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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  Fantastic car, just wish it was RWD - 2004 Acura TL
  By xmen94 - May 20 - 10:00 am

  I have had this car for about ten months now and really have enjoyed it quite a bit. I used to have an old (1986) Porsche 911, and while this car is competely different in almost every way, its a lot of fun to drive and anyhing but utilitarian. I have only had to bring the car in for scheduled maintenance so far and I have nearly 14K miles on the car. Total maintenance bill so far...~$130. Not bad considering that was less than a months maintenance on the Porsche. Overall this is an excellent car and an excellent value. BMW and Audi simply cannot compete with the value this car offers. They may be slightly nicer cars...but not $8K-$10K nicer.

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  So far so good - 2006 Acura TL
  By animalsrush - May 19 - 3:36 am

  Good looking car with healthy dose of comfort and performance. I love the ride quality and performace is quite good. However i am still getting used to jerky pick ups

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  A Vigor review (preceeds the TL) - 2003 Acura TL
  By Scott Packard - May 17 - 2:00 am

  My wife owns a 92 Acura Vigor, the predecessor of the TL. 5cyl 2.5L engine. Weve turned 180k miles last week. She had committed to buying a new car two years ago, but went back on her promise, mostly because this car is still too reliable. I do most of the repairs myself, but on most weekends I have nothing to do. Even the accessories have all held up (something which I know to break on Merkin cars). The alternator has never been rebuilt, the power steering pump finally gave out at 176k, and Ive put on the 2nd timing belt (90k change intervals). Who would think Id be on my third belt!?

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  2003 Acura TL - 2003 Acura TL
  By cmdvorak - May 12 - 10:00 am

  I purchased my 03 TL July 02. Since I have only had a safety recall. It has been a great car to have due to previous cars i owned that were in the shop on a monthly basis. The value, style, and status symbol the car gives for the money is the greatest thing.

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  Great Car - 2003 Acura TL
  By cljw - May 12 - 10:00 am

  I just purchased my TL-type S and love it. After looking at other cars in the class I found nothing that has as much as this car does for the price. I test drove both the base and Type-S and I must say there is a supstaintial difference in proformance. The Nav system is easy to use, with a little practice.

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  allo - 2003 Acura TL
  By undao - May 4 - 2:53 am

  really fast, powerful car, good price, just some bland interior and exterior degins.

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  A Great car that needs a few changes - 2004 Acura TL
  By Dan - May 2 - 9:53 pm

  Ive owned this car for about 4 months now and have enjoyed it a lot. The power is excellent and rivals many other vehicles in its price range. Interior comfort is premier. The navigation system is the best in the business (Alpine has always had the best in my view). Exterior styling is great! And a factory audio system that wont leave you wanting more. There are drawbacks though. Front- wheel drive. Poor turning radius. Voice recognition system that apparently understands what it wants to.

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  After one month of ownership - 2005 Acura TL
  By Pete - May 2 - 9:50 pm

  So far Im getting 22 mpg around town and 30 mpg on the freeway, driving normal. Its an exceptional quiet and comfortable car. I dont like the way the interior front doors are configured. After opening the door youre compelled to use the padded arm rest to swing open the door because the larger open padded handle it too far forward. It works fine to close the door once your inside but unatural to use that padded arm rest to open the door. In fact I didnt notice it until I got home (after purchase) but it had grease marks all over it. Apparently the mechanics/detailers also have the same problem.

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  Excellent Value and Technology - 2005 Acura TL
  By utc2 - April 30 - 4:20 am

  Recently purchased a 2005 TL w/ Navigation 9/05. Have 600 miles so may be early for complete analysis but we love the car. Great fuel economy. (22 city, 27 mixed, 32 hwy). Roomy interior with unbelievable technology. Considered competitors. In the end the value of the car made it the one. May not have the cutting edge drive per se of a RWD car but Im not a race driver so I really could not care less. More important to me at least were the comfortable interior (more room than 3 series and IS250/350), cutting edge technology, reliability and of course value.

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  Rattling Sound - 2005 Acura TL
  By Got A Lemon - April 29 - 4:16 pm

  Bought a new 2005 TL. Love the power, sound, responsiveness. Only 1800 miles, and dealership cannot fix rattling sound. Now dealing with Acuras Customer Representative, dead-end there. Tells me its a known problem with this model. I got a lemon.