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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  This Car is Awesome - 2004 Acura TL
  By Bpaulsrud - April 6 - 2:00 am

  Before purchasing my new Acura TL i drove the audi A4 and the Infiniti G35. Both the Audi and Infinity were great cars, but if you want the most for your money the TL is the way to go. The TL performs as well if not better than both the Audi and the Infiniti, and there are few things that you can upgrade because everything comes stock on the TL. If you purchase a new TL, I promise you wont regret it!

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  Great car as expected. - 2005 Acura TL
  By Tnrealtor - April 5 - 6:10 pm

  I have owned several new BMWs which turned out to be not so reliable. This car has more features, horsepower, and realiabilty than BMW. Way to go Acura, you have gained a loyal follower.

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  2002 Acura TL - 2000 Acura TL
  By markm - April 5 - 2:00 am

  I love my Acura 3.2 TL. Fun to drive, care free at 33,000 miles. Very quick, comfortable. Great car

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  Best $34,000 you can spend - 2005 Acura TL
  By RL - April 4 - 3:33 am

  The TL provides you with a quiet interior, supportive seats and decent handling. My last car was a sports sedan, so I am used to tighter cornering than the TL allows for. Great sound system; steering wheel controls a little inconvenient-cant switch CDs in multidisk player without removing hands from wheel. Handles well in the snow with stock tires. Dual climate control adjusts quickly, heated seats heat quickly. Tons of features packed into this car. Very sophisticated dash with combo of metal, wood and black trim. Ample room for adults in the back seat. Inconvenient that the rear seat does not fold down. Also, poor turning radius-its easier to back this car in to parking spots. Highly recommended!

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  great buy! - 1996 Acura TL
  By reesk - April 3 - 2:00 am

  I have had this car for six months now with no problems whatever. I am so happy. I researched a million cars before buying and I am defintely a satisfied consumer! It handles well with good pick up. Its so quiet which is a MUST with me. Its roomy but not too big. Jumping from a Nissan Sentra to this I was a little worried feeling like I was driving "too" big of a car but I dont feel like that at all. The only downside I had to that is getting used to the lower miles/gallon.

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  marlands review - 2005 Acura TL
  By o5 3.2 tl,nav - April 1 - 8:10 pm

  lot of fun too drive excellent interior nav is awesome

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  Great car for the money - 1996 Acura TL
  By Trey - March 31 - 2:00 am

  I am 16 and this is my first car. From the first time that I saw it, I knew it was the one I wanted. It has the Acura/Honda name so you know it is reliable and luxurious. There arent that many performance parts and stuff for it out there, but you can do a lot of stuff to it and make it look really nice. check out www.acura-tl.com if you want to see some of them fixed up!

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  Supprt and transmission - 1999 Acura TL
  By rom - March 31 - 2:00 am

  It is a good car. However, considering power train performance, Maxima can "make circles" around my TL. (Yes, I also have 95 Maxima.) Transmission is the "weakest link"... especially between first and second gear. Windshield glare is very bad (I have tan color dashboard). Put something black to prevent eye strain -- it works. Attention to customer problem doesnt exist. And this is not about my dealer (I think they were sincere) but Acura technical reps. After numerous phone calls, and even, an apparent, visit of the regional technical "specialist" my problem still exists -- intermittent (!!!) operation of the remote control. They just tired me out -- I gave up.

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  Better than BMW? - 2007 Acura TL
  By smidge - March 29 - 4:03 pm

  I compared the Type S with 6 speed manual to BMW 335 and Audi A4. The TL is much more roomy inside, especially the rear seat foot/legroom (TL more like BMW 5 series for interior room). I bought red exterior with lighter interior - was gonna get black interior but decided too dark. TL has highest crash test safety ratings, highest Consumer Reports score for its class (entry level luxury). The navigation system is excellent and easy to use. The clutch is perfect and the shifter snick-snickety smooth - real nice! The motor sounds awesome - like a turbo almost, and car is fast! Car is a real pleasure to drive. Audio system is excellent. Good value.

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  smooth riding - 1998 Acura TL
  By George Cash - March 29 - 2:00 am

  A wonderfull car to drive. Rides smooth and handles smoother. Very few problems however, when they do occurr parts are more expensive than on the 3.2 model