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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  Acuras are timeless - 2006 Acura TL
  By Denzel Seals - September 3 - 7:44 pm

  Just know that you are getting a car that depreciates slower than most, its style and reliability is the reason why.

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  Incredible value great performance - 2005 Acura TL
  By kadesh - September 2 - 3:03 am

  Didnt expect to buy a TL. With integrated bluetooth phone, great acceleration and superb handling at close to 30K, just could not turn it down

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  Transmission problem - 2005 Acura TL
  By srini - August 28 - 2:50 am

  Transmission shifts into 3rd and 5th gears at low driving speeds resulting in a grinding noise; the two head lights are not designed to evenly spread light on the road ( one is higher than the other ; the doors are so flimsy that the door speaker is rattling; the tires wore out in 25000 miles; navigation does not show the shortest routes

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  Love this car! - 2003 Acura TL
  By eil110 - August 28 - 2:00 am

  This car is beautiful, extremely comfortable, and fast. I was doing 65 on the tollway - needed to pass a truck that was throwing gravel - put my foot to the floor and was doing 95 in 3 seconds. Great car! - and this was NOT the Type S, but the standard 3.2 TL. I have found no flaws.

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  Excellent Car - 2003 Acura TL
  By James24 - August 28 - 2:00 am

  My wife and I traded in our Maxima for the Acura TL-type S. What an awesome car! This was definately a step up. The TL-S is loaded with features and has more power than you will ever need.

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  Beats my BMW 3 series hands down - 2005 Acura TL
  By syslog - August 16 - 4:40 am

  You get a LOT of car for your money. I used to own a 2000 BMW 3 series. The difference between the 2 cars is night & day. The BMW had better handling, no doubt, but thats it. It pales in comparison in every other respect. The TL is beutifully executed - the navi, stereo and bluetooth are seamlessly integrated with the voice control system. It really is a flawless experience. One note. I use a Treo 650 bluetooth phone. The phone needs to be updated from Palms website for the bluetooth to work correctly with the car. Its a phone problem, nothing to do with the car. Once updated, however, it works beautifully.

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  I LOVE IT!!! - 2005 Acura TL
  By Kdocdent - August 15 - 6:56 pm

  This is the best car Ive driven in a while! The interior has so many different textures; for instance, the textured trims, woodgrain finishes, the FINE leather with the rich colors. The Acura TL handles well on city streets and highway. I made a very wise choice with this car. I just wanted a car for work, but I never drive my SUV anymore!

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  Unbelievable Car for the Money - 2005 Acura TL
  By Kevin - August 11 - 3:06 am

  Me and my wife chose the TL over the BMW 325 and the MB C230 Kompressor. For the money you get everything both the BMW and MB have for about $3000 less. The TLs acceleration and handling is phenomenal not to mention the navigation which is so easy to use. I will never own another car without NAV again. My only complaint is the subwoofer vibrates with songs that have high base amounts. The dealer said its a known problem amongst all TLs and there has been nothing that has come out from corporate yet to fix it. All highway got 31 mpg, combined highway and city average 25. Those figures go down rapidly if your foot is in the gas a lot. This car is worth every penny we spent on it.

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  more car for the money!!! - 2003 Acura TL
  By acuratlpower - August 11 - 2:00 am

  This car is fun to drive and is comfortable. THe engine is very quiet. Sometimes i forget that its on when im heating the car up. I once was about to turn the car on again because it didnt feel like it was on. Good quality car. i love it..

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  TL Review - 2004 Acura TL
  By Harry032 - August 11 - 2:00 am

  Recently purchased, drives great, handles great, is very comfortable, roomy, and stylist. So far a great purchase. Havent had it long enough to evaluate fuel ecomony.