What year is the fastest Acura TL?
The fastest Acura TL in stock form is the TL SH-AWD variant with a 3.7-liter V6 producing 305 horsepower, available from 2009 through 2014.
Fastest TL by generation and horsepower
The following breakdown shows how performance escalated across major TL generations, highlighting the crown jewel of the range.
- 2004–2005 TL Type-S: 260 horsepower from a 3.2-liter V6, signaling Acura’s early push toward sportier performance in the TL lineup.
- 2007–2008 TL Type-S: 286 horsepower from a 3.5-liter V6, offering a notable leap over the earlier Type-S model.
- 2009–2014 TL SH-AWD: 305 horsepower from a 3.7-liter V6, the most powerful TL ever sold in North America.
The fastest TL on paper is therefore the 2009–2014 TL SH-AWD, which combined higher horsepower with Acura's all-wheel-drive system to deliver quicker acceleration and stronger all-weather capability.
What this means for enthusiasts today
For collectors, enthusiasts and prospective buyers, the key takeaway is that the peak performance TL is the 2009–2014 SH-AWD model. If you're shopping, look for the SH-AWD badge and the 3.7-liter V6 under the hood to verify you’re getting the fastest TL in stock form. Keep in mind that aftermarket tuning can alter performance, but from the factory, 305 horsepower is the ceiling for the TL's performance lineup.
How to verify a TL is the fast SH-AWD version
When evaluating a used TL, confirm engine size, drivetrain and model badges as indicators of the fastest variant.
- Check the engine displacement: 3.7 liters for the SH-AWD version.
- Look for the "TL SH-AWD" badge on the trunk and available SH-AWD branding on the sides or rear badge.
- Inspect the VIN or window sticker to confirm the model year falls within 2009–2014.
These identifiers help differentiate the fastest TL from earlier Type-S variants and later non-Type-S trims.
Summary
The crown for speed in the Acura TL lineup goes to the 2009–2014 SH-AWD model, delivering 305 horsepower from a 3.7-liter V6. Earlier Type-S versions peaked at 286 horsepower, while the earliest Type-S models offered 260 hp. For modern readers, this means the most powerful TL you can buy used is the SH-AWD variant from those years, a fact that remains true even as the model sits out of production.
How much horsepower does a 3rd gen Acura TL Type S have?
The Acura TL Type-S received the Acura RL's 3.5-liter J35A8 V6 gasoline engine tuned to 286 horsepower (213 kW) and 256 lb-ft of torque with either a 5-speed automatic with F1 style paddle shifters or a 6-speed manual transmission.
What is the best year for an Acura TL?
The best years for the Acura TL are subjective, but the 2007-2008 TL Type S is highly regarded for performance. For a balance of reliability and performance, the 2004-2008 manual transmission models are often recommended, despite potential torque steer. If you prioritize reliability, the 2012-2013 models are often cited as very reliable, and some users have also found the 2013 to be reliable.
For performance
- 2007-2008 Type S: This is widely considered the most desirable model for performance enthusiasts due to its powerful engine and sport-tuned handling. While it has significant torque steer, it's a highly capable sports sedan.
- 2004-2008 manual transmission: Many enthusiasts prefer these manual versions over the automatics and even the Type S, noting their overall great performance despite some initial torque steer.
For reliability
- 2012-2013: These years are often cited as being the most reliable within the final generation, with fewer issues reported.
- 2004-2008: Outside of the performance-focused models, this generation is also a solid choice, though some transmission issues were reported in earlier years.
Things to avoid
- 2010: Some owners reported issues with excessive oil consumption on these models.
Is the 2007 Acura TL fast?
However, Road and Track is a bit disappointed with the Type-S, noting, "when it comes to acceleration, power is the name of the game, and the lack of it hurt the Type-S at the test track. It ranked last to 60 mph and through the quarter mile (5.7 and 14.3 sec., respectively)."
What is the fastest Acura TL?
The "fastest" Acura TL depends on whether you mean stock or heavily modified. The fastest production TL is the 2010-2014 TL with the 3.7L engine, which has a top speed of around 150 mph. However, custom-built modified versions, like a supercharged or turbocharged TL, are significantly faster, with some reaching 700-1000+ horsepower, though they lack official track records.
Stock
- Top Speed: Around 150 mph (electronically limited) for the 2010-2014 TL with the 3.7L engine.
- 0-60 mph: Approximately 6.9 seconds for the 2010-2014 TL with the 3.7L engine.
Modified
- High-horsepower builds: Modified versions can achieve extreme horsepower. For example, a 4th generation TL is being built to push for over 1000 horsepower with a turbo setup, and other examples include supercharged builds that can reach 700+ horsepower.
- Performance records: There are no official, standardized records for the fastest modified TLs, as performance varies widely based on the specific engine modifications, tuning, and other upgrades.
