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 value, cheap to keep - 2000 Acura TL
  By Bill - December 2 - 8:28 am

  I purchased my 2000 TL new and have owned 8 1/2 yrs as of this writing. Its a terrific car overall. Solidly built, a great value, rock-solid reliability and just plain cheap to keep. I have 54,000 miles on the car and have replaced the tires twice, the front brakes once and have had all maintenance performed at Acura dealerships. Minor service intervals (every 3,500 miles) run less than $100 and majors run less than $200. My only real complaint concerns the rear door interior panels. A gap between the vinyl and the plastic part that contains the window up/down button has appeared at different times on both panels. One panel was replaced free of charge, but not the second one.

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  Acura TL -The Best Value On The Road - 2005 Acura TL
  By pjk - December 2 - 7:16 am

  Terrific performance for the money - this is the best value car on the road today. Navigation system knocks spots off the one in our 2001 BMW 540i and the Acura is 100% more reliable than its garage mate. Acura could improve the turn radius and make the steering wheel telescope but otherwise theyve thought of everything. The Bridgestone performance tires were a big disappointment and wore out after 12,000 miles - with no hot-rodding to hasten their demise. We replaced them with Pirellis and are much happier. This is my 3rd Acura (1995 Legend, 2000 TL) and I love the brand. The availability of a manual transmission in the 2004 TL was a key selling point for this family.

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  Great car. Worth every buck - 2008 Acura TL
  By Sid - December 1 - 1:17 pm

  I bought this car in Sep 08 and I love this car. It is worth every buck for all the features that come standard with the car. Gas mileage is great for a 3.2L V6. I get 33 mpg highway and 19-24 mpg city. The sound system is really good. Interiors are well crafted. The only con would be slight rattle at low speeds, but no biggie, I can live with it for everything else it offers.

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  Irreplaceable - 1999 Acura TL
  By Julia - November 30 - 11:14 pm

  I bought my 99 TL with 99K miles and couldnt have bought a better car. I have had all of the scheduled maintenance done on it at Firestone. No need to go to the dealership for any repairs. This week my catalytic converter is messed up and will have to be replaced. Firestone said that they are seeing a lot of those in a variety of makes and models because of the shift to ethanol. 152000 miles and one trip to the repair shop for something other than maintenance. The only complaint is that the auto day/night mirror is now tinted permanently on the bottom and not at all on the top. A little annoying.

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  Whats not to love? - 2009 Acura TL
  By OldBarr - November 30 - 8:33 am

  I love this car. Its my 3rd Acura and my favorite by far. I wasnt sure about the rotating wheel on the navigation system at first but now that I have driven it for a few weeks, I have completely changed my mind. No more glare on the screen, it almost looks high def. I looked at other cars (infinity G35, Honda Accord and Nissan Maxima) just to see how it compared and I think I got the best car for my money. Its luxurious in the inside and and the tech package makes a tech freak like me very very happy.

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  Nice - 2004 Acura TL
  By TDW - November 29 - 10:00 am

  This car is a dream to drive. Cant beat the value this car offers, and it should hold up well if Acuras past performance is any indicator. I drove and researched a lot of cars in this class, and I dont think you can beat the TL for the money. NICE

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  2004 Acura TL - 2004 Acura TL
  By Freeman Craig - November 29 - 10:00 am

  Having had BMWs and Acuras for the past 30 years, I can assert this is one of my favorite two of all time. It is far far superior to my 2001 3.2TL and much more responsive on mountain curves than my previous 3.5RL. I love it!!

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  Nothing else close in its class - 2004 Acura TL
  By Piano Man - November 29 - 10:00 am

  Test drove most models in its class. Best combination of style (exterior and interior, fit & finish, sound system, and reliablity history, and VALUE for the money.

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  Great Car - 2007 Acura TL
  By TC in Chi - November 29 - 9:39 am

  Traded in my 4Runner for a 2007 Type S. Great car. Smooth and powerful acceleration, handling and braking are superb. I drive 60-70 miles a day, mostly highway. I used to hate driving to work, now its the best part of my day. Great all around car, especially considering the cost. I get 25-26 MPG. This car is best used as a highway cruiser. If you need an around town car look elsewhere. This thing wants to go fast.

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  TL vs G35x - 2005 Acura TL
  By Tom - November 25 - 1:30 am

  The TL is overall a wonderful car. I picked it over a BMW 330, Audi A4, Cadillac CTS and Infinity G35x. As much as I loved the G35xs AWD and overall performance I could not believe the poorly laid out and cheap looking interior in the G35x. The TL offers decent performance with understated styling and a great interior at a comparative bargin price. The sound system is second to none, but DVD audio content is very limited. The dealer has been great and even installed the optional wheels and tires at a very nominal charge. The car is "rock solid."