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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Very reliable, build performance car - 2003 Acura TL
By deccan - December 9 - 2:00 amExcept for exterior styling and average braking, the car is outstanding
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I thought Acuras were good? - 2003 Acura TL
By ShouldaBoughtaCaddy - December 8 - 9:23 pmPurchased car used with 90,000km on it. Tranny blew at 185km. Dealer wanted $6000 to replace it, not under warranty. Only under certain VINs were the trannys covered under warranty. Had a Honda Sabre (Japanese TL) tranny imported from Japan, installed for $3K, seems ok for now. The car is pretty quick. My V8 5.3L GMC Sierra get almost the same MPG. Repairs are expensive and front wheel drive cars are a pain to work on. Honda (Acura) has totally dropped the ball on this one. They have built their reputation on reliability and performance. What happened here Mr Honda? Ive had much better luck with my 95 Nissan, my 98 Civic and my 02 GMC Sierra. Shoulda bought a caddy!
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Great Reliable car - 2003 Acura TL
By VK - December 6 - 5:50 pmI bought the car new. After 105K miles its still running great. I did have some transmission trouble and while it was out of warranty and did not fall within the recall group, Acura graciously replaced it. Feel good about the safety features.
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Fun to drive - 2010 Acura TL
By Deepak - December 6 - 3:46 pmWe just picked up our 6 speed TL yesterday. It was snowing outside, so we had a first hand experience on snow and the car handled beautifully. The 6 speed transmission is very smooth to shift and is really fun to drive. The dealership we bought it gave us a very fair price and we are really thrilled to own this vehicle (this is our second Acura and the fourth from the Honda family).
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Worst Car since my 1977 Chevrolet - 2002 Acura TL
By R Jarrell - December 4 - 2:09 pmIm on the second Transmission now. Its going bad and the dealer wont acknowledge. Among other failures blower motor, emissions sensor, brake rotors, leaked for over a year - defective rear view mirror, trim is coming loose on dash. Thin metal will dent at the slightest bump. Awful quality. Great mileage though but they lightened it up too much. I will never buy another Acura. Not as good as a regular Honda.
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Texas TL 2005 - 2005 Acura TL
By bms1971 - December 4 - 12:56 pmOnly had this car a few months, love the interior and exterior as well. Had Type S before this one, wish Acura would have designed a performance version of this new TL ... maybe RWD w/ 300hp. Otherwise the car has been great, and has delivered on all angles since I bought it.
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Is this really sport sedan ? - 2003 Acura TL
By Kaddy - December 4 - 10:00 amIf youre after sport sedan, drop Acura from you list in favor of BMW 3, Saab 9- 3, Infiniti G35, Mercedes C. Its too heavy and big. Nose dive in turns, lousy brakes, slow acceleration, awkward ride and stability in curves does not appeal to enthusiatic driver. Otherwise, this is great family/businessman car, just a bit outdated as compared to competition.
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Luxary and Power at an Affordable Price - 2003 Acura TL
By Poohbear - December 4 - 10:00 amJust purchased my 2003 TLS last week. After owning Acuras in the past, I knew about the quality and dependability, but had no idea of the value of the TLS. This car flat out performs. It has great power, comfort and features. The back seat is roomy enough for my 3 children or 2 adults to fit comfortably. The engine has power to spare and the features rival any entry level luxary sedan on the market.
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Great Car - 2000 Acura TL
By Unclefletch - December 1 - 9:38 pmI purchased my car last year after my 1995 Maxima was totaled and was looking for something I could pay cash for. Overall its been a very good car to drive with better than expected gas mileage on mid grade fuel. My only major expense was $900 to replace the xenon headlight on the passenger side last year and now the drivers side seems to be going out and Im not looking forward to another $900 expense at the Acura dealership and was not happy with the service as it took 2 visits to repair them. I also have an issue with vibration when braking, that after replacing both the front brakes as well as rotors. When shopping for a new car however, I would purchase another one.
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Best Car Pick for Class - 2009 Acura TL
By BillT - December 1 - 9:05 pmI purchased the 2009 AWD TL in White Diamond. It has been a very satisfactory purchase. The exterior design was difficult at first to accept, but it really grows on you. The interior is excellent. I love to drive the car, and after four months, the quality has been outstanding. Acura knows how to build a car well, and the service after the sale support has been superb. The technology is exceptional and especially good, since Acura doesnt nickle-and-dime you with add-ons. Im a committed Acura customer with this car and the last, and I cant wait to see what comes next.
