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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  sucky car - 2003 Acura TL
  By steve in dallas - February 9 - 2:00 am

  21,000 miles transmission out, 4 weeks to repair

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  Love the Type S - 2007 Acura TL
  By Martin Szulinski - February 8 - 7:20 pm

  WOW. What an upgrade. I owned a 2004 TL and I just bought a 2007 TL Type-S and I love it. It looks good, aggresive even. It drives aggresively as well. When you own a sports sedan you should drive like it. The F1 shift option is great. With close to 300 ponies it flies. The Brembo brakes are a plus. The car turns on a dime and its just a blast to drive. Its a 9.5 out of 10 in my book. Buy it and you will love it. It has all the gagets inside: Navi, voice recognition, MP3 hook up, 5.1 Dolby sound, rear view camera, XM radio. Im sure Im forgetting some thing, but theres just so much inside you tend to forget to list all the goodies.

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  Excellent value - 2003 Acura TL
  By asantrosyan - January 24 - 10:00 am

  I always wanted to buy a GS300, but this car beats the Lexus by all measurable parameters and is about 15K cheaper. Its a perfect family sedan that combines utility with reasonable amount fun to drive. 100% recommended.

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  Best car Ive ever owned - 2005 Acura TL
  By Ra - January 19 - 2:33 pm

  This car has a TON of standard features. Quality is first rate. Looks awesome everytime I park it and look back. By far, its the best car Ive ever known. Compared to the G35 coupe, its a little slower and doesnt shift as smooth, but thats about it. Other than that, this car is 10 times better than a G35 coupe, in my opinion. The quality, radio, seat memory, tilting mirrors, and financing are the top reasons why I got this car over the G35. Im telling you, this car is AWESOME!

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  Great modern features - 2005 Acura TL
  By jodi - January 19 - 1:03 am

  After a bunch of test drives of entry luxury sedans, the choice was not hard to get an Acura TL. In fact, I bought one for my husband as well. I have the metallic anthracite with ebony, he has the pearl green with camel. They are beautiful and we get many compliments. I also went for all the spoilers which make the car look very sporty. This is a great car for anyone who likes a quality environment. Check out the DVD-Audio, bluetooth, and navigation.

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  UNREAL - 2004 Acura TL
  By Kevin112 - January 17 - 10:00 am

  This is a dream car, for anyone who like fast, comfort, and increadible tech features,like Bluetooth wireless, Navi, and voice recognision

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  2004 Acura TL with Navigation - 2004 Acura TL
  By RLL_SB - January 17 - 10:00 am

  I just purchased a new Acura TL with the navigation and XM satellite radio system yesterday (October 2003). Try as I might, I couldnt get any discount at all. I paid full list price plus $100 for the mud flaps. I live in California, and tried several dealers, they were all asking full list price. I was going to wait to see if the prices would go down, but I decided to bite the bullet and get the green metallic one left on the lot. Its a very nice car. Overall, I am very happy with the car. Its a bit larger than I thought it was.

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  just got it - 2005 Acura TL
  By Broncos rule - January 15 - 12:00 pm

  I have just pased the break in period and have started to really enjoy this car. I have had no problems (800 miles so far) and am starting to test the limits of the car. The acceleration is very strong and sounds good all the way up to redline. I have noticed a small amount of torque steer but it is easily managed. The car handles great and i look forward to my commute everyday. A G35 handled better during my test drive but I thought the TL was a better overall (performance, features and design). I dont know about other TL owners but my time on a race track pushing the car to the limit does not happen very often. In the real world the TL kicks.

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  flawed - 2004 Acura TL
  By flawed - January 11 - 2:00 am

  TL nifty in many ways but between 50 and 55 MPH the car vibrates, the dash shudders, things squek. Engine seems to "sag" at that speed compounding the condition. Acura needs to fix this quick. Give me back my BMW.

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  Awsome Car!!! - 2004 Acura TL
  By Bret Temple - January 5 - 2:00 am

  This is one of the nicest cars I have ever owned. I currently have a lexus GS 300 and like this car much better. I love the voice activation, and the bluetooth phone technology. The looks of the car get me more compliments than any other car I have owned. Great Improvement from the old TL which I traded in for the new one.