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:

• 

  Acura 3.2TL - a descent sedan - 2000 Acura TL
  By jcw - May 31 - 2:00 am

  A competent sedan with good performance and luxury for the price. That said, a bit boring looking and handling a bit soft. No major mechanical problems but ongoing problems with the airbag warnings have continued since new. If you can afford better, go for it. Youll be bored with this car and wish you went for better.

• 

  3.2 TL Premium, Excellent car - 1997 Acura TL
  By Ken Biddulph - May 29 - 2:00 am

  I love this car, its a bit big for my needs but it handles great inspite of its sheer mass and 15 inch wheels. Excellent interior, better looking than the newer TLs in my opinion.

• 

  acura 3.2 T.L. - 2001 Acura TL
  By Grant Smith - May 29 - 2:00 am

  The car has been a great experience. The body style could stand to be redesigned, but the interior is great. I have been in the Audi A6 and the BMW 3 series niether of witch have the ease of operation of all controls like my TL.

• 

  Finally!!! - 2005 Acura TL
  By Stör - May 28 - 6:26 pm

  I knew I wanted an Acura TL when I first saw it at the LA Autoshow two years ago. During that time, I researched many other vehicles with the TL being the one to beat. While some other vehicle may have bettered the TL in a certain area, none had the whole package. Now that I have my TL, Im thrilled.

• 

  Not too shabby - 2001 Acura TL
  By Phillip M. - May 28 - 2:00 am

  For the most part I like what this car has to offer as basic features.. heated seats and mirrors, sunroof etc. I did have to have a new transmission but in after the last one almost killed me by stalling and almost stopping dead in its tracks on I-95 in Florida but overall I think its a great car for the money and resale looks good.

• 

  A Very Mixed Bag - 1996 Acura TL
  By WavyGravy - May 26 - 2:00 am

  This car is in one word interesting. The materials and design on the inside and out are of top quality, but the engine is another story. The inline 2.5 Litre inline 5 cylinder is the outcast of Acura engines. While it loves to rev high and sound very buzzy, it doesnt move you as fast as you would expect it too. With some very agressive driving in my automatic 2.5, Ive been able to squeeze out a 0- 60 time of 7.4 seconds. Not too bad in my book, especially since its a 5 banger pulling around 170 horses. Not a fast car, but one that will move you around in style and almost guranteed to fire up every morning.

• 

  Best Car I Ever Owned - 2005 Acura TL
  By Oatis Birdsong - May 25 - 10:26 am

  Performance and luxury and the chicks dig it too! Forget BMW. Forget Audi. Forget Lexus and Infinity too. Mercedes? Wait until youre an old man. By far the best bang for your buck is the Acura TL. I have no regrets.

• 

  Buy this car! - 2001 Acura TL
  By JoelCar - May 25 - 2:00 am

  This car has been awesome! I have been very impressed with the quality, ride comfort, and how quick this car is.

• 

  Amazing - 2007 Acura TL
  By babygurl21 - May 24 - 11:56 am

  This car is like Heaven to me! It rides across bumps in the road very smooth. The interior is just so comfortable I could just sleep in my car!

• 

  TL 2.5 - 1997 Acura TL
  By Steve in Alabama - May 24 - 2:00 am

  Good reliable vehicle. Good looks and fair performance. Had problems with power windows not much else. Aucura nameplate still impressive and gets looks.