2003 Acura TL Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
In its last year before the '04 remodelling, the 2003 Acura TL presents a solid and comfortable domestic midsize sedan. The main change...
In its last year before the '04 remodelling, the 2003 Acura TL presents a solid and comfortable domestic midsize sedan. The main change for '03 comes in the trims equipped with a navigation system: OnStar now comes standard. Otherwise, the 2003 TL stays pretty much the same in the wake of the introduction of the Type S trims in 2002. You can choose from 4 trims: 3.2 TL, 3.2 TL with navigation, Type S, and Type S with navigation.
So what distinguishes the 3.2 TL from the Type S? One word: horsepower. The 3.2 TL has a 3.2 L, 225 hp V6 while the Type S upgrades the powertrain to a 3.2 L, 260 hp V6 model. All 4 trims have 5 speed automatic transmission, 4 doors, and room for 5 passengers. Gas mileage comes out to 19 mpg in the city, 29 on the highway.
Overall, drivers appreciate the TL as a solid domestic midsize sedan. The extensive standard equipment and capable powertrain get the job done. However, the interior could use better materials and style. In any event, the TL got a re-design in 2004, fixing some of the shortcomings and bridging the gap with the foreign competition.
What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 2003 Acura TL appreciate its comfortable ride, smooth performance, and strong reliability. Many drivers love the powerful V6 engine and luxurious interior design. However, concerns about the transmission issues are a common complaint, with some drivers experiencing failures and expressing worry over the longevity of the vehicle. Despite these concerns, the car's performance and handling are often praised, making it a favorite for those seeking a blend of sportiness and comfort."
its not a racecar, but it will outrun most of anything you see on the road. acceleration is good and it handles great. it also has a great exhaust note that gets attention. the quality was outstanding the entire time i owned the car ( it was totalled head on in 2008) and there was nothing to my knowledge that was starting to crap out on me. the car isnt the most beautiful thing on the road, but it has that luxurious look you can expect from an Acura. the interior couldnt be more perfect though, from the guages to the leather seats to the cool cup holders (that passengers love to play with). maintenance wasnt bad, but gas mileage could have been better (about 18) and premium is recommended. this car is also incredibly safe. i was in a head on collision with a pickup and i survived thanks to this car. im getting another one as soon as i get the money
July 14, 2008Pleased with all aspects of the TL except perhaps the transmission. Ours went out at 66K, while out of warranty ACURA stepped up and paid for it. They initially offered only 50% however after I asked some "hard questions" about the associated recall for transmission cooling they relented and paid it all, some $5500 or so. Aside from the transmission we have had no issues with this vehicle.
August 13, 2007Performance: Acceleration is good. Braking could use a bit more. Handling is good. Build Quality: Minor rattles after owning the car for 6 years. No repairs done so far. So for 6 years, it's done pretty well. Appearance: I love it. Cost of Ownership: I get close to 29 mpg, and I've only had to do the normal oil change maintenance so far. Fun Factor: Fun to drive, although steering radius could be better.
September 17, 2008What owners say
its not a racecar, but it will outrun most of anything you see on the road. acceleration is good and it handles great. it also has a great exhaust note that gets attention. the quality was outstanding the entire time i owned the car ( it was totalled head on in 2008) and there was nothing to my knowledge that was starting to crap out on me. the car isnt the most beautiful thing on the road, but it has that luxurious look you can expect from an Acura. the interior couldnt be more perfect though, from the guages to the leather seats to the cool cup holders (that passengers love to play with). maintenance wasnt bad, but gas mileage could have been better (about 18) and premium is recommended. this car is also incredibly safe. i was in a head on collision with a pickup and i survived thanks to this car. im getting another one as soon as i get the money
July 14, 2008Pleased with all aspects of the TL except perhaps the transmission. Ours went out at 66K, while out of warranty ACURA stepped up and paid for it. They initially offered only 50% however after I asked some "hard questions" about the associated recall for transmission cooling they relented and paid it all, some $5500 or so. Aside from the transmission we have had no issues with this vehicle.
August 13, 2007Performance: Acceleration is good. Braking could use a bit more. Handling is good. Build Quality: Minor rattles after owning the car for 6 years. No repairs done so far. So for 6 years, it's done pretty well. Appearance: I love it. Cost of Ownership: I get close to 29 mpg, and I've only had to do the normal oil change maintenance so far. Fun Factor: Fun to drive, although steering radius could be better.
September 17, 2008Really enjoy the car, though it is a bit noisy on other than smooth road surfaces. The acceleration and handling at quite nice for this size car. My only real complaint is that I'm on my 3rd Transmission, but all have been covered by Acura even though the warranty is over. The newer TL's are better in all aspects.
May 18, 2008I like the fact that it is a good looking car and is very fun to drive. I do not like that it is very expensive to maintain, if anything messes up you are looking at a few hundred dollars to fix minimum. Have put over 3,000 in the car since I purchased it 3 years ago! The car also requires premium gasoline so it just adds to the high costs of this vehicle.
April 18, 2014I've owned this car for 7 years and put over 120,000 miles on her! We've been all over the US on roadtrips and the smooth comfortable ride was worth the maintenance costs. Replaced the transmission at only 89K miles which was a bit shocking to me, but other than that I enjoyed this car!
January 21, 2014I've been very happy with my TL Type-S. I bought it with over 200000 miles on it, and (other than replacing the starter) it runs like a champ. It has plenty of pick-up and even more passing power. To be 10 years old, it looks great. It doesn't really show its age. There is some where on the dashboard, but it seems pretty common for this model. The mpgs are ok. In hilly city driving, I get between 18 and 22; but on the highway, I get between 27 and 30. It also hugs the road pretty good in the corners and is great fun on a straight a-way. If you find one with decent miles on it (under 300k), grab that joker up. It's fun, and it'll run forever.
May 20, 2013The Acura 3.2 TL is a comfortable and smooth vehicle to drive . And its very reliable .
September 14, 2020This car had great performance and handling for a front-wheel drive car. Whenever I stepped on the gas, there was no hesitation and it appeared to have limitless power. I never had to yearn for more acceleration. Everyone wanted to drive it.
November 6, 2010It may be subtle in style, but this is such a beautiful touring car -- it rides extremely well on the freeway with plenty of power to cruise around. Bose stereo, power seats, sunroof, heated seats, preforated leather seating... a 7,000 rpm redline, what's not to like?
September 21, 2009Trims & specs
Base MSRP $31,830 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.2L 260 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 14.3 cu ft |
Combined MPG 22 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $29,480 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.2L 225 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 14.3 cu ft |
Combined MPG 22 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $31,630 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.2L 225 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 22 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $33,980 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.2L 260 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 22 | Drivetrain FWD |
