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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A lot of car for price tag it sells for - 2005 Acura TL
By FSU Nole - November 28 - 8:23 pmA great car for the price it sells for. Looked at other cars in same category, G35, IS, and others. No other car compares with the features and cost benefit of the TL. A fun car to drive that has some power behind it as well. Inside design is great and very comfortable, XM satellite makes long trips feel short.
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Gotta Have It!! - 2006 Acura TL
By CHOOSEY - November 28 - 4:30 pmIf you are looking for a fun 4dr sporty vehicle, the Acura 3.2 TL is It. Ive been looking at this vehicle for a few years now. I love Honda vehicles because of their reliability. I am very happy with my purchase. 17inch wheels are a nice touch too.
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Italian Styling + Japanese Reliability - 2008 Acura TL
By CarAddict - November 26 - 4:11 pmIn addition to Hondas reliability, the other main reason why I bought this car is that I think Honda really did a great job styling the exterior of the TL. I really like the beautiful styling touches such as the character lines that run across the sides of the car. The 2008 TL styling is elegant and understated, unlike the new 2009 TL which I thought is too loud for my taste with the oversized grill in the front and chrome strip on the trunk. However, the sleek styling does result in poor rearward visibility for the TL. Having driven a Acura Integra for the last 20 years, this is probably the biggest thing I have to adopt in my new TL. Both the B and the C pillars on the TL are very wide!
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No problems - 2001 Acura TL
By paul - November 25 - 10:19 amIve driven my TL daily and put on 140,000 miles and have never had a problem with this car. I drove GM vehicles primarily prior to this and had more issues than I care to remember. Since owning this car, Im sold on Honda quality.
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Rattle Box with Features - 2005 Acura TL
By Czarcrab - November 25 - 12:23 amHavent you all heard lately about the bad built quality of the Acura Body. My car is pretty much a rattlebox with tons of features. It queeks and squeeks at every nick and bump on the road. There is rattling noise from front glove box, wing mirrors, rear seat center etc etc. And very loud irritating noises. Just a RATTLEBOX with loads of features IMHO.
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Amazing Car - 2010 Acura TL
By Patrick - November 22 - 5:10 amJust spent the last 3 weeks researching cars, looking at cars, test driving etc. I stumbled on this one at a carshow and immediately was sold. Great exterior looks, great interior, plenty of room in both front and back (63" Driver). Quiet inside and very smooth drive. Black exterior with Ebony leather inside has lots of people walking by and taking a look.
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6-month review - 2003 Acura TL
By Red Dog - November 22 - 2:00 amGreat car so far. I was disappointed that it had a pretty serious water leak in the trunk when I got it, but of course they fixed that right away. Service has been good so far. Engine is strong throughout the powerband. Transmissions shifts kind of hard sometimes when accelerating slowly. Handling is very nice for a large FWD sedan. Seats are very comfortable. Would like to see a telescopic steering wheel since it seems a little far away (maybe I have short arms). Stereo sounds great. Overall, great car and very happy with it so far.
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WOW MOM WOW - 2004 Acura TL
By salut - November 22 - 2:00 amI searched long and hard for this car... One year, going through the Germans, the Japanese, and the Swedes... My top four were: TL, 93aero, 330i, and G35... Infinity hated the seats. Beemer 3k more and that red light under the rear view (ugh). Saab was also 2k more before any options. Acura winner best bang for the buck... Great car...
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Great car at grea pric - 2004 Acura TL
By hobster - November 22 - 2:00 amI have never had this much fun owning a new car. Performance is incredible. Sound system is incredible, ready for DVD-A discs. 5.1 sound is incredible in the car. Bluetooth cell phone technology is so cool. Interior layout is top notch and all materials are incredible. Drove 3-series, G35, and LS and I know I bought the best car (and is the lowest price!)
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3rd Acura - 2009 Acura TL
By Ed - November 17 - 9:07 pmI previously drove a Nissan Maxima for 6 years, until I switched to Acura in 2003. Since then I have never looked back. The comfort and performance in the 2009 TL is incredible. I spend a lot of time in my car meeting with my customers so handling and comfort are very important. Having upgraded from the 2006 TL the difference is incredible. Acura has created the perfect balance between comfort and performance and thrown in all the bells and whistles.
