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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love this car - 2004 Acura TL
By bonnie - June 11 - 10:00 ami loved this car it handles very well
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First Acura and pleased so far. - 2004 Acura TL
By dhott - June 10 - 7:28 pmWe bought this TL recently for my wifes primary car and are very pleased with it. Its a great looking and very solid feeling car. The interior looks like new except for the metal trim pieces everyone seems to complain about that are nicked and dinged. Also climate and radio display face is pitted and shows it bad in the sun. The car has great power and gets 30+ mpg on freeway. The car has 67570 miles and I havent noticed any rattles or problems yet but it is still new to us. The seats look new. I bought it because I like the features and Honda quality plus it came certified with manufacturers warranty. Manual shift auto is useless though, I just leave it in drive.
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New TL - 2004 Acura TL
By bjr1144 - June 10 - 2:00 amThe car is very comfortable to drive, extremely quieton the road. The 3.2 engine coupled with the Honda suspension gives the car the ride and response of a much more expensive vehicle. The manual feature of the five speed automatic adds even more response and sport car feel. The attention to details and quality that is very high, I have not found or encountered a problem with the car. As you are travelintg, the DVD sound system in this car makes it difficult to believe you are not sitting in your home. Top styling, high quality, great engineering combine to make this an extremely enjoyable car to own.
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Jakes Ride - 2004 Acura TL
By jons04tl - June 10 - 2:00 amIf you are looking for a sedan that is fun to drive, has great looks, and can keep up with the best of them, then this is the car you are looking for. This is the most fun I have had driving in a long time. There is no comparison between my wifes 2002 325xi and the TL. My kids love the car and are already fighting over who is going to get it as their first car. I am constantly getting compliments about the car. The 5 speed automatic is awesome. I will put it up against the the 6-spede any day. You have plenty of engine control with the automatic in the auto manual mode.
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Fabulous Car - 2004 Acura TL
By bolivar - June 10 - 2:00 amThis is far and away the best car ever made...by any company, anywhere!
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Love this Car - 2006 Acura TL
By Jeanna - June 9 - 10:52 amI love driving this car. I get to 80 MPH in no time. This car is so smooth and the drive is awesome. The brakes are great! I may be an Acura buyer for life. The car is the best of both worlds - luxury yet sporty. Great car for a young adult.
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Its my third... - 2006 Acura TL
By JHusa - June 9 - 10:26 amLove it! Now had the last 3 generations of TLs... 1998, 2002, 2006. Looking forward to a 4WD for 2010!
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2008 Acura TL Type-S - 2008 Acura TL
By Spend a little more! - June 8 - 8:34 pmIve liked the TL since the re-design in 2004 but I never liked the fog lights integrated with the headlights. Good when they separated them in 07. I looked at the BMW 328i, Lexus IS350 and Audi Quad S-line, the TL-S beat them all. With the list of standard features on the TL-S vs. paying a lot more money for it, with the others, it just made more since. Quad exhaust, power, hid lights, red interior lights & rims set this car apart from your standard TL. Its worth spending a little more to stand out. This car is a blast to drive & gets plenty of looks. Im getting 22 mpg city, not that great, but I didnt buy it to save gas. Cant tell a diff with the HPT tires.
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TL rating - 2002 Acura TL
By Toni Donnet - June 8 - 10:00 amThe car has had excellent reliability. Its power is marvelous and the ride is comfortable. The interior could be buffed up a bit to make it match the cars performance capability.
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acura 3.2 TL - 2003 Acura TL
By jmreiss - June 8 - 10:00 amthis vehicle has everything the sedan driver could want. Power, confort and convience. If price is an issue there is no better sedan than the TL. It leases at unbelievable numbers and the American Honda Lease has many advantages with no disposition fee and the $1500 damage waiver. All in all, Acura has put together an unbeatable package.
