Acura
TL
Infiniti
I30
Acura TL vs Infiniti I30: 2011 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Acura TL comes out ahead of the Infiniti I30 on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
TL
Overall
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment for sport sedan regarded as Acura's golden era defining model, praised extensively for powerful smooth J-series V6 engines delivering effortless acceleration, engaging driving dynamics balancing sport and comfort, timeless elegant styling (especially 3rd generation 2004-2008), premium ELS audio system rivaling luxury competitors, spacious comfortable interior, and Honda reliability enabling routine 200,000-300,000+ mile operation when properly maintained. However, widespread criticism centers on catastrophic automatic transmission failures (primarily 1999-2005 models), fragile interior materials creating cracked dashboards universally, peeling driver seat bolsters, poor Honda paint quality with premature clear coat failure, excessive torque steer (FWD models), oil consumption issues (3.7L V6), and camshaft wear problems (2009-2014 3.7L engines). Overall consensus indicates 3rd generation (2004-2008) represents peak TL era combining stunning design with improved transmission reliability versus predecessors, while 4th generation (2009-2014) delivers superior performance through SH-AWD and 305 hp output though controversial "beak" styling polarizes opinions.
Best version to buy
Type S 6-Speed Manual (2007-2008) The 2007-2008 Type S with 6-speed manual transmission represents ultimate TL specification combining 286 hp VTEC V6, sport-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes, limited-slip differential, iconic "waffle" BBS-style wheels, and manual transmission eliminating catastrophic automatic transmission concerns entirely. The 2007-2008 final production years benefit from refined production quality and resolved early 3rd generation issues.
Known issues
- ⚠• Catastrophic automatic transmission failures (1999-2006 primarily), complete 2nd gear failures, oil jet clogging, inadequate cooling, premature wear 80,000-120,000 miles typical, replacement cost $3,500-$5,500, Honda extended warranties c…
I30
Overall
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment regarding long-term reliability and durability, particularly for the VQ30DE engine and automatic transmission. The vehicle is consistently praised as a high-mileage workhorse, with multiple reports of reaching 250,000 to 300,000 miles with basic maintenance. Owners describe it as a tremendous value, offering luxury features and comfort derived from the Nissan Maxima platform at a lower cost.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to specify a preferred trim or model year. Feedback is generalized across the 1996-2001 generation, with no specific trim (e.g., base, Touring) highlighted as superior.
Known issues
- ⚠Ignition coil failure: Coils reported to fail around 120,000-140,000 miles, causing misfires (codes P0300, P0305). Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Sensor failure: Causes intermittent stalling, no-start conditions, and diagnostic trouble codes (P0335). Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Idle Air Control Valve (IACV) failure: Leads to rough idle, stalling, and high idle issues (code P0505). Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Infiniti I30 is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the Acura TL, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Infiniti I30 are a dealbreaker, the Acura TL is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Not sure which one fits you?
Answer a few questions and get a personalized recommendation.
Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Acura TL or the Infiniti I30?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Infiniti I30 than the Acura TL. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the Acura TL or the Infiniti I30?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Acura TL or the Infiniti I30?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Acura TL or the Infiniti I30?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Acura TL than the Infiniti I30. See the known issues comparison above.