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:

• 

  Awesome Car! - 2003 Acura TL
  By all2ez - May 6 - 10:00 am

  This is the greatest car in the world... WE averaged 20k miles in the first year of this car and it has not bugged us.... many other have complained of squeaking but that is only during the 7000-11000 mile period when the suspension breaks in after that all is good... We know 10-15 people whove had this problem with their 99-03 TLs

• 

  First Acura - 2004 Acura TL
  By Tally - May 6 - 10:00 am

  This car is fun to drive. I didnt give it a 10 only because Ive driven my friends BMW M3. However, great pick up and snappy accelerator response, little loose on the tight turns (which VSA helps fix) but then it is FWD, agile, and a very comfortable ride. The interior is damn near impeccable. All the standard features a huge plus (heated seats, auto everything, XM satellite radio) and the add-ons (navigation system) are reasonable. This is my first Acura and its too new to give it a 10 for reliability, but Ive heard very good things, the warranty is good and comes with conveniences, and Im just impressed with the car.

• 

  Thrilled! - 2004 Acura TL
  By tlconvert - May 6 - 10:00 am

  A lot of car for the money! Great fun to drive. Flow of trafic coming back from Easter was 80 miles per hour and car did not break a sweat. A world away from my old Camry. Love the interior and all of the conveniences - such as the memory being linked to the keyless remote. Navi system a blast. Stereo is 1st rate.

• 

  Not as good as past TLs - 2004 Acura TL
  By Chasgreenberg - April 30 - 10:00 am

  The car handles well in city driving. On the highway the car can wander if careful attention isnt paid. The site lines are not good and the seats are not as comfortable as the 2003 TL. The Navigation system is outstanding. The sound system is good and the brakes are excellent.

• 

  Great Attributes But - 2004 Acura TL
  By RWDJR - April 25 - 10:00 am

  Sharp interior and exterior design. The car really gets the looks. I had many people ask what kind of car I was driving. Even the BMW folks where commenting on how neat the car looked.

• 

  Awesome wheels! - 2004 Acura TL
  By bioteacher1 - April 25 - 10:00 am

  You get a lot of car for the money. It is a true sport/luxury car with much pep.

• 

  Tell a friend - 2004 Acura TL
  By ernie1 - April 25 - 10:00 am

  This car is a joy to drive. When pressed, the car can avoid problems with its quick response

• 

  Love my Ac-Rite - 2002 Acura TL
  By James C - April 23 - 12:18 am

  This Acura TL is what put Acuras ability to make luxurious sporty mid sized sedans on the front burner of every car review outlet. I mean, the 3.2 VTEC V6 that comes standard is LITERALLY bullet proof. Check the internet for em, wait..dont. Because no one needs em. Why? This thing was mechanical engineering genius. The car is stupid smooth and quiet on the inside. Helluva travel car. Have taken it all across the west coast and for good reason. The technology is what one would expect for an 02, but man does she shine when you ride. I get compliments almost everyday for how it drives and purs...and she is up to the 174k MILE MARK! On stock engine, STOCK TRANSMISSION, and up till a few thousand miles ago stock radiator. This car is my first car that my parents gave me and even though she takes a beating, I cant trade her in. Why? Because it can take turns at 40+ like Miata, accelerates with the current muscle cars (seriously), and rolls past Lexus owners and laugh. The stock sound system is BOSE and straight bumps, as a teenager this is huge! I love my Ac-Rite. People dont understand; treat any car with regular oil changes, fluid flushes (INCLUDING TRANNY FLUID), and constant monitoring...anything will take you far. But we bought this with about 30k on the dash, and at first we didnt care for it. But once I got it, I drove it constantly in manual (speed stick, speed slot), keep it below 6k revs, and gave SYNTHETIC oil changes every 4,000 or so and itll run. Why? Because ACURAs are Hondas and they are built fantastically.

• 

  TL Review - 2005 Acura TL
  By JR - April 16 - 8:06 pm

  This is a beautiful car both inside and outside. It has excellent acceleration. It is very smooth and quiet at high speeds. However, the car does not feel stable in hard cornering. The workmanship on the headliner is very poor. Mine started to come apart after only 1500 miles. Was originally attached with double side sticky tape until the dealer installed screws to keep it from falling. Car wonders from left to right even on fairly level pavement. Dealer blames the problem on el42 tires. They changed to another set of el42 but the problem continued. The clutch took a little getting used to, initially. The top of the dash began to fade real bad. Originally, I thought it was dust but it isnt

• 

  Great Va,lue - 2003 Acura TL
  By joycie - April 11 - 10:00 am

  This car is a great value. The ride is smoothe, the pick up is superb, and it feels very luxurious to drive. Steering is easy and the comfortability of the seats and ride is a big plus.