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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  150k and drives/looks like new - 2005 Acura TL
  By kp28217 - March 12 - 9:30 pm

  What can you say about a car with 150K miles that doesnt have a rattle or squeak, everything works perfectly and drives like new? 33 MPG on highway and averaging 28 in combined driving. The interior still looks new. Impressive car given the mileage and age. Very pleased and would highly recommend. Best stock stereo Ive had. Better than BOSE in Infiniti and Harmon Kardon in my BMW.

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  Dependable and fun to Drive - 2006 Acura TL
  By macura - March 11 - 6:45 am

  I was originally looking for a second automobile with good fuel economy. I bought this car when it was 3 years old with 25,000 miles on it. This car has exceeded all my expectations. Its agile, and, while others complain of the "heavy" steering and road noise, I love the way this car feels. It is as planted at 60mph as it is switching lanes at 80mph. I can "feel" the road surface through the steering wheel not an objectionable feeling imho and the steering response is quick and precise. All this and I regularly get 30 mpg in a well appointed, sneaky fast and RELIABLE Honda product. I made the right decision!

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  Great Cool Car! - 2010 Acura TL
  By RSPS - March 9 - 4:56 pm

  2010 Acura TL/Tech, best car value for the drive and luxury ever. Very well built. My long distance drive feels too short now! It looks gorgeous with its sharp ready to pounce exterior. Wo said it was ugly, controversial Yes, Ugly no, Futuristic Yes, bland blending into sea of cars, No!

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  Cool Car! - 2010 Acura TL
  By Ranjan - March 1 - 4:28 pm

  Fantastic car at reasonable price. Good built, sturdy, I miss my roads because Im enjoying driving it! Dont know what the hallabolla is about the front design, actually it is a very handsome, stand apart kind of design which turns heads! A very futuristic simple design, congratulations! to the design team.

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  Great used car purchase - 2006 Acura TL
  By AMDE - March 1 - 11:50 am

  The TL is a great car for its price. This car made the transition from driving a sports car to a sport sedan easy. And the excellent crash test ratings make it even better.

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  Best Sports Sedan Value - 2010 Acura TL
  By JM SH-AWD - March 1 - 10:57 am

  I purchased the car after cross- shopping G37 and the German cars, and Im glad I did. Fantastic performance and comfort. Solid, quiet ride. Corners like its on rails. Shifting is crisp and positive. World class audio system. Beautiful interior. The SH-AWD has to be experienced to be fully appreciated - its a technological wonder. Ive never received so many compliments on a new car. This is easily the best value in an upscale sports sedan. The only way to beat it (maybe) would be to spend at least $20K more. Add in Acura reliability and service and the TL SH- AWD is a no-brainer. I love this car!

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  nice car - 2009 Acura TL
  By galil71 - February 26 - 12:08 am

  I love this car. For a FWD vehicle, wheels torque is minimal. One of the reason I choose this car is that most features are standard. The steering is not fast, but in normal driving I dont even realize it. The TL doesnt offer sport package, however standard tires give sporty feel and keep the car very stable.

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  Best car for the Money - 2010 Acura TL
  By Eugene Owens Jr - February 24 - 10:51 pm

  WE have a Mercedes E350 and this car is what that car aspires to be! Real leather, not synthetic, check the German rivals carefully, you might be surprised that for what they charge it is an option, Technology galore, drives rock solid, build quality is second to none. The hardest part was picking the color, due to Acuras lack of option based pricing the car comes loaded when you add the technology package. Even without the technology package a lot of things that are options on the German cars are standard. Log on to the German cars websites and add the options that come standard on the TL and see what you get for the money. There is only one option for the money. TL Hands Down!!!

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  transmission failure - 2003 Acura TL
  By emmett gonzalez - February 20 - 10:03 pm

  Bought the 2003 TL brand new. Comfortable and smooth ride. Interior features adequate and functioned well since driven off the lot. The transmission failed at 81,000 miles. We never got a notice that the transmission was under recall but the dealer still required me to pay $1,000 out of the $3,000 cost for a new transmission. Previous to the transmission failure they try a "fix," that did not work. Some kind of deal.

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  What a joy to drive - 2010 Acura TL
  By Matt Daly - February 19 - 1:47 pm

  Purchased my second Acura TL, had an 06 and went to the 10. SH AWD is phenomenal, it really handles great. We experienced record snowfall in February in PA and it was awesome, went past people in front wheel drive stuck on hills with about 5 inches on the ground. At one point stopped on a hill to wait for someone to get out of the way (normally a cardinal sin) car made it up the hill without any issues. The ride is great, the power is plenty and the price is great.