A decade after its release, the fourth-generation Acura TL remains a testament to Japanese luxury engineering. The 2011 refresh brought refined aesthetics and enhanced performance to this already capable sedan. Let’s dive into what made this particular model stand out in the competitive luxury segment of its era.
Design Evolution and Presence
The 2011 redesign softened the TL’s controversial edges while maintaining its distinctive character. Gone was the polarizing “beak” grille, replaced by a more refined Shield Grille that balanced aggression with elegance. The sculpted hood lines and muscular wheel arches gave the sedan an athletic stance that turned heads without shouting for attention.
LED lighting elements, both front and rear, weren’t just for show – they provided superior visibility and instant recognition on dark roads. The designers paid particular attention to aerodynamics, resulting in reduced wind noise and improved fuel efficiency.
“After three years with my 2012 TL SH-AWD, I still catch myself looking back at it every time I park. The design has aged incredibly well, unlike many of its contemporaries.” – Michael Chen, TL Owner
The sedan’s proportions struck an excellent balance between presence and practicality. At 194.9 inches long, it offered generous interior space while remaining manageable in urban environments.
Performance and Engineering Excellence
Under the hood, Acura offered two compelling V6 engines. The base 3.5-liter unit produced 280 horsepower, while the performance-oriented 3.7-liter powerplant in SH-AWD models delivered 305 horses. Both engines featured Honda’s renowned VTEC system, delivering smooth power delivery throughout the rev range.
These powertrains offered impressive capabilities:
- zero to 60 mph in just 5.3 seconds with the 3.7L engine;
- quarter-mile times consistently under 14 seconds;
- fuel economy reaching up to 29 mpg highway with the 3.5L engine;
- smooth power delivery across the entire rev range;
- proven reliability with proper maintenance.
The TL’s engineering prowess extended beyond raw performance numbers, focusing on real-world usability and refinement.
Luxury Interior and Technology Features
The cabin exemplified Acura’s attention to detail. Hand-selected leather upholstery, real aluminum accents, and precisely fitted panels created an environment that rivaled European competitors costing thousands more.
“The interior quality and comfort level of my 2013 TL surprised even my BMW-loving friends. The attention to detail and material choices are outstanding.” – Sarah Martinez, Former BMW Owner
The technology package brought features ahead of its time: a sophisticated navigation system with voice recognition, a 440-watt ELS audio system tuned by Grammy-winning sound engineer Elliot Scheiner, and a comprehensive driver interface that balanced functionality with ease of use.
The cabin’s ergonomics deserved special praise. Controls fell naturally to hand, and the dual-cockpit design created distinct zones for driver and passenger while maintaining an open, airy feel.
Driving Experience and Handling
The TL’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system set it apart from competitors. This advanced system could send up to 70% of power to the rear wheels and actively vector torque between them, enhancing both performance and safety.
Key handling characteristics included:
- precise steering feedback through corners;
- minimal body roll during aggressive maneuvers;
- confident wet-weather performance;
- comfortable ride quality on long trips;
- exceptional brake feel and stopping power.
The six-speed manual transmission option, increasingly rare in luxury sedans of this era, provided an engaging driving experience that pure enthusiasts still seek today.
A Legacy Worth Considering
The 2011-2014 Acura TL represents the sweet spot of modern luxury, performance, and reliability. It bridges the gap between analog driving engagement and digital convenience, offering a compelling package that remains relevant today.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Robust V6 engines with proven reliability | Higher fuel consumption compared to modern turbocharged alternatives |
| Superior build quality and material choices | Somewhat dated infotainment interface by today’s standards |
| Excellent SH-AWD system performance | Limited rear headroom for taller passengers |
| Available 6-speed manual transmission | Firm ride might not suit all luxury buyers |
| Strong resale value and reasonable maintenance costs | Some electronic systems showing their age |
| Spacious interior and practical trunk space | Premium fuel requirement for optimal performance |
| Comprehensive safety features for its era | Turning radius larger than some competitors |
The fourth-generation Acura TL, especially in its refined 2011-2014 form, stands as one of the most well-rounded luxury sport sedans of its era. It delivers a compelling blend of performance, comfort, and reliability that many modern vehicles struggle to match.