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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  new tls - 2003 Acura TL
  By jugg - June 21 - 10:00 am

  New TL S--used to have a BMW 540. Mine gave me probs galore--snobby service people, heart -attack repair costs, angry, went for more conventional car. Amazed at value of tl s. Phenomenal power! Pretty impressive handling. Looks great. Warning!!! The seats are weird--I removed the lumbar device from mine, now its super comfy. Every day, I feel smart owning this car, and in the stick mode, its a rocket. It aint a 540, but for 30k less, it comes surprisingly close. Ill review again at 15000 mi. So far, damn happy.

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  SH-AWD TL is a monster - 2009 Acura TL
  By SDGates - June 18 - 10:20 pm

  This week I drove the first new TL SH-AWD off the lot here in NYC and this car is nothing short of an absolute black top carving rocket. I drove the front wheel drive model which was nice but cant hold a candle to the power and handling of the SH-AWD version. The tight power and control carves through turns and is every bit the powerful car Acura has ever built. The Tech package give you everything you could need from a fast, clear nav system with tons of features, iPhone integration including music and phonebook. I owned a TL from the previous generation and this new version improves on everything that I didnt like about the old version and the SH-AWD makes it into the car I always wanted.

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  Best Mid-size Luxary Sedan 2004 - 2004 Acura TL
  By Nish - June 18 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car a month ago. Two words, "The Best" Amazing performance, luxary, style, class. It has everything. Very Eye catching to someone driving next to you... Only thing Ive noticed is when accelerating from 0 (flooring it) the steering wheel goes a little from left to right. But thats normal for front wheel cars; well thats what the experts say. If you have $30000 to spend on a car, Id say the Acura TL is the way to go.

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  My Second TL - 2007 Acura TL
  By rsreeni - June 16 - 8:00 pm

  I used to drive a 2000 TL which got totalled recently as a truck hit me and rolled over the car. I walked off with not even a scratch. I went and got an 07 TL. Even though overall I like the car I still think the acceleration is sluggish, especially when I am going thorugh heavy traffic & signals. I can visibly feel very well the shifting of gears & really wish it was smoother. Other than this I like my car, all the faciliies are wonderful especially the Handsfree link and the MP3 player.

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  Car for the money - 2006 Acura TL
  By mastergs - June 16 - 10:26 am

  This is an amazing vehicle. The voice recognition takes some getting used to. Ive had the car for two months now and I still have to fight my wife to drive it.

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  TL The Best - 2005 Acura TL
  By Mark Matlack - June 12 - 10:53 am

  Ive owned Honda Accord Coupes for the past 6 years. Step up to the TL and what a difference. I cant wait to drive the car. The XM Radio is the best and the Bluetooth phone system is fanstatic. No complaints at all. I would buy another one tomorrow and probably would go for manual.

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  The best car in its class - 2004 Acura TL
  By Vtecne - June 12 - 10:00 am

  I love this car.

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  Acura - 2004 Acura TL
  By coach03 - June 12 - 10:00 am

  This is fun to drive. It responds when you accelerate and is very comfortable. There are so many technology features that it does take some time to learn but the time is well spent.

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  great car - 2004 Acura TL
  By hmseminole - June 12 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car the 1st week they came out. Car and dealer are unbelievable. Intitial cars had tire problem, but Acura has resolved this with mine and with the new models. Best car I have ever had.

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  Cant Get a Better Car Dollar for Dollar - 2006 Acura TL
  By astropeter@gmail.com - June 9 - 10:50 am

  The 2006 TL might not have all the features available on other luxury cars, but I believe they did that to keep the price down, which allows people lie me to afford it. I considered many other cars, in fact I was shopping for about 6 months, but in the end the TL was the best I could get for my budget. I got my 06 Navi for 32,100, which I thought was a great price for the car. And after driving it for 6K I still believe it is the perfect car for me. It is not the best at just one thing, but it accels at almost everything. The combination of engine, gas milage, stlying, interior room, trunk space, amenities, technology, reliability, fun factor and price make it the best car for its class!