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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  Surprised 3rd Acura TL owner - 2009 Acura TL
  By Lynn - January 14 - 1:05 pm

  It is difficult for me to write this review since I loved my last 2 TLs. I did not like the new body style at first but that did grow on me however some of the other changes I could not get use to and traded the car in after only 7 months. The Nav system is no longer touch, you have to use the dial which I found to be very cumbersome or voice which for some reason did not seem to understand me most of the time. The interior also kind of plain compared to previous years. I miss the blue lights. I also felt this new design did not seem to have the same quick pickup that I fell in love with in my 1st TL. Not sure if its the added weight that caused that or some other change.

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  Best bang for your buck - 2010 Acura TL
  By Happy buyer - January 13 - 11:45 pm

  I tried a lot of the other cars out there including the German ones. I have to say that the Acura offers everything they had for much less. The all wheel drive handling is second to none although this cost fuel economy it is worth it. The grill is a love it or hate it item. However if you hate it a lot the dealership can offer different custom grills but for a price. I myself dont mind it and i love the rest of the car. Tech package is a must!!

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  Used 2006 TL - 2006 Acura TL
  By Scott - January 12 - 3:56 pm

  Bought used with 69000 miles. I was pretty happy with the price at $15,700 (Acura Lease car). This is my 3rd TL and each one Ive put over a 100k on. Very good reliable cars that perform very well. I would highly recommend this car to anyone looking for a performance geared sedan.

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  Would buy it again! - 2004 Acura TL
  By Rags - January 9 - 2:51 pm

  Ive owned my 04 TL automatic with Navi since April 04 and I have to say that I love this car. Reliable, great ride, fun to drive, good gas mileage (up to 30 mpg when just freeway driving) and lots of goodies like heated seats, xenon headlights and great sound system are all standard. Acura quality and performance.

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  New Acura Owner For Life - 2004 Acura TL
  By Logan - January 8 - 4:00 pm

  I bought a used 2004 TL automatic with approx. 75K miles on it, have put another 4K miles on it, and I couldnt be happier!!! It drives beautifully, the interior material is top notch, it has all the gadgets you could want (especially for being a 2004..way to go Acura for making all those amazing features standard on all base models!), and the exterior still turns heads. I put a lot of review into my purchase, especially from this website so I thought it was fitting I put some back in. The car does slip a little bit more than my last car in snowy conditions but i think thats mainly due to the torque.

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  Terrfic TL - 2005 Acura TL
  By Matt - January 8 - 12:23 pm

  I have always driven Hondas and have wanted a TL since they changed the body in 04. Finally bought a used 05 in Oct of 08. Love it! Sharp looking, powerful, comfortable, reliable, relatively economical. Mine is silver with gray leather. Bought it with 25k on it and Ive put 28k on it since acquiring it. I commute 33 miles to work 1 way. Have seen 33 mpg on the highway a couple of times but average 31 on hwy. City driving is a bit more dismal in the high teens. Overall average is 25-26 mpg.

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  Very Good for FWD - 2008 Acura TL
  By Mike M. - January 7 - 3:33 pm

  Reliable, pretty good looking,brakes modulate well, steering is well weighted, but understeers like FWD always does. good engine, needs 50 more hp. Excellent highway cruiser. Got 31 mpg at 70 mph on long trip.

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  Great Car, but takes a lot of fuel - 2010 Acura TL
  By Kiran - January 6 - 2:39 pm

  I got the 6 speed manual. I was looking at 2010 Audi S4 with 3.0L V6 supercharger and this acura. I test drove both cars. Audi has alot more lower end torque than TL does. Also, it gives over 30mpg on highway. I bought TL over S4 is because it was 15k less. I had car for 3 weeks now. I cant say much about reliability and so forth, but I can say is that I love the car. It drives nice and sporty. Many people dont like the front grill. Actually I like that. It makes the car look different and I think its a good design.

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  Great car minus the transmission problem - 2003 Acura TL
  By Ed - January 6 - 12:19 pm

  The styling was good now the car looks really dated, honestly it is a glorified Honda Accord. Bought car with 50k on it, at 78k tranny went out covered by dealer. Now at 120k it went out again this time costing me $3000 worth of repairs. Dealer was no help this time around. Car is reliable like any Honda starts up every time. Steering has a real heavy feel to it. Drive is nice, interior is ok, the display on radio and hvac look too old now like 80s digital watches black font... I would not recommend this car due to tranny issues. all of them suffer from it.

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  Sexy mom car - 2009 Acura TL
  By jppalooza - January 5 - 9:10 pm

  I am a 30 something mom who drives this car. I really do like it The pros about this car for me are: -very attractive outside styling -not having to use the key to unlock, start, or anything. LOVE IT! Especially when I am carrying a baby around -interior fit of the seat and space inside the car -the tech package with the hands free phone and how I can talk commands rather than finding the button Cons: -trunk size is small/oddly shaped -no rain sensing wipes -I dont think the sound system is excellent -no sun shade in the rear window -sat radio is only complimentary for 90 days -wish the radio would still play after I turn the car off for 5 minutes (my old Olds did...why cant this?)