Acura TL - 2004 Review

I purchased a 2004 Acura TL because I was spending a lot of time commuting with a 65 mile one way commute to work.  Travelling between MA and NH I wanted a car that handled well in the snow, was comfortable, and had good safety ratings.  The Acura TL met all my needs and more!  I compared the TL with a BMW, Lexus, Infinity, and Volkswagon.  Once I added all the features that come standard with the TL (Sun/moon roof, heated seats, upgraded stereo, bluetooth, navigation (the navigation is the only semi-add on - it is included in one of 2 styles of TL sold) the prices on the other cars were at least $10,000 more for the same or fewer features.

 I've never regretted my decision.  The Acura TL is, by far, my favorite car.  It is fun to drive - but be careful, it speeds up quickly, comfortable, easy to maintain (the car tells you when you need service), and well made.  As long as you follow the service reminders you will have no problems with this car.  I have nearly 100,000 miles on mine and I just changed the windshield wiper blades for the 2nd time since purchasing the car (I purchased the car in September 2004).  The Acura TL is fun to own too - this is the only car I've had that I regularly have guys coming up to me to complement my car - mechanics love it, "car people" love it...it's fun to have all these people tell you that you have their dream car!

My one complaint about this car is that it is a cop magnet.  I have been stopped for speeding on several occassions when I was travelling within the speed limit (they always claim I am going at least 80 or 90 when they stop me too).  They see this car and assume you are speeding!  So, even though this car is capable of great speed, I have to make sure I am moving slower than most people on the road so I am not accused of speeding.

Update: March 2009:  I was rear ended over the weekend.  I have been rear ended 3 times now and this is the first time I was not injured as a result.  I attribute my good fortune to my Acura TL.  I was hit pretty hard (my bumper split across its full length and the trunk latch broke so I cannot drive the car, but, I feel fine.  My mother was in the car with me also and she too is fine.  In my past rear end collissions I ended up with whiplash, knee issues, hip issues, bruissed ribs, and concussions.  Once again my Acura impressed me!