Hello all!

I'm selling my BMW 330ci and ready to get a new car. I want a car that has a softer ride and less sporty, but more headroom. As it is, the top of my head touches the roof when I'm in my BMW. Not ideal.

Anyways, I've sat in a 2005 Acura TL before and had TONS of headroom. Didn't get to test drive it though as it was one of those shady dealerships and the car was parked behind other cars that needed to be moved first. My question is: what's the ride like? Is it like a Lexus?

And yes, I've thought about a Lexus but I've tried both an IS and ES and I don't have enough headroom. And I don't want to go German again and get a Mercedes.

I will test drive before I buy of course but I would like your take. I realize I'm in the minority of people looking for a soft suspension.

 

no, its not like a lexus.
the third gen TL prides itself with a sporty suspension.

with that being said; the 07-08 Base TL's are the softest in ride.

 

I had heard that the third gen is very sporty like a BMW but I just wanted to get some opinions. Maybe if it's less firm than a BMW then I'd be ok.

Maybe this isn't the best sub forum but are there any acuras that are quite soft like a Lexus?

 

I've driven a friend's Toyota Avalon. I think it will meet your needs for a soft suspension.

If you really want to get into an Acura, I'm sure there are aftermarket options for the car.

 

most aftermarket options are STIFFER.

KYB shocks are supposed to be like OEM but I wouldnt put those on..

Oem shocks are pretty stiff.


the 07-08 Base TL has the softest ride.

 

The newer acura's are toned down.
2nd gen TSX
and maybe the fwd 4G TL

 

i recommend the 07-08 base like justnspacer has alrdy said. it'll be most comfortable

 

if you want to go all out you can probably get the honda accord springs and put it on the TL since they are a little bit softer. you can also remove the sway bars for even more comfort over uneven bumps. it'll make the handling worse of course but i take it comfort is your number one priority

 

lol why would any one do that is beyond me.
he's better off looking for a different car.

 

Pretty easy solution- if you want an 05 TL, the way to get a softer ride is to go 1+ on the tire size (go from stock 235/45/17 to 245/45/17)- I did it with my Conti DWS. Car rides very smoothly (nice, softer ride plus decent handling is retained). I thought my car rode stiff when it was new, but it may have been a function of new suspension (not yet broken in). The slightly taller (aspect ratio wise) tires will help the ride quite a bit.

 

I'll have to check out the 04/05 TL vs the 07/08 to see if the ride is that different. Again, I haven't test drove it as the dealership was crazy. Maybe it'll be fine? Or maybe I'll really enjoy it.

All I do know is that the seats were extremely comfortable, they have excellent reliability, they come really well stocked with goodies, and I have tons of headroom. Those are pluses.

 

I have 08 base TL with 245/45/17 tires and even lowered tire pressure to 30 and still it is very rough on any uneven road (compared to my prior rides).

 

The TL and Accords are IMO pretty stiff and firm riding vehicles, but I like it. Like justnspace said consider the 07/08 TL as its said to have the softest suspension of all 3G's, and its the newer model years so you get the updated interior and exterior, plus the softest suspension to suit your needs.

 

As long as it looks to be in decent condition and you take good care of it, they really can last quite a long time. I'd get the lowest mileage car you can find, regardless of year (although some here will tell you to stay away from the 04's for the potential of tranny issues). You would assume newer is better and that is likely the case, but I have an 06 and it's been a nearly flawless car.