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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  Luxury & Performance at its BEST. - 2005 Acura TL
  By Average Joe - July 12 - 10:54 pm

  My old car was an 2007 Accord Coupe EXL. It was boring. I didnt want to pay for a car I didnt like driving so I traded it for a used Acura TL. Best decision I ever made! I picked up my black TL with 60K miles on it. Yeah thats a lil high but Acuras are known to last a long time. I LOVE this car! Looks clean and sporty on the outside, nice and luxurious on the inside. Performs as good as it looks! Picks up fast off the line. My TL came with the underbody spoiler kit and 18" A-spec wheels! Looks so nice! I couldnt say no at the dealership! It has every single option available. Navi, heated seats, auto dim mirror, everything. I cant say enough about this car! Highly recommend it.

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  Acura TL - 2009 Acura TL
  By joe767 - July 12 - 2:43 pm

  This is my first new car and what a car it is. Fun to drive and the technology can be overwhelming sometimes but still great. I already put 500 miles on my car after just 1 week because I want to drive it everyday. The SH-AWD is great, the car is glued to the road during all types of conditions. Im averaging 28MPG on the highway and Ive seen has high as 40mpg.

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  Excellent - At Any Price - 2008 Acura TL
  By spotty - July 12 - 11:00 am

  I let past reviews guide me, and Im not sorry I did. I wanted a well-made sports sedan at a reasonable price that was fun to drive and that I wasnt having repaired every six months. And that is exactly what I got. I couldnt be happier. Every time I drive this car I feel I made the right decision. Having had German and American cars in the past, I was tired of the German repairs and the lack of American build-quality. While the exterior styling doesnt compare to BMW or Audi, I spend most of the time inside the car - not standing on the street looking at it, and when youre inside driving the car, youre thoroughly impressed. By far the best value for the money in this segment.

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  Great Car TL-S - 2003 Acura TL
  By Kiry - July 11 - 2:00 am

  This has been a great car for both me and the wife and little kids. I like how much room is in the back seat for car seats. Big roomy trunk. I love driving this car. It has a lot of get and go!

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  what a buy - 2004 Acura TL
  By dipper - July 11 - 2:00 am

  TRADED IN A 2001BMW 525.THE TL IS MORE RELIABLE BETTER EQUIPED AND A MUCH BETTER VALUE.I NEVER HAD ANY PROBLEMS WITH THE 525 EXCEPT THE USUAL BULB FAILURE.FIT AND FINISH OF THE TL IS SECOND TO NONE.I CANT UNDERSTAND WHY IT IS NOT SELLING SO WELL.EVERY DEALER I HAD GONE TO HAD LARGE INVENTORY.IS IT THE COLD WEATHER IN N.Y.?

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  04 ACURA TL - 2004 Acura TL
  By IZZY RAMADAN - July 11 - 2:00 am

  I THINK THE ACURA TL IS GREAT FOR THE MONEY. IT HAS AWESOME POWER , AND GREAT HANDLING.

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  The best TYPE-S Yet - 2007 Acura TL
  By Dan B - July 10 - 12:50 pm

  Ive had my car for a couple weeks now and it is now my 3rd TL, first was an 02 Type-S then an 04 with ASpec and now an 07 Type-S. This car so far has handled nicely, the looks are improved with Quad exhaust and the additional safety features are great. So far MPG has been quite a bit lower... hope that improves with break-in. Performance is unbelievable, acceleration feels more than previous TLs and steering feels much sportier and exact. Interior fit-n-finish is awesome, backup camera nice addition, much quieter interior than any previous TL, almost too quiet. Nice exhaust note. And Im thankful Acura went back to NON-INTEGRATED fog lights! The perfect sports sedan for the Midwest!!

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  Did I jump the gun? - 2006 Acura TL
  By John - July 9 - 10:12 pm

  My car usage is about 75% city, 25% highway, so I was being realistic when I predicted my MPG. The Acura TL is projected to get 21/29, but so far Ive been getting a ridiculous 15.5 MPG, and needless to say, I am thoroughly disappointed. I was highly anticipating the relief in MPG, which was one of the deciding factors during my car-buying process, but 15.5 MPG is SUV territory. I feed my car the suggested 91 octane, I drive with a soft foot, and the A/C gets next to no use.

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  Acura tl sport 2008 - 2008 Acura TL
  By s3rgee - July 6 - 12:29 pm

  Recently bought a 2008 acura tl sport (carbon bronze) used with 125k miles, cant say im not satisfied, iv had a lot of people tell me how it looks more of a year car than a 2008, drivers perspective pretty fast great take offs , spacious, audio system is amazing , only complain no Bluetooth audio , besides that , the car is a great choice , iv had a 2000 civic 2007 g35 , but by far iv really like this car the most, if your a racer its fast but there is faster , you a cruiser , this is a great built up , gas worth every cent.

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  Best car Ive ever owned - 2009 Acura TL
  By Gatojeff - July 5 - 12:56 am

  I cant say enough about my 09 TL (basic model). It comes equipped with features youd expect to find in a much more expensive car. Best deal on the market.