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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Excellent Drive - 2007 Acura TL
By RexDaddy - April 2 - 3:46 amMy TL has proven to be the best value for the money car I have ever owned. The interior is comfortable, great nav system and bluetooth are extremely convenient, engine is powerful providing great pickup on the highway when needed. The number of features is immense and make it a car I hate to leave in the parking garage all day during work.
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3rd TL & still pleased - 2009 Acura TL
By TMR - April 1 - 8:20 pmAll I can say is, same old story in a good way. This TL is a great car at a good price. As with my other two TLs I could find no better bang for the buck in this class. I love the styling.
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Whatever happened to decent cars - 2005 Acura TL
By MJL05 - March 31 - 10:24 pmI bought my Acura TL in September of 08, and after hearing all the positive things about them, I thought to myself that sounds like a great car to get. Dont get me wrong its not a piece of junk but since day one I have had more problems then my old car in the four years Ive had it. I recently thought of selling it or trading it for another car because the car is in the shop so often. You know all those annoying sounds you really dont like well thats my car for the most part. I bring it in the shop for a few problems and then more develop. This will be the last Acura I will buy in my life and Im only 21 thats pretty sad. Now Im losing money just to get another car not to hear the noises.
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I guess Im a poser - 2001 Acura TL
By keith - March 31 - 6:51 pmThis is definitely a great car in every area except exterior design. Love the engine, gas mileage, Bose sound system, handling and build quality is superb. If I didnt have to look at it and think of a BMW M3, This would be the car for me. Think Ill trade it for one.
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Quality Issues - 2004 Acura TL
By jcmmm - March 31 - 10:00 amThe Acura TL is definitely a great looking car. However, it has many problems that Acura is not willing to share...well here is the list: The paint has shrinkage. You can see this in proper lighting. I have seen the defects on almost every car. The paint on the bumper cover peels at the mounting point. Rattles in the dash area. Rattles in headliner. The center console will sweat when using the air conditioning. I was told by the dealer that the coil was located in the center console. No fix available!!!
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my tl - 2004 Acura TL
By joe lightner - March 31 - 10:00 amthe tl is great. the biggest and only downfall that i can find with it is the fuel economy. im not getting any kind of mileage what so ever. also the car seems to have quite a few blind spots when looking to change lanes on the highway, but the styling and ride cant be matched by any other car that ive had the pleasure of owning or riding in.
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TL Rules - 2004 Acura TL
By I Love TL - March 31 - 10:00 amI just cat beleive how well this car rides. Engine, acceleration, finish, interior, standard features. i like it better than my Mercedes.
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Great ride..Better than E 320 Merc - 2009 Acura TL
By Sal - March 29 - 9:26 pmThis is my 2nd TL (after 2005). This is BY FAR the best car I have ever driven....
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TL Baby - 2005 Acura TL
By Brettski - March 29 - 7:50 amJust plain awesome. Every electronic feature you could ever need. Very fast with tons of "pick up". 270 horses is more than enough, trust me. Well built and a ton of fun to drive.
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Value, Luxury, Quality, Efficiency - 2003 Acura TL
By JimmyP - March 28 - 2:00 amCompared & drove Nissan Max, Infinity, Lexus, BMW 3 series, Cadilac CTS. DO NOT waste the incremental dollars on BMW, Lexus, Infinity or Cadiilac CTS to get a similarly equipped car. If your looking for the "prestige" and its worth $6k-$10K, go ahead. This car has it ALL over each of them.
