1999 - 2014 Acura TL

The Acura TL is a mid-size luxury car produced by Honda under its luxury brand, Acura. The TL was first introduced in 1995 and has since gone through several generations of redesigns.

Exterior: The Acura TL has a sleek and sporty exterior design. It features a distinctive front grille and angular headlights that give it a bold and aggressive look. The TL typically comes with alloy wheels and chrome accents, adding to its premium appearance. The overall exterior design is characterized by clean lines and a refined silhouette.

Interior: The interior of the Acura TL is spacious and luxurious, offering a comfortable and upscale driving experience. It features high-quality materials and finishes, such as leather upholstery and wood or metal trims, depending on the trim level. The TL offers seating for five passengers, with ample legroom and headroom in both the front and rear seats. The cabin is also well-insulated, providing a quiet and comfortable ride.

Technology and Features: The Acura TL comes equipped with a range of advanced technology and features. It typically includes a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and a premium sound system. Other available features may include a navigation system, a rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and a forward collision warning system.

Performance: The Acura TL offers a choice of engines, depending on the generation. In general, it is known for its smooth and powerful performance. The TL is typically offered with a V6 engine, which delivers strong acceleration and responsive handling. It often comes with a sport-tuned suspension, providing a balance of sportiness and comfort. The TL is available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations, depending on the model year.

Safety: Safety is a priority in the Acura TL, and it is equipped with a range of advanced safety features to enhance driver and passenger protection. These may include anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, multiple airbags, and active safety systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and collision mitigation braking.

Overall, the Acura TL is a luxurious and performance-oriented mid-size sedan that offers a comfortable and upscale driving experience. It combines style, technology, and safety, making it a popular choice among luxury car buyers.

1. First Generation (1996-1998): The first generation Acura TL was introduced in 1996 as a replacement for the Acura Vigor. It featured a 2.5-liter V6 engine with 176 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque. It had a distinctive and boxy design with angular headlights and a wide grille.

2. Second Generation (1999-2003): The second generation TL was introduced in 1999 and featured a more refined and sporty design compared to its predecessor. It had a 3.2-liter V6 engine with 225 horsepower and 216 lb-ft of torque. The second generation TL also came with several new features such as a navigation system and an upgraded audio system.

3. Third Generation (2004-2008): The third generation TL was introduced in 2004 and featured a more aggressive and aerodynamic design. It had a 3.2-liter V6 engine with 270 horsepower and 238 lb-ft of torque. The third generation TL came with several new features such as a DVD-based navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 10-speaker premium audio system.

4. Fourth Generation (2009-2014): The fourth generation TL was introduced in 2009 and featured a more modern and sleek design. It had a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 280 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque. The fourth generation TL also came with several new features such as a rearview camera, keyless entry and ignition, and a redesigned interior with improved materials.

5. Fifth Generation (2015-2020): The fifth generation TL was introduced in 2015 and featured a complete redesign. It had a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. The fifth generation TL came with several new features such as LED headlights, a dual-screen infotainment system, and an available AcuraWatch package with advanced safety features.

6. TLX (2021-Present): The TLX is the latest model of the Acura TL. It was introduced in 2021 and features a more luxurious and sporty design compared to its predecessors. It is available with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine with 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, or a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine with 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. The TLX also comes with several new features such as a 10-speed automatic transmission, Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), and an available ELS Studio 3D premium audio system.

The Acura TL comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.

The TL is available with either front-wheel drive or Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). The SH-AWD system enhances traction and stability by automatically distributing torque between the front and rear wheels, as well as between the left and right rear wheels.

In terms of performance, the TL accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in about 6 seconds, which is on par with its rivals in the luxury midsize sedan segment. The V6 engine provides strong acceleration and smooth power delivery throughout the rev range. The transmission shifts quickly and smoothly, and the paddle shifters allow for manual control when desired.

The TL also offers a comfortable and composed ride, with well-tuned suspension and steering that provide a good balance between comfort and sportiness. The SH-AWD system further enhances handling by improving traction in corners and providing better stability in slippery conditions.

Overall, the Acura TL offers a good blend of performance, comfort, and handling, making it a solid choice in the luxury midsize sedan segment.

The fuel economy of an Acura TL varies depending on the model and the year. Here are the approximate MPG ratings for different Acura TL models:

• Acura TL (2004-2008): The base model with a 3.2L V6 engine has an average MPG of around 18 city and 26 highway.
• Acura TL Type-S (2007-2008): The sporty Type-S model with a 3.5L V6 engine has an average MPG of around 17 city and 26 highway.
• Acura TL (2009-2014): The base model with a 3.5L V6 engine has an average MPG of around 20 city and 29 highway.
• Acura TL SH-AWD (2010-2014): The all-wheel drive model with a 3.7L V6 engine has an average MPG of around 18 city and 26 highway.
• Acura TLX (2015-present): The newer TLX model with a 3.5L V6 engine has an average MPG of around 21 city and 31 highway.

