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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  Excellent used vehicle - 1996 Acura TL
  By D. Mullaly - August 30 - 2:00 am

  Bought a wll-maintained 3.2TL Premium and can only marvel at it. Love the understated exterior (take that, Aurora!), and the interior is ergonomically perfect. Only wish the shift points on the automatic transmission were smoother, but I am comparing them to a much newer Honda Odyssey and realize the advances in technology since 1996. Ride quality nicely toes the line between sport and comfort, but body lean is slightly pronounced. Overall, this is a great car.

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  nice suprise - 2000 Acura TL
  By jalan - August 30 - 2:00 am

  I had a 1995 BMW 740IL when I bought this in 2000... so I thought it would be a big adjustment... I was very pleasantly suprised by the TL. Nice drive !

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  Miss my BMW2, but still a great car - 2004 Acura TL
  By BMWfan2 - August 27 - 10:00 am

  I have to agree with others that have owned german cars, the japanese just cant compete for performance and safety. I have owned 7 Acuras and although they are awesome cars with excellent reliability, I miss the performance and road manners of a BMW or Mercedes, in defense of Acura, I dont miss those frequent trips to the shop for those expensive repairs and maintenance. The new TL has alot going for it, especially the styling, the bluetooth, the sound system and the well appointed interiors, However, the front wheel drive sucks! With this much horsepower it ruins the performance, so much torque steer! This car is a tremendous value 35K!

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  The Perfect Car - 1996 Acura TL
  By BB - August 27 - 2:00 am

  I love this car! When I decide to trade this car in or sell it, it will be a sad day. I will looking at replacing it with a newer Acura TL version. This is my third Honda product and I am a loyal customer. I recommend the TL to anyone wanting a sports sedan with luxury elements at an economic value!

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  Smooth Ride - 1998 Acura TL
  By M J M - August 24 - 2:00 am

  Bought the car used and have never had a problem. The car is sleek and classy. Rides smooth and quietly. The interior is well designed and comfortable. I would recomend this vehicle over a Lexus any day. If you get one you will not be dissapointed.

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  Fun but with consistent issue - 2001 Acura TL
  By Dvdleav - August 23 - 2:00 am

  Love the car, consistent great dealer service (3 different dealers in 3 years b/c of job transfers). Only issue is a consistent trim flaw (seen on several other 00 and 01 too) The rear door trim peels/falls apart after about 8,000 miles. Actual service notice was sent by Acura to dealers. A real annoyance every 9 months to replace.

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  Good car, minor problems - 2002 Acura TL
  By TL Guy - August 23 - 2:00 am

  Over all this is a great car. There were a few problems I had with it early on after only one year, the transmission died out, but from my understanding it was known problem, and they fixed it. The only problem I had with this was they gave me a little cheap rental car during the 2 weeks it took to fix it, they stuck me in a little neon, not something I would expect, especially after only 1 year, with a higher end car like this. But I still love the car, its fast, fun to drive, a great deal. Their service just needs a little work.

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  Another winning Honda - 2003 Acura TL
  By Allan_T - August 23 - 2:00 am

  Bought a new 2003 TL Type-S. This is our second new TL other is a 1999 (kept it as well). Problems? Yeah right its a freaking Honda! Oh... wait.... The front passenger door pin switch went bad after 77k miles on the 1999. It may be a little vanilla in some areas, but you just cant go wrong with this car.

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  Affordable performance and reliability - 2002 Acura TL
  By top2btm - August 21 - 2:00 am

  Driving comfort is the key to this vehicles superiority. Enough power when you want to punch it. No fears when you need to tromp on the brakes. Great sound system. Well placed controls and good driving visibilty make long trips and multitasking safe and enjoyable.

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  A FINE PERFORMER - 2001 Acura TL
  By HARDIGUY - August 20 - 2:00 am

  THIS IS MY INITIAL EXPERIENCE WITH AN ACURA. IT IS A FINE AUTO IN ALL RESPECTS, VERY TIGHT CONSTRUCTION (NO SQUEAKS OR RATTLES AFTER 41K MILES), GREAT PERFORMANCE, AND EXCELLENT GAS MILEAGE. THIS CAR WAS PURCHASED USED, AND I DID NOT REALIZE THAT IT TOOK PREMIUM GAS WHICH I WOULD SAY IS ITS ONLY SHORTCOMING. HOLDS CURVES VERY WELL, AND I WOULD SAY THAT ITS ONE OF THE BETTER AUTOS IVE HAD IN OVER FIFTY YEARS OF DRIVING.