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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  Very good, but needs some tweaks - 2004 Acura TL
  By GC - October 18 - 1:16 am

  Ive had my 2004 TL for a little over a year. Ive had a few of the rattles of which others have complained, but the rattles actually seem to have subsided in recent months. Nonetheless, the rattles have been my number one issue. The gas mileage has not been quite as good as advertised. Overall, Ive been satisfied with the car, but not so pleased that I wont look for a different make when replacing it in a few years.

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  Lots of bang for your buck! - 2003 Acura TL
  By ledname - October 17 - 2:00 am

  Great power and handling. A couple of squeaks in the interior here and there...just havent had a chance to bring it in. One downfall is the climate control which is supposed to be automatic but really isnt. The temperature setting is there for show. If you want heat, you have to turn it up to 90 just to get it to 70 when it is cold out.

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  Love my TL - 1999 Acura TL
  By Bott1263 - October 16 - 2:00 am

  We wanted a car that would be safe, fun and reliable. After testing the TL we knew this was the car. After one month and a 600 mile trip I know we made the right decision. This is a very easy car to drive.

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  Want my ES Back - 2000 Acura TL
  By BuKoDahm - October 16 - 2:00 am

  After two years with a Lexus ES 300 I decided to see what else is out there in the entry-level luxury market. Kind of like dating a girl, shes fine and all but you just never know if something better is waiting for you. Anyway, the car is fun to drive and is very sporty, but overall quality is unquestionably the ES 300. Sure, the Acura is faster (by a second in 0-60 times), but the car that still has my heart is my old ES 300. Guess I shouldnt have left the old girl.

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  Excellence - 2005 Acura TL
  By George - October 14 - 2:50 pm

  I recently leased the car thinking I wasnt going to drive it much and use it when its needed, but now I cant stop driving it and I use it when I dont really have to. The car outperforms on a laaaarge scale. I had an 03 Type S and it really doesnt even compare Acura listened to the people and added the little niks n nacs that are important to the consumer. It gained leg room in the rear, the stick shift is out of the world fun to drive, accents on the interior are awesome, the addition of brembos to the stick model was phenomenal the the only thing I dont like about it is that 1st gear is extremely short so you have to shift out quickly before you top out without realizing.

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  Acura 3.2 TL :Gotta Love it ! - 2000 Acura TL
  By belle - October 13 - 2:00 am

  tHE ACURA TL3.2 IS A fABULOUS Car. beautiful,safe,dependable, totally trouble free,super quiet, bose sound system and a blast to drive.. There is literally no other car id rather drive except for my 88accura legend 5 speed.

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  Over Rated - 2005 Acura TL
  By John Hiam - October 9 - 11:00 pm

  Car was chosen based on a brief test drive and belief in the "expert" reviews. I was very disappointed in the interior. The tachometer is 50% blocked from view by the steering wheel, the climate control buttons are randomly scattered (half of the buttons are on the passenger side of the car!), the visibility out of the car is dreadful (style took precedence over function) and driving in slow heavy traffic turned out to be a chore since the throttle control is too sensitive resulting jerky progress. I have found torque steer to be a problem also whenever trying to accelerate on bumpy roads which are the norm in Ohio. On long journeys the car has proven to be tiring because of hard ride.

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  Underrated... if anything. - 2006 Acura TL
  By PJ - October 8 - 3:06 am

  The car drives as if it were driving on air. THAT, is how smooth the drive is. The handling of the car is absolutely impeccable. Absolutely stunning suspension. The interior makes one feel like a king, with its 8" touchscreen navi along with the voice activated commands. The car itself is a very attractive looking car, especially with the A-spec bodykit. Overall, there really is NOTHING to complain about for such a car in its class...

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  My favorite vehicle - 2000 Acura TL
  By JBT - October 8 - 2:00 am

  Great performance, constant compliments, has NEVER been in for repairs (have owned since July 2000).

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  You wont regret the purchase! - 2007 Acura TL
  By ttone - October 7 - 7:06 pm

  Car comes loaded with all features. Handles well and looks great. Best value for the $$. Other similarly stocked cars will run at least 1-2k more. Im averaging about 24 mpg right now. I hope to see a little improvement after break in, but its not that bad. If you like having all the "gadgets" in a car, you will likely be pleased with the TL type-S. The ride is pretty quiet, but youll love cranking the dvd-audio disks anyway. True surround sound in the car is pretty cool. I fit my two kids in the back no problem. I wouldnt recommend more than two adults, youll be tight. The type S comes with rims that in my opinion dont really work with all colors.