Vehicle History Report
Get a CARFAX Vehicle History... the first step to protecting yourself from costly hidden problems.
- • New Cars
2000 Acura TL Full Review
Date Published: 2/20/08
Also in the 2000 Acura TL Review:
2000 Acura TL Review
A 5-speed automatic transmission and front side airbags are 2000 additions to this American-built sedan from Honda's upscale division. Acura's best-selling model, the TL shares its platform with Honda's Accord and the redesigned Acura CL coupe.
A 3.2-liter V6 and automatic transmission continue, but the engine is tuned to deliver more low-speed power, and a 5-speed automatic replaces last year's 4-speed. The transmission retains Acura's SportShift manual gear-selection feature. Correcting another competitive deficit is the addition of standard front side airbags. Shared with Acura's RL and CL is a sensor system in the right front seat designed to prevent that side airbag from deploying if it would injure a small child. The right front dashboard airbag now also bases the rate of its deployment on collision severity.
TLs have standard leather upholstery, heated front seats, power moonroof, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, traction control, and high-intensity discharge headlamps. The sole factory option is an in-dash navigation system. For 2000, its touch-screen gets a matte finish designed to make it easier to read, and the database is upgraded to use DVD (digital video disc) technology. There's also now lighting for all power-window switches, not just the driver's switch.
A 3.2-liter V6 and automatic transmission continue, but the engine is tuned to deliver more low-speed power, and a 5-speed automatic replaces last year's 4-speed. The transmission retains Acura's SportShift manual gear-selection feature. Correcting another competitive deficit is the addition of standard front side airbags. Shared with Acura's RL and CL is a sensor system in the right front seat designed to prevent that side airbag from deploying if it would injure a small child. The right front dashboard airbag now also bases the rate of its deployment on collision severity.
TLs have standard leather upholstery, heated front seats, power moonroof, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, traction control, and high-intensity discharge headlamps. The sole factory option is an in-dash navigation system. For 2000, its touch-screen gets a matte finish designed to make it easier to read, and the database is upgraded to use DVD (digital video disc) technology. There's also now lighting for all power-window switches, not just the driver's switch.
Competition
This hotly contested segment has a clear benchmark, it is the Acura TL (and its 2-door cousin Acura CL). The TL succeeds in blending comfort, style, luxury, and sport into an efficient package at an affordable price.
But the Acura's not for everyone. We also recommend the sporty and Euro-flavored Audi A6, the comfortable Buick Park Avenue, the affordable and fast Infiniti I30, and the luxury-orientated Lexus ES 300.
But the Acura's not for everyone. We also recommend the sporty and Euro-flavored Audi A6, the comfortable Buick Park Avenue, the affordable and fast Infiniti I30, and the luxury-orientated Lexus ES 300.
News
The TL has been a big hit for Acura since its 1999 redesign. The model now far outpolls the make's other products, even the entry-level Integra. Because it is so new--and doing so well--the TL is not scheduled for any major changes over the next 2-3 years. However, Acura officials recently hinted to the press that a sportier Type S version, powered by the same 260-hp engine as the like-named CL coupe model, will be offered, though they declined to say when.
2000 Acura TL Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Acceleration | Navigation system controls |
| Build quality | |
| Exterior finish | |
| Interior materials | |
| Steering/handling | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
Acura says the 2000 TL is a half-second quicker 0-60 mph, about 7 seconds flat based on our 1999-model tests. The 5-speed transmission boosts low-speed acceleration and midrange throttle response.
| Base | Type-S w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
| 6 | 7 | 6.2 |
Acura says the 2000 TL is a half-second quicker 0-60 mph, about 7 seconds flat based on our 1999-model tests. The 5-speed transmission boosts low-speed acceleration and midrange throttle response.
Fuel Economy
Should improve slightly from the 19.3 to 24.5 mpg we averaged in test '99 models. Premium fuel is again required.
| Base | Type-S w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
| 6 | 5 | 4.6 |
Should improve slightly from the 19.3 to 24.5 mpg we averaged in test '99 models. Premium fuel is again required.
Ride Quality
Much firmer than that of less-nimble competitors such as the ES 300 and Infiniti I30.
| Base | Type-S w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
| 7 | 5 | 6.5 |
Much firmer than that of less-nimble competitors such as the ES 300 and Infiniti I30.
Steering/Handling/Braking
Unerring high-speed stability, with terrific grip and control in turns.
| Base | Type-S w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
| 6 | 7 | 6.3 |
Unerring high-speed stability, with terrific grip and control in turns.
Quietness
Tire rumble and slap are more prominent than in most rivals, but aren't objectionable. Low engine and wind noise.
| Base | Type-S w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
| 8 | 7 | 6.8 |
Tire rumble and slap are more prominent than in most rivals, but aren't objectionable. Low engine and wind noise.
