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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  Great Bundles! - 2006 Acura TL
  By EWANG - May 30 - 6:00 pm

  One thing I love about TL is that there are only two option... Nav/Or No Nav.Great Interior design and bundled technology. Just wishing that they have a RWD or AWD version.

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  Love my TL-S - 2003 Acura TL
  By A TL-S Lover - May 29 - 10:00 am

  It has been 6~7 months since I bought this vehicle and I like the ride of this car and superb control on the road. Leather seats are very comfortable and ample leg room in the rear seats. Trunk is also pretty big. Music system of Bose is awesome. Navigation helps me on the unkown roads. The V6 power is excellent and when using the manual gears power is much better you can feel it. Over all a very decent buy and you get the value of your money with all these standard features.

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  2003 TL type S Silver on black - 2003 Acura TL
  By cltmatt - May 29 - 10:00 am

  I shopped all entry level lux sedans for a good 4 months. It finally came down to 9-3 Vector and the tl-s. Price, reliability, non turbo, and inside room finally won out over its swede competitor. For the money you cannot beat this car. The engine is great, and the clutchless manual feature is fantastic.

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  Xenon head lights of TL-S - 2002 Acura TL
  By Friend - May 16 - 1:30 am

  Just have a 2002 TL-S. Its Great Car, High Performance. And heard that cars very bright Xenon headlights are expensive ($1600) and hot item for the thefts. So be carefully where you park your baby.

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  Best Bang for the Buck - 2005 Acura TL
  By Gary - May 12 - 7:03 pm

  I shopped around a lot before I bought this car, and even considered waiting for the new BMW 3 series and IS 300 to come out. After test driving the car though I was sold. Its very quiet and has a composed ride. I was worried about it being front wheel drive, but unless you drive like Jeff Gordon on a Sunday afternoon, then it doesnt really matter. There is simply no other car out there that can match it feature for feature. Reliability and resale value of the Acura brand is also a big plus. Sure the BMW brand has big cache, but that can only take you so far. It is very comfortable on the freeways and it eats up miles without breaking a sweat. Handles well for FWD

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  You cant get a better car for $27000.. - 2003 Acura TL
  By skynet2500 - May 11 - 2:00 am

  I had this car for about four months and I absolutely love this car. The ride and pickup are getting better day by day. I have seen a considerable difference after driving 4K miles. It has much smoother ride after 4K. No one can definitley go wrong with this car. If you are planning to spend around $30K, this is the best car in the market. The only disappointment is the sound system. it sounds horrible.

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  WoW! - 2004 Acura TL
  By sh0cK - May 11 - 2:00 am

  This is the best looking, best handeling and most powerful car in its class and was worth every penny!

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  Great Value & Car - 2004 Acura TL
  By bears - May 11 - 2:00 am

  Bought the car for the wife but love to drive myself. Drives as good as it looks. Looked at BMW, Lexus and Infiniti. Acura has the best value.

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  Favorite Car Yet... - 2003 Acura TL
  By speeddemon - May 10 - 10:00 am

  I puchased my 02 Acura TL type-S last August and have loved it ever sence. I drove an Explorer before it and the power is a huge difference. The type-S bolts you for 0-60 in about 6 seconds which is one of the main reasons I love the car. It never has problems getting on the highway or passing cars on two lane roads. I also love the handling which feels like you have "total power" over the car. Another feature I love is the gas millage. I have been getting around 29 mpg and for the power, that is really good. I would recomend this car to anyone becuase of the excelent ratio of price to features.

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  Buy the Maxima - 2006 Acura TL
  By golfinwi - May 9 - 6:16 am

  I guess Im the one to throw cold water on the rest... I purchased my Acura for "something different", having owned 2 Maximas (04 & 01). I want my Nissan back! Call it nit pickin, but heres my list... tires (everyone knows 25,000mi max)... lights that dont automatically come on... and dont go off when car is off... no ability to change CDs via wheel controls... terrible gas mileage... no ability to lock car while running (I live in WI for Gods sakes!).. headlights are weak.... pass through is a joke.. my Maxima could accommodate 2x4s as the seats went down vs cubbyhole opening.. no compass in mirror.. cheap!.. finger pinching glove box opening.. no power st.wheel adjuster. Save $4000-Maxima!