Is an Acura TL a fast car?

Yes, it can be fast for its era—especially the Type-S and SH-AWD variants—but it isn’t a modern high-performance machine. Across its four generations, the TL offered brisk acceleration and confident handling, with the strongest versions delivering legitimate sport-sedan speed without venturing into true supercar territory.

Generations and performance milestones

First generation (1995–1998): The early refinement

The original TL established Acura’s sport-luxury identity, pairing a smooth V6 with tasteful suspension tuning. It delivered solid everyday pace and good acceleration for its class at the time, but it wasn’t marketed as a dedicated performance model. Handling and comfort were the focus, with power figures adequate for confident highway merging and brisk street driving.

Second generation (1999–2003): Bigger, more polished

With a larger V6 and a refined chassis, this generation improved both acceleration and ride quality. It remained a front-drive sedan aimed at balance rather than stopwatch-fast performance, yet it remained pleasant to drive with strong midrange grunt and reassuring highway confidence.

Third generation (2004–2008): The performance tilt and the birth of Type-S

Performance began to tilt more toward enthusiasts with the introduction of the TL Type-S, which offered a higher-output engine and sportier suspension tuning. This era also refined interior quality, steering response, and overall driver engagement, making the TL feel noticeably sharper when pushed compared with earlier trims.

Fourth generation (2009–2014): SH-AWD and peak TL dynamics

The final generation brought the available SH-AWD all-wheel-drive system, which improved traction and acceleration in a variety of conditions. Alongside this, performance-minded trims and careful suspension tuning kept the TL competitive in the sport-luxury field. Power levels climbed in some configurations, delivering brisk bursts of speed and satisfying highway overtakes, though it remained more about balanced handling and everyday usability than outright track-capable pace.

To summarize the evolution: the TL grew from a refined, solidly paced sedan into a more performance-oriented lineup through the Type-S and SH-AWD variants, before ending production in favor of the newer TLX. The faster versions earned praise for their strong mid-range torque, smooth V6 character, and capable chassis—but they aren’t classified as modern performance cars by today’s standards.

Performance snapshot by variant

These snapshots provide a quick reference for how the TL’s speed and power typically varied across trims and generations. Actual performance depends on year, transmission, condition, and tires.

• First- and second-generation TLs (non-Type-S): power in the low- to mid-200s range with acceleration typically in the mid-to-high 6s or low 7s 0–60 mph, depending on transmission and condition.


• TL Type-S (2007–2008): higher output and sport-tuned suspension, with 0–60 commonly in the mid-5s to low-6s range in tested conditions.


• TL with SH-AWD (2009–2014): improved traction and aggressive gearing in certain trims, with 0–60 typically in the mid-5s to low-6s depending on drivetrain and transmission.


• Final-generation TL (non-Type-S, 2009–2014): strong mid-range torque and solid all-around pace, usually landing in the high-5s to low-6s 0–60 depending on configuration and equipment.

These figures reflect the lineup’s performance envelope rather than a single number for all cars. With proper maintenance—especially the V6, transmission, and suspension components—a TL can feel notably quick from behind the wheel, particularly when compared with ordinary family sedans of its era.

How the TL stacks up today

Compared with modern sport sedans, the Acura TL’s raw acceleration may not rival contemporary fast compact cars or luxury performance models. Its strengths lie in a balanced blend of power, ride comfort, and user-friendly handling. The Type-S and SH-AWD versions still deliver engaging driving experiences, and many owners praise the car for its durability, chassis feel, and everyday usability. For speed-focused buyers today, the TL’s legacy lies in its mid-2000s-era performance pedigree rather than cutting-edge speed by 2024 standards.

Buying tips for speed-focused TL buyers

When shopping for a TL with performance in mind, keep these considerations in mind to ensure you get a quick and reliable example.

• Maintenance history matters: a well-documented service record, especially for the V6, transmission, timing components, and cooling system, is crucial to preserving performance.


• Inspect for transmission health: automatic and manual options exist across generations; ensure smooth shifting and no slipping or hard engages.


• Tire and brake condition: good rubber and effective brakes are essential to realizing the TL’s performance potential and ensuring consistent handling.


• SH-AWD health: the all-wheel-drive system enhances acceleration and cornering grip but adds complexity and maintenance considerations; verify the system engages smoothly and there are no driveshaft or differential noises.


• Type-S and SH-AWD variants tend to command higher prices, so verify model year and trim accuracy to match your performance expectations.

In practice, a TL that has been properly maintained, with solid tires and a healthy V6, can still deliver satisfying pace and sporty driving dynamics—even by today’s standards—without the premium costs of newer performance sedans.

