004 Maxima SE (No deals and boy racer styling). The performance of the TL Type S is unbelievable. Cant beat the price. Great dealership (David Acura in Langhorne, PA). Honda reliability. Cant say enough about the car.

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  Tires are a Problem - 2005 Acura TL
  By Disappointed - January 26 - 9:50 pm

  The Turanza EL42 tires are significantly sub-standard in my experience. At 15k, tires were bald. Dealership kindly replaced tires. However, subsequently the vehicle had vibrations. The Service Department indicated the vibrations were caused by the new tires. Others on Tirerack.com have indicated the tires have flat spots (causes vibrations), poor handling in snow or rain and premature tread wear. Dealership and Customer Service have not offered any solutions other than for me to accept the vibrations as a character of the car. I am still in disbelief that Honda/Acura finds this acceptable.

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  My 2000 TL - 2000 Acura TL
  By indy24jones - January 26 - 2:00 am

  I have enjoyed my TL. Sometimes I wish I had waited a year for the Type S. My over-all fuel economy is 22.5 mpg. On the rare times I take it on a freeway trip, I can get over 30 mpg, and have gone over 32 mpg on 3 or 4 occassions. Took a trip to Oregon in 2002 and drove 1100 miles one day with no fatigue or the tyoical "tired butt."

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  My 1997 3.2 TL - 1997 Acura TL
  By oulaw90 - January 25 - 2:00 am

  This is a great and reliable car. You cannot beat the price of this car used. I am going to keep this car till 150,000 miles and still get $$ on resale Dont buy a new honda or camry when u can buy this for half the price?

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  Acura dream - 2002 Acura TL
  By catmanrog - January 23 - 2:00 am

  Responsive, exciting, and joy to drive

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  Tremendous Used Car Value - 2001 Acura TL
  By trcca - January 22 - 2:00 am

  Bought used off-lease with 46k miles, and love the car (w/nav). For the price you get so many features, rock- solid performance, interior "luxury," and a fun ride. Also got the GPS which, despite being 3 years behind the tech curve, still works like a charm (and is updatable whenever Acura releases the new DVD). Even with 46 k miles this car handles like a dream, the interior is still crisp and working perfectly, and everything just keeps humming. Highly recommended (I was between this and the ES 300, which has a much more luxurious interior, but far fewer features, floatier ride, and higher price).

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  Great value - 2000 Acura TL
  By Little Rock - January 22 - 2:00 am

  This car is a dependable, comfortable, good looking car. The only work done on the car was replacing the windshield washer hoses and wipers, because they left a smeary film on the windshield after using windshield washer fluid. Engine is smooth, and the speed shift feature is fun when driving on the weekends. Nice to have an automatic transmission during the week and running around town. Leather seats have held up well. 36,000 miles on the car, and will keep it for several more years. Interior road noise is not bad, but could be improved at highway speeds.