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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  My first Acura - 2005 Acura TL
  By WdnUlik2no - November 25 - 8:40 pm

  After a year of going between the G35, 330 and TL, I finally decided on the TL 6-speed Navi. BMW is overpriced, and Infinitis only true advantage is that it has better handling. I ordered the Anthracite/Ebony version and got it right off the truck. For me the 6-speed was the only way to go, it is quick, responsive, and buttery smooth. Handling is very good for a FWD car. However, there is some torque steer when accelerating hard from a stop and turning at the same time. The interior is top of the line; I love the interior lighting and also the huge and bright Navi screen. I canÂ’t wait to get my blue tooth phone to try out the TLÂ’s phone feature.

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  Very impressed - 2007 Acura TL
  By GREAT CAR - November 23 - 2:16 am

  My last two cars were 2005 Mazda 6(V6) and a 1997 Nissan Maxima. I love the voice command, navigation voice and bluetooth(cell phone). I wish I would have just purchased this car before any other I would have saved time and energy.

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  good value - 2000 Acura TL
  By kensho - November 21 - 2:00 am

  the TL is the best sub $30k car on the market hands down - fast and fun to drive -

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  Wow!!! - 2004 Acura TL
  By PShelbyC - November 12 - 2:00 am

  All I can say is, "WOW!!". I am throughly impressed. No package prices to worry about--it comes loaded. And the stereo--Oh My God !!

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  Excellent Car for the Money - 2004 Acura TL
  By MOBOFE - November 12 - 2:00 am

  I chose the TL over the Audi A4, Infiniti G35 and Volvo S60. The TL,imho, had the best interior layout and build and the abundance of standard features outfoxes the competitors I mentioned. There are however, two considerations that you should take into account - info which didnt come apparent until after I purchased. A. The sports seats look great but their quality is suspect - crease and butt marks (leather wasnt pulled taut and secured enough) appear only after 200- 300 miles of driving. Very disappointing to have to face this problem on a 30K+ car. B. The Bridgestone EL-42 tires are absolute terrors in snow or wet conditions.

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  The Car Is Awesome - 2004 Acura TL
  By Ashton - November 12 - 2:00 am

  This car is a must have... The car is so fun to drive... I would highly recommend this car over any car on the market right now.

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  Acura 3.2 TL Premium - 1996 Acura TL
  By Tyler - November 11 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car in November and love it so far. I find myself wanting to drive every time me and my friends go out. The car feels solid and is extremely reliable. This is all you need in a vehicle.

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  TOTALLY EXCELLENT - 2006 Acura TL
  By Baldi62 - November 10 - 6:43 pm

  Style (Jet Fighter looks ... Black Exterior with Parchment Interior ... None of the other color options can compare with this Luxo selection) Performance (Gotta love the passing power) Navigation Unit (Finds most addresses,restaurants,hotels and other locations with ease) Voice activated controls (For when you are bored with your long commute in traffic...and she doesnt mind it !!!) Price (FAGETABOUTIT!!! None of the other manufacturers can compare - feature for feature - they were all many thousands more!!!) With all the features this car has to offer I am just hoping that not too many others buy it because I like seeing only one or two on the road during my commute each day

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  7 Years old and Still Sharp - 1997 Acura TL
  By parker002 - November 9 - 2:00 am

  I have owned my Ac. for a year or so, and it has 82,000 miles on it. Besides the normal tune-up and some oil changes the car runs perfect. When I drive through town people still look at it. Even though the style has changed over the past few years it still looks sharp. It also drives like a gem

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  Great Car - 1999 Acura TL
  By Fred Rusk - November 9 - 2:00 am

  Great driving car, smooth, super quiet, good power. 33 mpg on highway. Only thing Id change is the instrumentation displays on the dashboard, cant read them when sun is shinning which can be dangerous when doors are ajar. etc.