2011 Acura TL Reviews, Pricing & Specs

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$35,305 to $43,585

Original MSRP

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expert review

5.0

avg user rating

(1 review)
2011 Acura TL Preview summaryImage

The problem with the 2011 Acura TL is that if you don't think your car's grille should look like a superhero's belt buckle, you're likely to miss out on a stellar midsize sedan with a glut of features and a strong engine.

The base V6 offers 280 horsepower and an 18/26 mpg city/highway rating. If you opt for the SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive) package, you get a 3.7-liter V6 with 305 horsepower on tap and 273 lb-ft of torque, mated to an advanced all-wheel-drive system that modulates power to each wheel. The larger engine helps to offset the power being split among all four wheels, rather than just two in the front-wheel-drive base TL.

The 2011 Acura TL is seen by some reviewers as two separate trims depending on whether prospective buyers opt for the front-wheel drive base version or the SH-AWD trim. It's perhaps telling that while both come equipped with a five-speed automatic to start, the SH-AWD is also available with a six-speed manual transmission for those interested in rowing their own gears.

Focusing on the handling of the SH-AWD, reviewers argue that the computerized system provides a stronger steering feel and control because of the ability to shunt engine power where it's needed in cornering. The base TL is no less comfortable thanks to a good suspension, but some say the steering feel can be lacking.

Inside, all models get a 6-CD changer, inputs for MP3 players, and USB connectivity for audio options for the five occupants, along with a leather-trimmed interior and heated front seats. Some reviewers have remarked that while the design of the interior as a whole is on par with European sports sedans like the Audi A4 and the BMW 3 Series, the center stack of the 2011 Acura TL can be somewhat confusing, with a center control knob and a surfeit of buttons alongside.

The driver gets power lumbar support in the seat and 10-way adjustment, and the front passenger gets a second set of climate controls. Safety features include side impact and side curtain airbags that combine with active head restraints for the front seat. 2011 Acura TLs come standard with ABS and electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist, as well as an electronic safety system.

For prospective buyers looking for a bit more on the interior, the Technology package available for both the base TL trim and the SH-AWD offers keyless access, a navigation system with voice control, and an upgraded audio system with 410 watts. The leather interior is also improved, along with a rear spoiler and a rear-view parking camera.

Reviewers have noted that the 2011 Acura TL is a stellar car for those looking for a midsize luxury sedan with a comfortable rear passenger area, offering enough headroom and legroom for taller passengers as well as good build quality and crash-test scores that have made it one of the top choices of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. If you can get past the bird nose, it's a worthy competitor in the market.

CarGurus Editorial Team
Published May 31, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
While we highlight specific author bylines where possible, sometimes our content results from the combined efforts of several members of the CarGurus editorial team. As with all our editorial content, you can expect high levels of automotive insight and expertise delivered in a style that is approachable and free from jargon.

User reviews for 2011 Acura TL

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User rating:
by Mike V
Feb 15, 2022
Good value for money. Strong car in the winter time weatherFeb 15, 2022

2011 Acura TL Pricing

Original MSRP
$35,305 to $43,585
Price range
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Average price on CG
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YoY price change
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Trims & specs

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags

Audio System

Antenna Type: element · Auxiliary audio input: iPod/iPhone integration · 6 disc in-dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · 1 subwoofer · Surround audio: 5.1 · Total Number of Speakers: 8 · 276 watts

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 12.6 · Front brake width: 1.1 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 13.1 · Rear brake width: .43 · Rear brakes: disc

Comfort Features

Armrests: rear center folding with pass-thru · Center console trim: simulated alloy · Dash trim: simulated alloy · Door sill trim: aluminum · Door trim: simulated alloy · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Shift knob trim: wood · Steering wheel trim: wood

Convenience Features

Center console: front console with storage · Cupholders: front · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Keyless entry: Intelligent Key · Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): two 12V · Power steering: speed-proportional · Reading lights: rear · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: cruise controls · Storage: cargo tie-down anchors and hooks · Universal garage door opener: Homelink · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating

Driver Seat

Adjustable lumbar support: power · Power adjustments: 10

Drivetrain

Axle ratio: 4.31

Exterior Features

Door handle color: body-color · Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: chrome · Grille color: chrome · Window trim: stainless steel