Summary

The Acura TL offers a nuanced answer to the question of speed: base models are pleasantly quick for their class, while the Type-S and SH-AWD variants are notably brisk and engaging. Its true performance pedigree shines through in the mid-2000s era where refinement met sportier tuning. Though no longer in production, the TL remains a respected choice for buyers seeking a fast, well-rounded, and comfortable sports-luxury sedan from that era, with the caveat that modern performance benchmarks have progressed since its heyday. The TLX, introduced as its successor, continued Acura’s shift toward more advanced performance engineering.

What year to avoid Acura TL?

You should avoid Acura TL years 1999–2006, particularly 2003, due to significant transmission issues. Other years to be cautious of include 2007–2008 for a more robust transmission, but still some potential problems with the Bluetooth system and mounts, and 2009–2014 for torque converter issues. The 2010 model year also experienced excessive oil consumption. 
Years with significant transmission problems 

• 1999–2006: These models, especially the 2003 and early 3rd generation (2004–2006), are known for major automatic transmission failures, slipping, and hard shifting. 
• 2004–2006: While better than earlier models, these are still prone to transmission failure and should be approached with caution. 

Years with other notable issues

• 2007–2008: These years have a more reliable transmission, but owners have reported issues with the hands-free Bluetooth draining the battery and failing. 
• 2009–2014: Some models have reported torque converter problems, which can be expensive to fix. 
• 2006: This year had several recalls and issues, including a faulty display screen, power steering leaks, and frozen rear brake calipers. 
• 2010: This model year is known for excessive oil consumption, with engines showing no leaks. 

Years to consider for better reliability 

• 2007–2008: Generally considered the most reliable, especially compared to the years immediately before them. 
• 2013–2014: Some owners report these years as very reliable. 

Other factors to consider

• Manual Transmission: If buying an automatic, aim for the 2007–2008 models. A manual transmission from any year is often a more reliable option.
• Vehicle Maintenance: Proper maintenance is crucial for any used car, especially for models with known issues. Thoroughly inspect the vehicle and review its maintenance history before purchasing. 

Is an Acura TL a sports car?

Yes, the Acura TL is generally considered a sports sedan, though its level of sportiness can vary by trim and model year. It is a mid-size, front-wheel-drive car that balances a luxury feel with performance-oriented features like powerful V6 engines, responsive handling, and sharp styling. Models like the TL-S were specifically designed to have an even more aggressive performance edge.
 
Reasons the Acura TL is considered a sports sedan 

• Engine power: The TL has historically featured powerful V6 engines, with some models producing over 280280280 horsepower. 
• Performance focus: The TL was designed to compete with other sports sedans and was marketed as a blend of luxury and performance. 
• Tuning and suspension: Even the base models have a sport-tuned suspension, with the TL-S featuring an even more aggressive setup and performance tires. 
• "Type S" trims: The "Type S" models are the most performance-oriented versions, with upgraded engines, brakes, and suspension designed for enthusiasts. 
• Model lineage: It was a predecessor to the modern Acura TLX, which continues the brand's focus on "premium sport sedans". 

Why are Acura TL so fast?

Engine Performance
One of the biggest reasons why so many drivers see the Acura TL as a reliable vehicle is because of its powerful performance. Its engine delivers as much as 305 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. On top of that, it's capable of reaching a speed of 60 mph in less than 7 seconds.

How fast is an Acura TL?

The speed of an Acura TL varies by model year and trim, with a top speed electronically limited to around 140-155 mph for most recent models. For example, the 2006 TL has a top speed of about 140 mph, while the 2008 Type S is limited to 155 mph. Some users have reported higher speeds after removing the limiter, but the official top speed is electronically governed. 
You can watch this video to see a 2003 Acura TL 3.2 accelerating and running its laps: 52sDM Car ReviewsYouTube · Jan 24, 2024
Top speed by model

• 2003 Acura TL: Approximately 130 mph.
• 2005 Acura TL 6MT: Approximately 140 mph.
• 2006 Acura TL: Around 140 mph.
• 2008 Acura TL Type S: Electronically limited to 155 mph.
• 2011 Acura TL: 140 mph. 

This video shows a 2005 Acura TL 3.2 (6MT) during a POV test drive: 59sDM Car ReviewsYouTube · Jan 12, 2024
Important notes on speed

• Electronic limiter: Most Acura TL models have a top speed electronically limited for safety. 
• Modified vehicles: Some enthusiasts remove the speed limiter with aftermarket tuning, allowing the car to exceed the factory-set speed. However, the stock top speed is governed. 
• Performance: The 0-60 mph time can vary significantly. For example, the 2006 TL can go from 0-60 mph in about 7.2 seconds, while the 2003 model can do it in 7.1 seconds.