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2008 Acura TL Full Review
Date Published: 3/27/08
Also in the 2008 Acura TL Review:
2008 Acura TL Review
The 2008 Acura TL gets slightly revised exterior styling, pending a redesign due in calendar 2008 as a 2009 model. This premium midsize sedan is Acura's best-selling car. Base and Type-S models are offered. Base versions have a 258-hp 3.2-liter V6 engine and a 5-speed automatic transmission. Type-S models have a 286-hp 3.5-liter V6 and the choice of a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic. The Type-S also includes sport suspension and specific interior and exterior trim. Exclusive to the Type-S is Honda's Active Noise Cancellation designed to electronically quell mechanical, road, and wind noise. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. Also standard are leather upholstery with heated front seats, sunroof, wireless cell phone link, and DVD Audio. A navigation system with voice command is standard on Type-S and optional on the base.
Competition
Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Midsize Cars sport interior dimensions similar to Midsize Cars. Premium Midsize Cars offer more luxury, performance, and prestige when compared to Midsize Cars.
Our Best Buys include the Cadillac CTS, Infiniti G, and Lexus ES 350. Our Recommended picks are the Acura TL, Infiniti M, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
New or significantly redesigned models include the BMW 5-Series, Cadillac CTS, Volvo V70, and Volvo XC70.
Our Best Buys include the Cadillac CTS, Infiniti G, and Lexus ES 350. Our Recommended picks are the Acura TL, Infiniti M, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
New or significantly redesigned models include the BMW 5-Series, Cadillac CTS, Volvo V70, and Volvo XC70.
News
A redesigned TL is forecast for 2009. Few specifics have emerged yet, but the package should be based on the upcoming new 2008 Honda Accord. All-wheel drive, perhaps standard, may be a first-time feature to more clearly separate the TL from its traditional Honda parent. Diesel power may also be in the picture. Honda plans to sell diesel vehicles in the U.S. by 2009 as a way to reduce CO2 emissions across its entire lineup. To that end, it's developing two "clean diesel" engines, a 4-cyl and a V6, though it's unclear whether the TL would offer either one.
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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 and Type-S have strong acceleration, though they're best above 3500 rpm. In our tests, a base TL did 7.0 sec 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.
| 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 sec 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
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.
| 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
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.
| 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
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 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.
| 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 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
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.
| 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
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.
| 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
TL's cabin is nicely finished, with high-grade materials and assembly quality, and a vast array of standard luxury and convenience features.
| 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)
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.
| 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)
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 requires negotiating a narrow lower door frame.
| 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 requires negotiating a narrow lower door frame.
Cargo Room
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.
| Base | Base w/navigation | Type-S, manual | Type-S, automatic | Class Average |
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 4.1 |
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
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.
| 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
| Base | Base w/navigation | Type-S, manual | Type-S, automatic | Class Average |
| 70 | 68 | 63 | 63 | 68.3 |
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars
| Low Score | 56 | |
| Average Score | 68 | |
| High Score | 78 |
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2008 Acura TL Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 03/12/2008
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
|
|
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| Base 4-door sedan, automatic | $33,725 | $30,991 | $670 |
|
|
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| Base 4-door sedan w/navigation, automatic | $36,225 | $33,283 | $670 |
|
|
|||
| Type-S 4-door sedan, manual | $38,225 | $35,117 | $670 |
|
|
|||
| Type-S 4-door sedan w/performance tires, manual | $38,425 | $35,301 | $670 |
|
|
|||
| Type-S 4-door sedan, automatic | $38,225 | $35,117 | $670 |
|
|
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| Type-S 4-door sedan w/performance tires, automatic | $38,425 | $35,301 | $670 |
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, curtain side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, antiskid system, tire-pressure monitor, emergency inside trunklid release, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate controls and rear controls, interior air filter, tilt/telescopic leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, leather upholstery, heated front bucket seats w/lumbar adjustment, 8-way power driver seat, 4-way power passenger seat, memory system (driver seat, mirrors), center console, trunk pass-through, aluminum interior trim, heated power mirrors w/tilt-down back-up aid and turn signals, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, power sunroof, AM/FM/cassette w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3/DVD Audio player, digital-media player connection, satellite radio, wireless cell phone link, trip computer, automatic day/night rearview mirror, outside-temperature indicator, universal garage door opener, illuminated visor mirrors, variable-intermittent wipers, rear defogger, automatic headlights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, fog lights, bi-xenon headlights, 235/45WR17 tires, alloy wheels.
Base w/navigation adds to Base:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Navigation w/voice recognition, traffic information, rearview camera.
Type-S adds to Base w/navigation:
Powertrain
3.5-liter V6 engine, 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability, limited-slip differential (manual).
Safety
Uprated brakes.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Active noise cancellation.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Sport suspension.
Optional Equipment
No factory options.
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2008 Acura TL Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Acura TL 4-door sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 107.9 |
| Overall Length, in. | 189.3 |
| Overall Width, in. | 72.2 |
| Overall Height, in. | 56.7 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3623 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 12.5 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 17.1 |
| 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 | sohc V6 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 3.2 /196 | 3.5 /212 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 258 @ 6200 | 286 @ 6200 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 233 @ 5000 | 256 @ 5000 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
||
| 6-speed manual | --/-- | 18/27 |
| 5-speed automatic | 18/26 | 17/26 |
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 | 6/70,000 | -- |
| 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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