Headrests

Adjustable rear headrests: retractable · Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 3

Instrumentation

Warnings and reminders: low oil level

Lights

Headlights: Auto on · Tail and brake lights: LED

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: power

Passenger Seat

Power adjustments: 8

Rear Seats

Type: bench

Roof

Moonroof: remote operation

Safety

Active head restraints: driver · Child seat anchors: LATCH system · Crumple zones: rear · Parking sensors: rear

Seatbelts

Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Second row seatbelts: 3-point

Seats

Driver seat power adjustments: height · Front seat type: sport bucket · Passenger seat power adjustments: height · Upholstery: leather

Spare Tire

Mount Location: inside · Size: temporary

Spare Wheel

Rim Type: steel

Suspension

Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: strut · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): rear

Telematics

Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth

Tires

Diameter: 18 · Profile: 45 · Type: summer performance · Width: 245

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy · Wheels: alloy

Windows

Front wipers: speed sensitive · Laminated glass: acoustic · Power windows: remote operation

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags

Audio System

Antenna Type: element · USB auxiliary audio input · 6 disc in-dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · 1 subwoofer · Surround audio: 5.1 · Total Number of Speakers: 8 · 276 watts

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 12.6 · Front brake width: 1.1 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 13.1 · Rear brake width: .43 · Rear brakes: disc

Comfort Features

Armrests: rear center folding with pass-thru · Center console trim: simulated alloy · Dash trim: simulated alloy · Door sill trim: aluminum · Door trim: simulated alloy · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front and rear · Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: wood

Convenience Features

Center console: front console with storage · Cupholders: rear · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Keyless entry: Intelligent Key · Memorized settings: climate control · Multi-function remote: trunk release · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): two 12V · Power steering: speed-proportional · Reading lights: front · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: multi-function screen controls · Storage: accessory hook · Universal garage door opener: Homelink · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating

Driver Seat

Adjustable lumbar support: power · Power adjustments: 10

Drivetrain

4WD Type: full time · Axle ratio: 4.53 · Limited slip differential: rear

Exterior Features

Door handle color: body-color · Exhaust: quad exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: chrome · Grille color: chrome · Window trim: stainless steel

Headrests

Adjustable rear headrests: retractable · Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 3

Instrumentation

Warnings and reminders: low oil level

Lights

Headlights: HID · Tail and brake lights: LED

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: reverse gear tilt

Passenger Seat

Power adjustments: 8

Rear Seats

Type: bench

Roof

Moonroof: one-touch open/close

Safety

Active head restraints: driver · Child seat anchors: LATCH system · Crumple zones: front · Parking sensors: rear

Seatbelts

Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Second row seatbelts: 3-point

Seats

Driver seat power adjustments: reclining · Front seat type: sport bucket · Passenger seat power adjustments: height · Upholstery: leather

Spare Tire

Mount Location: inside · Size: temporary

Spare Wheel

Rim Type: steel

Suspension

Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: strut · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): front

Telematics

Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth

Tires

Diameter: 18 · Type: all season

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy · Wheels: alloy

Windows

Front wipers: speed sensitive · Laminated glass: acoustic · Power windows: remote operation

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags

Audio System

Antenna Type: element · USB auxiliary audio input · Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · 1 subwoofer · Surround audio: 5.1 · Total Number of Speakers: 10 · 440 watts

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 12.6 · Front brake width: 1.1 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 13.1 · Rear brake width: .43 · Rear brakes: disc

Comfort Features

Armrests: rear center folding with pass-thru · Center console trim: simulated alloy · Dash trim: simulated alloy · Door sill trim: aluminum · Door trim: simulated alloy · Floor Mat Material: vinyl/rubber · Floor Mats: front and rear · Shift knob trim: wood · Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Center console: front console with storage · Cupholders: rear · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Keyless entry: Intelligent Key · Memorized settings: climate control · Multi-function remote: proximity entry system · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): two 12V · Power steering: speed-proportional · Reading lights: rear · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: paddle shifter · Storage: cargo tie-down anchors and hooks · Universal garage door opener: Homelink · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating

Driver Seat

Adjustable lumbar support: power · Power adjustments: 10

Drivetrain

Axle ratio: 4.31

Exterior Features

Door handle color: chrome · Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: chrome · Grille color: chrome · Rear spoiler color: body-color · Window trim: stainless steel

Headrests

Adjustable rear headrests: retractable · Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 3

In Car Entertainment

Infotainment screen size: 8 in.

