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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  Best Performance car for the Money - 2010 Acura TL
  By Rich Balliet - May 3 - 1:46 pm

  This is the best performance car & most beautiful of the all Honda Products made. My Black on Black TL is so pretty and unique. The engine is more powerful, freer and higher revving than any Acura/Honda I have driven. The brakes are neither too heavy nor too light, I have never felt fade (Seldom hear ABS!) and have a very smooth feel. The car corners absolutely flat (on rails)& the steering is perfectly weighted at any speed. The TL 6MT also has equal or better performance than cars costing thousands more (e.g. Lexus E350, Inf G37x and M-Class, Audi A4, BMW Series 3 and 5, MB C300 and similar 4Matics, Ford Taurus SHO. This is also the quietest “Honda Product” I have owned (MDX, Pilot).

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  My New TL - 2010 Acura TL
  By Deputydog35 - May 3 - 12:38 pm

  First impression... Wow! This car is much nicer then my 03 TL Types S. The only thing I miss is the quickness of my Types S. This car is quick dont get me wrong but its not a Type S. Wish they kept the option!!! This car has tons of gadgets! I purchased the TL w/Tech in Mayan Bronze with only 2 miles on it! Love the color. I called 6 dealerships before I found this color! Acura is right, this car is fun to drive and very luxurys with a lot of room. My 2 yr old and 4 yr old have lots of room in the back! Just wish they could watch DVDs off the front monitor!

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  Easy entry level choice - 2010 Acura TL
  By Rx4Rex - May 1 - 3:10 am

  I decided to upgrade my commuter with an entry level luxury sedan eliminating several options immediately because I was still concerned about reliability. If Im paying more to get more, more must include reliability - Scratch off the German wonders. I drove the TL and G37 sedan & coupe (Didnt care for baby Lexus). The TL with the Tech package exceeded all of my expectations and was clearly the superior car. It had all the features of the G37 but with much more room inside. Even my wife preferred the more masculine/sporty exterior of the TL. The shifting was also much smoother. I had to do some emergency braking and it was rock steady just like the handling. I love commuting now.

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  Love it! - 2007 Acura TL
  By gregyTL-S - April 29 - 9:14 am

  I Have a tl-s and my wife tl, we love these cars, best cars in their class, I dont even try to compere them to other because there is nothing to say, people who drove this car know what I I say. Performance is great, powerful, interior, acceleration, handling, features, all we need in one! BMW, Mercedes and others. Take these cars to Europe and drive it junks by yourself. :))

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  Fun TL Type S - 2003 Acura TL
  By Deputydog35 - April 29 - 7:20 am

  This car is one of the best cars I have ever had! It really quick and shames all those expensive German cars! I have owned my Type S for 5 years now and have had only on problem. The TRANSMISSION! It has be replaces 3 times and now is on its way out again with only 40,000 miles on the new tranny! Other then that the car has be PERFECT! I am now buying a 2010 TL. These cars are built to last minus the transmission on the older TLs. I also love the Nav even if its a little slow!

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  Pretty good all around car - 2003 Acura TL
  By alehr - April 26 - 10:12 pm

  I bought this car in 2005 with about 75,000 miles. Unfortunately, about one year or 6,000 miles later my transmission failed. Acura did not cover my specific transmission problem for whatever reason so I ended up spending about $3500 to replace. Other than that, I did replace the timing belt just as a precaution but nothing else major. I still love my car and plan on buying another Acura when this one goes. However, beware of the transmission!

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  Love this Ride - 2010 Acura TL
  By dnmlaw - April 23 - 4:05 pm

  This is my second TL (my other one is a 2006), and this one is even better, which is saying a lot. The SH-AWD is amazing and I appreciated the added hp. I compared it with Audi, Lexus, BMW, and MB. I have no regrets with my choice and feel that I have gotten great value for my money. While the exterior styling is controversial, I appreciate that it does not look like everything else, and my wife thinks it is great looking.

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  leak that cant be fixed - 2010 Acura TL
  By lemon - April 23 - 3:00 pm

  Car has leaked water from day 1 into trunk. After 5 times in shop and no correction. I am filing a lemon law.Only leaks when car is parked on a upgrade. leak is severe. Hoping that honda tries to make it right

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  Big disappointment - 2003 Acura TL
  By cwms97 - April 23 - 2:33 pm

  I bought my 2003 Acura TL-S in 2006 with about 64,000 miles on it. The car would have been perfect except for the bad transmission. Within 3 months of purchasing the car, I had to get my transmission replaced. A year later the transmission failed again. Leith Acura replaced it the 1st two times. Then 2yrs later, the transmission went out again. Acura wouldnt replace it because of the mileage on my car so I had to get another company to fix my car. Then 1 year later, I am having transmission failure again. I am so dissapointed. Such a nice car with a horrible transmission. I will never buy another Acura again!!!!!!!!!!

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  Im in love with my car - 2010 Acura TL
  By Nicole - April 22 - 10:42 am

  I love my 2010 Acura TL. I purchased the 3.5 V6 with technology package in white pearl. The car drives smooth, has quick acceleration and it looks amazing!!! Buy this car, you wont be disappointed.