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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  Best car ever - 2004 Acura TL
  By danilo67 - October 10 - 2:00 am

  Absolutely the best car Acura(or anyone else) has built. Smooth, responsive engine, Great sound system, Ample room for Driver and passengers, including back seat. Wow! What a ride! Handling and feel second to none. Drive one and youll be hooked.

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  Good while it lasted, now moving on... - 1999 Acura TL
  By Jamnurse - October 8 - 7:49 pm

  I bought this car with about 24k miles, currently 164k. Was gonna try to push it til 200k, but, Engine light staying on for a year now. Car has shut off on me twice while at the stop light (have a new battery). Ignition switch was changed out under the recall. EGR changed a few times. Engine going. I put quite a bit of $$ into it already. No sense putting any more. I got my thrill for 9 years. I had visor, wood grain and wing put on. I loved my car. Will always have a place in my heart... I think Im done with acura though. Dont like the shape of new TL. I like the RL, but, I think Im getting GS300.

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  TL Type-S - 2003 Acura TL
  By Huntwind - October 8 - 2:00 am

  Excellent performance sedan car for the price range

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  One year and still giddy! - 2006 Acura TL
  By Scott - October 6 - 3:52 pm

  I have now had this car for exactly one year and can honestly say I am as excited to drive this car today as I was a year ago. Be advised that I am a very picky person but cannot think of any complaints about this car. It is a comfortable ride, very quiet. It is also very quick and loves to corner fast (as do I). Last, it has a very organized interior layout that is intuitive and exceeds my needs. I just went with my girlfriend as she test drove an 02 BMW 3330xi ($30K). I realize its a beemer, but truthfully, my TL is just as nice, just as sporty and cheaper. She even is wondering why she doesnt get a TL instead and save some $. Great car, no regrets.

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  Amazing automobile - 2009 Acura TL
  By ryan&diana - October 5 - 9:18 pm

  Perfection describes the new tl sh-awd! My wife recently traded in her fully loaded Acadia for a loaded tl. I also owned a Lexus is in the past. We test drove everything out- Lexus, audis, BMWs, infinitis, then we drove this gem. The tl has an amazing technology package -ipod connection, cd, hdd hard drive, and XM. It even holds pictures uploaded via the usb port. The navi is crystal clear and gigantic -I love to see the live weather. This car is comfortable and a blast to drive. I drove it across the country and enjoyed every minute. The leather is so soft! The 300+ horses blows m3s out of the water and I can still get 25 plus mpgs. Test drive one and you will see.

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  Awesome Car - 2009 Acura TL
  By ericcc - October 5 - 10:42 am

  I drove a G37x, A4, and 3 series. This car was by far the most technologically advanced car and had the best price. We are thrilled with it. Drives like a dream and the tech package makes the car extremely entertaining. The sound system is incredible. I dont think I have ever heard music sound as good. Very smooth ride, yet feels sporty when you want to push it hard.

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  A great car!!! - 2003 Acura TL
  By chet67 - October 4 - 2:00 am

  This is my second Acura, my first was an Integra and I loved it. So when it was time to buy a new car I went back to Acura dealer. This car is almost perfect. It has style, is quiet and fun to drive. My only negative is the back seat, it is hard to strap in a booster seat for an older child. The seatbelt locks are hard to locate when locking them in. Maybe it would be better if they were located on the outside rather then the center.

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  American Made Road Rocket - 2009 Acura TL
  By RI Car Guy - October 3 - 9:33 pm

  Having had great experience with our two other Hondas, we chose the TL over the Accord EXL-V6 for a nicer interior and quieter ride. So far this car has not disappointed, providing a proven drive-train in an upscale fun to drive car. Power and handling are great but the ride is a little stiff. It does absorb potholes better the the Accord and is much quieter. Tech Package is easy to learn (without reading the 2" thick manual) and the sound system is excellent. This car is currently a bargain, costing thousands less than foreign assembled competitors.

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  All around winner - 2006 Acura TL
  By Roy - October 2 - 5:30 pm

  I have the 2006 TL as a company car and have over 30k miles on it so far, so I think I can give a pretty fair assessment. First, it has a lot more interior room than it looks. Plenty of room for 6 footers in the rear sets. Power and handling are great, as is the overall styling of the car. My one complaint is that the bluetooth phone interface picks up so much ambient noise that its almost unuseable. I think the mic needs to be closer to the driver. That would fix the problem. The seats are great, but the interior is not as quiet as a Lexus ES 330. The ride is a tad on the harsh side, but still quite good. And the NAV system is the best out there.

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  Problems with my 2003 Acura 3.2 TL - 2004 Acura TL
  By Sundar - September 30 - 10:00 am

  The car is nice and gives much more bang for the buck compared to Lexus and Infiniti. I had some problems. The license plate is fixed by a peculiar plastic bracket. This got broken off and I ahve to get it fixed. Also, there is a crack on the bottom of the bumper below the license plate. The car is, however, fine and gives me around 25 miles for the gallon (mostly highway driving). I do not know why Acura does not provide MPG DVD players, only WAV players.