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2004 Acura TL Full Review
Date Published: 2/20/08
Also in the 2004 Acura TL Review:
2004 Acura TL Review
Acura's best-selling car is redesigned for 2004 with new styling, more power, and more standard safety features. The TL is based on the platform of the Accord sedan from parent-company Honda, but is more luxurious and more expensive. The '04 TL has virtually the same wheelbase as its 1999-2003 predecessor, but overall length is shorter by 6.3 inches. Interior dimensions change little. The sole engine is a 3.2-liter V6 with 270 hp. A 5-speed automatic transmission with manual shift gate returns. Replacing the sporty Type-S model is a 6-speed manual-transmission TL version with a firmer suspension than automatic-transmission models, plus Brembo-brand front brakes and a limited-slip differential. Manual versions are available with high-performance tires vs. the standard all-season treads. All TLs come with ABS, 17-inch wheels, and an antiskid system. Front side airbags are standard and are joined for '04 by head-protecting curtain side airbags. Leather upholstery with heated front seats, aluminum interior trim, and a sunroof are standard. So is satellite radio and a new audio system with an in-dash changer that plays CDs and DVD-Audio discs. Other new features include Acura's HandsFreeLink, which employs the audio system as a hands-free, wireless link to cell phones. A navigation system with voice command is optional. OnStar assistance is no longer available.
News
The TL recently added "A-Spec" performance equipment available through dealers as a package or as separate items. This reflects Acura's new aim of winning more business from the youth market by establishing a stronger performance image. The A-Spec goodies don't affect power, but do sharpen handling and looks with such expected items as tight springs and shock absorbers, larger wheels and tires, and "aero" styling add-ons. They also don't affect the vehicle warranty when installed by an authorized dealer. Otherwise, no big changes loom for Acura's just-redesigned midsize sedan, though a recent auto-show concept suggests a revived Type-S model as a prospect for 2006 or '07.
2004 Acura TL Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Acceleration | Rear-seat comfort |
| Steering/handling | |
| Build quality | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
Strong, though best above 3500 rpm; test car with manual transmission did 6.2 sec 0-60 mph. Manual has silky, short-throw shift action, though clutch engagement sometimes abrupt. Automatic transmission downshifts smoothly, promptly for good throttle response.
| Base, auto. | Base w/nav. sys., man. | Base w/nav. sys. and perf. tires, man. | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.4 |
Strong, though best above 3500 rpm; test car with manual transmission did 6.2 sec 0-60 mph. Manual has silky, short-throw shift action, though clutch engagement sometimes abrupt. Automatic transmission downshifts smoothly, promptly for good throttle response.
Fuel Economy
Test manual-transmission TLs averaged 17.7-23.3 mpg depending on driving conditions. Test automatic averaged 23.0. Acura recommends premium-grade fuel.
| Base, auto. | Base w/nav. sys., man. | Base w/nav. sys. and perf. tires, man. | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.6 |
Test manual-transmission TLs averaged 17.7-23.3 mpg depending on driving conditions. Test automatic averaged 23.0. Acura recommends premium-grade fuel.
Ride Quality
Stable, controlled, but tauter than comfort-minded rivals such as Lexus ES 330. Manual-transmission models' performance-tuned suspension gives even firmer ride, especially with the performance tires. Notably rigid body structure.
| Base, auto. | Base w/nav. sys., man. | Base w/nav. sys. and perf. tires, man. | Class Average |
| 7 | 6 | 5 | 7 |
Stable, controlled, but tauter than comfort-minded rivals such as Lexus ES 330. Manual-transmission models' performance-tuned suspension gives even firmer ride, especially with the performance tires. Notably rigid body structure.
Steering/Handling/Braking
Nicely weighted, linear steering. Liberal use of throttle from low speed triggers torque-steer wander, especially exiting tight turns. TL feels agile, well-controlled, but cornering prowess not equal to best rear-drive competitors. Strong, confident stopping power further enhanced by manual's Brembo brakes.
| Base, auto. | Base w/nav. sys., man. | Base w/nav. sys. and perf. tires, man. | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.8 |
Nicely weighted, linear steering. Liberal use of throttle from low speed triggers torque-steer wander, especially exiting tight turns. TL feels agile, well-controlled, but cornering prowess not equal to best rear-drive competitors. Strong, confident stopping power further enhanced by manual's Brembo brakes.
Quietness
Wind rush modest. Tire roar intrudes, especially with performance tread. Subdued-but-sporty engine note.
| Base, auto. | Base w/nav. sys., man. | Base w/nav. sys. and perf. tires, man. | Class Average |
| 8 | 8 | 7 | 6.7 |
Wind rush modest. Tire roar intrudes, especially with performance tread. Subdued-but-sporty engine note.
