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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  Acura Quality is Questionable - 2007 Acura TL
  By SteelRing - July 12 - 4:16 am

  Just finished my last payment so I will say this about my first wholly owned car: its an excellent drive but its far from perfect in terms of quality. First there is the 3rd gear problem affecting many models of manual transmission (both Honda and Acura). The battery has died twice, the passenger power window had problems going up, driver seat back cover came lose and some gaskets and weather seals have been replaced. The only good thing is that all was covered under warranty although the dealer still gouged me with their various xxK mile service, etc, which is not cheap. Still, it was engineered very well and so much better looking than the latest TL and way better feel.

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  Not my favorite car at all - 1997 Acura TL
  By Eric - July 11 - 1:32 am

  Lets see when I bought this car ay first I loved it had no problems at all until the ac idler pulley went. Got that replaced. Then no more then a month later that belt Burns off, then the ac compressor went. Like a 600dollar job. My catalytic converter and flex pipe go. 700 dollar job. Back brakes plus calipers both sides. Front ones need to be done now. Passenger window gettin ready a blown speaker. Also the d led light is out for drive. Left front tierod too. And this is all happened in about 5months. Theres more Im sure but this car is horrible for things going wrong between 89,000-100k miles. Ridiculous. Was wondering if anyone else has probs like mine.

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  Rampant Electrical Problems - 2006 Acura TL
  By KC - July 5 - 11:14 am

  This is my second Acura after an exceptional 1998 Integra. Sadly, the TL has not met expectations. The cruise control broke in 2009 the battery has died twice for no apparent reason (remote entry doesnt work w/o battery) and the hands free link broke. Of course, these issues all occurred after the warranty expired. The turning radius is atrocious. After waiting three years, we finally purchased an "update" to the Nav system for $150 only to have Acura come out with a new version 3 months later. (A little notice would have been nice.)

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  Bad transmission - 2002 Acura TL
  By cp - June 26 - 3:50 pm

  We purchased this acura from a private ownership @ 47,000. It performed beautifully until the transmission went on @ 116,000. I had it serviced at 104,000 and nothing was wrong with it. I have learned that a rebuilt one from the acura dealership would cost $4900. Hello, anyone in there! I paid over $14,000 and still owe $8800. This is truly a LEMON of the technology aged vehicles.I have been told I can build a case with acura that is so far a joke because they told me that I will not get enough credit because I take it to another service provider for the car serviced. If I took it to an acura dealership, I could receive more credit for a new rebuilt transmission. Discrimination?

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  Rides like a truck - in bumby cond. - 2009 Acura TL
  By Fran L - June 18 - 3:33 pm

  Do not try to contact customer service - they just say well thats the way it is or we will note it. Not try to fix a $40,000 car. By the way you have to call California time to a 800# to a six digit ext. To get voice mail. Send them a letter they get it. Send a letter to the pres of Honda they get it. Tell them you own three of them they say sorry not nice

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  Joy killed by the Remote - 2010 Acura TL
  By cooolbabu - June 14 - 3:40 pm

  I always a had remote-start with new my cars for the last 15 years. This time, I went Acura Remote. It cost $900 and you get only one remote start. And it weights a ton. I need a janitors pouch to carry remote-start and the FOB. Luxury car seems like step down from my previous Chevy Malibu.

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  Solid, Reliable, Fun, Comfortable - 2004 Acura TL
  By seattle_maslow - June 13 - 9:16 am

  I bought this car new 6 years ago and intend to keep it indefinitely. I have been recently shopping for a car for my wife, which made me look at this again for kicks. If youre looking to pick one up used, just do it. My car has been everything Id hoped for. I wanted something with good straight line acceleration, nice interior and very reliable.

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  Good Car - 2008 Acura TL
  By Kendra - June 7 - 11:19 am

  When it rains, water barely touches the side windows. But if you crack the window to smoke, water pours into the car, all over you, the door, everything, even if its only sprinkling or misting rain. Taken the car across the country on 1000+ mile trips 4 times. The console is so small and poorly designed, nothing that can stored there or reached. If you ever drop something between the console and the seat, its gone forever unless you have very small arms or hands. Hope you dont drop anything valuable, like your wedding ring! Great navigation system. Great drive. 35 miles per gallon across country at 75 MPH. Sound system good enough. Passenger seat gets uncomfortable on long drives.

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  Fix the Seats - 2008 Acura TL
  By Sandra - May 21 - 11:10 am

  Very uncomfortable for a long drive. Seats feel ok on short trips but on long trips they create backaches. Lumbar support is not positioned correctly and seats are not long enough to support the knees. Sit cushioning also needs adjusting. Suggest you check out the seating in a Lexus ES 350 for how it should be done especially the 2009 version.

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  Great overall but bouncy handling - 2004 Acura TL
  By rsud - May 19 - 4:50 pm

  My 3rd Acura and pleased overall. Great gas mileage for 270 hp car (25 mpg mixed). My only gripe is the suspension that bounces you all over the place when you hit a rough patch or leans when taking a hard corner. Approaching a toll booth on a rough road (poor pothole fills) I couldnt let go of the steering wheel to reach for change. Not a car that compells you to drive hard. Good smooth road cruiser.