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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  Glad I did not wait for 2009 TL - 2008 Acura TL
  By Blah Blah - January 4 - 10:16 am

  Love the car! Midnight Black with dark interior and 6-speed. This card flies and is a blast to drive. Love the standard gadgets. This makes the buying experience very easy.

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  Best Car of the Year! - 2010 Acura TL
  By dryworks - January 3 - 7:53 am

  Exterior- Non-Generic. Unlike most cars on the market that all look the same, its edgy look and smooth lines are sure to last a decade (forget about what critics says, its not ugly). Interior- from the moment you sit in, the cock pit, dash board, wraps around you like its a perfect fit! High quality material. Technology - Voice act. SUPURB AUDIO SYSTEM, HDD, SH- AWD, IPOD, 8" VGA NAVI Screen, live weather, traffic, zagat, shift pad...etc, it has one of the easiest navigation systems on the market. The handling is incredible, and it has one of the most silenced cabin in the Acura line up. This car is a Sexy, Fun, Tech-junkie, and sporty. It is THE CAR to get if you are looking for a Luxury Sport Sedan.

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  The good and bad of the Type-s - 2007 Acura TL
  By scorched_675 - January 1 - 5:37 pm

  Most cars I have owned I either loved or hated, my 07 Type-s is a true love/hate relationship. I love the looks and styling, as well as the performance and sound of the engine. OK now for the hate, I hate that my almost $40k car rattles everywhere inside! The center speaker cover rattles. The rear subwoofer make the deck rattle. The interior itself is very impressive, perforated leather seats and all. After a month I also added tint to the windows, and had it immediately ruined by the drive scraping a cut in the tint.

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  4 door sport car - 2002 Acura TL
  By lefty - January 1 - 2:00 am

  well rounded with many features at a good value

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  Great Car!!!!! - 2008 Acura TL
  By PaulS - December 26 - 1:13 am

  Purchased the TL Type S auto and love the car. Narrowed down my search to the G35 and TL. Final decision was based on convenience of the dealership and the fact that I love everything about the car. The ride is firm with a ton of power (286 hp) under the hood. The interior has all the conveniences and then some like the real-time traffic nav system, XM radio and Bluetooth. The interior quality is top notch. Love the exterior and I think the TL has a unique look unlike a lot of the other models.

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  Why didnt I buy the Accord! - 2003 Acura TL
  By MikeNJ - December 22 - 10:00 am

  This car has a disappointing amount of squeaks and rattles. The brake system is one of a toy car. I thought because it was an Acura that it would be a better car then a plain old Honda. Boy was I ever wrong. I know a few people that own both of these cars the TL and the Accord. TL drivers share their horror stories while Accord drivers worship their cars.

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  2008 TL w/ Navi - 2008 Acura TL
  By JerseyGal - December 10 - 1:07 pm

  Ive had the car for about 2 months now and so far so good. Overall, Im very impressed. The ride is smooth, it handles curves well, and the tech package is extremely fun. I am having a problem getting my garage door opener connected to the rear view mirror. Additionally, the moment it gets cold my tire pressure lights come on.

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  WOW MOM WOW!!! - 2004 Acura TL
  By ME NOT YOU - December 9 - 2:00 am

  I searched for 1 yr before purchasing this car. Started with the germans, looked into the japanese, perused the Sweeds. I got down to 4 finalists. Saab 93 Aero, Acura TL, BMW 330i, and Infiniti G35. I hate the G35 seats horrible bolsters, and whats up with the switches on the inside,the tranny was too gruff. The 330 was great as expected but 3k more + everybody has one here in LA. The worst thing about the 330 was the sensor under the rearview obtrusive and ugly. Saab or Acura... 6sp, good engines and euro feeling... When you consider the Saab is 2k more than Acura before any options it seemed like a no Brainer... It was the Acura TL 6sp for me. Best Bang for the Buck...

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  Great Car - 2004 Acura TL
  By TxEx84 - December 9 - 2:00 am

  Very fun to drive. Great value compared to BMW 330i. Also considered the G35 but the added features on the TL (DVD-Audio, Bluetooth, XM Radio standard, ...) and interior quality has the Infiniti beat.

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  Awesome Fun - 2004 Acura TL
  By Goocher - December 9 - 2:00 am

  Before buying this car, I test drove the BMW 330, Infiniti G35, Mazda RX8, Lexus IS300. I heard about it last minute from friends and the Internet. After driving the car, I knew this was the car for me. The base equipment is hard to beat for the price and the performance is outstanding