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 2931 through 2940 of 3,067.00-
Love this car - 2004 Acura TL
By NCacuradriver - October 24 - 10:00 amI have enjoyed each day I have driven my TL! Great response, comfortable, great handling,and XM radio--just the best! I only wish it took regular gas since gas prices are so high now. Great fun to drive--especially after many years as a van or a SUV driver.
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A Sassy Sportscar - 2007 Acura TL
By Desiree W. - October 22 - 1:13 pmI recently traded my 06 Cadillac CTS in for the new 07 Acura TL Type S. I bought the Moroccan Red car with the upgraded 18" chrome acura wheels. I LOVE this color car with the chrome wheels. So, if youre unimpressed with the gray Type-S wheels you should check them out. The car handles well, has more get-up-and-go than my 04 GTO, and has optimal styling to boot. The back up camera is totally great for parking. The only negative I report is that it doesnt have the smoothest ride with the low profile tires. That is a mere negative compared to everything that it has to offer.
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has it all - 2004 Acura TL
By riffl - October 19 - 10:00 amThis is my first non-BMW in the last 15 years. Most Bang for the Buck of any car I have driven. I do wish it was rear wheel drive but I have gotton use to it. It comes with all of the bells and whistles that BMW charges extra for. I love it
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Win Win - 2004 Acura TL
By nuella - October 19 - 10:00 amLook no further for reliability, the buck stops here. I strayed briefly from my Honda/Acura loves for an Audi, never again. If you want reliability constantly not just part of the time this car will never let you down.
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Needs better rubber - 2002 Acura TL
By RJ - October 12 - 11:06 amEdmunds reviews list a 0-60 6.6s.To get this out of the engine VSA needs to be turned off, so the tires spin.Normal people dont drive like that.Unless you are a person who likes to here the sound of rubber being laid down on pavement and the VSA warning flashing, 6.6 may not be right.My first experience was on a freshly paved road with VSA on, making me loose to an A4 CVT with FrontTrakk (6.9s).The next time I turned VSA off, let the tires spin, and got great acceleartion.
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2004 TL - 2004 Acura TL
By VC Slim - October 12 - 2:00 amAfter almost a year and 10k miles my 04 TL 5MT Navi hasnt missed a beat. Ive been back to the dealership 3 times for a sunroof rattle (fixed), oil change ($30) and transmission recall. Im a 20 year Honda owner and this by far is the best car Ive ever driven.
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One Year Anniversary - 2004 Acura TL
By WIFESTL - October 12 - 2:00 amWeve had our TL for 1 year now. For anyone out there, dont ever buy the first model year of a car. This car has had numerous shop visits to fix the seat memory loss, the transmission mod/repair, replace interior parts that didnt fit right and rattled, replaced CD/Radio that wouldnt return the CD, tires are still stiff and harsh, complained about uncomfortable seats (but I cant sit in Honda seats anyway without getting a back ache) due to poor support, and numerous other picky items that shouldnt exist (ie. missing interior pieces). Other than that the car continues to run great. We like the styling, handling, and power.
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2002 TL-S in Georgia - 2002 Acura TL
By Crawdad - October 10 - 2:00 amI purchased the car in December 2002. As of March 13, 2003 is has 12400 miles. The car is quick and quiet. Comfort on long trips is very good. The CD changer is nice on long and short trips. The exterior should be made to look more sporty. I think the BMW 3-Series looks better. Gas mileage has been around 22 MPG average for the first year.
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CarFan - 2006 Acura TL
By TruCarFan - October 6 - 4:56 pmThe Acura TL has got to be one of the premiere vehicles to drive for under $35,000. The interior is comfortable and excellently designed. The gauges, radio, and navigation are easy to read and use. I get outstanding gas mileage (from 26-33 mpg highway). The handling is crisp and the acceleration is perfect. The AC takes a while to get the car cool.
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Great New Car - 2006 Acura TL
By Mark Walker - October 5 - 12:53 amI bought my new Acura TL in late June of 06 and already have 3200 miles on it only after a few sweet months of driving. I love this car and the way it performs. This is the first new car I have ever bought without any problems. Drives like a dream and GREAT gas mileage...
