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 car Ive ever owned - 2004 Acura TL
  By cestjim - March 24 - 2:00 am

  Ive had my TL for two weeks. It is comfortable to ride in and drive. the acceleration is impressive. I tried accelerating without the bu## saver switch (the VSA) once and have kept it engaged since. the torque steer was scary!!

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  Just bought one - 2002 Acura TL
  By SpartanMan2 - March 21 - 2:13 pm

  Nighthawk Black, beautiful, still breaking it in. Loving every minute behind the wheel. Had to buy a radar detector because I catch myself speeding so often in this car.

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  Best Car On The Market - 2007 Acura TL
  By Fozzyfoe - March 21 - 7:00 am

  I traded in my Accord and S2000 for a car that combines the best elements from each car into one. It has power, quickness, great handling, great brakes, great looks, and more features than any other car! I am hooked for a long time with Acura now and will never turn back. I hope to see the SH-AWD in 09 and will trade up to that. Also, I hear that even more power is coming!

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  TL type-S - 2003 Acura TL
  By ttliang - March 21 - 3:20 am

  great value. really fast. love the performance of this car. you cant find a better car for the $$$ you spent. suspension is sporty and nice. you may want the regular TL for smoother ride. great gas mileage consider the 260hp under the hood. it would be great if honda can put a "stick" in it.

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  Dont waste your money on the others - 2005 Acura TL
  By New Fan - March 20 - 2:36 am

  This was my first Acura. I had previously owned Toyata, and Nissans, as well as some other American Cars. The TL is by far one of the best built and fun cars to drive that Ive ever owned. Its nice to know that there is a company out there that pays attention to details The quality of this car just cant be beat. What an excellent combination of technology and comfort. The interior is layed out so ergonomically. The sound system is just incredible. The blue tooth compatible voice activated phone system is very useful. You dont have to spend 50-60k to get real quality!

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  Nice ride - 2003 Acura TL
  By Anna Harrington - March 19 - 6:01 pm

  Good car ..very nice inside and out Anna Harrington

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  hard to beat - 2004 Acura TL
  By mig - March 18 - 10:00 am

  Can not believe how much car you get with the acura compared with other vehicles in its class. Power, performance, reliability, quality and state of the art technology all in one package. Navigation system is better than our friends mercedes 500 sl.

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  2005 ACURA REVIEW BY MIKE SCHWAB - 2005 Acura TL
  By michael schwab - March 17 - 5:26 pm

  GREAT VEHICLE WORKMANSHIP QUALITY INSIDE & AND OUTSIDE. ONE OF THE BEST LOOKING INTERIORS IN THE CAR INDUSTRY UNDER 60K. THE NAVIGATION SYSTEM SETS THE STANDARD FOR ALL OTHERS TO BE JUDGED.

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  Day 2 - 2004 Acura TL
  By Category Killer - March 13 - 10:00 am

  Day 2 of 04 TL ownership (traded 03 Type-S bought 3/02). Total value-play with this car. Bang for the buck second to none. When you study the lines of the car, its an elegantly carved wedge with gentle curves in the hood and deck lid to soften the edges. I like the styling of the 04 a lot. Options? We dont need no stinkin options. I drove the 6-speed as well and its a totally different car (a TOTAL blast to drive), and if it werent for the fact that I commute metro DC and that no one had the 6- speed w/o the summer only tires, Id have bought the TL6M. Torque steer not as apparent w/6M. Interior road noise - open the windows if you want some.

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  Upgrade from older TL worth it - 2005 Acura TL
  By Terry - March 9 - 5:03 pm

  Although the styling and ride took a while to brag about, owning the car for more than a month has definitely brought me around. The car is quick, quiet, handles like a go-cart, and has enough electronic goodies to please the biggest geeks. If you own a pre-2004 and are considering the 2005, you wont be disappointed.