2002 Acura TL Reviews, Pricing & Specs








































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































Overview
2002 marked the introduction of the powerful new Type S trim for the Acura TL midsize sedan. The 3.2 L, 260 hp V6 engine represents a...
2002 marked the introduction of the powerful new Type S trim for the Acura TL midsize sedan. The 3.2 L, 260 hp V6 engine represents a significant upgrade on the 3.2 L, 225 hp V6 3.2 TL trims. The '02 TL has 4 doors, seats 5, and comes in 4 trims: 3.2 TL, 3.2 TL with navigation, Type S, and Type S with navigation.
As for gas mileage, expect to get 19 mpg in the city and 29 on the highway. While the TL trims don't offer the stability control that the Type S has, all 4 trims come with a long list of standard equipment, including sunroof, power/leather seats, ABS brakes, and traction control. Type S trims get going in a relative hurry, reaching 60 mph in 6.65 seconds.
Overall, drivers like the extra juice in the Type S engines and the general value that the 2002 Acura TL offers. On the other hand, reviewers wouldn't mind a little extra attention to comfort, style, and luxury. It goes without saying, but we'll say it anyway: for more style and substance in your TL, get a model from '04 or later.
What owners say
"Overall, drivers have had a positive experience with the 2002 Acura TL, praising its performance, reliability, and comfortable interior. Many appreciated its powerful V6 engine and smooth handling, making it a fun car to drive. However, some expressed concerns about the transmission issues, which seem to be a common downside. Despite this, most drivers recommend the car for its reliable performance and stylish design."
It was a toss up between this and a BMW 330i. I liked the 330i because they offered it in a manual transmission, but comparably equipped, the BMW was 10k more. The transmission could use some redesign, but overall, I'm pleased with the car. Been running Mobil 1 since about 20k miles, and it's got 125k on it now - not burning any oil, and has gotten 24.1 mpg (19-34) over its life.
September 2, 2008This car is fun to drive. The acceleration and maneuverability of the car truly defines its sportiness. The leather, trim, fit and finish, all give you a sense of luxury. This is a well built car designed to go many safe and comfortable miles.
February 25, 2012A great car - V6 engine puts out about 230 hp and can really get going using auto-stick. The suspension is good for a sedan, not stiff enough for really taking the turns, but provides a smooth ride and quick manueverability. The interior is great - heated leather seats, an amazing Bose soundsystem, and a decent fan for A/C and heat. All the controls are easy to find and use. Plenty of storage room for all your phones, ipods, cameras. Very solid all-around, have had very little maintenance problems.
April 11, 2008What owners say
It was a toss up between this and a BMW 330i. I liked the 330i because they offered it in a manual transmission, but comparably equipped, the BMW was 10k more. The transmission could use some redesign, but overall, I'm pleased with the car. Been running Mobil 1 since about 20k miles, and it's got 125k on it now - not burning any oil, and has gotten 24.1 mpg (19-34) over its life.
September 2, 2008This car is fun to drive. The acceleration and maneuverability of the car truly defines its sportiness. The leather, trim, fit and finish, all give you a sense of luxury. This is a well built car designed to go many safe and comfortable miles.
February 25, 2012A great car - V6 engine puts out about 230 hp and can really get going using auto-stick. The suspension is good for a sedan, not stiff enough for really taking the turns, but provides a smooth ride and quick manueverability. The interior is great - heated leather seats, an amazing Bose soundsystem, and a decent fan for A/C and heat. All the controls are easy to find and use. Plenty of storage room for all your phones, ipods, cameras. Very solid all-around, have had very little maintenance problems.
April 11, 2008While it has a tuned down version of the awesome 3.2 liter Honda engine, It still gets to top speed smoothly and quickly. The engine is so finely tuned it sounds more like a woosh than a roar.
April 2, 2008Best car I have ever owned! I want to keep it till it atleast gets 300,000 miles on it. Haven't had any issues besides normal wear n tear stuff. Reliable, reliable, reliable, reliable. Did i mention it is super reliable?
March 21, 2011Despite transmission problems (replaced by dealer out of warranty) this is the best car I've ever owned. Repairs and maintenance are expensive. OK gas mileage. Great fun; full of temptation. Everyone wants to drive it. Lots of silver Acura's where I live.
July 30, 2009I have the injen cold air intake, factory honda brakes all around, tein coilovers with kyb struts and suspension technuques anti sway bars front and rear, this thing is in tip top shape just upgrades have been done, gas mileage is normal for this type of vehicle, maintence is minimal, this car is rolliing on 19' finally and it is fun to drive.
December 20, 2008This car is great. Had some problems with it, but warranty covered it and if it even if it didn't i would be glad to pay $2000 to get a new transmission in here. This car is amazing to drive, great stock handling, great after market brakes. Great car for anyone that love luxury and power combined in one at an affordable price. Well affordable now used, not brand new when i got it.. and its great on gas!
November 11, 2008Had the car for almost a year. It was a company car. I was very happy with the upscale interior and the large boot space. The car was very comfortable to drive on long trips. The engine was very powerful and made an amazing noise when accelerated on full throttle. Handling was also excellent. Type S features a sports suspension but doesn't compromise ride quality. One major disadvantage is the notchy automatic transmission that takes forever to find the right gear. The car is solid thought and a good buy with all the "goodies" that includes like power everything, leather etc.
April 19, 2008This car is so fun to drive! It accelerates pretty fast and has 220 horse power. It also has the craziest braking ability plus turning. I like to speed around in it and it does have a decent miles per gallon. It also is semi-manual.
June 27, 2008Trims & specs
Base MSRP $29,380 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.2L 225 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 14.3 cu ft |
Combined MPG 22 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $31,730 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.2L 260 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 14.3 cu ft |
Combined MPG 22 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $31,380 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.2L 225 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 22 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $33,730 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.2L 260 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 22 | Drivetrain FWD |