Instrumentation

Warnings and reminders: low oil level

Lights

Headlights: HID · Tail and brake lights: LED

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: integrated turn signals

Passenger Seat

Power adjustments: 8

Rear Seats

Type: bench

Roof

Moonroof: power

Safety

Active head restraints: driver · Camera system: rearview · Child seat anchors: LATCH system · Crumple zones: front · Parking sensors: rear

Seatbelts

Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Second row seatbelts: 3-point

Seats

Driver seat power adjustments: reclining · Front seat type: sport bucket · Passenger seat power adjustments: height · Upholstery: leather

Spare Tire

Mount Location: inside · Size: temporary

Spare Wheel

Rim Type: steel

Suspension

Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: double wishbones · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): rear

Telematics

Navigation system: hard drive navigation system · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth

Tires

Diameter: 19 · Profile: 40 · Type: all season · Width: 245

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy · Wheels: alloy

Windows

Front wipers: variable intermittent · Laminated glass: acoustic · Power windows: remote operation

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags

Audio System

Antenna Type: element · USB auxiliary audio input · Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · 1 subwoofer · Surround audio: 5.1 · Total Number of Speakers: 10 · 440 watts

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 12.6 · Front brake width: 1.1 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 13.1 · Rear brake width: .43 · Rear brakes: disc

Comfort Features

Armrests: rear center folding with pass-thru · Center console trim: simulated alloy · Dash trim: simulated alloy · Door sill trim: aluminum · Door trim: simulated alloy · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Shift knob trim: wood · Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Center console: front console with storage · Cupholders: front · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Keyless entry: Intelligent Key · Memorized settings: climate control · Multi-function remote: trunk release · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): two 12V · Power steering: speed-proportional · Reading lights: rear · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: voice recognition controls · Storage: accessory hook · Universal garage door opener: Homelink · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating

Driver Seat

Adjustable lumbar support: power · Power adjustments: 10

Drivetrain

Axle ratio: 4.31

Exterior Features

Door handle color: chrome · Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: chrome · Grille color: chrome · Rear spoiler color: body-color · Window trim: stainless steel

Headrests

Adjustable rear headrests: retractable · Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 3

In Car Entertainment

Infotainment screen size: 8 in.

Instrumentation

Warnings and reminders: low oil level

Lights

Headlights: auto delay off · Tail and brake lights: LED

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: power

Passenger Seat

Power adjustments: 8

Rear Seats

Type: bench

Roof

Moonroof: one-touch open/close

Safety

Active head restraints: driver · Camera system: rearview · Child seat anchors: LATCH system · Crumple zones: front · Parking sensors: rear

Seatbelts

Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Second row seatbelts: 3-point

Seats

Driver seat power adjustments: reclining · Front seat type: sport bucket · Passenger seat power adjustments: height · Upholstery: leather

Spare Tire

Mount Location: inside · Size: temporary

Spare Wheel

Rim Type: steel

Suspension

Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: double wishbones · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): front

Telematics

Navigation system: hard drive navigation system · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth

Tires

Diameter: 18 · Profile: 40 · Type: all season · Width: 245

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy · Wheels: alloy

Windows

Front wipers: variable intermittent · Laminated glass: acoustic · Power windows: remote operation

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags

Audio System

Antenna Type: element · Auxiliary audio input: iPod/iPhone integration · In-Dash CD: DVD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · 1 subwoofer · Surround audio: 5.1 · Total Number of Speakers: 10 · 440 watts

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel · Braking assist: hill start assist · Front brake diameter: 12.6 · Front brake width: 1.1 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 13.1 · Rear brake width: .43 · Rear brakes: disc

