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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acura tl s - 2003 Acura TL
By jaymaya - September 6 - 2:00 amI like the vehicle very much. It handles better than expected. comfortable, exceptional automatic shifting. not too bad on gas.
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So far, not satisfied - 2004 Acura TL
By Mike140 - September 6 - 2:00 amWe have only had the car for a short period of time but we have already noticed rattles and the Check Engine light just came on. Otherwise, we are very happy with the car. It is comfortable and fun to drive. Probably too early to tell, but we are worried and annoyed already.
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Incredible car... - 2004 Acura TL
By NDV831 - September 6 - 2:00 amHad to wait for a while to get mine, but the wait was worth it! Great overall car in design, performance and comfort. Test drove or researched just about every other vehicle in and out of the same class and couldnt find anything matching features for the price. Smooth trans, engine and ride!
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Frustration - 2005 Acura TL
By Frustrated - September 4 - 9:40 amMy fifth Acura and this is the first with a major problem. Randomly, when starting the car, the exterior temp display goes blank and the temperature settings go crazy. Twice, I have had a dead battery, first time at 1000 miles, and this car stays in the garage. Dealer replaced the original battery but had another dead battery three weeks later at 3000 miles. Guess Ill be working through exercising the "Lemon Law" and hope the dealer responds favorably.
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Enjoying My Purchase - 2006 Acura TL
By Jason Murray - September 2 - 10:36 pmThree things seem to stick out from others reviews at least the poor ones: interior rattling, poor fuel economy and torque steer. I live in El Paso with some rough roads and have no interior rattling at all. As far as the torque steer it is very evident with this vehicle and Acura should look towards a rear wheel drive (standard) and an optional AWD version in the coming years. Fuel economy is more of the driver as the model I have meets and exceeds the posted mileage. Something I have found is the ride height could be shortened a bit (possibly an inch) to improve performance (handling). I enjoy this vehicle very much and it is my daily driver now.
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Another great Acura package - 2005 Acura TL
By Stooxie - September 1 - 7:00 pmAcura does it again with the perfect combination of features and price. I had a TSX before this. I loved the car but it needed a little more stop and a little more go. The TL serves that up nicely. FYI, if you are choosing between a TSX and a TL there are subtle performance advantages to both. The TSX is a little smaller and a little tighter and is still 100% Japanese. For me, the TL is what I really wanted.
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almost perfect - 2004 Acura TL
By roger brown - September 1 - 10:00 amthis car is almost perfect . AWD and getting the max torque at 3000 instead of 5000 would make it perfect.
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love this car...!! - 2004 Acura TL
By dwldk - September 1 - 10:00 amI traded in a 99 BMW 528I for the TL and have to say I am confident I made the right decision. I previously owned 2 BMWs and thought I would be a bimmer lover for ever. After researching, comparing to the BMW 530I, and test driving, the TL for me was the far better choice. I find myself acting like some little kid with their favorite toy. I make excuses to go somewhere just to drive it!!
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Adults toy - 2007 Acura TL
By envzak - August 31 - 4:33 pmIt was time for me to to get rid of 2003 RSX type S that Ive been driving for years. The 2007 TL type S not only filled the gap that Ive been missing in the RSX-S, but surged my adrenaline beyond my expectation. Smooth and precise 6 speed manual gear box w/ limited-slip differential and 256 lb-ft of torque are the 2007 TL type S strongest points that clinched my decision to buy this car. I got to admit that I missed the scream from RSX-S between 3rd and 4th when VTEC kicked-in, but TL-S substitutes that w/ tourquey, high-pitched rumble exhaust modulation. Superb and very comfortable interior supports my decision to buy another 6 speed manual car, otherwise Im going to fall asleep.
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myacuraTL - 2003 Acura TL
By tulips - August 30 - 10:00 amSmooth ride, luxurious and comforatble interior. Excellent Bose System. Just the right mix of class and sportiness for the right price.
