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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  2004 TL - 2004 Acura TL
  By TM823 - November 16 - 2:00 am

  Quick, Handles well. Great look, comfortable seats everything but auto headlights

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  Exellent value and looks - 2005 Acura TL
  By Boza - November 14 - 7:43 pm

  My driving experience have been impecable. This is the best car Ive ever own.

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  09 TL AWD - 2009 Acura TL
  By RonB - November 14 - 11:09 am

  I bought this car after a 3 year lease on a 2007 Accord V6. The Accord was flawless and sold me on Honda vehicles. The exterior styling of the car is just a little too gaudy for my taste and could be toned down some but it was not enough to prevent me from buying the car. I drove the car on a 500 mile business trip the first week I owned it and that convinced me that I made an excellent choice. The NAV Weather is a great plus, the sound system is excellent, the ride is quiet and comfortable and the mileage is more than acceptable for a car of this size.

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  2003 TL Type S with Navigation, Spoiler - 2003 Acura TL
  By tonnybb - November 14 - 10:00 am

  I was torned between this car and the Lexus IS 300. The Type S won me over due to its excellent value, long list of features, resale value, and reputation for quality. Including tax, I paid $33,500. I have less than 1,000 miles on it and it is therefore still in the break in period. I have been a long-term BMW owner (5 and 7 series). The BMW handles better, but the total cost of ownership of these cars are way too expensive. This is an excellent handling car for a front drive vehicle with outstanding accelaration and fuel ecconomy for its size.

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  Great Car - Great Value - 2009 Acura TL
  By Jim Matheson - November 12 - 9:25 pm

  This segment is filled with excellent vehicles, but the TL stands out based on its long list of standard features and reasonable price. Mine is the base model, which is just as quick as the AWD due to its lighter weight and gets better mileage to boot. I agree the front grille is not Acuras best work, but I found a replacement in the aftermarket which is a huge improvement. While not a true sports sedan, the car handles well for its size and intended use and the motor is a jewel - smooth and powerful. Acura builds a quality automobile and I have found the resale values to be excellent. Guess thats why I have owned 22 of them so far...

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  Lovin it - 2007 Acura TL
  By drjohn - November 11 - 6:36 pm

  The car is a blast. I bought the car on a salvage title (front end accident). I love the tight handing. While I dont have the S type, I do have after market struts with coil over shocks, so it is a bit lower and a more stiff ride. The interior is wonderful. I love the transition from the door to the dash which is rounded, so I dont feel like Im boxed in like BMW & Volvo. Smooth transmission with better acceleration at plus 40 mph.

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  Best of the Breed - 2004 Acura TL
  By orclking25 - November 11 - 10:00 am

  The 2004 TL is hands down the best car of the bunch, I tested two other cars when deciding on this purchase, the BMW 330 and Infiniti G35. Beamer- nice car but way overpriced, you have to add options to get it to the same level as the TL, lacked many features, bad placement for a cupholder!, plus I had heard rumors of reliability issues with the new 3 series. G35- great performance but ugly, cheap interior, Extremely ugly front end

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  A great car choice - a little squeaky - 2006 Acura TL
  By John - November 10 - 9:47 am

  I bought my car in July and it has been so much fun to drive!! The looks, both inside and out, are top notch. I drove the comparable BMW, Lexus, and Infiniti and all had some kind of issue that I didnt like. The TL smoked all of those in my book (after 6 months of research)! I drive mostly on the highway and average 28 mpg so it also gets great mileage. Everything is great! Except... The only bad thing is that since Acura used so many different materials on the inside, during the cold months they squeak and rattle sometimes. It doesnt happen all the time but when it does it DRIVES ME CRAZY!!!! Still love the car and wouldnt have been this happy with anything else.

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  Happy Owner - 2002 Acura TL
  By SLM206 - November 9 - 10:00 am

  Ive owned this car for a year and 1/2 and the only, picky thing I would change about it is the cup holders. It is a joy to drive, has the pick-up I need for merging onto busy freeways, and the ride is smooootttthhh. Everyone who rides in this car loves it. And the price makes it even better.

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  A beauty which rivals new cars. - 2004 Acura TL
  By Ethan - November 8 - 6:13 am

  The 2004 Acura TL is an anomaly: a car which is beautiful, comfortable, practical, and fun. The VTEC engine is punchy and quick, and the exhaust note is fantastic. Meanwhile, the leather bucket seats are remarkably comfortable with its heating capabilities, lumbar support, and cushy leather. The interior is premium for the price with much of the surfaces being leather wrapped or brushed aluminum. The back seat is tiny, but only to make room for a massive trunk that holds a bookshelf, a sleep in bag, and emergency kit, a thick coat, a marching band uniform, and groceries. This car is very practical despite its looks and performance. The car handles adequately, but it suffers from massive understeer and "boatiness": the TL would benefit from AWD, which would help with the understeer. Other than that, the TL is a fantastic performer with its shockingly quick launch and acceleration, comfortable suspension, and 160 MPH top speed. The best part of the car, though, is the styling. This car is beautiful from every angle- especially the rear end which rivals BMWs and Audis of the same era. If youre looking for the best value for money, look no further than the 2004 Acura TL.