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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  Car of the Year - 2004 Acura TL
  By PK - November 4 - 2:00 am

  Car of the year! Powerful, futuristic, good looking, comfortable.

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  Souped-Up Honda! - 2003 Acura TL
  By BrentSki - November 2 - 10:00 am

  Car is comfortable to drive, pickup is amazing with Hondas VTEC engine, and that all Hondas and Acuras have. It is an all-around great car, but it came with its minor problems.

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  My favorite ugly duckling - 2009 Acura TL
  By Richard Kelly - October 29 - 11:45 am

  I will start off to say most hated the first glimpse of the new fourth generation TL platform when it released in late 2008, but I believe it is an acquired taste. My previous car was a Honda S2000 and when I was exiting my ownership of that vehicle I was worried I would soon be stranded into a mundane driving experience. This was not the case. For a near 4000lbs car that barely breachs 300hp at the crank it moves quite nicely. I live in a rather snowy climate (number two snowiest city in the US) and while I got around with snow tires in the S2000 just fine, the SH-AWD TL was awesome even on all seasons, not to mention a blast of mash, steer and go. The car is well laid out as far as controls and technology and is very user friendly once accommodated with all the functions. It is incredibly spacious for my height and for a mid-size vehicle. Most of all, the build quality and material choice makes me appreciate the interior when compared to other vehicles in its used price range. The technology package delivers a pretty nice stock sound system with a very conservative navigation display. Beware that with this sound system the door speakers are prone to blowing out. However they are $25 to replace and this vehicles door panels are by far the most user friendly to take on and off. Seriously if youve taken door panels off before they are usually a nightmare of clips breaking, but that is not the case here. Overall I am very pleased with the value of this car for roughly $19,000 used with 50,000 miles when bought over a year ago. The Mayan Bronze Metallic color is quite beautiful as well.

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  Great Value - 2004 Acura TL
  By Sami-R - October 29 - 2:00 am

  Superb value .. really no competition when comparing feature content/amenities/performance and price. With rear or all-wheel drive would be a slam dunk.

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  Super TL - 2004 Acura TL
  By speed_lover - October 29 - 2:00 am

  I have seen, tested and owned many performance cars. I wasnt even going to buy an Acura, let alone a TL because I was looking at all so- called "performance luxury cars" - IS300, G35, A4, BMW 530i, etc. In fact, I was testing the TSX at the time. What a surprised - saw a TL in the showroom, test drove it & loved it! The rush of power as you floor the pedal, very poised, quiet & buttery smooth engine, etc. Also, stop comparing this car to a BMW330i, its an insult as its closest competitor is a BMW530i that costs more for about the same performance.

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  Great car - 2004 Acura TL
  By George Jetson - October 29 - 2:00 am

  Simply no other car for me now.

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  2004 Much Improved over 2003 - 2004 Acura TL
  By Dale Kresse - October 29 - 2:00 am

  I drove a 2003 TL Type S for about 8 months and while my car was in for an oil change. I thought I would drive the 2004..should have not done that..wow what a difference. Even know I had the Type S which had 260 horses..this 2004 was much smoothier. I liked the new design both inside and outside. Great Car

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  The new TL is unbelievable - 2005 Acura TL
  By Orthodoc - October 29 - 12:10 am

  The combination of luxury and all the "bells and whistles" at an affordable price makes this the best sports/luxury value around. Acura quality, but made in America, shows that it can be done. Hands-free Navigation & Bluetooth cell phone both work extremely well, XM Radio avoids the aggravation of travel and commercials.

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  No Regrets! - 2003 Acura TL
  By dodell66 - October 28 - 10:00 am

  Bought this car in late March 02. 2003 TL-S w/Nav. Pearl white with black interior. I really like this car. No better value for the money on the market. Everybody talks about how nothing compares to a German car. Id love to talk to them as the mechanic is handing them their repair bill. Performance, style, RELIABILITY...its all there with the TL-S.

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  Lexus vs Acura - 2005 Acura TL
  By JC - October 26 - 10:20 am

  I compared the Lexus ES330 and the TL and found the pick up and acceleration response of the TL in a class of its own compared to the Lexus" sluggish "passing gear-like" acceleration. The TL handles magnificently and responds in all traffic situations. I got 26.4 mpg on a recent trip goimng 75 to 80 mph. Seats are a bit hard and the passenger side wasnt fully adjustable as was the drivers side. But the easeof acceleration on demand and the flawless shifting of the motor sold me . I always felt like I was going into passing gear on the Lexus I tested- not so with the Acura!