Controls
Clear gauges, well-marked controls. Cutting-edge DVD-Audio sounds terrific. HandsFreeLink easy to use. Navigation system doesn't absorb primary audio/climate functions, but does complicate some audio adjustments, takes time to master, and demands frequent manipulation of brightness level as light conditions change. Near-luxury benchmark for solid assembly, high-quality materials, and standard amenities such as leather upholstery and heated power front seats.
| Base, auto. | Base w/nav. sys., man. | Base w/nav. sys. and perf. tires, man. | Class Average |
| 9 | 8 | 8 | 6.7 |
Clear gauges, well-marked controls. Cutting-edge DVD-Audio sounds terrific. HandsFreeLink easy to use. Navigation system doesn't absorb primary audio/climate functions, but does complicate some audio adjustments, takes time to master, and demands frequent manipulation of brightness level as light conditions change. Near-luxury benchmark for solid assembly, high-quality materials, and standard amenities such as leather upholstery and heated power front seats.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Comfortable seats with good lateral support for spirited driving, though some testers say they're firmer than necessary. Sufficient space for 6-footers, but cockpitlike design makes for cozy feel.
| Base, auto. | Base w/nav. sys., man. | Base w/nav. sys. and perf. tires, man. | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7.2 |
Comfortable seats with good lateral support for spirited driving, though some testers say they're firmer than necessary. Sufficient space for 6-footers, but cockpitlike design makes for cozy feel.
Room/Comfort (rear)
Tight head room for taller riders. Seat cushion unsubstantial, oddly shaped, lacks thigh support. Leg room gets tight as front seats move more than halfway back. Easy entry/exit.
| Base, auto. | Base w/nav. sys., man. | Base w/nav. sys. and perf. tires, man. | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 5.6 |
Tight head room for taller riders. Seat cushion unsubstantial, oddly shaped, lacks thigh support. Leg room gets tight as front seats move more than halfway back. Easy entry/exit.
Cargo Room
Smallish trunk, but usefully shaped. Low liftover, but constricted opening. Lid hinges intrude, though covered to prevent cargo damage. Rear seatback doesn't fold, has small center ski pass-through. Modest in-cabin storage.
| Base, auto. | Base w/nav. sys., man. | Base w/nav. sys. and perf. tires, man. | Class Average |
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 4 |
Smallish trunk, but usefully shaped. Low liftover, but constricted opening. Lid hinges intrude, though covered to prevent cargo damage. Rear seatback doesn't fold, has small center ski pass-through. Modest in-cabin storage.
Value within Class
TL strikes an impressive balance between sport and luxury, with manual-transmission versions adding an extra dose of athleticism. Toss in Acura's traditional levels of refinement, features, and reliability at hard-to-beat prices, and the TL stands tall as a near-luxury pacesetter.
| Base, auto. | Base w/nav. sys., man. | Base w/nav. sys. and perf. tires, man. | Class Average |
| 10 | 9 | 9 | 5.8 |
TL strikes an impressive balance between sport and luxury, with manual-transmission versions adding an extra dose of athleticism. Toss in Acura's traditional levels of refinement, features, and reliability at hard-to-beat prices, and the TL stands tall as a near-luxury pacesetter.
Total Score
| Base, auto. | Base w/nav. sys., man. | Base w/nav. sys. and perf. tires, man. | Class Average |
| 67 | 64 | 62 | 60.8 |
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars
| Low Score | 48 | |
| Average Score | 60 | |
| High Score | 71 |
2004 Acura TL Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 06/29/2004
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
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| Base 4-door sedan, manual | $32,650 | $29,755 | $545 |
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| Base 4-door sedan w/performance tires, manual | $32,850 | $29,937 | $545 |
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| Base 4-door sedan w/navigation, manual | $34,650 | $31,575 | $545 |
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| Base 4-door sedan w/navigation and performance tires, manual | $34,850 | $31,758 | $545 |
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| Base 4-door sedan, automatic | $32,650 | $29,755 | $545 |
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| Base 4-door sedan w/navigation, automatic | $34,650 | $31,575 | $545 |
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, 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability, limited-slip differential (manual).
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, upgraded brakes (manual), antiskid system, emergency inside trunk release.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate controls, power steering, tilt/telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, leather upholstery, heated front bucket seats, 10-way power driver seat, 4-way power passenger seat, memory system (driver seat, mirrors), center console, cupholders, trunk pass-through, heated power mirrors w/tilt-down back-up aid, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, power sunroof, AM/FM/cassette/CD/DVD player, satellite radio, digital clock, hands-free cellular telephone link, automatic day/night rearview mirror, universal garage-door opener, illuminated visor mirrors, map lights, variable-intermittent wipers, rear defogger, automatic-off headlights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, fog lights, xenon headlights, sport suspension (manual), 235/45WR17 tires, alloy wheels.
Optional Equipment
No factory options.
2004 Acura TL Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Acura TL 4-door sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 107.9 |
| Overall Length, in. | 186.2 |
| Overall Width, in. | 72.2 |
| Overall Height, in. | 56.7 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3482 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 12.5 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 17.0 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.7 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.8 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.2 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 34.9 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| sohc V6 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 3.2 /196 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 270 @ 6200 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 238 @ 5000 |
| Availability | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
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| 6-speed manual | 20/30 |
| 5-speed automatic | 20/28 |
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 |
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
| Rollover Resistance | 4 |
| Side Impact, Driver | 4 |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | 5 |
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
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Tester's Comments
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Major Options: Nvigation System, XM Satellite Radio Consumer Guide® Fuel Economy: 22.99 mpg (what's this?) Problems During Test: None From The Back Seat Kirk Bell This car was basically built for my tastes, but I probably don't represent the average luxury buyer. It's quite sporty and the interior is stylish if not executed to the fullest. Great sound system, too. Considering everything you get, it's a great value for the money. Mark Bilek I don't know if there is a better car for the price in the near-luxury segment. TL is fun to drive. refined, and decently roomy. It sets the bar in the class. |
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Also in the 2004 Acura TL Review:
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