Have seen a lot of comments (some good and some less favorable) about the 2002 TL-S.
Has anyone bought, test drove, or closely inspected the regular 20O2 TL. If so, what are your thoughts (both pro and con)?

 

This is my first post to this forum, but I have already gone through the rigors of deciding between the Type S and the standard TL. Not the easiest decision, as both are great cars, but there are differences in the two that swayed my decision towards the standard TL.

The standard TL has a much softer ride. You will notice more bumps and road imperfections in the Type S. The Type S does not deliver a harsh ride by any means, it is just too firm for my personal tastes. The Type S can take the hard curves with more ease due to the tightened suspension, but I don't usually drive the car hard enough to where I need that extra anchor. Don't worry, the standard model doesn't drive like a Buick. The ride may be soft, but it handles very well. It is light on it's feet, and definitely feels like a sports sedan. It just lacks the razor edge of the Type S.

Both of the engines are FANTASTIC!! I really wish I could have the Type S engine mixed with the standard suspension, but that would not be practical. The Type S engine has a deeper, throatier growl to it than the standard engine, and the extra ponies are noticeable. I am very content with the standard engine, though. The 225 pulls with authority and does not disappoint. It also has a very smooth, restrained growl to it that is EXCELLENT to listen to. Revving these cars bring music to my ears!

One final major difference between the two are the comfort level of the seats. The Type S seats are just like the suspension....a bit firmer than the standard model. As a matter of personal preference, I chose the softer standard seats.

If anyone is concerned that the standard TL is not sporty enough...DON'T BE! I am 24, getting married soon, and wanted a car that would be a blast to drive, safe, and have great reliability so that it will be around to tow rugrats in a few years. The standard model is awesome!! If you take it for a test drive and decide you want more...there will always be the Type S. Sorry for the long post, but I like talking about these cars!!!

 

I have a TL-S and haven't experienced some of the quality issues others have. I traded in a high performance car for the TL-S and never really considered a TL-P. There's a thread in the TL-S section that highlights the additional features of the TL-S over the TL-P. For me, the additional HP, larger wheels and tires, and VSA alone justified the price difference. The TL-S is firm and taught, but by no means uncomfortable. I haven't drive a TL-P to compare. There's also a thread in the TL-S section about an owner who thinks the TL-S handles too softly. I guess it really comes down to -your- personal preference.

 

I just purchased my 2002 TL Standard, after much deliberation about the TYPE S or Not Type S, I too agreed the Standard offered the ride I was looking for. The type S was definatly fun to drive, but it didn't fit in with my daily driving style like the standard did. So I spent the extra cash on the Navi.. Love it!

 

02 TL is almost identical to 01 TL except the look, rims, tilting mirror, head rest(?)

Other than that it's same as 01.

If you like to take turns at high speed and like to race then type-s may be more suited for you.

Take your pick they are both nice cars.
Pick the one that fits your needs
Good luck