The 4th generation Acura TL, sold from 2009 to 2014, marked a bold design direction for the brand. Its controversial 'Power Plenum' grille was polarizing, but underneath the sheet metal was a capable front-wheel-drive sedan with a 280-horsepower 3.5L V6. The real enthusiast highlight, however, was the SH-AWD model. It featured a larger 305-horsepower 3.7L V6 and Acura's excellent Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system, which could be paired with a rare 6-speed manual transmission.
A mid-cycle refresh in 2012 softened the grille's appearance and introduced a new 6-speed automatic that improved both performance and efficiency. Today, collectors seek out the 2012-2014 SH-AWD models, especially the few equipped with a manual gearbox. These cars offer a sophisticated driving experience, high-revving V6 power, and Japanese reliability that's hard to find at this price point. With an average sale price around $13,000, they are an accessible entry into the world of modern performance sedans.
The market for the 4th gen TL is stable, with prices largely dependent on mileage, condition, and drivetrain. Manual SH-AWD versions command a significant premium and are the most likely to appreciate. Base, high-mileage automatic examples can be found for under $5,000, making them an excellent value. Most transactions fall between $10,000 and $20,000 for clean, well-maintained cars, reflecting their position as a used performance bargain rather than a rapidly appreciating classic.
Buying Tips
- Check for excessive oil consumption on the 3.7L V6 engine, a known issue that can cause catastrophic failure if the oil level isn't monitored.
- Test drive automatic models to feel for shuddering between 35-45 mph, which indicates a failing torque converter, a common problem on pre-2012 cars.
- On SH-AWD models, listen for whining or humming noises from the rear differential, which can be a sign of fluid contamination or bearing wear.
- Inspect the dashboard for cracks, a frequent problem on cars exposed to lots of sun, and test all functions of the infotainment system.
- On manual transmission cars, feel for a stiff or high clutch pedal, as replacing the clutch is a labor-intensive job.
Based on 34 sales, prices range from $1,876 for project-quality cars to $23,572 for top-spec, low-mileage variants.
3,101 Acura TL 4th Gen vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 614 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
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