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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  Acura TL 2005 avec Navigation - 2005 Acura TL
  By Richard Silver - March 12 - 9:20 pm

  Best car in its class. At or near the top in the luxury sedan group regarding performance, sportiness, reliability, economy and overall quality. This car grades an A- in nearly all respects, and it will be tough to beat for a few years as long as Acura remains competitive on price.

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  More than Camry, less than Lexsus - 2001 Acura TL
  By Andrey - March 12 - 5:07 pm

  Very nice and comfortable car. There is pretty much everything one could need, and most of the stuff one could desire. It lacks the excitement of a Lexus - and its WAY cheaper.

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  Awesome! Impressive! Two Thumbs Up! - 2006 Acura TL
  By rjohng - March 11 - 2:10 pm

  Ive driven a Passat the last 4 years, and I have to say, this is a major upgrade, Ten-Fold...This has got to be one of the most prestigious cars on the market. Pure comfort and quality.

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  My Acura TL - 2000 Acura TL
  By tonybell_57 - March 11 - 12:29 pm

  This car has no cons. It is a very comfortable car to drive. I have driven from Atlanta, GA to Hartford, CT in this car and had a blast. The only caveat is that it rides so smoothly you may want to use cruise control to keep from getting a ticket (like I did in NC). This car WANTS to do 90!

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  1998 Acura 3.2 - 1998 Acura TL
  By dstanzi - March 9 - 5:11 pm

  Car rides very well and has been problem free for 52000 mile. Standard maintenance has kept operating costs low.

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  TL - 2001 Acura TL
  By Jackie - March 8 - 12:51 pm

  Love it.

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  Great car for the money - 2003 Acura TL
  By rhb - March 7 - 10:00 am

  I have had this vehicle for about four months now and drive it on a daily basis. Finding a location by the number search is scattered because many businesses are not in the directory. Cant find the closest Wendys because it wants to make you go to the headquarters. I would recommend the car to the buyer who wants luxury with economy but watch out for the PREMIUM gas prices as well. I get about 23 to 24 miles per gallon pretty consistently with highway driving.

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  Its the best - 2003 Acura TL
  By LoveTL - March 7 - 10:00 am

  It took 2 weeks after we made the final decision to go for the TL. Test drive the new Accord and the TL and, the TL is much better than the Accord in terms of acceleration and handling. The ride is very comfortable and the cabine is so quiet. The power is so great. Weve been driving this car for almost 2 weeks. We love it. It rox.

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  Best value for your money - 1999 Acura TL
  By NudeDude - March 7 - 1:54 am

  This is really a great car! Ive owned mine for 3 years and Ive never had any trouble. I really liked the fact that all of the upgrades are standard. The TL is a great value compared to its competition.

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  2005 Anthracite Manual - 2005 Acura TL
  By dschryver - March 6 - 8:06 am

  Have only 3,000 miles or less on this car so far. Great car to drive. Manual transmission is a dream. Acceleration is great. Only problem found so far is that the seat heaters apparently draw power even when the car is switched off. Would seem to be a design flaw if thats the case. Recently came back from a 10-day vacation to find the battery deader than a doornail. Apparently left one of the seat heaters on while out of town. Gave us a chance to try out Acuras roadside assistance program. It was an OK experience. Had a slight problem getting the radio to accept the security code but OK now. Navigation system is great even if it does suggest an unneeded U-turn occasionally.