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:

• 

  Im In Love Again - 2004 Acura TL
  By executive - March 19 - 2:00 am

  I got my white diamond pearl TL with parchment interior just b4 xmas. I absolutely love this car. As my first new car purchase, I am not disappointed. I drove it straight from the dealers lot(North Carolina) to Disney World Orlando. It was a blast and surely a head turner everywhere I went. I had to watch for cops but it was fun cruising @ 90 and the car feels like its going 60. A friend told me, he was upset but somehow he calmed down once in my TL and got mad again once he stepped out of the car. I achieved a sub 7second time for 0-60. Go for a testdrive(20minutes minimum and just punch the pedal, youd smile when you are upto 100 in about 11seconds).

• 

  Minor Problems - 2000 Acura TL
  By PoorAcuraService - March 17 - 2:00 am

  Overall the 3.2TL has performed OK but I have some nagging problems that the dealer will not fix. The windows rattle when it is cold, the transmission clunks when it downshifts, the speedometer/odmeter reads 7% high (The dealer says that is within spec). So when it says you are going 75MPH you are actually only going 70MPH and the gas mileage is only fair (20MPG overall). The other problem is the heater, it gets hotter and hotter in the car even when it is set on 65.

• 

  Honda/Acura has another winner - 2000 Acura TL
  By brucen1953 - March 16 - 2:00 am

  After 3 Honda Accords, I moved up to an Acura TL. I loved my Hondas (I gave my last one - a 1997 - to my daughter, who still drives it, and has no visits to the repair shop), but the Acura is even better. Smoother ride, great performance, great handling (though the Honda was superb as well). I also like the understated styling, and the fact that everything comes standard. Im sure I will get another one when the lease ends this summer. If I had any item that was less than perfect, it is the brakes, which seem to sag a little on occasion.

• 

  04 Acura TL - 2004 Acura TL
  By fcerauli - March 15 - 2:33 pm

  Great car... fun to drive... great design and comfort... plenty of power... rattles like crazy... taking it to the dealer one rattle at a time! (Still love the car).

• 

  Beware of the name - 2004 Acura TL
  By Lucas31 - March 14 - 10:00 am

  First week was a blast. I drove it everywhere I could. After that, things started to happen. Rattles from the glovebox, rattles from the headliner, vibrations from the sunroof. the dealer, of course did not hear the problem. My TL was in the shop more than in my garage. I must say I will be trading it in for a BMW. You might pay a bit more but it is well worth the price!

• 

  Much Better than the G35 - 2004 Acura TL
  By JBHunter - March 14 - 10:00 am

  I really enjoy the actual AL trim inside the vehicle. The manual trans. is one of the best I have ever driven. The Brembo brakes provide great performance but I have experianced some brake "glazing" causing brake squeaking... You usually find this with high performance brake pads... The seats and cabin is neatly appointed with a fit in finish that is beyond what I expected...

• 

  hard seats, bad suspension, great stereo - 2005 Acura TL
  By iggy - March 14 - 6:06 am

  This is a great car for a 16-30 year old who has an extra 35 k to spend. It has without a doubt the best combination of horsepower and sound system in any car I have ever driven. Now for the 30 and over set, the seats are leather which have no softness to them, ie they are like sitting on a hard leather bench which is quite uncomfortable on long rides. The damping system or shocks is adequite only on smooth roads, any imperfection in the road is immediately transferred to your spinal column otherwise in a jarring and overly communicative fashion. Having driven Audis in the past I am used to road feel, this car gives you almost no damping and is a quite harsh ride especialy with the hard seat

• 

  This car ROCKS! - 2006 Acura TL
  By JEvans - March 12 - 11:30 am

  I upgraded from a 1997 Civic to a 2006 TL. Its been 6 months since I bought it and the initial shock of driving something 1) that worked and 2) that is fast has worn off. However, the fun I have driving it has not died. There are times I wish I was in sales just so I can drive it around. Although, Im pretty sure its quickness and nibleness will probably get me a ticket at some point. I love this car. I try to tell everyone I know to get one. I loved my Honda and now I love my Acura. You just cant go wrong with that company. On a side note, I have to say the dealership I went through was amazing. Ive never thought of buying a car as a pleasant experience. They were great!

• 

  Wow - 2003 Acura TL
  By George2 - March 12 - 10:00 am

  This car has almost everything, Safety, Quality (Anti-lock brakes, "crumple" zones, Vehicle Stability Assist, Traction Control, Side Air bags etc), Price (only $32K), Performance (VTEC 260 romping, stomping horsepower 0-60 in 6.6 seconds), and just plain fun. The Navigation System is the best at "any" price.

• 

  2000 Acura TL - 2000 Acura TL
  By asalamon - March 12 - 2:00 am

  Fun to drive. Lots of power and very reliable. Never had a major mechanical problem during the past 39 months.