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:
Showing 281 through 290 of 3,067.00-
Great mix of Power/Gas Mileage - 2002 Acura TL
By gonzalgi21 - May 15 - 10:07 pm02 TL-S bought the car with 64k miles which is amazingly low miles for an 8 year old car. First thing that i noticed right away soon as i bought the car is the POWER the car is extremely fast and the gas mileage is pretty darn good for a 260 hp engine, audio system is also very good.Good old Honda reliability. Unfortunately owning this car is stressful because you never really know when your transmission is going to fail even though i havent had that problem i know its coming and theres nothing i can do about it. If this car didnt have these transmission issues i would literally want this car forever.
-
great value - 2010 Acura TL
By paul - May 14 - 8:30 pmThis is my fourth Acura. 2000 CL, 2002 TL, 2005 RL, previous. Comparison shopped against Lexus, BMW, & Audi. I initially had reservations about front end appearance, but performance got me past it. Great value for the money & enjoyable to drive. The latest generation of electronics superior to my 05 RL. The AWD corners great. graphics on navi superior, sound system second to none. This car is responsive.
-
2009 acura tl - 2009 Acura TL
By bernard edwards - May 14 - 7:51 pmI am on my second year with my tl, and I as very impressed with the quality, and the smooth 3.5 engine and I am not that impressed with the manual auto shifter, as sometimes the transmission shifts two times, and this car should have a six speed manual available instead of making you buy the over 40,000 dollar all wheel drive with the technology package, and the six speed should be available in the tsx also as it has the same engine that the tl has as a option, and this five speed just is not a good fit as it holds the engine back, and we love this car, and we drove a mdx for a few days, and now this is a real car, as this car really sounds so good with the 3.7 engine singing with a big smooth burst.
-
2010 Acura TL - 2010 Acura TL
By truegrit1969 - May 14 - 4:49 pmOur lease was up on our BMW 328. We took a few months and looked at just about everything in the same price range even considering purchasing our 328. The TL was the first thing we looked at...it bacically came down to the TL and the Cadillac CTS. It soon became an easy choice, the TL is the hands down winner! The styling is crazy, both outside and in. A true head turner with real class! I am 49 years of age and have owened them all, BMW, Volvo, Vettes our 2010 TL tops them all. I cant say enough about the design of this car. I wait for my wife to pull in to the driveway daily just to see it go down the road. The ride is tight and smooth. A real pleasure to own a drive. And,its a HONDA
-
Love the Tech Package - 2010 Acura TL
By ckwacura3 - May 13 - 5:53 pmThe Tech Package has exceeded my expectations! Keyless operation makes you forget to use keys when you get in another car! Getting 22.5 MPG in mixed driving, 29-30 on the road, 24.5 overall. I have always gotten better than EPA with my Acura(s). This is my 3rd. Drove many other vehicles, ES, Genesis, MKT, SRX, MDX and came back to the TL as the best combination of features, performance and comfort.
-
Love my car but not the transmission - 2002 Acura TL
By Ralph - May 12 - 4:13 pmI purchased this car "pre-owned" off a lease, 3 yrs old, 30k miles. I have loved this car. Transmission went out at 104K miles and 7 yr, 9 mos from date of purchase. Transmission was replaced, just under the mandated extended warranty, but told new transmission has no warranty. What? Ive had two problems with windshield wipers. Other than that, it is a great car. My dealership has been great to me (Atl)
-
One of The Best - 2010 Acura TL
By train55 - May 11 - 9:01 amThe Acura SH-AWD TL is one of the best cars I have ever driven. The six speed manual is pure driving enjoyment. This car gives you a great feel of the road without being overly harsh with its ride.
-
Love it! - 2010 Acura TL
By allegro - May 9 - 3:11 pmMy last car was a C70 from Volvo, prior to that a Boxster-S. This drives more like the Boxster, only with room for friends.
-
Sticks To The Road - 2010 Acura TL
By Anthony - May 8 - 8:56 amYou know "they" are not kidding when they say Honda makes the best manual transmission stick and clutch. Ive almost intentionally tried to stall, but the stick shift seems to be idiot proof. The hill start assist system takes getting used to and I wish there was a way to turn it off. is there? Im still in my break-in period, but Ive floored the gas pedal of my TL by accident (wink wink) while on the highway and WOW! Ive also cornered hard when driving the twisty roads up here in Philly and the sh-awd and sticky tires really does keep the car on the road. More stable than the Subaru I traded in. Imagine that.
-
Cant really go wrong with this car... - 2007 Acura TL
By mike - May 7 - 3:55 pmI recently purchased this as Certified Pre-owned. When compared to its Infiniti G, BMW 3 Series, Lexus IS and Audi A4 counterparts, using such factors as build quality, performance, comfort/convenience and manufacturers overall attention to detail - all weighed against price - the TL is far and away the best value. It may not be the quickest, most nimble or even the most fun, but it is far above average. The TL is meant for a more utilitarian consumer: high-end without the flash (although still somewhat of a head-turner). Overall a very easy car to drive and the best front-drive you can buy. The 2007-08 TL compares closely to the 2010 TSX V6.
