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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  Best I have Ever Owned!!! - 2007 Acura TL
  By Jeff D - April 7 - 10:50 am

  I cant believe how much better the 07 Type S is over my old 06 TL. Handles like crazy. FAST! Everything is top notch. I bought the best!

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  love it! - 2005 Acura TL
  By annette - April 6 - 2:46 pm

  First time buyer and first time Ive said Id buy another one. Very comfortable for long trips and lots of gadgets!

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  Excellent Balance - 2003 Acura TL
  By Samskara - April 6 - 2:16 pm

  Anybody can make a great car -- just pick out some wow factor that seems intriguing and ignore every other aspect. You can have power, or luxury, or economy, or almost anything else, as long as you toss every other consideration aside. The TL-S isnt great by any of those standards, and thats its best feature. It can accelerate well enough to get on any highway, handle well enough to stay out of trouble, offer enough comfort and quiet so that you dont mind spending a day in the car, all at a price thats still within shouting distance of being reasonable, with acceptable gas mileage. FWIW, the model has had transmission problems -- Honda extended the warranty and didnt keep it secret

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  BMW-like for far less - 2005 Acura TL
  By Robert G NYC - April 5 - 9:50 pm

  Sporty, luxurious with all the buzzers, lights and bells. Powerful and fun to drive. Everyone who has ridden in it is amazed and impressed - even BMW owners. Performance is lively, a nice cross between Lexus luxury and BMW nimbleness. If possible, GET THE MANUAL transmission--more fun! Get it with Navigation; the Bluetooth technology is outstanding. The navigation system is far better than OnStar (and no monthly fee!). NEVER GET LOST AGAIN! Youll feel safe and youll drive in confidence and comfort wherever you go. Surround sound system is impressive; voice control is fun and at times, quite useful. Nice sized trunk; surprisingly good highway mileage (6M).

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  Disappointing for a Honda/Acura product - 2005 Acura TL
  By mark - April 5 - 5:36 pm

  I was attracted to TLs sporty exterior, upscale interior, and Honda/Acuras reputation. Overall the engine, transmission, and performance are definitely above average. Like most Honda cars, the TL is fun to drive. The powerful V6 does consume much gasoline with city pattern driving. In contrary to the powertrain, I cant say the same for its fit-and-finish noise problems: windows, suspension, back seat. I had mine taken in multiple times and all the dealership could say was the TL was "built that way". Very disappointing coming from such a large company. Ive even complained to Acura and no definitive fix was available.

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  No complaints on gas economy - 2007 Acura TL
  By NIKKIMACH - April 4 - 10:24 pm

  Over the last 4800 miles, the computer tells me Im averaging 28MPG. Nothing wrong with that. Getting a fuel warning at 13 gallons is annoying dealer tells me it cant be fixed. Otherwise, this is a great car - wonderful integration of electronic and mechanical bits, thoughtfully engineered, quick and comfortable. This is my fourth Acura (2 TLs, 2 MDXs) and Ive never been left by the side of the road, something my BMW-owning friends cant say Plus, my TL will suck the doors off a 528, sounds just as good doing it, and costs 10 grand less similarly equipped.

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  Car for age 25 and below - 2005 Acura TL
  By Navaid - April 4 - 8:23 pm

  I just bought a TL 2005 with nav on April 19, just to trade it in within 15 days. Probably because I am not 25 years old but 36. The TLs sporty ride was probably not my kind. I like the ride of the lexus ES and the new Toyota Avalon. No doubt that the TL interior is absolutely gorgeous. I had a black with camel interior. I was so worried to keep it clean that I would tell my 2 daughters to sit tight in the car, which I felt was inappropriate. What fun is a car if you have to put taboos on your kids. The seats are hard and uncomfortable. The gas mileage seemed horrible. I bought a Honda Pilot LX with leather for my wife on April 02. I am very happy to trade in the TL for another Honda Pilot.

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  Dont think Ill ever leave Honda - 2004 Acura TL
  By DexDiamonds - April 4 - 12:01 pm

  I just purchased my TL certified preowned (needed the security) and havent stopped smiling everytime I look at the car. It really moves, blinding acceleration between 30-50 and 70-110. I raced a the other car I was strongly considering (G35 coupe) and it seems there is no difference in performance and speed. And it great to just cruise in (a lil bumpy for the performance trade off). It has everything one could want (performance, reliability, luxury, and looks) at a price easy to appreciate. I want to modified the engine a little but dont want to void my warranty :-(

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  love my new TL - 2003 Acura TL
  By jar22 - April 3 - 10:00 am

  Looked at the MB, A4, G35, ES 300. The Acura offered the most for the money. What a comfortable, smooth ride. This car is loaded with every option you could want. I also felt like the Acura would be more reliable in the long run since I keep my cars 6-7 years as well as less expensive to maintain.

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  Loving the 08! - 2008 Acura TL
  By dap2006 - April 2 - 7:27 pm

  I traded in my 06 TL after 2.5 years - I needed a change. The 2008 TL-S w/auto surprised me with how much better it is! A bigger engine, daytime running lights, auto headlights, active noise cancelization, better brakes, better transmission (love the smooth downshifts), back-up camera, etc. It rides and drives much better than my 06! In carbon bronze its a looker, too. Im extremely happy with my TL-S!