2008 Acura TL Road Test - Consumer Guide Automotive

Our road test for the 2008 Acura TL includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Acura TL from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Acura TL, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Acura TL help you decide if a 2008 Acura TL is right for you.

2008 Acura TL Road Test

Pros	Cons

Acceleration	Cargo room

Steering/handling	Rear-seat room/comofrt

Build quality

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

Base	Base w/navigation	Type-S, manual	Type-S, automatic	Class Average
7	7	7	7	7

Base and Type-S have strong acceleration, though they're best above 3500 rpm. In our tests, a base TL did 7.0 seconds 0-60 mph. We haven't timed a Type-S, but its power difference is most noticed at high rpm, where it feels only slightly stronger than base TL. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly in the base model, more aggressively in Type-S. Downshifts in both suffer from a slight delay. The manual transmission has silky, short-throw shift action, but clutch engagement can be abrupt.

Fuel Economy

Base	Base w/navigation	Type-S, manual	Type-S, automatic	Class Average
6	6	5	5	4.6

In Consumer Guide testing, base models averaged 23.0 mpg. Test Type-S models with automatic transmission averaged 19.9-22.7 mpg. Acura recommends premium-grade gas for all TL models.

Ride Quality

Base	Base w/navigation	Type-S, manual	Type-S, automatic	Class Average
6	6	4	4	6.3

All TLs benefit from a notably rigid body structure. Base models are stable and controlled, though their suspension tuning is tauter than in comfort-minded rivals such as the Lexus ES 350. Type-S's handling-focused suspension gives an even firmer ride.

Steering/Handling/Braking

Base	Base w/navigation	Type-S, manual	Type-S, automatic	Class Average
6	6	7	7	7.1

The base model is agile and well-controlled, with nicely weighted steering. Type-S exhibits even sharper steering response and less cornering lean--though some testers found the steering artificially heavy at low speeds. In both, rapid acceleration at low speed triggers torque steer, especially with the manual transmission. All have strong, confident stopping control.

Quietness

Base	Base w/navigation	Type-S, manual	Type-S, automatic	Class Average
8	8	7	7	7

Wind and road noise are modest. The engine note is sporty but subdued. Type-S has Honda's electronic noise-canceling feature that seems of some benefit mostly on coarse pavement.

Controls

Base	Base w/navigation	Type-S, manual	Type-S, automatic	Class Average
7	6	6	6	6.1

All TLs have clear gauges. Major controls are well marked, but minor functions are governed by numerous small controls that are difficult to identify at a glance. The available navigation system doesn't absorb primary audio and climate functions but does complicate some adjustments. Many of its functions take time to master. Its screen brightness often needs to be changed to suit light conditions, which is a hassle.

Details

Base	Base w/navigation	Type-S, manual	Type-S, automatic	Class Average
8	8	8	8	7.4

TL's cabin is nicely finished, with high-grade materials and assembly quality, and a vast array of standard luxury and convenience features.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

Base	Base w/navigation	Type-S, manual	Type-S, automatic	Class Average
7	7	7	7	7.3

Seats afford good lateral support for spirited driving, though some of our testers say the cushions are firmer than necessary and uncomfortably shaped. There's sufficient overall space for six-footers, but the overall design makes the cabin feel more cozy than it really is.

Room/Comfort (rear)

Base	Base w/navigation	Type-S, manual	Type-S, automatic	Class Average
4	4	4	4	5.2

Headroom is tight for taller riders. The seat cushion is low to the floor, oddly shaped, and lacks thigh support. Legroom gets tight if the front seats are well aft. Entry and exit require negotiating a narrow lower door frame.

Cargo Room

Base	Base w/navigation	Type-S, manual	Type-S, automatic	Class Average
3	3	3	3	4.2

The trunk is on the small side, but it has a useful shape. Its lid hinges intrude but are covered to prevent cargo damage. The rear seatback doesn't fold; it only has a small center pass-through. Cabin storage is adequate.

Value within Class

Base	Base w/navigation	Type-S, manual	Type-S, automatic	Class Average
8	7	5	5	6.2

This Acura is an impressive blend of sport and luxury. It has a tendency toward torque steer and has a somewhat uncomfortable rear seat. Its basic design is also aging--and the Type S compromises too much ride comfort for minimal gains in handling. Still, the base TL is a solid Recommended choice, delivering high refinement, solid workmanship, and lots of features at hard-to-beat prices.

Total Score