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| 2014 Acura TL: Specifications, Pricing, MPG, and Reviews |
The 2014 Acura TL represents the final model year of Acura’s well-regarded TL lineup before it was replaced by the TLX. As a midsize luxury sedan, the TL was designed to offer a blend of performance, comfort, and advanced technology, appealing to both driving enthusiasts and those seeking a refined daily commuter.
Acura, Honda’s luxury division, had long been known for producing vehicles that deliver reliability and premium features at a more competitive price point than many European luxury brands. The 2014 TL upheld this reputation, featuring a strong V6 engine, an available Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, and a well-appointed interior filled with high-end materials and cutting-edge technology.
Despite facing competition from established luxury sedans like the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Lexus GS, the Acura TL carved out a niche among buyers who valued performance, dependability, and affordability. The 2014 model was especially significant as it marked the end of the TL’s production, making way for the next generation of Acura sedans.
Specifications
The 2014 Acura TL was a well-balanced luxury sedan that blended performance, comfort, and technology. It was available in two main configurations: a front-wheel-drive (FWD) version with a 3.5-liter V6 engine and a more performance-oriented Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) model featuring a 3.7-liter V6. Both versions offered a refined yet sporty driving experience, making the TL a solid choice in the luxury sedan segment.
A. Engine and Performance
1. Engine Options
Base Model (FWD):
- 3.5-liter SOHC V6 engine
- 280 horsepower @ 6,200 rpm
- 254 lb-ft of torque @ 5,000 rpm
- Paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift
- Paddle shifters for manual gear selection
SH-AWD Model:
- 3.7-liter SOHC V6 engine
- 305 horsepower @ 6,300 rpm
- 273 lb-ft of torque @ 5,000 rpm
- Available with a 6-speed automatic or an optional 6-speed manual transmission
- Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system enhances cornering stability and traction
2. Driving Experience
- Smooth yet engaging handling, offering a sporty drive without sacrificing comfort.
- SH-AWD provides better traction, making it ideal for performance enthusiasts or those in wet/snowy climates.
- Electric power-assisted steering (EPS) ensures precise steering feel.
- Four-wheel independent suspension (double-wishbone front, multi-link rear) contributes to a balanced and comfortable ride.
Acceleration:
- The base FWD model can go 0-60 mph in about 6.4 seconds.
- The SH-AWD model is quicker, hitting 0-60 mph in approximately 5.6 seconds.
Braking:
- Equipped with four-wheel disc brakes, anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), and brake assist.
B. Interior and Technology
1. Cabin Design & Comfort
- Premium materials throughout, including leather-trimmed seats, soft-touch surfaces, and woodgrain or metallic accents.
- 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and 8-way power-adjustable passenger seat with heating.
- Available ventilated seats on higher trims.
Spacious seating with ample legroom:
- Front legroom: 42.5 inches
- Rear legroom: 36.2 inches
- Trunk space: 13.1 cubic feet, enough for luggage or daily commuting needs.
2. Infotainment and Connectivity
Standard:
- 8-inch high-resolution display for navigation and infotainment.
- Acura’s premium ELS 10-speaker sound system with Dolby Pro Logic II and Bluetooth Audio.
- CD/MP3 compatibility, satellite radio, and USB connectivity.
- Hands-free Bluetooth calling and voice commands.
Available on higher trims:
- AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with navigation.
- Rearview camera with dynamic guidelines.
- Push-button start and keyless entry.
3. Safety and Driver Assistance
- Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure for crash protection.
Standard safety features:
- Dual-stage front airbags
- Side curtain airbags
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Traction control system (TCS)
- monitoring system (TPMS)
Available on higher trims:
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Rear parking sensors
C. Design and Dimensions
1. Exterior Styling
- The 2014 Acura TL features a sporty yet elegant design, with an aggressive front grille and sculpted body lines.
- Signature Jewel Eye™ LED headlights for a modern and sophisticated look.
- Aerodynamic profile with an integrated rear spoiler on higher trims.
Wheel Options:
- 17-inch alloy wheels (base model).
- 18-inch or 19-inch alloy wheels on SH-AWD and higher trims.
