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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  great car - 2004 Acura TL
  By steve seminole - September 30 - 10:00 am

  This is a great ride. I have 15,000 mile on it now, and I still love it. No problems at it still rides as new. I have had a Lexus, Lincoln LS and a 2003 within the past 5 years, and this car is far superior in every way.

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  Great car, horrible reliability - 2002 Acura TL
  By value man - September 28 - 6:29 pm

  Why the whole world has not made a big issue that the reliability of this model years transmission is absolutely horrible is beyond me. Acura should be embarrassed - this model year is a black eye to their reputation of reliable cars.

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  Best Vehicle Ever! - 2009 Acura TL
  By Joey - September 27 - 3:19 pm

  I might be writing this prematurely as I have only had my new Acura for a week. But wow, this car in unbelievable. I test drove Infiniti G37 and Lexus GS. I cant imagine a vehicle with more bang for the buck. I love the styling, performance, handling and navigation system.

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  Acura has a winner!! - 2003 Acura TL
  By SpyGuy - September 27 - 10:00 am

  Best car on the market for under $30k. Superior quality and comfort. Bought for my wife back in April - picking up the Type-S version for myself next month. Extremely fun to drive. Plenty of power with 225 horsies. Has all the extras youd expect to find on a much more expensive sport-performance sedan. Acura has won me over!!

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  Great car for the real world - 2009 Acura TL
  By ah7771 - September 26 - 11:00 pm

  Hands down the best interior in its class. I love the exterior too. This is one car that wont get lost in the parking lot. I have the pearl white and get compliments all the time. This car handles beautifully, especially around corners. When it comes to how people drive 99.9% of the time, this car wins hands down. If you are instead intent on taking your car through a slalom course, maybe pay the extra $10k for similarly equipped BMW or sacrifice interior luxury and resale value and go for a g37. My 2nd TL and Ive been very impressed with how solid these cars are. Never had problems with either.

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  Second Acura and Loving It!! - 2003 Acura TL
  By SnappiGirl74 - September 25 - 2:25 pm

  Let me start by telling you this is my second Acura. I bought my TL type-S in 2006 because I needed to have four doors (my CL only had 2). I bought this car with 30,000 miles on it and it now has 120,000. I have NEVER had a single issue with this car...not even with the transmission. The car is powerful and confident when driving, comfortable on long drives. The cars navigation is great, the touchscreen is very user friendly. I upgraded the nav disk once in 2009. The TL is packed with everything that you would need in a car without the outrageous price tag. I am currently getting 27 mpg with both city and highway driving.

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  owner - 2004 Acura TL
  By NaMrgnMorgan - September 23 - 10:00 am

  enjoy driving and power that it has, and stereo

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  Love this car... - 2004 Acura TL
  By bodaswo - September 23 - 10:00 am

  I had a 2 year old (bought new) Camry XLE v6. Great car, BUT, not fun to drive. It was as the magazines said, safely boring. Saw the TL when it came out and tried to stay away from it. I lost. I drove one and was hooked. Great looks, performance, handling...etc. etc. What else does one need in a car!

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  An Exhilarating Luxury Sedan - 2009 Acura TL
  By JP2000 - September 20 - 11:34 pm

  I have had this car for three months now. I applaud Acura for finally taking the lead with a fresh bold design for the TL. The carÂ’s styling is simply brilliant--- inside and out. The superbly integrated Tech. package brings the carÂ’s substance on par with its stunning looks. For the last 15 years, IÂ’ve only driven German cars. Before buying the TL, I also considered Audi A4, BMW 535x, VW CC VR6, Infiniti G37x, and the Lexus ES350. All things considered, my final analysis led me straight to the TL.

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  A lot of car for the money - 2009 Acura TL
  By omnimax - September 17 - 9:59 pm

  The TL packs a lot of car for the price. You can easily pay 1000s more for a comparably equipped German car. Enjoy all the tech features they packed. For a 1st year car, it feels pretty darn solid with no rattles so far. The ride is sporty but yet still maintains a luxury feel as well. The interior space is more than adequate to seat 5 in comfort. I like the high-tech look of the dash. The exterior style had me at first glance so it just works for me. I could think of improvements but I think Im being picky at that point. The TL presents a value proposition that cant be beat.