Acura TL (UA6) 09.2003 – 08.2006

Sharp lines cut through the air as the 2003 Acura TL glides down the highway. This isn’t just another luxury sedan – it’s a statement of intent from a brand determined to shake up the premium market. The third-generation TL arrived with something to prove, packing a punch that caught many rivals off guard.

Japanese engineering meets American expectations in this bold refresh of Acura’s mid-size offering. The UA6 platform brought more than just a new look – it delivered a complete rethinking of what a luxury sport sedan could be at its price point.

Heart of a Champion

The centerpiece of the 2003-2006 TL is its remarkable 3.2-liter V6 powerplant. With 273 horsepower coursing through its veins, this engine transforms mundane commutes into thrilling drives. The power delivery is butter-smooth yet urgent, with peak torque hitting at 5,000 rpm – right where you want it for highway passing maneuvers.

Behind the wheel, the five-speed automatic transmission reads your intentions with uncanny precision. Each upshift arrives with well-timed grace, while downshifts respond eagerly to throttle inputs.

“After 150,000 miles, my TL’s V6 still pulls like day one. The throttle response and power band are addictive – it’s the perfect balance of refinement and performance.” – Mike Chen, TL owner since 2004

The front-wheel-drive setup might raise eyebrows among driving purists, but Acura’s engineers worked magic with the chassis tuning. The result is a car that handles with surprising agility while maintaining its luxury car composure.

Living Space

Step inside the TL and you’re greeted by a cockpit that means business. The dashboard layout speaks a language of purposeful luxury, with controls falling naturally to hand. Here’s what sets the TL’s interior apart:

• leather surfaces with detailed stitching;
• dual-zone climate control with micron air filtration;
• eight-way power adjustable front seats;
• premium sound system with DVD-Audio capability;
• available navigation with voice recognition.

The cabin strikes an impressive balance between sport and comfort, though some interior materials haven’t aged as gracefully as the exterior design. Nevertheless, the fundamentals remain rock-solid.

Safety and Technology

The TL showcases Acura’s commitment to occupant protection. Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) keeps things pointed in the right direction, while a robust array of airbags stands ready if things go wrong.

“When a truck cut me off in the rain, the VSA kicked in instantly. The car stayed composed and I avoided what could have been a nasty accident.” – Sarah Martinez, TL enthusiast

The integration of safety features feels natural rather than intrusive. It’s this thoughtful implementation that helps the TL maintain its sporting character while providing peace of mind.

Value Proposition

When new, the TL carved out its niche by offering features that would cost thousands more in European competitors. Today, that value proposition continues on the used market.

The 2003-2006 models have proven particularly durable when properly maintained. Regular oil changes and transmission services are key to longevity. Consider these ownership insights:

• timing belt service due at 105,000 miles;
• transmission fluid changes recommended every 30,000 miles;
• interior electronics generally reliable;
• suspension components typically last 80,000+ miles;
• paint and exterior trim show good resistance to weathering.

The Road Ahead

Time has been kind to the third-generation TL. Its design has aged gracefully, while its performance continues to impress against more modern competitors. The blend of comfort, capability, and character remains compelling even years after production ended.

Pros and Cons

After spending time with the 2003-2006 Acura TL, it’s clear why these cars maintain such a devoted following. They represent a sweet spot in the brand’s history – a moment when performance, luxury, and value aligned perfectly.