Comfort Features

Armrests: rear center folding with pass-thru · Center console trim: simulated alloy · Dash trim: simulated alloy · Door sill trim: aluminum · Door trim: simulated alloy · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front and rear · Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Center console: front console with storage · Cupholders: rear · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Keyless entry: Intelligent Key · Memorized settings: audio system · Multi-function remote: proximity entry system · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): two 12V · Power steering: speed-proportional · Reading lights: rear · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: voice recognition controls · Storage: cargo net · Universal garage door opener: Homelink · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating

Driver Seat

Adjustable lumbar support: power · Power adjustments: 10

Drivetrain

4WD Type: full time · Axle ratio: 4.53 · Limited slip differential: rear

Exterior Features

Door handle color: chrome · Exhaust: quad exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: chrome · Grille color: chrome · Rear spoiler color: body-color · Window trim: stainless steel

Headrests

Adjustable rear headrests: retractable · Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 3

In Car Entertainment

Infotainment screen size: 8 in.

Instrumentation

Warnings and reminders: low oil level

Lights

Headlights: Auto on · Tail and brake lights: LED

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: heated

Passenger Seat

Power adjustments: 8

Rear Seats

Type: bench

Roof

Moonroof: remote operation

Safety

Active head restraints: driver · Camera system: rearview · Child seat anchors: LATCH system · Crumple zones: rear · Parking sensors: rear

Seatbelts

Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Second row seatbelts: 3-point

Seats

Driver seat power adjustments: height · Front seat type: sport bucket · Passenger seat power adjustments: height · Upholstery: perforated

Spare Tire

Mount Location: inside · Size: temporary

Spare Wheel

Rim Type: steel

Suspension

Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: double wishbones · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): front

Telematics

Navigation system: with voice recognition · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth

Tires

Diameter: 19 · Type: all season

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy · Wheels: alloy

Windows

Front wipers: speed sensitive · Laminated glass: acoustic · Power windows: remote operation

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags

Audio System

Antenna Type: element · USB auxiliary audio input · In-Dash CD: DVD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · 1 subwoofer · Surround audio: 5.1 · Total Number of Speakers: 10 · 440 watts

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel · Braking assist: hill start assist · Front brake diameter: 12.6 · Front brake width: 1.1 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 13.1 · Rear brake width: .43 · Rear brakes: disc

Comfort Features

Armrests: rear center folding with pass-thru · Center console trim: simulated alloy · Dash trim: simulated alloy · Door sill trim: aluminum · Door trim: simulated alloy · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Center console: front console with storage · Cupholders: front · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Keyless entry: Intelligent Key · Memorized settings: climate control · Multi-function remote: trunk release · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): two 12V · Power steering: speed-proportional · Reading lights: rear · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio · Storage: accessory hook · Universal garage door opener: Homelink · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating

Driver Seat

Adjustable lumbar support: power · Power adjustments: 10

Drivetrain

4WD Type: full time · Axle ratio: 4.53 · Limited slip differential: center

Exterior Features

Door handle color: chrome · Exhaust: quad exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: chrome · Front Spoiler: body color · Grille color: chrome · Rear spoiler color: body-color · Window trim: stainless steel

Headrests

Adjustable rear headrests: retractable · Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 3

In Car Entertainment

Infotainment screen size: 8 in.

Instrumentation

Warnings and reminders: low oil level

Lights

Headlights: Auto on · Tail and brake lights: LED

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: power

Passenger Seat

Power adjustments: 8

Rear Seats

Type: bench

Roof

Moonroof: one-touch open/close

Safety

Active head restraints: driver · Camera system: rearview · Child seat anchors: LATCH system · Crumple zones: front · Parking sensors: rear

Seatbelts

Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Second row seatbelts: 3-point

Seats

Driver seat power adjustments: reclining · Front seat type: sport bucket · Passenger seat power adjustments: height · Upholstery: perforated

Spare Tire

Mount Location: inside · Size: temporary

Spare Wheel

Rim Type: steel

Suspension

Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: strut · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): front

Telematics

Navigation system: hard drive navigation system · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth

Tires

Diameter: 19 · Type: summer performance

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy · Wheels: alloy

Wheels

Width: 7.5

Windows

Front wipers: speed sensitive · Laminated glass: acoustic · Power windows: remote operation

See all trims (6)