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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  3.2 TLS Navi - 5 month review - 2003 Acura TL
  By Trojan Horse - October 6 - 10:00 am

  Navi unit easy to learn - like the touch screen. Very pleased with the performance level (used to have Volvo 850T and while the turbo had a little more kick, the Acuras normally aspirated engine is significantly smoother through the power band and is quicker to 60 mph!) Seats quite comfortable. Gauge cluster looks like the classy high-end, but console controls definitely came from the Honda parts bin. Tires seem to be wearing okay - probably good for 25-28k miles. Dealer service level as expected from one of the high-end badges. Trunk room large enough to fit my hard-shell golf case. Fuel Tank size needs to be bigger.

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  The Best Value - bar none. - 1999 Acura TL
  By #4 and counting... - October 2 - 2:00 am

  In the past 10 years, Ive had 4 Acuras, 92 and 94 Legends, and 96 and 99 3.2 TLs. This one beats them all - and for thousands less. You cannot go wrong!

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  You got more for your money! - 2003 Acura TL
  By Momooe - September 30 - 6:33 pm

  This car is the best buy in its class. No regret and highly recommend

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  Nothing better than this - 2004 Acura TL
  By BH - September 30 - 2:00 am

  Awesome, Best bang for the buck, Sporty, Elegant, Styling, Performance, Features, Good fuel economy, Quality. This is my defination of a CAR. This new model cant be beat...PERIOD

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  WOW , I LOVE THIS CAR - 2004 Acura TL
  By JLIVE - September 30 - 2:00 am

  FANTASTIC DRIVING EXPERIENCE , LOVE IT , A BLAST , SMOOTH ,FAST EXCELLENT POWER ,THRILLING , EASILY ACESSABLE CONTROLS , SOUND SYSTEM THE BEST IVE EVER HEARD , PERIOD ! A MUST FOR ALL WHO ARE LOOKING FOR BOTH ALUXURIOUS AND SPORTY VEHICLE , HAVE FUN , I SURE DO .

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  I love this car! - 2003 Acura TL
  By tjc - September 29 - 10:00 am

  This is a great car for the money. Very fun to drive, comfortable seats, excellent Bose stereo system.

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  GREAT car! - 2006 Acura TL
  By SSant324 - September 29 - 4:20 am

  Bought my TL in November 2005. Was going to go with the BMW 325 or Lexus IS 250 because of AWD vs. FWD (snowy northeast). Wasnt an issue this year due to lack of snow, but even the few storms we had the car did just fine in the snow. For all of the luxury, power and great price, FWD vs. AWD should not be a issue for anyone with winter driving concerns! Had a few issues with scratches when I got the car - dealer took care of the problem right away. Heard a squeaking noise coming from the engine area a few weeks ago whenever I turned the wheels. Not sure what was going on but noise stopped. Service dept. checked it out right away and nothing found.

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  TL is Tops - 2004 Acura TL
  By Brettden - September 24 - 2:00 am

  This car has it all. It starts with a great price, and the outstanding service of Acura(Honda). The exterior styling is a cut above anything else Acura(Honda) has ever produced. It has aggressive exterior lines that are not overdone. The interior is incredible. From the blue backlights behind the radio dials, and above the shifter, to the superior leather quality, this car is simply wonderful to be in. The radio sound quality is incredible. The car is quick and agile; the ride is smooth on the straights, and stable on the curves. I gladly gave up my Maxima for this beauty. This is a must see for anyone in the market for a new sedan.

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  The ALL-New TL is the Truth.... - 2004 Acura TL
  By Tobor - September 24 - 2:00 am

  I had considered leaving the Acura fold. I owned a 1992 Vigor, and realized the newer versions of the TL where even more BORING than my old car I had considered buying a German make (Audi) to get the styling/fun-to-drive and technologically interesting factor back. I wanted smaller/faster/fuel efficient/fun and "Fly". The new TSX looked promising but I found it to be invisible from a styling point of view, and not good enough to spend the 27K think (MAZADA 6) Then along comes the NEW TL.. Its handsome/aggressive/swoopy redesign, 270 BHP and the 6 speed from the S2000 and an you have a VERY interesting car on your hands.

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  Rattles but rolls - 2004 Acura TL
  By ziggy3 - September 19 - 10:00 am

  Disappointed with the build quality of this car. Expect more from Acura/Honda product. Many interior rattles, headliner fell and body panels misaligned. Engine and ride are excellent. Would wait a year for Acura to get the bugs out. I thought I wouldnt have to worry about that with a Honda product, but I guess I was wrong.