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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  Id buy it again if I had to do it over! - 2003 Acura TL
  By Buzz Lightyear - May 21 - 10:00 am

  The features/options that are most important for a luxury sport sedan are included. The value clearly makes this car THE PICK of this category and price range. Handles beautifully at higher speeds. Comfortable ride but doesnt alienate driver from feel of the road. I like the interior styling (especially without the Nav system). Finally, the after purchase service--as I know from returning to Acura from a few misguided years driving a Cadillac--cant be beat. Still, I doubt that I will need anything but routine maintenance.

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  Great Car! - 2005 Acura TL
  By Steve - May 21 - 9:50 am

  This is the first time I actually test drove a variety of cars in the same class. Some I liked and some I didnt but in the end we chose the TL and have not regreted it a bit. We now have 29000 miles on it and it has been great! Power is great along wioth good mileage. The Dealer has also treated us well and gave us a better then fair price for it to. It does have a bit of torque steer at times and is going through tires alittle faster the I would like but I cant say thats not part of our fault. the Navigation system is very good along with the XM and DVD audio when you can find a good one to put in. A great car that gets my wife and two boys where they want to go safe a Fast.

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  Excellent to Drive!! - 2005 Acura TL
  By Mark - May 20 - 8:26 pm

  I would (and have) highly recommended this car to others. I was completely satisfied and amazed at the gas mileage on the highway. I have gotten up to 33 miles per gallon when filling up just off the highway and starting a long trip. I had my wife and I in the vehicle at the time. The form, fit and finish of my Nighthawk Black vehicle is outstanding!

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  Best One Yet - 2007 Acura TL
  By skyteddybear10 - May 17 - 5:28 pm

  My third Type S and the best one to date, as a matter of fact it is the best car i have ever owned.

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  Fun Car with Luxury Attached - 2003 Acura TL
  By Mati - May 17 - 10:00 am

  Great Car ; Lots of Power ; great pricing

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  TL doesnt live up to the LEGEND - 2003 Acura TL
  By kelirod - May 17 - 10:00 am

  I currently have the TL-typeS.....this is my third Acura. I previously owned the Legend and the RL. Of all my Acuras my favorite is still the LEGEND!!!!!!!!

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  Nice Car - 2002 Acura TL
  By Monkeyking - May 13 - 8:39 pm

  Have had this car since late 2001 (around 77K miles). The acceleration of the type-s has been nice and the car is comes with a lot of great standard options. The navigation system is great, if a bit dated now. The transmission has been unreliable from the start and has been replaced twice. Both times the dealer gave me a hard time before replacing it. Its an nice and reliable car, but its boring. Acura seems to have fairly bland styling in general. I would buy an Audi or BMW instead next time.

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  Simply Superb!! - 2006 Acura TL
  By Luckyguy - May 9 - 8:41 am

  Great car with great value for money. Car is loaded with awesome standard features but most important thing is reliability and performance and TL is best in both. During an emergency I have to drive it to Canada in world record 6 feet snow and snowstorm and I must thank TL for reliably taking to my destination. Just take it up for routine maintenance and you will be fine. Very silent car....in the same price range and same power, BMW 328i does not provides even half the features. but then BMW is BMW but anyways...always remember...its great great value for your money. Dont forget...its features are so user friendly that you dont even need to read User Manual even once! A must test drive!

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  Worth the money - 2008 Acura TL
  By D1Money - May 8 - 12:42 pm

  I had obsessed about the TLsince October 2007. Went back and forth for months. Glad I waited (dealer incentives sealed the deal). Strong pull from the engine in all gears. The TL gets a little aggressive when I Punch it around 40 mph, dropping down one gear too many I think. The last road trip I took saw the tl break the triple digit mph barrier with little trouble, very smooth at 100. Fuel efficency is pretty good for a big v6, it will get close to 30 mpg on the highway. Even though it is the most expensive car I have owned, it is worth money and makes the 45-60 minute commute not that bad.

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  still lovin this car - 2005 Acura TL
  By Dale Morris - May 6 - 1:02 pm

  42k miles on this and am still enjoying it. Best car I ever owned -- a great blend of sporty-lux-value. The car is fast and quiet, well- behaved on the road, roomy enough for family of 4, fun enough to drive alone on twisties. 6 speed manual tranny is great. No manufacturing or other problems, just normal oil changes and services.