2. Dimensions
- Overall length: 194.0 inches
- Width: 74.0 inches
- Height: 57.2 inches
- Wheelbase: 109.3 inches
Curb weight:
- FWD model: ~3,726 lbs
- SH-AWD model: ~3,950 lbs
3. Practicality & Comfort
- Well-insulated cabin for a quiet, comfortable ride even at highway speeds.
- Rear seats fold down (60/40 split) for added cargo flexibility.
Pricing – A Comprehensive Breakdown
The 2014 Acura TL was positioned as a luxury sedan with a balance of premium features, performance, and affordability. It was priced competitively against its German and Japanese rivals, offering more standard features and a more powerful engine than many of its competitors at the time. Acura’s strong reputation for reliability and lower ownership costs also made the TL a smart investment compared to brands like BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz.
This section explores the TL’s original MSRP, current used market value, and overall cost of ownership, including maintenance, insurance, and fuel costs.
A. Original MSRP (2014 Pricing)
When it was brand new, the 2014 Acura TL had a starting price of just over $36,000 for the base model with front-wheel drive. This trim level came well-equipped with luxury amenities, such as leather seats, a premium sound system, heated front seats, and Bluetooth connectivity. Unlike some competitors that required expensive upgrades to match these features, Acura included them as standard.
For buyers looking for more technology and advanced features, Acura offered a Technology Package, which added a navigation system, AcuraLink infotainment, an upgraded sound system, and a rearview camera. This package pushed the price close to $40,000.
For those seeking better performance and handling, Acura offered the SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive) model, which came with a more powerful 3.7-liter V6 engine producing 305 horsepower. This version started just under $40,000 and provided a sportier driving experience, especially in wet or snowy conditions.
The top-of-the-line TL SH-AWD with Advance Package included ventilated front seats, blind-spot monitoring, and additional safety features, bringing the price up to around $45,500. While this was on the higher end, it was still more affordable than similarly equipped German luxury sedans, which often exceeded $50,000 when optioned with comparable features.
B. Current Used Market Pricing (2024-2025)
Today, the 2014 Acura TL remains a strong contender in the used car market, thanks to its solid build quality, luxury features, and reliable performance. Used car prices vary depending on mileage, condition, location, and trim level, but in general:
- A base TL with higher mileage (over 100,000 miles) can be found for $10,000 to $15,000.
- Models with the Technology Package and lower mileage typically sell for $12,000 to $17,000.
- The SH-AWD version, being more desirable for its enhanced performance, often sells for $12,000 to $18,000, depending on condition.
- The SH-AWD model with the Technology Package is priced slightly higher, ranging from $14,000 to $19,000.
- The SH-AWD with the Advance Package, which is the most well-equipped version, can command prices between $16,000 and $22,000, particularly if it has lower mileage and a clean history
Factors that influence used TL prices include:
- Mileage – A TL with fewer than 60,000 miles will generally sell for a premium, while those with over 120,000 miles are more affordable.
- Condition – Vehicles with a clean title and accident-free history retain their value better.
- Trim Level – SH-AWD models and those with Tech/Advance Packages tend to be more desirable and fetch higher prices.
- Location – In regions with harsh winters, SH-AWD models are more valuable, whereas in warmer climates, FWD models are often preferred.
C. Cost of Ownership: Maintenance, Insurance & Fuel Costs
One of Acura’s key advantages over its European rivals is its lower overall ownership cost. The 2014 TL was designed for long-term reliability, reducing the likelihood of expensive repairs and costly maintenance.
1. Maintenance & Repairs
Acura vehicles are known for their strong reliability, and the 2014 TL is no exception. Routine maintenance, such as oil changes, brake pads, and filters, is relatively inexpensive compared to BMW, Audi, or Mercedes-Benz. On average, owners can expect to spend $500 to $700 per year on maintenance, which is significantly lower than the $1,200+ annual maintenance cost for a BMW 5 Series.
Major repairs are rare, but common issues at higher mileage (over 150,000 miles) can include timing belt replacements and transmission service, which are typical for many luxury sedans.
