2007 Acura TL Review
First introduced in 1996, the Acura TL gave drivers a sporty, yet luxurious vehicle for around $30,000. The second generation debuted in 2000, with a rather unsuccessful coupe produced from 2001-03. This generation of the TL had a notoriously unreliable five-speed automatic that would suddenly fail while in motion. The TL saw a slight makeover in 2002, and a sporty Type-S trim was added. Minor improvements were added for 2005, such as a passenger airbag cutoff. For 2006, tire pressure monitoring was added. In 2006, the TL was voted one of ConsumerSearch’s “Best Luxury Cars” and one of the “Best Sports Sedans.”
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Acura TL is a fantastic luxury sport sedan. Its assortment of standard luxury features gives even big names like Lexus and Mercedes a run for their money. Combined with a strong safety record, and the TL is a real winner. Our only misgivings are with its history of transmission issues, though those problems seem to have been solved, and somewhat bland styling, but overall, the TL is a great value.
What’s New For 2007:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power gives the TL four out of five stars in initial reliability. Automotive Information Systems gave the 2004 model an overall “Green” rating. Besides, the aforementioned transmission issues, the Acura TL had the following problems from 1999 until the early ’00s: Inaccurate fuel gauges, steering noise, smearing wipers, and inoperative keyless entry. The TL was recalled eight times from 1999-2002. More recent TLs, from 2004 onward, have held up better. Issues from 2004-05 have included: Engine noise, forgetful power seats, and a strange wiper problem that could lead to blown fuses. The TL was recalled in 2004 due to potential gear failure, in 2005 for a loose terminal affecting the fuel pump, and in 2006 for flaky airbags sensors. Expect average to above-average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.
Analysis of Safety Ratings and Features:
The TL earned perfect five star ratings in government crash tests, except for front-seat side tests, which earned four stars. It earned the IIHS best “Good” rating for front and side impacts, but only “Moderate” for rear tests. Dual-stage front airbags come standard alongside full side airbags. Stability and traction control come standard.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Plenty of standard features
+ Well priced
+ Excellent safety
Cons
– Sketchy reliability history
– Somewhat weak engine
– Bland styling
Head-To-Head Competition:
The TL is very well-priced. Other options include the Buick Lucerne CXS, which features a larger, more powerful V8, but also costs $1,000 more, and misses out on the TL’s standard CD changer, five-speed automatic, and moonroof. The TL is a better buy than the Jaguar X-Type. While it misses out on standard AWD, it costs $700 less, and features a CD changer, traction control, more horsepower, and better gas mileage. The TL even beats out the Lexus ES 350, including standard leather seats and a moonroof.
What Others Are Saying:
“Build quality on my test car was impeccable as was the fit and finish. Acura has always been good in these departments, but I do believe they outdid themselves here.” – The Family Car
“The 2006 Acura TL is the measure of its class rivals in terms of features and value, but it’s somewhat uninspiring in looks and performance.” – C|Net
“Acura’s midsize TL sedan remains a sporty, luxurious and reliable premium sedan with handsome styling, a roomy and thoughtfully designed interior and engaging powertrain. It is also loaded with standard amenities while undercutting comparable European competitors in price and so represents a good value.” – Forbes
Read more about the 2007 Acura TL at the Acura manufacturer web site.
