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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  NEEDS AWD AND FOLDING REAR SEATS - 2004 Acura TL
  By JONESFOOL - August 30 - 2:00 am

  GREAT LUXURT SPORT SEDAN AT A VALUE PRICE

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  THE GREAT ENJOYABLE TL - 2004 Acura TL
  By CYRUS - August 30 - 2:00 am

  THIS CAR IS VERY SMOOTH, POWERFULL, AND FUEL EFFICIENT.

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  Works For Me - 2004 Acura TL
  By John TL - August 30 - 2:00 am

  What a car! For the money, this is more than I thought I could get. With Honda-like reliability, tons of power and plenty of amenities, this is a great value. I had looked at the previous TL Type-S, but wasnt interested in it without a manual transmission. Thanks to Acura for offering the 6-speed in this car. Its a joy to drive.

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  2002 Acura TL-S - 2002 Acura TL
  By Charles S. - August 28 - 10:00 am

  I have the type-S and I would highly recommend it to anybody. It is by far the best car out there for the money.

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  Far superior to BMW330 - 2004 Acura TL
  By slade 656 - August 25 - 10:00 am

  After a test drive in 04 TL,I was fortunite enough to convince my son-in- law to assume the remaining two years of my "03 BMW 330xi lease. TL is FAR SUPERIOR to 330 in almost every category..for $12,000. less!! Horsepower, torque, braking, styling, interior, comfort,roominess, and especially State of the art content like Bluetooth, XM satellite radio,etc.

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  Second TL - 2004 Acura TL
  By dotcomedy - August 25 - 10:00 am

  I just purchased my 2004 TL this afternoon. Its my second, my first being a 2000 which we kept. The TL still rates as a great value even if they have raised the price a bit. The fuel economy is excellent considering the engine makes 270 hp but the premium fuel requirement is unfortunate given the current prices. This version is much improved over the last generation. I think Acura has really put some distance between the TL and the Lexus ES 330. But they still wont let me take control of the first to second shift with the automatic transmission. That detracts from the fun a bit.

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  Super Car - 2004 Acura TL
  By rp - August 25 - 10:00 am

  I love it fun to drive and unbelievable interior. The interior is nicer than some of the $60000 cars in the upper levels.

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  Happy with my car - 2003 Acura TL
  By KPM - August 23 - 10:00 am

  I love my TL-S. You get the same car as the BMW 330i for around $10,000 Less. All the comfort, convenience, power, & reliability that one would expect from an acura. Would definatly purchase again, although i would buy a navigation with the next one, unless theres a type-R availiable by then??

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  2004 Acura auto/nav - 2004 Acura TL
  By Don McMeen - August 21 - 3:50 am

  One year and 20,000 miles of ownership have been totally trouble free. Engine flexibility, driveability and power are excellent. Throttle tip-in is flawless. Shift quality is excellent, in terms of down- and upshifting response, smoothness and proper gear selection. Gear transitions are very quick, smooth and transient-free. Ride is noticeably stiffer than my 2001 ES 300 over rough or broken surfaces, but very smooth at freeway speeds. Mileage has been a surprise, average for the 20,000+ miles is slightly over 25, with 30+ mpg highway the norm (calibrated odometer).

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  TL is #1 - 2006 Acura TL
  By dru2034 - August 19 - 7:03 pm

  This is a quality luxury car. No need to get nickled and dimed by BMW or Mercedes. Everything is included in this Honda made vechile. Great framework and fun to play with.