Vehicle Overview
| Segment | Mid-size luxury sport sedan |
| Body Style | 4-door sedan |
| Release Year | 2014 (current second generation from 2021) |
| Trim Levels | Base, Technology, A-Spec, Advance, Type S |
The Acura TLX debuted in 2014, replacing both the TL and TSX to become Acura’s new performance-oriented luxury sedan. Combining sharp design, advanced safety tech, and precision-tuned handling, the TLX bridges the gap between comfort and sportiness. With the launch of the second generation in 2021, it gained a longer wheelbase, turbocharged powertrains, and a new performance halo — the TLX Type S — marking Acura’s return to true sport sedan territory.
Key Specifications
Engines / Powertrains
2.0L Turbo Inline-4 – 272 hp / 280 lb-ft (FWD or SH-AWD)
3.0L Turbo V6 (Type S) – 355 hp / 354 lb-ft (SH-AWD only)
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic with paddle shifters |
| Drivetrain | FWD or Acura SH-AWD® (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive) |
| Chassis | Double wishbone front suspension (from 2021) |
| Dimensions (L×W×H) | 194.6 × 75.2 × 56.4 in |
| Wheelbase | 113.0 in |
| Curb Weight | 3,700–4,200 lbs |
Fuel Economy (EPA)
2.0T FWD: 22 city / 31 highway / 25 combined
3.0T Type S: 19 city / 25 highway / 21 combined
| Trunk Space | 13.5 cu. ft. |
Exterior Design
The TLX showcases Acura’s Precision Crafted Performance design language — bold yet elegant. The signature Diamond Pentagon grille, “Jewel Eye” LED headlights, sculpted hood, and fastback-style roofline emphasize sophistication and motion.
The A-Spec trim adds sportier touches like dark chrome accents, gloss black trim, and 19-inch wheels, while the Type S gets larger air intakes, quad exhausts, and 20-inch performance alloys for an aggressive stance.
Interior, Comfort & Materials
Inside, the TLX exudes refined sportiness. The cabin blends leather upholstery, genuine aluminum trim, and ambient lighting with ergonomic design. The driver-focused cockpit features a thick steering wheel, sculpted seats, and intuitive controls.
Front seats are highly supportive, and higher trims add heating, ventilation, and power thigh extensions. The cabin is quiet, benefiting from active noise cancellation and double-paned glass. Rear-seat space is comfortable for two adults, with ample legroom.
Features & Infotainment
10.2-inch HD infotainment display (controlled via Acura True Touchpad Interface)
7-inch driver display or 12.3-inch Precision Cockpit (2024+)
Apple CarPlay & Android Auto (wired; wireless in newer models)
ELS Studio® 3D Premium Audio (17 speakers on Advance trim)
Dual-zone climate control
Wireless charging pad and multiple USB-C ports
Navigation with real-time traffic
Available Head-Up Display (HUD)
Safety & Ratings
The TLX maintains Acura’s tradition of top safety credentials.
| NHTSA | 5-Star Overall Safety Rating |
| IIHS | Top Safety Pick+ (2021–2023 models) |
Standard AcuraWatch® Suite
Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS)
Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow
Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
Road Departure Mitigation
Traffic Sign Recognition
Optional Surround-View Camera System
Driving Performance & Handling
Performance is where the TLX shines. The 2.0L turbo delivers strong midrange torque and refined acceleration. The chassis, with a double wishbone front suspension and SH-AWD system, provides excellent grip and balance, making it one of the most engaging sedans in its class.
The Type S version elevates this with a 3.0L turbo V6, adaptive dampers, larger Brembo brakes, and sport-tuned SH-AWD — offering genuine rear-bias handling and sharp dynamics. It’s a driver’s sedan through and through, combining power and composure.
Fuel Efficiency
2.0T FWD: 22 mpg city / 31 mpg highway / 25 combined
2.0T SH-AWD: 21 mpg city / 29 mpg highway / 24 combined
3.0T Type S: 19 mpg city / 25 mpg highway / 21 combined
Fuel efficiency is competitive given its performance and all-wheel-drive availability, though not class-leading. Premium unleaded fuel is recommended.
Practicality & Everyday Usability
The TLX offers a well-balanced mix of sport and comfort for daily use:
13.5 cu. ft. trunk with split-fold rear seats
Easy cabin access and supportive seating
Multiple drive modes (Comfort, Normal, Sport, Individual)
Ample cabin storage and wireless charging convenience
SH-AWD system enhances year-round traction and stability
While the rear seat isn’t the largest in its class, overall usability is excellent for a sport-luxury sedan.
Warranty & Maintenance
| Basic Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 6 years / 70,000 miles |
| Roadside Assistance | 4 years / unlimited miles |
| Maintenance | Scheduled every 10,000 miles or per Maintenance Minder system |
| Hybrid Battery Coverage | N/A (TLX not hybridized as of 2024) |
Price & Value for Money
MSRP (2024)
| TLX 2.0T Base | ~$45,000 |
| TLX A-Spec | ~$50,000 |
| TLX Type S | ~$58,000 |
The TLX undercuts German rivals like the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4 while offering comparable performance and superior reliability. It provides a balanced luxury-sport formula at a compelling price point.
Comparison with Rivals
| Model | Power (hp) | Drivetrain | MPG (Combined) | MSRP ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acura TLX | 272–355 | FWD / AWD | 21–25 | 45,000 |
| BMW 330i / M340i | 255–382 | RWD / AWD | 26 | 47,000 |
| Audi A4 / S4 | 201–349 | AWD | 27 | 45,000 |
| Genesis G70 | 252–365 | RWD / AWD | 23 | 44,000 |
The TLX stands out for reliability, standard safety tech, and value — though its infotainment interface and rear space lag slightly behind competitors.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Strong turbo engines with engaging handling
SH-AWD enhances grip and balance
Premium build quality and quiet cabin
Excellent safety features and reliability
Value-packed vs German rivals
Cons
Touchpad infotainment can feel fiddly
Rear seat space smaller than some competitors
Fuel economy trails lighter rivals
Overall Rating
4.5 / 5 Stars – A sporty, luxurious, and dependable mid-size sedan that combines performance and safety with signature Acura value.
Final Verdict
The Acura TLX blends dynamic performance, luxury comfort, and long-term reliability like few others in its segment. The standard models deliver refined power and poise, while the Type S revives Acura’s performance spirit with genuine excitement.
For buyers seeking a driver-focused luxury sedan without the maintenance costs of European brands, the TLX remains one of the most compelling choices in the mid-size premium segment.
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Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.