Introduced in 1996, the Acura TL underwent a major re-design in 2004. Acura upped the ante with the engine, upgrading it to a 3.2-liter, 270-hp V6 and adding a critically acclaimed 6-speed manual transmission. The TL also got some fresh bells and whistles with a DVD-Audio sound system and Bluetooth connectivity for your phone.

As for trims, the 2004 Acura TL comes in 4 variations: with a 5-speed automatic transmission, a 6-speed manual transmission, a 5-speed automatic with navigation, and a 6-speed manual with navigation. Expect the automatics to get you 20 mpg in the city, 28 on the highway, while the manuals get you 30 mpg on the highway. All 4 trims have 4 doors and seat 5.

Overall, the 2004 redesign gets a thumbs-up from reviewers. Drivers like the 6-speed manual transmission, more luxurious interior and smoother handling, although the TL still has some room to grow before it can match its foreign competition. In any event, the improvements show Acura's dedication to making the TL a strong contender around the world.