What kind of motor does a Acura TL have?
The Acura TL is powered by V6 engines from Honda’s J-series family. Early models used a 3.2‑liter V6, while the higher‑performing TL Type‑S used a larger 3.5‑liter V6.
In detail, the TL’s engine lineup changed across its two generations. The base and mid‑range TLs relied on a 3.2‑liter V6, updated slightly between generations, while the TL Type‑S (2007–2008) swapped in a 3.5‑liter V6 to deliver stronger performance. All variants are front‑wheel drive, with the V6 powering refinements in smoothness and responsiveness rather than a four‑cylinder setup.
Engine options by generation
Below is a generation‑by‑generation look at the engines that powered the Acura TL through its production run.
First generation TL (1999–2003)
Overview of the early TL engine lineup. These models used a 3.2‑liter V6 from Honda’s J‑series family, known as the J32A1.
- 3.2L V6 (J32A1) delivering about 225 horsepower (with torque in the neighborhood of mid‑hundreds of lb‑ft).
The 3.2L V6 in the first‑gen TL emphasized smooth, refined acceleration and reliable everyday performance.
Second generation TL (2004–2008)
Continued refinement of the 3.2‑liter V6 with updates across the model cycle. This generation relied on the J32A2 variant.
- 3.2L V6 (J32A2) producing around 270 horsepower, with improved mid‑range torque and efficiency.
The second generation maintained the V6’s balance of quiet operation and strong highway performance, while improving fuel economy vs. the earlier version.
TL Type‑S (2007–2008)
Performance‑oriented TL variant that introduced a larger V6 for enhanced power. The Type‑S used a 3.5‑liter V6 from the J‑series family.
- 3.5L V6 (J35A4) producing about 286 horsepower and stronger low‑end torque for quicker acceleration.
The Type‑S model offered notably sharper performance, with sportier handling and transmission options to match the increased power.
Summary
Across its production run, the Acura TL’s motor lineup was built around Honda’s V6 engines. The base and mid‑generation TLs used a 3.2‑liter V6 (J32A1/A2), while the performance‑oriented TL Type‑S (2007–2008) switched to a 3.5‑liter V6 (J35A4). In short, if you’re asking what motor powers a TL, it’s a V6 that changes in displacement and tuning by model year and trim.
