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 Produces Great Autos - 1996 Acura TL
  By Jbrown500 - June 24 - 2:00 am

  I bought this one used but it feels, smells, and acts like new. Very reliable and handles like a charm. As a medium size luxury car it is a great value and is probably one of the more underappreciated cars in this class. My TL2.5 is as reliable as the day I purchased it, even with 117,000.

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  MY ACURA TL-S - 2003 Acura TL
  By chaka - June 19 - 2:00 am

  I FEEL SORRY FOR THOSE WHO SPRUNG AN EXTRA 8-9 THOUSAND DOLLARS FOR A BMW 3- SERIES. I HAD MY EYE ON A 330I MYSELF UNTIL I HAPPENED TO TEST-DRIVE THE TL- S. I KNEW I LIKED THE TLS STYLE BUT WAS SURE THERE WAS NO WAY THIS ACURA/HONDA COULD STAND UP AGAINST "THE ULTIMATE DRIVING MACHINE" ON THE ROAD. BOY WAS I WRONG! AS SOON AS I ENGAGED THE SEMI-MANUAL TRANSMISSION, DOWN- SHIFTED, LEANED INTO A CORNER, HIT THE APEX AND STOMPED ON THE 260HP 3.2L V- TECH I WAS SOLD! ON PAPER THE 3-SERIES OUTPERFORMED THE TL-S ONLY BY MARGINS OF LESS THAN A TENTH OF A SECOND ACROSS THE BOARD. AS FAR AS LUXURY GOES, AGAIN THE TL-S HAD EVERY AMMENITY BMW HAD.

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  Phenomenal car! - 2004 Acura TL
  By Big Lar - June 19 - 2:00 am

  THis is an incredible car. It is extremenly comfortable, quiet and fast. The Stereo sounds better than Bose and the handsfree link is great. The performance is outstanding. Im very happy I bought this even thought it was a little expensive.

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  good car - 2003 Acura TL
  By bubby - June 17 - 2:00 am

  good car good dealer

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  Much Better than an Accord, BMW, Lexus - 2007 Acura TL
  By Desiree W. - June 12 - 3:46 pm

  This is a great buy for an entry-level luxury car. It has great HP, easy steering, and looks great. I opted for the 19" Acura chrome wheels and chose the red exterior for a more feminine look. It has been called a "sexy" car by many who have seen it and I must agree. However, I think the carbon grey or the black is very handsome! You will love the sound of the exhaust and find yourself wondering if theres a V-8 in there. Also, no more second guessing your reverse-parking skills due to the fancy back up camera.

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  Best Car On The Road For The Money - 2005 Acura TL
  By Ed H - June 9 - 10:36 am

  This car is so much fun to drive, I love the 6 speed transmission performs as well as european cars. I know my future cars will be Acuras. I especially like the hands free link ease of use. And to be able to open the roof and windows from the remote is great on those warm days. Also the climate control system is the best I have ever experienced in a car. And driving in the rain the car feels like glue on the road, and driving in the snow with the TSA is great gives you traction instantly. This a true drivers car with all the amenties you could ask for and for the money the best car you will ever own.

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  Almost 110k miles, still running new. - 1999 Acura TL
  By Alex Sonne - June 9 - 2:00 am

  I have had 2 problems with this car in its 110k mile life so far. After 65k miles the transmission went. They told me that the tiptronic was causing the problem and not to use it all that often. At 89k miles the Traction control went. They fixed both under warranty for me even though it was over the mileage limit.

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  Acura Hits A Homerun - 2004 Acura TL
  By Kennys Dream Car - June 8 - 10:00 am

  Acura put everything in one neat package and at an affordable price. I was looking for a 2 door car. I was not crazy about the look of the CL (too bland). I was hoping they made it more sporty looking for 2004, only to find out it was no longer being made. I noticed the 2004 TL on the internet and instantly fell for it. Not only did it look good and was loaded for the price, but it also came in a stick shift. I did my research, compared it to BMW, Infiniti, Lexus, etc, and decided I was getting the most for my money along with Acura reliability.

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  ok - 2003 Acura TL
  By vjgvdj - June 6 - 10:00 am

  this was only okay for 31k. i wish i got the avolon by toyota. overall it is okay.

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  My Review of TL - 2002 Acura TL
  By skip65 - June 3 - 2:00 am

  Bought as a luxury family car -- turned out to be fun to drive. Love the interior layout and styling is a cut above the hum-drum of most.