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:

• 

  Acura quality? Not in this car. - 2001 Acura TL
  By The Lark - August 24 - 11:43 am

  Its not a secret that Acura installed defective transmissions that blow anywhere from 50K to 100K miles. But weve had acid (yes, acid) leak from the electronic rear view mirror onto the shifter, melting the plastic overnight. Apart these unacceptable problems, you have a car that is underwhelming to drive. The engine has nice power, but its mated to a jerky, malfunctioning transmission (manual mode doesnt cooperated either), and insensitive accelerator feel. Body roll was mentioned in the review, but this car has an absolutely laughable turning radius. If you want to drive to the other gas pump youll end up back out in the street.

• 

  "Shaken and Stirred Up" - 2010 Acura TL
  By Brewster - June 28 - 8:32 pm

  Two rules you should always follow! 1) Always test drive The Exact car you are going to buy and 2) Dont believe the salesman when he tells you that they are all the same. My 2010 Acura TL has experienced severe vibration since new which is felt at highway speeds throughout the entire cabin and through the steering wheel. Initially dismissed and finally admitted to, they are calling in an engineer since their mechanic(s) cant figure it out. The car has allegedly been through rotors, tire/rim changes and half- shafts. I couldnt be any more disappointed than I am with the vehicle and Acuras response.I would not recommend this car to anyone without test driving at highway speeds at length...

• 

  Hole in Piston - 2003 Acura TL
  By taxrefnd - April 3 - 3:29 pm

  Ive been a long time Honda believer and my immediate family currently own 6 Honda/Acura cars. With my recent experience with a 2003 Acura TL motor, I may never buy another Honda product. First had a CEL and needed a new timing belt tensioner, then 3 months later another CEl and this time it was revealed a hole in the piston. Only had 55K miles and a hole? Was too costly to repair so had a used motor installed. Honda refused to pay for anything siting "out of warranty" Some Honda motor. Now Im worried about the transmission which is slipping from 2nd to 3rd. Need to get rid of it soon to some poor sucker.

• 

  Rattle Box with Features - 2005 Acura TL
  By Czarcrab - November 25 - 12:23 am

  Havent you all heard lately about the bad built quality of the Acura Body. My car is pretty much a rattlebox with tons of features. It queeks and squeeks at every nick and bump on the road. There is rattling noise from front glove box, wing mirrors, rear seat center etc etc. And very loud irritating noises. Just a RATTLEBOX with loads of features IMHO.

• 

  Acura kills fun - 2007 Acura TL
  By Doug - April 29 - 11:15 am

  This car has done what I thought was impossible. Its taken the fun out of driving. Outward visibility is useless. Its like living/driving in a cave. The all-back interior is hearse-like and depressing. The transmission is wonky. It has an impossible-to-read mind of its own. The suspension. Dont get me started. It cant decide whether its a sports car or a sedan. The gas mileage is horrible. Sitting at idle in heavy traffic, you can watch the needle on the gas gauge slip down, down, down. The HVAC controls are confusing.

• 

  Do not buy - 1999 Acura TL
  By nathalie mcgill - April 15 - 6:43 pm

  I bought my car at the auto store in Miami and since the first day I got my car I had nothing but problems. I replace my transmission last year in nov of 2008 and my transmission went out again in April of 2009. I think I got played and I still make payments on this car. I cant get out of it.

• 

  IF YOU WANT TO LIVE IN FEAR BUY THIS - 2003 Acura TL
  By JohnGalt2376 - October 3 - 2:00 am

  DONT BUY THIS CAR UNLESS. . .You want increased insurance premiums, you want to pay the insurance deductible many times a year, you want to live in fear that no matter where you go, your expensive headlamps may be stolen. Acura has a big problem that it wont admit. The headlamp design is so poor that a thief can make off with both of your $800 headlamps in a matter of minutes, leaving you with a a financial loss, lost wages, and a very expensive repair, especially when body damage is incurred. Acura makes tons of money on repairs and has no incentive to fix this. One Acura dealer tells me that they repair 30 vehicles a month with this problem.

• 

  costs money to play - 2006 Acura TL
  By Jay Waseem - July 26 - 2:38 pm

  I purchased this 2006 base model TL after I sold my 04 545i. I wanted something reliable, yet sporty so I purchased this TL. I bought it with 97k miles. It had an extensive service record, 50+ times serviced at a local acura dealer. One day check engine light popped up, and maybe 3 miles after that, my transmission was GONEE. Rebuild cost 4800 at a local mechanic shop. IT ALSO EATS THROUGH TIRES AND BRAKES. I put Michelin Primacy MXM4, and after just 15k miles, my tires are halfway gone. ( Alignment is within specs, as well as other suspension components). Its definitely the best bang for your buck, but I certainly dont see the infamous Acura reliability anywhere close to this model. Rattles and squeaks only when going over speed bumps, weird!! A lot of road noise as well. Accelerates & corners well, but torque steer is there. Make sure to use leather wipes on your seats, or theyll crack up in no time. No height adjustment for the passenger seat either. No aux, but who needs that when you have a cassette player (sarcasm). Dont spend anymore than 5k for this car & dont buy it from a dealer.

• 

  Expected better! - 2008 Acura TL
  By Bae - July 3 - 11:23 am

  I drove 1993 Honda Accord LX Coupe for 15 years, 400,000 miles. and I traded in for this 08 Acura TL. I really liked the accord and it gave me no pain. But this TL has been proven to be a Rattle box. It makes rattling sound almost everywhere. I went in to the dealer about 4 times in one month starting 2 days after purchasing the car and stayed at the dealer for 2 weeks total in the first month. The first, sunroof problems and engine check light on and drive light blinking not shifting from 3rd to 4th gear, etc. It wasted a lot of my time and gave me so much stress. And all they gave me was the extended warranty. After the first month, I had to keep going back to dealer

• 

  Got A Lemon - 2007 Acura TL
  By 2007 TL - May 31 - 9:58 pm

  In first 11 months car was back to the dealer for 34 business days for repairs. While the car has some zip, many problems have plagued this car. Engine would not turn over 3x and have replaced 3 batteries due to short in Hands Free Link and took dealer 2 times to correct the problem. Car alarm chip has been replaced 2x as alarm goes off randomly. Trunk latch has broken 2x and replaced by the dealer. Car handles well in warm weather but does not handle snow well at all. Expected a better experience for the price I paid for the vehicle.