Best Car Reviews - 2011 Acura TL 4WD

Introduction

The 2011 Acura TL 4WD is a noteworthy addition to Acura's lineup of midsize luxury vehicles, offering a compelling blend of technology, performance, and design. Released in 2011, this model was aimed at drivers who appreciate a balance of luxury and sporty driving dynamics. What makes the 2011 Acura TL 4WD stand out is its incorporation of all-wheel drive, offering enhanced grip and confidence in various driving conditions, paired with a rare manual 6-speed transmission that delivers a more engaging driving experience.

Design and Exterior Features

The 2011 Acura TL is a midsize sedan with a distinctly bold design. It maintains Acura's modern and aggressive styling cues, providing an attractive option for those seeking more than just a basic sedan.

Bold front grill with intricate design elements.
Sleek body lines emphasizing a sporty stance.
Xenon high-intensity discharge headlights to enhance night driving visibility.
18-inch alloy wheels contributing to a commanding road presence.
Integrated rear spoiler providing aerodynamic efficiency.

Interior and Comfort

Step inside the 2011 Acura TL, and you are greeted with a cabin designed for both comfort and luxury. The interior reflects Acura's commitment to quality, featuring high-end materials and advanced comfort features.

Leather-trimmed seats with multi-level heating.
Driver's seat 10-way power adjustment with lumbar support.
Dual-zone climate control ensuring personalized comfort.
Premium sound system with detailed acoustics for an enhanced audio experience.
Adjustable steering wheel including audio and cruise controls for convenience.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 2011 Acura TL houses a robust 3.7-liter, V6 engine running on premium gasoline, producing around 305 horsepower. The manual 6-speed transmission adds a layer of driver engagement that is rare in its class.

Acceleration: 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 6.7 seconds.
City driving: The fully independent suspension ensures smooth navigation over uneven surfaces, while the all-wheel-drive enhances stability, especially in wet conditions.
Highway driving: The TL remains poised with minimal cabin noise, and the V6 offers ample power for overtaking.
Cornering: Precise steering and a well-tuned suspension make taking turns a joyful experience.
Fuel Efficiency: Around 14.9 liters/100 km, which is on the higher side for its class, reflecting trade-offs for power and handling.
Responsive steering with a well-tuned suspension.
Enhanced all-wheel-drive traction.
Solid braking performance with minimal fade.
High fuel consumption could be a consideration.

Technology and Connectivity

The tech inside the TL 4WD is catered to drivers who appreciate both convenience and connectivity. While it may not be the most advanced by today's standards, it still offers a range of useful features.

Infotainment system with an intuitive interface.
Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free operations.
Navigation system with real-time traffic updates.
USB and auxiliary input for flexible media options.
Voice recognition technology for navigational and audio controls.

Safety Features

Safety is paramount in the 2011 Acura TL, with a range of features aimed at ensuring both driver and passenger safety.

Airbag system including front and side airbags.
Anti-lock braking system (ABS) for safe and controlled stops.
Electronic Brake Distribution and Brake Assist.
Vehicle Stability Assist with traction control.
Top crash safety ratings, affirming robust occupant protection.

Pricing and Variants

When introduced, the 2011 Acura TL 4WD had a base price starting around $42,000 USD. The TL remains a competitive option against other luxury brands by offering a unique value proposition.

Competitors include other luxury midsize sedans such as the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4.
While the TL might reach on the pricier side with advanced trims, its manual transmission and AWD make it a rare find in its category.

Pros and Cons

Pros

The stylish design that commands attention.
All-wheel-drive system enhances traction.
Engaging manual transmission for driving enthusiasts.
Robust V6 engine with impressive power output.
Well-built interior with premium materials.

Cons

Higher fuel consumption at 14.9 liters/100km.
Few advanced connectivity features by current standards.
The cabin tech system feels somewhat dated.
Limited rear legroom compared to competitors.
Manual transmission might not suit all drivers' preferences.

Maintenance and Common Issues

The maintenance cost for the 2011 Acura TL 4WD is relatively moderate when considering the engine's complexity and premium components.

Brake system wear, requiring regular inspections.
Suspension issues over time include worn-out bushings or struts.
Transmission sensitivity especially in manual operation.
Electrical system glitches affecting the infotainment.
Premature tire wear due to the AWD dynamics.

Rating

Based on various factors, here is the comprehensive rating for the 2011 Acura TL 4WD:

Design: 8/10
Comfort: 8/10
Performance: 7/10
Technology: 7/10
Safety: 9/10

Overall Rating: 7.8/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"The TL offers a remarkable balance between comfort and sportiness, with its manual transmission being a standout feature for me!"
"Fuel consumption is a bit on the higher end, but the performance and handling totally make up for it."
"I appreciate the solid build quality; however, the tech features feel somewhat outdated compared to today's standards."
"Maintenance has been affordable with the need for some regular checks on the brakes and suspension."
"Love the AWD during the winter months, providing excellent stability and grip."

Best cars in this category

2011 BMW 328i
2011 Audi A4
2011 Lexus ES 350
2011 Infiniti G37
2011 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Summary

The 2011 Acura TL 4WD is best suited for drivers who prioritize all-weather capability and manual engagement, making it a standout choice for automotive enthusiasts. While it does have its downsides, such as higher fuel consumption and somewhat outdated technology, it compensates with strong performance and a well-crafted interior. It's a model that appeals to those who appreciate the driving experience itself, valuing engaging drives over modern frills and efficiencies.