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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  Lots of bang for your buck... - 2003 Acura TL
  By roymccoy - January 6 - 10:00 am

  We have had our 2003 TL-SType w/navigation for about a month and we love the car. Fast, fuel efficient and more technology inside then our airplane. (Im not kidding) Pros: Snappy, fuel efficient, technology loaded, comfy seats, big trunk, lots of storage places, could never own a car without the navigation system again! Lots for your money, nicer than my BMW 328i. Cons: Never really liked the Acura body styling, too much wind noise at freeway speeds, why cant a $35,000 car have automatic headlights? Bose sound system is just okay, air-conditioner is hard to get set just right...not enough vents in the front.

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  Best in show! - 2005 Acura TL
  By nclaw - January 5 - 11:26 pm

  fantastic car! I like it more today than the day that I bought it.

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  2nd time arount - 2006 Acura TL
  By bill - January 1 - 2:13 pm

  This is teh second TL that I have had and I love teh new voice activated nav and sound system. Combine this with Blue tooth technologoy you can leave your hands on the wheel the whole time you drive. Excellent performance for a 3.2 L, good exhausts sound and the Michelin tires are better than the Bridgestone. I would buy this car again especially if they could squeeze in a V8

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  Awesome new TL - 2009 Acura TL
  By PMcK - December 31 - 1:13 am

  I love the new TL. This is my third TL in a row (04 and 06) and it is by far the best one Ive every owned. Like many I was skeptical about the exterior styling, but Ive had nothing but thumbs up. I live in Canada and with the winter tires it handles fantastically well. I love the iPod interface and the bluetooth. I also love the ticker steering wheel, I only wish it was heated. I also love the paddle shifters and that you can shift gears while the transmission is still in drive. Im a little disappointed in some of the material used like the interior door handle. Overall I definitely would recommend this car.

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  Holds Value Well - 1997 Acura TL
  By ebharrison - December 28 - 2:00 am

  Reliable, and fun to drive. Good resale value makes me feel good about this choice. Some passengers complain about how low the seats are to the ground and those with long legs dislike the rear seat.

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  Poor quality control - 2001 Acura TL
  By Jim Govoni - December 28 - 2:00 am

  Transmission stays out of gear after shifting from park 1-5 seconds. ABS & TCS Lights come on together and go off after restart. Many squeaks and rattles especially when cold. Paint quaily is very poor, finish disolves from bird droppings within 3 days. Windshield has what appears to be permanent smears. Seat belt retractor on drivers side is way too slow and can get caught in the door. Dealer charged over $300.00 for 30k service, including an unneeded Trans. fluid change.

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  A fantastic value - 1998 Acura TL
  By jdaniels - December 27 - 2:00 am

  I bought the TL as an Acura Certified pre-owned car with 44,000 miles on it. Condition of paint/leather/engine compartment was/still is (at 56,000 miles) unbelievable "showroom" new. The car runs and drives like something much more expensive its "gait" on the highway has to be experienced .. it just powers effortlessly along at illegal speeds. The transmission shifts are undetectable, unless youre really pushing it, and then you WANT to feel it shift and it does so smartly. Handling is decent for a car of this size/weight/genre. Reliability is rock solid.

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  experience of an average consumer - 2004 Acura TL
  By Jim Christian - December 24 - 2:00 am

  I am an average consumer who looked at several cars in the $30-$45K range. I was totally unprepared for what I got with the 2004 TL. It drives like a dream. My advice is to go test drive several mid range luxury cars and then drive the 2004 TL- and you are likely to save yourself $10K - $15K. One day I had to go back to the dealer for a standard service and they gave me a 2003 TL for the day- the 2004 is a totally differnt car.

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  Best Vehicle Ive Ever Owned!! - 1997 Acura TL
  By Buckeye64 - December 23 - 2:00 am

  Car handles excellent. Power is what youd expect from Acura - great. Weve had our TL for 3 years and put 70k miles on it. No mechanical or appearance problems. Will definitely buy another Acura.

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  Great Car, Good performance!! - 2001 Acura TL
  By GeorgeD - December 23 - 2:00 am

  I really love this car. The performance is really good and with everything standard you dont feel like your being takened.