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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  Average Car - 2007 Acura TL
  By So So car - August 1 - 1:49 pm

  I bought Type S in Feb 2007. The cars engine is great, acceleration is superb, looks are great. However, interior material quality is one of the worst I have seen in new cars. Too much rattling. I had a rattling sound coming from behind steering wheel and even the dealer couldnt figure it out. More rattle from the middle by cup holder. If the windows are down, they rattle as if some screws are loose in the door panel. I am seriously thinking about trading it in. I have been a Acura fan for years but this TL Type S experience has left a bad taste in my mouth and probably never go back to Acura.

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  Disappointing..... - 2004 Acura TL
  By freewaywilly - June 17 - 10:00 am

  I had high expectations of this car and have been disappointed. Performance is good, but not excellent. Build quality is not good. Interior rattles too numerous to ever fix. The car has less than 4000 miles on it and rattles like a 20 year-old Yugo! The dealer is no help. Sound system is excellent, but dont plan on enjoying anything with much bass as speakers and door panels vibrate and rattle with only moderate volume. I had moved from a Saab 9-5 to this car expecting higher quality and more luxury. Im working hard to find a way to get out of this and back to Saab or BMW. No comparison!

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  Stay away from the TL Type S - 2003 Acura TL
  By phatgroove - June 8 - 10:00 am

  I would not buy again or recommend buying the 2003 TL Type S. It is a piece of junk. Ive had the car for one year and needed to have the sunroof resealed (leaking), the brakes and rotors went twice (first time after 5 months - resurfaced - 3K miles, second time - completely replaced - 12500K.). These are just some of the major issues Ive had with the car. Initial quality was great, but wait two months and the car will start to rattle and squeak.

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  Solid but boring/ Needs rear wheel drive - 2004 Acura TL
  By Trip - April 17 - 12:20 pm

  This car has all the extras that get you excited about a car. The downside is that the vehicle while powered well does not give you a feel you would want from a sport sedan. The understeer is very noticeable and quite frustrating. If you are looking for a comparable car in the 35K range buy the G35. I made a mistake because I like to drive.

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  Unhappy Acura Owner - 2004 Acura TL
  By jeff7802 - April 3 - 2:00 am

  Build quality is very poor on my new 2004 Tl. Fit and finish is marginal at its best, and talk about defects on car at delivery, they are to many to mention. Acura get your act together. Car has a major tire problem with the Bridgestone Turanza that comes as original equipment on the car. Tire gives a terrible ride, and flat spotting and vibration are a problem with this tire on my new TL.

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  Big Mistake - Beware - 2007 Acura TL
  By Mistake - November 20 - 11:00 pm

  Ive owned 3 TLs and this one is a rattling piece of junk. I cant believe Acuras quality has gone in the toilet. Transmission is extremely loud and engine is already ticking. The TL is a great value for the money but at what cost. The ride is very stiff. I would hate to see what the new S rides like. The rattling interior will drive you nuts. I mean virtually everything in the interior rattles due to cheap plastic parts. If you travel and you are in the car for many hours a day, THIS IS NOT THE CAR TO BUY!! BEWARE!!

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  My 3rd Acura - 2004 Acura TL
  By carnaught - November 4 - 8:43 am

  Well, I should have known after two prior so-so experiences with new Acuras. The car is less than exciting to drive, quickly develops multiple rattles and vibrations and has inferior service to my experience with Lexus and Mercedes. In fact, the car is very inferior in all aspects (except with its looks) with any Lexus Ive owned. This will probably be my last Acura with my repetitive disappointing experience.

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  Poor Quality - 2004 Acura TL
  By nefarious - October 9 - 10:00 am

  Ive had a terrible experience with this car and quality of build. The car has paint shrinkage in the base coat causing sand marks to appear in the finish. The car bumper cover is also peeling on the sides were mounted to the fender because of excess stress. In addition, the car has many rattles and idles rough. This car cannot compare to a 3 series BMW or Lexus ES330. Dont make the mistake and purchase this bug infested car. Their reps even admit to the rattles and the dealer admitted the paint peeling issue on the bumper covers. What a car!!!!!

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  Glorified Honda Accord - 2002 Acura TL
  By disappointed_guy - September 30 - 2:00 am

  I found that it was a glorified 6 cylinder Accord with a little bit better tuned engine. I was relatively pleased with the engine and the performance but thoroughly disappointed by the rampant reuse of Honda Accord parts and peices all over the car. I was disappointed by some vibration related noises that I started hearing after a few months. The seats and the seat belts are also very noisy in the front. The navigation system is very good. The stereo is very very ordinary, no base and very poor amplification. The price was good. The exterior looks good only with a spoiler, else it is a bit rounded from the back.

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  Love It and Hate It! - 2005 Acura TL
  By M Moore - September 18 - 4:46 am

  The car design is extremely stylish. I love the exterior design. The seating is not made for comfort, the front seats are uncomfortable for long periods, After four months of ownership, creaks and rattles came from the interior. The car has several serious blind spots. My main complaint is with the transmission. It slips upon acceleration, jerks when you drop from 55 to 40 (not by braking, but by taking your foot off the gas) and my top frustration with the transmission, the differential whines when driving and sounds as if you are driving a truck, rather than a TLC (total luxury car)