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:

• 

  Overrated - 2005 Acura TL
  By Mike Ryan - October 15 - 8:42 am

  We have owned 3 Acuras all purchased new. We will not be purchasing a fourth. Tires on TL wore out after 24,000 miles. Rust on brakes had to be scraped after less than 18,000 miles, not covered by warranty. Passenger side window opens but will not always close. Acura Service tells us it will be $545 to fix. Window service is outside warranty period. There has been no damage to the vehicle that would cause the window malfunction. This is not what you would expect from a company that prides itself in building quality products.

• 

  Do Not Buy!!! - 2003 Acura TL
  By Disappointed - September 11 - 10:21 am

  I purchased my 2003 Acura TL Type S used with 49,000 miles in January of 2008. It WAS a great vehicle until the odometer hit 66,000 miles thats when the transmission failed and had to be replaced. The cost of the replacement was $3,500. I purchased this vehicle based off of Acuras claim of producing quality and reliable products. My Acura has not exhibited any of these claims. I should have listened to the consumer reviews I read while researching this vehicle. There was an alarming number of reviews warning of transmission replacements. Will not buy another Acura again.

• 

  shake,rattle and roll - 2004 Acura TL
  By eh20man - September 1 - 8:26 pm

  Have owned my TL for about a year, and this car has more quality issues than any new car Ive owned. I am shocked that Acura would release a car to the public without proper testing and quality control. This thing rattles like a box of bolts, and has numerous cosmetic issues with the paint, dash and interior parts. The seats and door locks have a mind of their own. I have accumulated a list of 14 items that the dealer will be asked to fix. This is ridiculous, I will not be purchasing another Acura.

• 

  Very Displeased with Acura - 2008 Acura TL
  By dissapacuraownr - August 11 - 9:32 am

  I Purchased my new 2008 Acura Tl in July of 08. Loved the design and features. First issue with car - tire vibration at 50-60 mph. Performance Acura could not fix. Said it is normal for the car to shimmy. 3000k developed a timing belt chirp/chatter at idle. Acura service bulletin for timing belt issue -kept car for 2 weeks -did not fix noise. Now a 18000k still have timing belt noise now with loud whine during acceleration above 3k rpm. After 1 year of ownership dashboard has faded light grey/whitish from black. Hesitates in hot weather. Full of rattles. Have met Acura regional rep - no resolve. They do their best to ignore me. Warranty is useless.

• 

  Do Not BUY - 2003 Acura TL
  By john c - August 3 - 2:00 am

  I bought my 03 TL-TYPE S in June 2002. It has been in the shop 6 times. I purchased the vehicle overfilled by 2 quarts of transmission fluid. Acura said it was a common mistake. This is the fifth brand new Honda product I have purchased (and I am only 25). They have lost a loyal customer for life. I have talked to other customers while in the shop over the months. I have found that Acura does not have the reliability it claims. Its not worth the many trips to the shop and the stress. I would strongly caution anyone looking to purchase an Acura/Honda.

• 

  Big Letdown! - 2004 Acura TL
  By Mark - July 28 - 8:03 pm

  I bought this car new and was so excited. It is sharp, fast and nimble. My excitement quickly turned into a nightmare. From day one this car was a rattle trap, and in less than a week it was already back at the dealer. This car has spent 17 days in the shop since I have owned it. The bridgestone tires are terrible, and like other people writing reviews here the leather seats wear very quickly. I am so disappointed in acura. I expect better from a honda product. I seriously hope people read this review before buying this car. I wouldnt wish this nightmare on anyone else!!

• 

  Questioning My Decision - 2009 Acura TL
  By Slack - May 10 - 10:02 am

  I just got my 2009 TL SH-AWD/TECH last week. I love the design and the gadgets, but I am really disappointed in the constant rattling each time I hit a bump. It sounds cheap and drives me crazy. I found out after purchase that this has been an issue with Honda/Acura cars for a while. As much as I like it, I am seriously considering selling the car if the dealer cant fix this. The ride, in general, is a little harder than I like.

• 

  Quality Issues - 2004 Acura TL
  By jcmmm - March 31 - 10:00 am

  The Acura TL is definitely a great looking car. However, it has many problems that Acura is not willing to share...well here is the list: The paint has shrinkage. You can see this in proper lighting. I have seen the defects on almost every car. The paint on the bumper cover peels at the mounting point. Rattles in the dash area. Rattles in headliner. The center console will sweat when using the air conditioning. I was told by the dealer that the coil was located in the center console. No fix available!!!

• 

  Mistake - 2009 Acura TL
  By ArtNob - February 6 - 10:46 pm

  Decent car to drive, unfortunately my daughter owns 08 328i and Acura loses again. I like the car for what it offers in terms of technology and features for the price however, driving experience, interior design (finish) and outside look is far from good. The cheap look and feel of silver plastic trim and wired feeling driving makes me feel like in Honda Accord! After driving for a month I love the electronics, hate the MPG (really bad). Bottom line is, if you are 50+ (like me) and take life carefully, its a great car for you but if you like to feel the car, take corners with engineered perfection and avoid car with vegetable slicer between the lights, get a bmw!

• 

  Problems, problems! - 2009 Acura TL
  By Mark - January 27 - 2:22 am

  I think that this car is really overrated. Sorry that I bought it and I am done with Acura. Have had electrical problems and I am not happy. This is now the second Acura that has had problems. I dont know why this car company has a good rep.