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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  amazing - 2005 Acura TL
  By moe7 - May 23 - 1:50 pm

  Amazing Car for the Price!

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  2007 TL Type S Alabaster Silver Metallic - 2007 Acura TL
  By KBee - May 23 - 2:20 am

  1,500 miles and only one problem. Rear deck was vibrating from the subwoofer. They took out the back seat and sprayed some foam back there. Problem solved! I researched for seven months prior to purchasing. The Acura TL-S blows the doors off anything out there in its class: BMW, Audi, Infiniti, etc. The technology in it is amazing and not a la carte like all the other MFGs out there. Gas mileage is a bit disappointing - I am avg around 20 MPG. But blazing acceleration! 286 HP baby! Car is a real headturner! Quad exhaust really sets it apart with the deep exhaust tone. People stop me all the time to check it out. Not many on the road which is a plus!

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  Fantastic Car - 2005 Acura TL
  By Dennis - May 21 - 10:03 pm

  Without a doubt, the best car I have ever owned. Handling is fabulous and all I want to do is find a reason to drive this car. Ive owned many cars from Audis to VWs and there is no comparison...just a joy to drive. I love it.

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  Exceptional Value and Best Performance - 2006 Acura TL
  By Very Satisfied - May 21 - 10:43 am

  No other vehicle I tried compares to the overall satisfaction the TL delivers. From the drive out price to the fuel economy and the sheer joy behind the wheel I would reccommend a TL to anyone (several friends are in one now too). It has the handling of a BMW for about a third less the cost!

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  Great car to drive - 2005 Acura TL
  By mxfrank - May 21 - 9:53 am

  I purchased my 05 TL in Oct and have enjoyed every minute Ive driven it. The acceleration will pull your head back! its that good and very smooth. Ride is a little stiffer than Im used to but all the sporty new cars are like that, Ive driven several. The interior is very well crafted with no visible defects anywhere. Handling is very predictable and the car handles very well at high speed and curves. Gas mileage is so so but I guess if you want power on demand you have to give up something. Seating is great even back seat has plenty of leg and head room. Dealer was great to work with. I would definitely recommend this car.

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  The Lux family sedan, for the ricer enthusiast - 2008 Acura TL
  By Richard Flanagan - May 18 - 3:39 pm

  This is the best upgrade for those of us that grew up, but not out of the Civic and RSX performance age. A family luxury sedan that you can feel proud of as an adult, but all the fun of the Honda performance, style, control and high raving V-technology - minus the judgments of those around you. Hehe.

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  Sofa on Wheels!!! - 1999 Acura TL
  By TracieNA - May 16 - 2:00 am

  My husband and I just love this car! We do call it the sofa on wheels because of the comfort. I have 2 toddlers with carseats and we do alot of running around town running errands, and to preschool as well as family things on the weekend. I couldnt be happier - the trunk is roomy, easy to drive, easy to clean (leather!) and sporty. I dont feel like a mom in this car - very sporty and upscale looking - my sister in law has a Lexus and I think they are VERY comparable - except price.

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  Mixed emotions - 2007 Acura TL
  By Paul P - May 13 - 9:36 pm

  Fun to drive but does not go well in snow. Great looking interior and very comfortable. The Bluetooth is very inaccurate and extremely frustrating. Any noise in the car (i.e. fan or highway) throws off the voice activation of the Bluetooth. No dummy light for washer fluid. Cigarette lighter too close to the transmission stick. DVD stereo is nice but only DVD music works and there are very few of those and they wont work on regular CD players. Tire pressure indicator goes on in cold weather. I had planned to keep this three years, but Im going to trade it in before hand. Even though I am a Honda fan, our Toyota Sienna handles the detail much better than my Acura TL. I wont buy another.

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  Good but not great - 2005 Acura TL
  By Paul from Seattle - May 10 - 11:23 am

  My previous car was an Infiniti J30t. I think I prefer a rear wheel drive car for handling and the lack of torque steer. The TL is a great road car and we enjoy it very much. Im a bit surprised that no one has mentioned the low profile tires and the effect on ride and the inability to use traditional chains for snow. Spider spikes work, but are very expensive ($375). Also we have several small interior rattles which come and go. The A/C system seems to provide uneven temperatures. Rear visibility is difficult. Transmission seems to shift too early, resulting in apparent engine vibration.

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  I liked it though..... - 1997 Acura TL
  By Jay Kim - May 8 - 2:00 am

  I purchased this car about one year and half ago. I never had any problem!! Great Reliability~ Great design~ I never get bored. Sound systems quality is good but power is too weak. Smooth and enough performance to enjoy~ But wind noise is the only the part I dont like.