2. Insurance Costs
The 2014 Acura TL is also more affordable to insure than many of its competitors. Insurance premiums typically range from $1,200 to $1,800 per year, depending on factors such as driver history, location, and coverage level. In contrast, luxury sedans from BMW or Audi often have higher repair costs, leading to insurance rates exceeding $2,000 per year.
3. Fuel Costs
Fuel economy is an important consideration for any luxury sedan. The 2014 TL with front-wheel drive achieves approximately 20 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, while the SH-AWD model is slightly less efficient, returning 18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.
Given these fuel efficiency figures, the average annual fuel cost for the TL ranges from $2,000 to $2,500, depending on driving habits and fuel prices. While this isn’t as fuel-efficient as some four-cylinder competitors like the BMW 328i or Audi A4, the TL offers a more powerful and engaging V6 engine, making the slight trade-off in fuel economy worthwhile for many buyers.
D. Acura TL vs. Competitors: Resale Value & Depreciation
Compared to BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi, the Acura TL holds its value better over time due to its reliability, lower maintenance costs, and strong demand in the used car market.
A typical 2014 Acura TL has depreciated by 50-70% from its original MSRP, meaning buyers can find a well-maintained model for a fraction of its original price. In contrast, many German luxury sedans from the same era have depreciated by 65-80%, making them cheaper upfront but often more expensive to maintain.
Acura’s reputation for longevity means that many TLs on the used market still have plenty of life left, especially models that have been properly maintained and serviced.
Fuel Economy (MPG) – Balancing Performance and Efficiency
The 2014 Acura TL delivers a solid balance of performance and fuel efficiency, especially considering its powerful V6 engine and luxury sedan class. While it may not be as fuel-efficient as some four-cylinder competitors, the TL’s smooth V6 power, refined driving dynamics, and available Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD).
This section explores:
- Official EPA mileage ratings for different trim levels
- How real-world fuel economy compares to estimates
- Factors affecting MPG, including driving style and SH-AWD’s impact
- How the TL stacks up against competitors
A. City and Highway Mileage
The 2014 Acura TL’s fuel economy varies depending on drivetrain configuration:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) model
- 20 mpg city / 29 mpg highway / 23 mpg combined
- Features a 3.5-liter V6 with a 6-speed automatic transmission
- Offers a good balance of power and efficiency
Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) model
- Uses a more powerful 3.7-liter V6
- SH-AWD enhances performance but slightly reduces fuel efficiency
What These Numbers Mean:
- The FWD model provides better fuel efficiency, making it a more economical choice for daily commuting.
- The SH-AWD model sacrifices some efficiency for better traction, handling capability.
B. Real-World Fuel Economy and Driving Experience
While official EPA ratings provide a general idea of fuel efficiency, real-world fuel economy depends on various factors, including driving habits, terrain, and conditions.
Owner Reported MPG
- Many FWD TL owners report real-world mileage close to 25-27 mpg on highways, slightly exceeding EPA estimates.
- SH-AWD owners generally see around 18-22 mpg in mixed driving, which aligns with official ratings.
- Aggressive acceleration, frequent stop-and-go traffic, or city driving can lower efficiency to 16-18 mpg in some cases.
Factors That Affect Fuel Economy
- Driving Style – Smooth acceleration and braking help maximize efficiency, while aggressive driving lowers MPG.
- Traffic Conditions – Stop-and-go city driving reduces fuel economy, while highway cruising at steady speeds improves it.
- Climate – Cold temperatures and heavy use of air conditioning can negatively impact MPG.
- Maintenance – Underinflated tires and poor maintenance can reduce fuel efficiency.
C. SH-AWD System and Its Impact on Fuel Econom
The Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system is a major selling point of the 2014 TL, offering superior cornering ability, better stability, and enhanced traction in bad. However, it does come with a slight fuel efficiency penalty.
Why SH-AWD Reduces MPG:
- The system is heavier than standard FWD, increasing fuel consumption.
- SH-AWD constantly distributes power to all four wheels, requiring more energy than FWD.
- More powerful 3.7-liter V6 engine produces 305 hp, increasing fuel consumption compared to the 3.5-liter FWD version (280 hp).
Despite these factors, many owners find the handling benefits of SH-AWD outweigh the slight decrease in fuel economy, especially in regions with rain, snow, or winding roads.
