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:

• 

  Great value - 2003 Acura TL
  By AcuraTLDriver - April 29 - 10:00 am

  Got my TL-S in early March, 2003. So far, its been a great drive -- fast, powerful, great standard features. Actually, if I couldve gotten a G35 for about the same price, I wouldve gotten one, but the TL-S was available for 2.9% financing and the dealers were making good deals, unlike Infiniti. Plus, I think the TL-S looks better than the G35. Ive been getting about 25-26mpg all-around and even got over 31mpg on a highway drive (with A/C on!).

• 

  Best Car in it class - 2006 Acura TL
  By Mohan - April 29 - 12:20 am

  This is my first luxury sedan. I had 2001 Camry and wanted to go for German car either Bimmer or Audi. I did lot of ground work by comparing all the cars in the 30+ category. I was always going back to Acura 3.2 TL because of its new look and field more over it comes with so many features (XM satellite radio, blue tooth, and voice enabled navigation) with lesser price than Bimmer and Audi. I had test drive and I felt the car is so stable and good. The sales person was very nice and explained every thing. The buying experience was hassle free. I am driving this car for the almost one month. It is fun to drive. The Surround sound system and navigation is really awesome. Good luck!

• 

  Correction to My Previous Review.... - 2006 Acura TL
  By AmyB - April 27 - 2:24 pm

  Under my "Suggested Improvements" Mystery solved on the seat that kept sliding back when I got in, making me have to reset to my auto-setting. Dealer had only given me one set of keys..keys are marked "Driver 1& 2"..I had Driver 2 key and my seat setting is for Driver 1. Got both sets now..so when you open car, or start it with key 1 or 2, corresponding seat setting applies automatically. So there is no problem with the seat backing up automatically, as I originally thought...only had to do with the key & driver settings matching up!

• 

  Amazing long term car! - 1998 Acura TL
  By sfgiants22 - April 26 - 6:26 pm

  This was the second car that Ive ever bought and it is awesome. I bought it at 110,000(I know), but following some dealer tricks I was sold on it. I felt a bit taken later because of the miles it had but it still drive like new and its at 165000 now. I couldnt ask for a more reliable vehicle and the only thing that Ive had to do is replace the battery and headlight bulbs...unbelievably reliable. Acura is simply an all around good company and Im glad I bought my TL.

• 

  Acura TL - A W E S O M E - 2005 Acura TL
  By Bonnie Campbell - April 25 - 1:53 pm

  Absolutely pure fun to drive! Has the great combination of power and handling that Ive been looking for and has been more than reliable in snow and rain. No skidding, hydroplaning. Perfect feeling of safety in this car. Sound system is superior and find myself taking the longer route so that I can drive longer because I dont want to get out of the nice warm seat (bun warmer) and the great handling of the car combined with the awesome stereo sound and the XM satellite radio.

• 

  Good but not great - 2009 Acura TL
  By rickpoole - April 23 - 11:29 pm

  After test driving 3 different 2009 TLs w/Tech while my 2007 TL was in the shop I found it was improved in many areas but took a few steps backwards that would keep me from trading my 2007 TL for a new 2009 TL - not worth the price difference. Main issues was worse city mileage 09 ratings are supposed to be fairly accurate, 07 ratings were high by 10-20%. Both were rated at 18. Driving my 07 conservatively I can get 19-20, driving the 09 the same way only got 16-17.

• 

  Acura TL 3.2 - 2003 Acura TL
  By JesusFreak1986 - April 23 - 10:00 am

  This is a very nice car to have, I am only 17 and I love it. It is build very solid and is reliable, I have already driven it almost 20,000 miles and have only owned it for 8 months and I have loved every minute. I have driven to several states and I enjoy showing it off to everyone and anyone who looks my way, and they love to look b/c it is a beautiful piece of art-work.

• 

  A worthy successor to the old TL - 2004 Acura TL
  By Bobbo - April 23 - 10:00 am

  I upgraded to the 2004 TL from a 2002 TL (non-S) and have been amazed. Compared to the previous model, the interior is truly luxurious. The seats are firm but comfortable. Driving this car is much more fun than with the old model because of the increase in power and the improvement in ride control. In all, this car stands head and shoulders above the old model in looks, interior, and driving. Its my favorite car yet.

• 

  BETTER - 2004 Acura TL
  By Virg - April 23 - 10:00 am

  After driving a 2002 type S TL. this is a top driving experience. A good driver and riding vehicle.

• 

  First on the block! - 2004 Acura TL
  By mathvixen - April 23 - 10:00 am

  I was able to buy my TL the first day that they were available. I work at a community college where we train Honda mechanics. When I drove my car to work, I was surrounded by students enjoying the look of my new car. Many of them were going to be working for Honda. The car is as much fun to drive as it is too look at but the best surprise is the audio system.