Please note that these MPG ratings are approximate and can vary depending on driving conditions, maintenance, and other factors. It is always best to consult the official EPA ratings for the most accurate fuel economy information.

The interior of the Acura TL is spacious and luxurious, with comfortable seating for up to five passengers. The cabin features high-quality materials, including leather upholstery and wood trim, giving it a sophisticated and upscale feel.

The front seats are well-cushioned and supportive, providing excellent comfort for long drives. They also offer a wide range of adjustability, allowing drivers to find their ideal seating position. The rear seats are also comfortable and offer ample legroom and headroom for adult passengers.

The Acura TL comes equipped with a range of features for enhancing comfort and convenience. These include dual-zone automatic climate control, a power-adjustable driver's seat with memory settings, and heated front seats. The cabin also boasts a quiet and refined ride, with minimal road and wind noise infiltrating the interior.

In terms of exterior design, the Acura TL has a sleek and sporty appearance. It features a distinctive front grille, sharp lines, and a sculpted profile. The car has a low stance and a wide track, giving it a muscular and aggressive look. The TL also comes equipped with LED headlights and taillights, further enhancing its modern and stylish appearance.

In terms of overall comfort, the Acura TL scores high marks. It offers a well-appointed and spacious interior, with comfortable seating and a range of features for enhancing comfort and convenience. The exterior design is sleek and sporty, giving the car a stylish and upscale appearance. Overall, the Acura TL provides a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.

The Acura TL is known for its advanced infotainment and connectivity features, making it a top choice for tech-savvy buyers. Here are some of the key features you can expect to find in the Acura TL:

1. AcuraLink: AcuraLink is a comprehensive suite of connectivity services that allows you to access various features and information through your smartphone or the car's infotainment system. This includes features like remote start, remote locking and unlocking, stolen vehicle tracking, emergency assistance, and automatic collision notification.

2. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: The Acura TL comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone to the car's infotainment system. This allows you to access your favorite smartphone apps, make calls, send messages, listen to music, and access navigation through the car's touchscreen display.

3. Navigation System: The Acura TL comes with a built-in navigation system that includes real-time traffic updates, voice recognition, and 3D mapping. The system is controlled through the car's touchscreen or voice commands, making it easy to navigate to your destination.

4. Premium Audio System: The Acura TL is available with a premium audio system, such as the ELS Studio Premium Audio System. This system is designed in collaboration with Grammy-winning sound engineer Elliot Scheiner and provides a high-quality audio experience with immersive surround sound.

5. Bluetooth Connectivity: The Acura TL comes with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to wirelessly connect your smartphone to the car's infotainment system. This allows you to make hands-free calls, stream music, and access your smartphone's contacts and media library.

6. USB Ports and Power Outlets: The Acura TL is equipped with multiple USB ports and power outlets, allowing you to charge your devices on the go. This ensures that you can keep your devices powered up and connected to the car's infotainment system.

Overall, the Acura TL offers a wide range of infotainment and connectivity features, ensuring that you can stay connected, entertained, and informed while on the road.

The Acura TL is equipped with several safety and driver-assistance features designed to enhance the overall driving experience and provide additional peace of mind. Some of these features include:

1. Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS): This system uses radar and camera technology to detect vehicles in front of the TL and applies the brakes if a collision is imminent.

2. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): ACC uses radar technology to maintain a set distance between the TL and the vehicle in front while cruising on the highway. It can automatically adjust the speed of the vehicle to maintain a safe following distance.

3. Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): LKAS uses a camera to detect lane markings on the road and helps to keep the TL centered in its lane. It can provide steering input to help the driver stay in the lane.

4. Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) System: This system uses a camera to detect road markings and alerts the driver if the TL is about to leave the road unintentionally. It can also provide steering assistance to help keep the vehicle on the road.

5. Blind Spot Information System (BSI): BSI uses radar technology to detect vehicles in the TL's blind spots and provides visual and audible alerts to the driver. It can also apply corrective steering input to help the driver avoid a potential collision.

6. Rear Cross Traffic Monitor: When the TL is in reverse, the rear cross-traffic monitor alerts the driver if it detects approaching vehicles from the sides. This feature is particularly useful when backing out of parking spaces or driveways.

7. Multi-View Rear Camera: The TL is equipped with a multi-view rear camera that provides a top-down, wide-angle, and normal view of the area behind the vehicle, making it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces.

8. Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) Body Structure: The TL features a body structure that is designed to absorb and distribute crash energy away from the occupants in the event of a collision, enhancing occupant protection.

Overall, the Acura TL offers a range of safety and driver-assistance features that can help prevent accidents and provide added confidence on the road.