Acura TL Review

2009 Acura TL Sedan

The Acura TL is a midsize, entry-level luxury sport sedan that is currently Acura's best-selling car. 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.

After three generations, the current model is the sportiest and most desirable yet, with chiseled exterior styling, firm suspension tuning, a powerful V6 and an impressive level of standard equipment. The Acura TL underwent a midlife freshening for 2007, with minor exterior and interior styling tweaks and an upgraded optional navigation system. The TL Type-S also returned to the lineup that year with a 286-horsepower V6, various performance upgrades and few styling enhancements.

Like most sedans, the TL is very usable on a daily basis and can perform well in nearly every role. According to our editors, the current TL is "a well-built, high-performing, feature-laden entry-level luxury sport sedan that should please most consumers shopping in this market."

Current Acura TL

The current Acura TL receives a midlife freshening, but the big news is that the TL Type-S returns to the lineup after a three-year hiatus. Equipped with a 286-hp 3.5-liter V6, the Type-S also features a sport-tuned suspension, Brembo high-performance brakes and unique styling elements that include quad tailpipes. A six-speed manual or five-speed automatic with automanual shift paddles are no-cost options. The upgraded touchscreen and voice-activated navigation system with real-time traffic reporting is standard equipment on the Type-S, as is the rest of the TL's lengthy features list.

The regular TL receives minor styling tweaks and interior changes, including a sporty new three-spoke steering wheel. The updated navigation system is the only option, while the five-speed automatic becomes the only available transmission. The 258-hp 3.2-liter V6 remains unchanged.

Both versions of the TL come with an attractive, well-built interior designed with a more sporting intent in mind. Aluminum inlays, bright blue electroluminescent gauges and aggressively bolstered seats should appeal to enthusiasts, but may put off those looking for a more classic luxury look. Ergonomics are excellent, with redundant stereo controls on the radio faceplate, steering wheel, and optional touchscreen and voice commands. High-tech standard features also include Bluetooth phone connectivity, programmable driver memory functions and an excellent surround-sound stereo with six-CD/DVD audio changer and satellite radio.

In road tests we've always been impressed with the Acura TL's performance and handling abilities, but ultimately find that its front-wheel-drive setup can't compete with rear-drive models like the Infiniti G35, Lexus IS 350 or BMW 335i. The Type-S ups the ante somewhat, boosting power without noticeable understeer. However, until Acura offers its Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system on the TL or even switches to rear-wheel drive (unlikely), the TL will remain a few steps behind its top competitors. For a majority of shoppers, though, the TL will provide a good mix of fun, comfort and convenience at a reasonable price.

Past Acura TL Models

The current-generation TL was introduced as a 2004 model. Consumers interested in a used or certified pre-owned TL would do well to search for that model year or newer. There is not much difference between them in terms of features or hardware. Be aware that Acura revised the V6's horsepower rating from 270 to 258 starting in 2006. However, this revision was a regulatory issue and the engine did not, in fact, change.

The second-generation Acura TL was built from 1999-2003. Though it was not as exciting as the current model, our editors gave the previous generation 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 a GPS navigation option. 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 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.

SELECT A SPECIFIC ACURA TL MODEL YEAR*

* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.