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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  Its An Acura (YAWN). - 2008 Acura TL
  By AcuraOwner - April 16 - 1:26 pm

  Traded in my Lexus 330RX for the Acura TL. Thus far, the car has proven to be a rattle box. Center console rattles. Driver side windows rattle. Have had it back to dealer twice already to fix the problem. Basically, this car makes me miss the luxury and quality of my Lexus and makes me feel Acura is the company for those who cannot afford a Lexus, BMW, or Benz. Plus, in retrospect, I purchased a car whose style has been the same for what seems to be two decades now. Its outdated. At best, I am hopeful this car will be dependable because its nothing special to drive nor look at.

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  Missed the mark - 2006 Acura TL
  By David Jenks - December 29 - 8:53 am

  AS an owner of a 2002 TL I cant begin to tell you how disapointed I am in the 2006 model. If your a big fan of chep leather, plastic and tin you will love the interior. The ride is poor the performance disapointing. When compared to the 2002.

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  Dont buy it! - 2003 Acura TL
  By rockpub - August 14 - 10:36 am

  Have had 3 transimissions in this car, so far, not to mention little annoying items that dont work or break (air vents close when fan on high, center console latch broke within 2 months of purchase, etc.). Given the purchase price and expected quality, am extremely disappointed in this car. Will never buy another Acura!

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  I cannot believe what I am reading - 2003 Acura TL
  By sadhondaowner - December 8 - 10:00 am

  Okay, Honda/Acura has to pay people to put this stuff on here. I HATE THIS CAR and everyone that owns one hates it too. I have found one guy that loves his TL (he had a saturn before). Other than that, its so saddening to see the overall moral of this car is at the dealer. Transmission problem that Acura will not take responsibility for, squeaks beyond imagination, sunroof leaks, bad brakes, Hissing in the AC which is so loud the music will not cover up. OH, its horrible. I dont know how anyone would like this car. I have been a loyal honda owner all my life. I have had nothing but honda. Never again, this is the worst car ever!

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  Accuras problems - 2004 Acura TL
  By steve.ledbetter - June 13 - 3:50 pm

  This car is unstable in rain and snow due to poor quality tires. Further, the dealership ignores, or does not acknowledge problems with this automobile. At 15,000 miles the tires are severely worn, as acknowledged by at least one accura mechanic. Alignment is a constant issue, with consequent uneven tread wear, however the dealership refuses to acknowledge this problem

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  DO NOT BUY THIS CAR!!! Read Reviews - 2004 Acura TL
  By Omadinc - April 16 - 10:00 am

  Prob the worst rattling cars I have ever owned. Very poor interior quality. Steering wheel rattles,headliner falls down, glove box fell out twice. The car is basically held together with double sided tape. Even the dealer admits to all of the build issues. Very dissappointed in a 35$k car. Needless to say my car is for sale with 4000 miles on it. If you are looking to buy a new TL, wait till 05 if at all.

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  Excellent Idea Horrible Execution - 2006 Acura TL
  By Ed - March 16 - 2:13 am

  Review: Fell in love with this car when I bought it now I CANNOT STAND IT, all within less than 6 months! Why? Rattles, Rattles, and more Rattles Misaligned body parts, especially trunk that rubs and has paint chipped off and rust on it! Very poor water based paint used. Chips started on drive home from dealer and havent stopped. Paint mottling (swirling on doors) uneven paint application at factory! Looks like an army camouflage vehicle under certain lights! Cheap leather on seats that has more wrinkles than a 120 year old ladys face. Wrinkle in seat within first 500 miles and it only gets worse. If you get black its gets even better! DASHBOARD FADES TO A MILKY WHITE COLOR! ALL TLs DO IT

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  Dont Buy This Car - 2004 Acura TL
  By Dissatisfied - October 14 - 10:03 am

  Owning this car was a nightmare! The interior quality was poor, parts and materials did not wear well. It had all kinds of interior rattles that the dealer could not fix. The car was in the service dept for a total of 18 days out of the 3.5 months I owned the car for many warranty issues. The final straw came after I picked it up from the dealership and the 6 disc CD changer jammed. I traded it in for a Saab 95 and have never looked back since. More power and better handling. Dont let the Acura name fool you. It did not stand for quality craftsmanship in this case.

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  Oh Those Bridgestone Tires - 2004 Acura TL
  By Brewster - September 13 - 7:16 pm

  The harsh ride is partly the fault of the poor Bridgestone OEM tires. Acura Client Services reports to me that they are being buried with calls from Acura owners about these tires. The 2005 TL with NAV comes now with Michelins, but Acura has refused to allow its dealers to swap them out. They report Honda will have to make a policy decision before the dealers can replace them.

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  I hate this Car - 2008 Acura TL
  By fleurnj - August 8 - 6:30 am

  Leased the TL with Nav (White/Taupe) in Dec 07. (24 month lease). After drooling over more expensive cars like the ES350 and Passat 3.6, I finally decided to save some money and go for this outgoing Acura model. I traded in my 04 EX V6 top-of-the-line Accord. I am very disaapointed with the TL. The navigation system in my 04 Accord was far superior than the one in this 08 TL. The TL Nav does not offer a male voice anymore, nor does it have the Trip Computer graphs, or A/C controls on the Nav screen anymore. The ride quality is awful. I HATE the stiff suspension and the extremely bumpy ride. I can feel every little bump and pothole on the road. I wish I could sell this car right away!