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:

• 

  Started out Infiniti ended up Acura - 2010 Acura TL
  By Fran Sullivan - December 17 - 9:16 pm

  Test drove the base and SH-AWD Acura TL. The SH-AWD, right out of the gate was just smiles. The base driving experience was not the same. Competent but no fun. My teenage expert agrees the acura has a better feel and the tech stuff really is impressive. I bought a white TL with Umber leather. The wife claims it is a mans car (I can live with that). I am getting 23 MPG with a light foot. Fun driving results in 18 MPG. Get the tech package. Honda does that right.

• 

  Really enjoy car thus far - 2010 Acura TL
  By Brian - December 17 - 3:05 pm

  Ive driven my 6-speed manual for over a month now. Love the performance. So much fun to drive. Engine sounds sweet. Im tall (6-5") and no problem with head or leg room. Have had some comfort issues with the headrest still trying to adjust everything. Otherwise the seats "hug" you, which is great. The AWD handles fantastically corners like its on rails. Like the tech system for the most part still learning it. Traffic and weather are nice features. The exterior design is fine despite what the editors say. Like the HID headlights. Gas mileage overall is lower 20s but what do you expect with a 305hp engine - 35mpg? Yeah right. Really like the car and enjoy it immensely.

• 

  Not a Honda, and thats a good thing - 2010 Acura TL
  By Bob - December 15 - 1:08 pm

  Just purchased this vehicle after several test drives. The audio is fantastic--best stock system Ive heard. The AWD platform lacks some of the RWD jazz the G37x does, but youll appreciate that FWD bias in the winter. Also, the Super-Handling is otherworldly. Just try to cause understeer--you cant do it. It out-cornered every other car I drove. I test drove all its competitors, and none of them achieve the balance of value, performance, comfort, features, and reliability that this car does. The torque hits max at c.5k RPM, so this is more of a highway driver than a drag racer. However, in sport mode, you can row the 5AT yourself, and see how fast you hit the power band

• 

  Great Car! - 2006 Acura TL
  By SpeedRacerGabe - December 15 - 11:02 am

  I have owned my TL for about 3.5 yrs now and I still love it as much as I did when new. The most reliable car I have ever owned, great performance and with the 6-speed I just love driving through the mountain roads and winding up the engine. Fuel mileage better than I expected and have seen 38 on the hwy thanks to a couple of performance upgrades.

• 

  1 Week Review - 2005 Acura TL
  By Airmobile - December 15 - 8:50 am

  I was fortunate to be able to purchase my TL thru my sister which works at Honda Corporate so I got a good deal. The car has plenty of power but does not have a plush ride like the Accord due to the sporty suspension and the low profile tires mounted on 17" rims. The seats are wonderful as is the seating position given that I weigh 235 lbs and stand at 6 tall. The leg room in the back is not as good as the Accord and was pretty tight with my 63" sitting in the back. I cant wait to cruise to Vegas! If youre debating between an Accord or the TL, the Accord will appeal to your logical side but the TL will definitely please your senses.

• 

  Acura is just average - 2002 Acura TL
  By Gerhard - December 13 - 12:53 pm

  I bought my Acura based on consumer reports reliability and performance recommendations. However, my Acura did not live up to my expectations. I spent the extra money on Acura over domestic products and other foreign brands because I thought I was getting top quality. Instead I got many headaches. For the record, I still like the design and I like the performance. However, I did not like the fact that I have had to have my transmission changed 2 times. I am on my third trans and now I have to purchase a new timing belt that is supposed to cost over $1000. And that is only at 7100. Needless to say I would not recommend this model, nor would I endorse this brand any more.

• 

  acura TL - 2009 - 2009 Acura TL
  By Triple lakes - December 13 - 11:30 am

  This is my 3rd Acura, a 2000 TL, a 2003 TL-S and the 2009 TL. Far and away the 2009 is the best. love the style and the interior is outstanding. Handles great.

• 

  Great Car - 2005 Acura TL
  By Tom - December 12 - 10:44 pm

  Extremely stylish vehicle. Head turner, even at five years old. Abundant whiz-bang features in the cabin -- lots of them linked to the particular drivers key fob. Engine is very powerful -- wonderful sound. Front-wheel drive pulls the car forward nicely on dicey roads. Soft leather seats. Xenon headlights which are tightly focused. XM/Sirius radio. European feel on the road. Great value.

• 

  SWEET - 2010 Acura TL
  By Ed Robust - December 12 - 1:39 pm

  This car is on $$$$$... has everything you could want in car and more. Styling, handling and the pure enjoyment of this car makes me get out and just ride. Ive owned a 3 Series BMW and this car excels past that, no longer crave that in-line 6. Went with SH-AWD, with bigger engine and tighter suspension "YOU CANNOT" ask for more!!

• 

  Expected More - 2007 Acura TL
  By Gary - December 10 - 9:38 pm

  This is a fun and extremely comfortable car to drive, however, I was disappointed overall and will be anxious to turn my car in when the lease is up. A $35K + car with tires that didnt make it to 30,000 miles, carpeting that came up and took four attempts to fix, and other minor problems that could never seemed to be fixed in just a day. I had to leave my car at the dealership for repair work for days at a time on more than one occasion. I will miss the drive but not the headaches.