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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  A good design not implemented well - 2006 Acura TL
  By gainful - December 31 - 12:00 am

  Replaced my 2003 TL with this car, big disappointment. The 2003 has been silky smooth and this car is jittery and jerky. It has more torque than previous generation, but you get alot more noise in the cabin, and the hard ride shakes the car loose and create rattles. This car is a good buy if you ONLY travel on perfect roads. I am in PA where the roads are like the moon surface, therefore rattles all over the cabin, some even resonate with engine vibration when you hit the gas. Honda is not spending enough time to fine tune the mechanical of this car as it does before, instead, tries to allure customers with a ton of electronics----not a good way to go

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  OK, but not great - 2004 Acura TL
  By ebw - December 12 - 11:40 pm

  Owned car for 2 years, been to dealer 7 times to fix 12 quality issues. Drivers seat is literally a pain in the rear, due to short cushion and hard contours. Xlnt engine, but handling is only average. Sound system is superb.

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  Wont Buy Another One - 2003 Acura TL
  By turkey-trot - October 27 - 10:00 am

  My wife has owned this car for less than two years. We were sold on its so- called reliability and resale value. In 35,000 miles weve had front pads and rotors replaced, water pump replaced and now the transmission has to be replaced. Were scared to death of what might come next after the warranty expires. This thing has been pampered and its falling apart. Maybe KIA built this thing instead of ACURA. Its got to go.

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  Acura Lemon - 2003 Acura TL
  By Bruce Wainwright - August 16 - 9:05 am

  I have had to return this car to the dealer 12-15 times. 3 Struts have been replaced, 2 seat frames, numerous rattles and noises. The car has not held its resale value as I had hoped. I would not continue to own it if it had.

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  Unreliable dressed up Honda - 2002 Acura TL
  By Hate TL-S - July 23 - 3:01 am

  I bought this car for its power and handling - was I in for a let down. I have a vibration from the front end - I use only Michelin Sport A/S - had this issue with OEs too. Well major issue is the transmission. I am on my 3rd. Seems to go out every 30k on me. I have 70k miles on it. Since the last transmission - car does not have the kick / pick-up. Revs like a rocket before I get any good speed. Not sure what they have done since the last transmission repair. Ive lost lot of power and handling in this car. Acura TL-S has a known tranmission problem - would stay away from it. All they do is replace it with a remanufactured transmission and hope it last.

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  very disappointed - 2003 Acura TL
  By banditday - July 14 - 5:56 pm

  I loved my car when I first bought it. Put the CompTech headers, exhaust, springs, swaybars plus Koni shocks and Brembo Gran Turismos on it under factory warranty. Well, less than 6 months after I bought the car I start having paint problems - horrid peeling, bird doo eating through the paint (my other car is 8 years old and looks amazing - this Acura looks 20 years old at 2). Now Im in the tranny recall issues.... on my third tranny. Tranny #2 had zero power to the ground. The car was being outgunned by delivery trucks! I am furious with Acura - my family has owned 8 or 9 Acuras, ranging from Type R Integras to TLs and CLs.... and Acura wont do a thing :-(

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  Horror Transmissions! - 2002 Acura TL
  By SlipGears - May 21 - 1:45 pm

  I cant even imagine how Acura can get away with selling cars with repeated problem transmissions. I bought an 01 CL-S and had 4 transmissions. Just bought a certified 02 TL-S 3 weeks ago and it is already at the dealer for a new trans. Reverse jumps and sometimes wont respond, 1st to second jumps, 2nd to 3rd jumps, and it downshifts on me without notice while driving. These cars are unsafe and unreliable. I do not recommend buying Acura. You get a lot of features for your money, but it wont help you if you cant drive the car! Replaced transmissions are rebuilds. Acura should solve the problem, not delay it until you need another trans 20k miles later.

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  nightmare - 1999 Acura TL
  By Alex - March 20 - 9:43 pm

  Transmission goes every 55k miles and Honda wants nothing to do with me. Theelectrical is a nightmare, the ballastshave gone out twice. The whole car is now creaky and rattley and the seats wiggle around if you move in them. Not impressed. I will never buy another Acura.

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  So so - 1999 Acura TL
  By Igor O - October 11 - 2:00 am

  Not the greatest car. For 30 grand should be much better. Good handling, average acceleration (not a Maxima) Brakes tend to warp, giving pulsations, when slow down. You can feel all the road bumps and exterior noise (compare with Lexus and you can see the difference). Bose system need improvement (cant play recorded and some times new CDs, I have better sound from my Altima and Camry). Why Acura put pieces of vinyl into a leather seats. I am not a heavy guy 160 lb, but vinyl already cracked. And lately strange sound coming from suspension and Acura could not figure it out.

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  2001 TL Acura - 2001 Acura TL
  By Mrs. Markel - August 29 - 2:00 am

  I used to LOVE my TL until I had 4 transmissions for the car before 40,000 miles. The last time it was in the shop (8/2004) they told me come pick it up it runs beautifully. Tried to start it the next day and now the starter is out. Dont buy TL.