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 2151 through 2160 of 3,067.00-
DuncanReview - 2002 Acura TL
By DuncanAcura - January 7 - 2:00 amProblems with front brake rotors Squeaking Tires replaced at 42,000 so not bad. Unfortunately, the original Michelins were poor on wet surfaces Very reliable car, but not as fun as I had hoped. Poor depreciation -- Resale value most certainly not as high -- Acura offered me $16,000 after 2.5 years of owning this $31,500 car. 50% depreciation?
-
Acura is the acura-ate way to go! - 2009 Acura TL
By Colleen - January 4 - 8:02 amI have had this car for a year in a half now and its been beautiful! I have put a total of 30000 miles on her with no complaints. I have owned a few less than satisfactory vehicles and was afraid to buy a vehicle that I didnt know anything about but this georgous car stole me with its beauty and new age ride. I love getting up and driving this car everyday! It is relyable and has style! The throtle is a force to be recond with, i am used to it now but any new drivers be ready for the punch!
-
Da BOMB - 2003 Acura TL
By Nose - January 4 - 2:00 amWe test drove the VW Passat and the Nissan Max. For the $$$ its no comparsion! What a car, the power,design and comfort makes this car a winner. Afforable with lots of fun stuff to play without compromising quality. If your thinking of purchasing one of theses babies, your search is over!
-
TL? - 2004 Acura TL
By TL? - January 2 - 6:06 pmThe leathers seats wear to easily. My car is under 12k and the seats looks like 30k. The manual version at times seems hard to drive getting off first gear. Not as smooth as the 3 series that I owned. Dont get me wrong, the car is awesome, except for these flaws. I am considering getting rid of it for the 2006 BMW 3 series. I guess I can not get use to the front wheel drive, so I will probably switch back to uncomparable 3 series.
-
TL? - 2004 Acura TL
By TL? - January 2 - 5:50 pmThe leathers seats wear to easily. My car is under 12k and the seats looks like 30k. The manual version at times seems hard to drive getting off first gear. Not as smooth as the 3 series that I owned. Dont get me wrong, the car is awesome, except for these flaws. I am considering getting rid of it for the 2006 BMW 3 series. I guess I can not get use to the front wheel drive, so I will probably switch back to uncomparable 3 series.
-
LS to TL - 2004 Acura TL
By Hd colt - January 2 - 10:00 amI sold my Lincoln LS and bought the TL. The Acura TL is more fun to drive and even more comfortable. TL interior appointments are first class, best I have seen. There is a very soothing feeling being in the cockpit, blue lights and best looking of all. Navigation system is best in the industry and extremly user friendly.
-
Acura RULES - 2004 Acura TL
By Richard Zumbaugh - January 2 - 10:00 amIve researched many cars, this car beat them all, hands down. It is fun to drive and looks awesome inside and out. The features it offers are unbelieveable - the DVD Audio Surround Sound stereo is the bomb as well as the XM radio feature. I cant say enough great things about this car.
-
Great Car! - 2003 Acura TL
By KGrabe - December 30 - 2:00 amJust got it and I am overall very happy with it. The Nav system is a little lacking. ItÂ’s great if you are in a Major metro area, but if you are traveling and want to find a place to eat in a small town, forget it!! It also needs to be smarter about finding alternate routes to the same place. CD player jammed, and Acura is going to replace it this weekend. Other than that, this is a great car. If you are looking for a car that all the bells and whistles, and really performs, this is the car for you. Handles like a dream on the curves, runs like a cheetah with its butt on fire in the straights.
-
Good car - 2000 Acura TL
By mamakell - December 24 - 2:00 amI love this vehicle...but, for its mileage, it seems to need an awful lot of maintenance. A/c drips, break discs, power seats are starting to go out. In light of those flaws I still feel any Honda product is worth buying.
-
AWESOME car, and Acura supports it! - 2000 Acura TL
By susanc - December 22 - 2:00 amI have been in love with this car since the miunte I got it! It is FAST (though be careful, I got two tickets and never had one before). Its comfortable, controls designed well, and I have never had a problem that Acura didnt cover. Having said that, I did have repeated front brake problems, a seatbelt problem, and the transmission blew at 66k. But Acura had already extended the waranty and covered the problems.
