2001 Acura TL Road Test - Consumer Guide Automotive

Our road test for the 2001 Acura TL includes a full evaluation of the 2001 Acura TL from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2001 Acura TL, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2001 Acura TL help you decide if a 2001 Acura TL is right for you.

2001 Acura TL Road Test

Pros	Cons

Acceleration	Navigation system controls

Build quality

Exterior finish

Interior materials

Steering/handling

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

Base	Type-S w/nav. sys.	Class Average
6	7	6.1

Silken V6 delivers 0-60 mph in about 7 secs., plus good midrange passing punch, abetted by smooth, responsive auto. transmission.

Fuel Economy

Base	Type-S w/nav. sys.	Class Average
6	5	4.7

We haven't yet measured a 5-speed TL, but it should equal if not beat the 19.3-24.5 mpg we averaged with a 4-speed test car. Premium fuel is still required.

Ride Quality

Base	Type-S w/nav. sys.	Class Average
7	5	6.4

Comfortably sporty, and noticeably firmer than on less dynamic rivals like Lexus ES 300 and Infiniti I30. Becomes slightly busy on rippled surfaces.

Steering/Handling/Braking

Base	Type-S w/nav. sys.	Class Average
6	7	6.3

Not a BMW beater, but athletic and fun to drive, with grippy, responsive cornering allied to secure high-speed stability.

Quietness

Base	Type-S w/nav. sys.	Class Average
8	7	6.7

Tire rumble and slap above the class norm, but not irksome. Little wind ruckus. Engine quiet at cruise, rising to a pleasant muted snarl when worked hard.

Controls

Base	Type-S w/nav. sys.	Class Average
8	6	6.1

Climate controls a fair reach for some drivers. Navigation system controls some audio and climate functions, but is generally convenient and fairly easy to master. No problems otherwise.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

Base	Type-S w/nav. sys.	Class Average
7	7	7

Comfortable seats are fairly low, which hampers entry/exit, but ample adult-size room. Sound basic driving stance has enough adjustments to suit most people.

Room/Comfort (rear)

Base	Type-S w/nav. sys.	Class Average
5	5	5.1

Leg and head space limited for taller occupants. Bench seat has indifferent thigh support. Cabin too narrow for three adults. Entry/exit just okay.

Cargo Room

Base	Type-S w/nav. sys.	Class Average
3	3	4

Generously sized trunk with flat floor and low lip, but space-robbing sickle-shaped trunklid hinges can crunch cargo. No folding seatbacks, but trunk pass-through standard.

Value within Class

Base	Type-S w/nav. sys.	Class Average
10	10	4.7

Solidly built, impeccably finished, and very well equipped, the TL equals or exceeds anything in its class. Sportier than most rivals, so not to everyone's taste, but excellent value and a can't-miss Best Buy.

Total Score