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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  Cheap Inside - 2005 Acura TL
  By Brooke - December 20 - 8:36 am

  This car is a rattle trap. If you dont mind all the rattles you will be fine however there are many problems with the newer TLs. Wouldnt buy another Acura and this is my 2nd TL - love my 99.

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  acura tl 2000 w/o nav - 2000 Acura TL
  By hcmartin - December 17 - 2:00 am

  2000 tl best auto i ever owned,97 acura cl comes in scond,and a 97honda accord se third. im 73 yrs. old and i have owned a new car ever 3 or 4 yrs. since i was 21 yrs. old

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  Very satisfied - 2002 Acura TL
  By megadude - December 16 - 2:00 am

  I also test drove many other cars in the same general price range before buying this car. I thought it was the best car. I have had it for over 2 years. I still believe it is the best entry level luxury car. Period. Dont understand the comments about noisy air conditioning. Mine is whisper quiet ... even on the hottest, muggiest days of a Florida summer.

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  select observations - 2005 Acura TL
  By ccartini - December 14 - 6:46 pm

  slight vibration on the highway, to be checked next week; 6th acura over past 13 years, 4 of which were rls; wonderful and dependable autos; the new tl tops them all for driving performance and fun.

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  Techno-Driving in Style - 2006 Acura TL
  By AndyTous - December 13 - 12:50 pm

  This is a very comfortable vehicle with great variety of standard equipment. I love the included hands- free bluetooth setup with will even allow you to store speed dial numbers. The audio systems with DVD-A is brutal and sounds like youre inside a studio cabin. As far as driving performance, this car is athletic enough for the price, plus, you get tons of standard extras that other "German Rivals" will charge you a ton of money for adding.

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  No words to describe it - 2004 Acura TL
  By nooneimportant - December 13 - 10:00 am

  It was just unbelievable, the car ran corners without hesitation, you can feel the engine accelerating

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  only a week ..... but - 2004 Acura TL
  By fdsavoy - December 13 - 10:00 am

  ive only had it a week, but so far i just enjoy being in it. i had a 2000 tl which was the best car ive ever owned (pevious cars bmw 528, volvo 960)never had a single problem with 2000 tl in 45000 miles.the 2004 has a stiffer body more solid,vault like feel,better handling, and much quicker.sound system is scary good.the total package is just subperb.if i get the same reliability as my 2000 t.l. i could be an acura poster boy.

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  Great car for the money - 1999 Acura TL
  By Mike Gardner - December 11 - 2:00 am

  This car provided all the luxury features as standard equipment and came in at $3000 to $5000 cheaper than the BMW, Mercedes, and Lexus. Its been a solid performer for almost 5 years. No mechanical problems.

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  No Regrets - 2000 Acura TL
  By mcc - December 11 - 2:00 am

  The car is great to drive. The engine and tranny work well together. I use the sport shift a lot especially in city drivig. Could handle a little better. Will get better tires when they need replacing. Good stereo and leather seats are comfortable.

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  Snazzy and fun - 2005 Acura TL
  By Linda - December 10 - 1:50 am

  This car is pretty to look at, not stodgy like the old model, and very pappy and responsive. Its fun to drive, comfortable, and very reliable. I have just one complaint, and that is that the back seat headrests are too high, obscuring vision when reversing, so back up slowly and carefullly. This is a minor complaint. Aside from this, I am very happy with the car.