Controls
Large, legible gauges, but climate controls are too far from the driver. Outward vision is unobstructed.
| Base | Type-S w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
| 8 | 6 | 6.2 |
Large, legible gauges, but climate controls are too far from the driver. Outward vision is unobstructed.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Ample room up front. Adults can stretch out.
| Base | Type-S w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 6.9 |
Ample room up front. Adults can stretch out.
Room/Comfort (rear)
Good head room, but leg room is only adequate, and the seat cushion needs more thigh support.
| Base | Type-S w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5.1 |
Good head room, but leg room is only adequate, and the seat cushion needs more thigh support.
Cargo Room
Generous interior and trunk storage room, though the trunklid hinges dip into the cargo area.
| Base | Type-S w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
| 3 | 3 | 3.9 |
Generous interior and trunk storage room, though the trunklid hinges dip into the cargo area.
Value within Class
Solidly built and impeccably finished, the TL equals or exceeds anything in the near-luxury class for quality and refinement. It also has a sporty nature that will please demanding drivers but may turn off buyers who expect Lexuslike isolation. Overall, the new 5-speed transmission and standard side airbags make the 2000 TL an even stronger Best Buy.
| Base | Type-S w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
| 8 | 6 | 4.1 |
Solidly built and impeccably finished, the TL equals or exceeds anything in the near-luxury class for quality and refinement. It also has a sporty nature that will please demanding drivers but may turn off buyers who expect Lexuslike isolation. Overall, the new 5-speed transmission and standard side airbags make the 2000 TL an even stronger Best Buy.
Total Score
| Base | Type-S w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
| 64 | 58 | 56.6 |
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars
| Low Score | 41 | |
| Average Score | 56 | |
| High Score | 68 |
2000 Acura TL Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 10/12/1999
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
|
|
|||
| Base 4-door sedan | $28,400 | $25,596 | $480 |
|
|
|||
| Base 4-door sedan w/Navigation System | $30,400 | $27,397 | $480 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
Base
Powertrain
3.2-liter V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side-airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/automatic climate control, interior air filter, variable-assist power steering, leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel, cruise control, leather upholstery, heated front bucket seats, 8-way power driver seat w/manual lumbar adjustment, 4-way power passenger seat, console w/armrest, cupholders, trunk pass-through, wood interior trim, heated power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, power sunroof, Bose AM/FM/cassette/CD player, steering wheel mounted radio controls, rear defogger, automatic day/night rearview mirror, variable intermittent wipers, universal garage door opener, illuminated visor mirrors, automatic-off headlights.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, 205/60VR16 tires, alloy wheels.
Base w/Navigation System adds to Base:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Navigation system with global positioning system, LCD screen.
Optional Equipment
No factory options.
2000 Acura TL Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Acura TL 4-door sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 108.1 |
| Overall Length, in. | 192.9 |
| Overall Width, in. | 70.3 |
| Overall Height, in. | 56.7 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3483 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 14.3 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 17.2 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.9 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.4 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 36.8 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 35.0 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| sohc V6 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 3.2 /196 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 225 @ 5500 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 216 @ 4700 |
| Availability | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
|
| 5-speed automatic | 19/29 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Acura TL 4-door sedan |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | None/-- | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 5/unlimited | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
USA
Drivewheels:
front-wheel drive
Also in the 2000 Acura TL Review:
Car Buying Resources
Vehicle History Report
Sell Your Car
Powered by:
-
MAKE -
CATEGORY
Acura
Audi
Bentley
BMW
Buick
Cadillac
Chevrolet
Chrysler
Dodge
Ferrari
Ford
GMC
Honda
Hummer
Hyundai
Infiniti
Isuzu
Jaguar
Jeep
Kia
Lamborghini
Land Rover
Lexus
Lincoln
Lotus
Maserati
Mazda
Mercedes-Benz
Mercury
Mini
Mitsubishi
Nissan
Pontiac
Porsche
Rolls-Royce
Roush
Saab
Saturn
Scion
Smart
Subaru
Suzuki
Toyota
Volkswagen
Volvo
Subcompact Car
Compact Car
Midsize Car
Large Car
Premium Midsize Car
Premium Large Car
Sporty/performance Car
Premium Sporty/performance Car
Minivan
Full-size Van
Compact Sport-utility Vehicle
Midsize Sport-utility Vehicle
Large Sport-utility Vehicle
Compact Pickup Truck
Premium Midsize Sport-utility Vehicle
Premium Compact Sport-utility Vehicle
Large Pickup Truck
Premium Compact Car
Premium Large Sport-utility Vehicle
Exotic Car
