The late 1990s marked a golden era for Japanese luxury cars, and the second-generation Acura TL stood proudly among them. Released in July 1998, this iteration of the TL showcased Honda’s engineering prowess while establishing itself as a worthy competitor in the luxury sport sedan segment.
From its sleek silhouette to its driver-focused cockpit, the UA4 generation TL embodied Acura’s commitment to blending performance with refinement. This wasn’t just another entry-luxury sedan – it was a statement piece that challenged European dominance in the segment.
Heart of a Performer: The 3.2L VTEC V6
The TL’s 3.2-liter V6 engine stands as a testament to Honda’s engineering excellence. With 225 horsepower flowing through a smooth-shifting 5-speed automatic transmission, this powerplant delivers a perfect balance of refinement and excitement. The VTEC system seamlessly transitions between efficient cruising and spirited driving, making every journey engaging.
The engine’s character truly shines when pushed hard, revealing its sporty nature without compromising daily drivability. Premium fuel feeds this sophisticated powertrain, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
“After owning my 2000 TL for eight years, I’m still amazed by how responsive and smooth the V6 is. It pulls strong at any speed and never feels stressed.” – Michael R., TL Owner
The drivetrain’s sophistication extends beyond raw power. The transmission’s gear ratios are perfectly matched to the engine’s power band, providing quick acceleration when needed and relaxed cruising on highways. Every shift feels purposeful, contributing to the car’s dual personality as both a luxury cruiser and a capable performer.
Design That Defies Time
The UA4 TL’s exterior design represents a high point in Acura’s styling history. Clean lines and perfect proportions create a timeless silhouette that looks sophisticated even by today’s standards. The front fascia, with its sleek headlights and understated grille, projects confidence without aggression.
Inside, the cabin exemplifies the best of late-90s Japanese luxury. High-quality materials and excellent build quality have helped many examples age gracefully. The driver-focused cockpit layout places every control within easy reach.
Here are the standout interior features that set the TL apart:
- leather upholstery with excellent bolstering and support;
- premium sound system with crisp audio quality;
- intuitive climate control interface;
- spacious rear seating with ample legroom;
- large trunk with fold-down rear seats.
The attention to detail extends to every surface and touch point. Even after decades of use, well-maintained examples maintain their premium feel and resist the typical wear patterns that plague lesser vehicles.
Behind the Wheel
The TL’s chassis tuning reveals its sporting intentions without sacrificing comfort. The double-wishbone suspension setup, shared with period Honda performance models, provides exceptional handling characteristics that many modern cars struggle to match.
“Coming from a BMW E39, I was skeptical about the TL’s handling. But this car really impressed me – it’s balanced, predictable, and genuinely fun to drive.” – Sarah K., Automotive Enthusiast
Body control remains composed through corners, while ride quality strikes an excellent balance between firmness and comfort. The steering provides good feedback, allowing drivers to place the car precisely where they want it.
Road noise is well-managed, especially considering the car’s age. The cabin stays quiet at highway speeds, making long-distance travel a pleasure rather than a chore.
Living With Time: Reliability and Maintenance
Two decades later, the TL has proven itself as a durable choice when properly maintained. Regular maintenance intervals are straightforward, and most components show impressive longevity.
Common areas requiring attention include:
- transmission fluid changes every 30,000 miles;
- timing belt replacement at 90,000 miles;
- power steering pump inspection;
- suspension bushing maintenance;
- regular brake system maintenance.
The accessibility of parts and widespread mechanical knowledge make ownership relatively stress-free. Many examples have surpassed 200,000 miles while maintaining their core functionality and comfort.
A Legacy Worth Preserving
The second-generation Acura TL represents more than just a luxury sedan – it embodies an era when Japanese manufacturers were at the height of their engineering confidence. Its blend of performance, comfort, and reliability created a formula that remains appealing today.
These cars have earned their place in automotive history, proving that luxury doesn’t have to mean complexity, and performance doesn’t require compromise. The UA4 TL continues to reward owners who appreciate its subtle sophistication.
Pros and Cons
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Robust 3.2L V6 engine with proven reliability | Requires premium fuel for optimal performance |
| Excellent handling with double-wishbone suspension | Some transmission issues reported in early models |
| High-quality interior materials that age well | Limited technology features by modern standards |
| Strong performance-to-value ratio | Parts becoming scarcer for certain components |
| Comfortable for both daily driving and long trips | Higher maintenance costs compared to non-luxury models |
| Timeless exterior design | Potential for expensive repairs if not maintained properly |
| Spacious interior and trunk | Some interior electronics may show age-related issues |
This generation of the Acura TL stands as one of the most well-rounded luxury sport sedans of its era. While it may lack modern amenities, its fundamental strengths in performance, comfort, and build quality make it an compelling choice for enthusiasts and practical buyers alike.