D. How the 2014 Acura TL Compares to Rivals
Compared to its luxury sedan competitors, the TL’s fuel economy is respectable but not class-leading. Many rival sedans use turbocharged four-cylinder engines, which are more fuel-efficient but often lack the smoothness and power of Acura’s naturally aspirated V6.
Fuel Economy Comparison – 2014 Models
- 2014 Acura TL (FWD, V6) → 23 mpg combined
- 2014 Acura TL (SH-AWD, V6) → 21 mpg combined
- 2014 BMW 328i (Turbo I4, RWD) → 27 mpg combined (More efficient but less power)
- 2014 Mercedes-Benz C250 (Turbo I4, RWD) → 25 mpg combined (Better MPG but much weaker performance
- 2014 Audi A4 2.0T Quattro (Turbo I4, AWD) → 24 mpg combined (Slightly better MPG, similar AWD benefits)
- 2014 Lexus ES 350 (V6, FWD) → 24 mpg combined (Similar efficiency, but lacks AWD option)
How the TL Stands Out:
- Offers a more engaging driving experience than the Lexus ES 350.
- Provides V6 power without the high maintenance costs of a BMW or Audi turbocharged engine.
- SH-AWD version offers better winter performance than most RWD German competitors.
E. Fuel Costs and Ownership Considerations
Fuel efficiency directly impacts the total cost of ownership, especially for those who drive long distances or commute frequently.
- With an average annual mileage of 12,000-15,000 miles, TL owners can expect to spend approximately $2,000 to $2,500 per year on fuel, depending on gas prices.
- Compared to a BMW 5 Series or Audi A6, the TL’s maintenance savings help offset its slightly lower fuel economy.
- The TL's naturally aspirated V6 is more reliable in the long run compared to turbocharged engines that require premium fuel and costly repairs.
Reviews and Market Reception – The 2014 Acura TL’s Legacy
- What experts and owners loved about the TL
- Common criticisms and areas where it fell short
- Its place in the market and its legacy as the final model before the TLX
A. Positive Reviews – What Made the TL Stand Out?
1. Performance and Handling Praised by Experts
- The 3.5L V6 (FWD) produced 280 hp, delivering smooth and responsive acceleration.
- The 3.7L V6 (SH-AWD) increased power to 305 hp, making it one of the more fun-to-drive sedans in its class.
- Many reviewers noted that Acura’s V6 was smoother and more reliable than the turbocharged engines found in rivals.
- The Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) was a major selling point.
- It provided exceptional grip and cornering stability, making the TL feel more agile than front-wheel-drive rivals like the Lexus ES 350.
- Car reviewers often compared it favorably to Audi’s Quattro system, praising its ability to shift power between wheels seamlessly.
2. High-Quality Interior and Luxury Features
- Leather-trimmed seats, soft-touch surfaces, and high-end materials made the TL feel luxurious and well-built.
- Critics noted that while the design was conservative, it was durable and ergonomic.
- The Technology Package added a high-resolution navigation system, real-time traffic updates, and voice controls.
- The ELS Surround Sound System was praised as one of the best factory audio systems available in any luxury car at the time.
- Spacious seating and supportive front seats made it ideal for long drives.
- The rear seats were roomy, making it a practical choice for families.
3. Reliability and Resale Value
- Acura’s naturally aspirated V6 engines are known for lasting well over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance.
- Compared to German luxury sedans, the TL had lower long-term maintenance costs.
B. Common Criticisms – Where the TL Fell Shor
1. Styling Considered Less Distinctive
- Some found Acura’s bold “beak” front grille polarizing, preferring the cleaner designs of BMW or Audi.
- While the SH-AWD model had a sportier look, the base FWD version lacked the aggressive styling of some rivals.
2. Fuel Economy Slightly Behind Some Rivals
- The TL’s 20-23 mpg combined was lower than the BMW 328i or Audi A4, both of which had turbocharged four-cylinder engines with better fuel economy.
- While not a dealbreaker, some buyers preferred the efficiency of smaller turbo engines, even if they sacrificed some power.
3. Market Shift Toward the TLX
C. Legacy of the 2014 Acura TL – A Future Classic?
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