What's old is new again, at least at Acura. In an effort to re-energize lagging sport-sedan sales, Acura redesigns its TLX with new engines, fresh styling and, perhaps most importantly, a double-wishbone front suspension. The TLX remains a compact-to-midsize sedan with 5-passenger capacity. Front- and all-wheel drive versions are available. Competitors include the Alfa Romeo Giulia, Audi A4, BMW 3-Series, Cadillac CT4, Infiniti Q50, Lexus IS, Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Volvo S60.
Riding a new platform that's longer and wider than before, the TLX comes with one of two turbocharged engines. Base models get a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder that makes 272 horsepower. Type S models get a 355-horsepower 3.0-liter V6. Both engines mate to a 10-speed automatic. Front-drive is standard on the base. All-wheel-drive is standard on the Type S and optional on the base.
While trim levels are limited to base and sporty Type S, the base is offered with Technology, A-Spec and Advance packages. Standard features include forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control 18-inch wheels, sunroom, keyless ignition and entry, heated front seats, simulated leather upholstery and dual-zone climate control. Type S models get 20-inch wheels, adaptive suspension, Brembo brakes, Sport+ driving mode and a stiffer chassis. Pricing starts at $42,000 and climbs to more than $54,000.
The 2.0-liter engine in the base model proves fine for everyday usage. It's similar to the turbocharged mill in the Honda Accord and likewise provides similar performance in the somewhat heavier TLX. With a 0 to 60 MPH time of about 6 seconds, the TLX isn't as quick as some competitors off the line, but the base engine provides plenty of torque making for exceptional mid-range passing punch. Those looking for more snap might consider the Type S, but as you'll see below that comes with some ride-quality penalties.
Both engines mate especially well to the 10-speed automatic. Though it mostly goes about its business unnoticed, the transmission is prone to quick upshifts to promote the best fuel economy. This can lead to a "sleepy" feeling in around town driving. Though it's nothing that a switch to sport mode can't fix. The all-wheel drive system is one of the best in the business, quickly delivering power to the wheels with the most grip. Pre-programmed torque-vectoring helps improve handling as well.
EPA fuel economy numbers for the base engine are an impressive 22 MPG city and 31 MPG highway. Step up to the Type S and those numbers drop to 19/25 MPG. All models require premium-grade gasoline. In terms of overall economy. the TLX compares favorably to most competitors, keeping in mind that it's a tweener and it should do better than midsize luxury sedans. In routine suburban commuting it's easy to hits the EPA's combined number of 25 MPG overall.
If ever you want to see the difference between a true sports sedan and a poser, look no further than the differences between the 2020 and 2021 TLX. With the move to a new chassis and a race-inspired double-wishbone front suspension, there's no doubt that Acura intends the TLX to compete with sport sedans from BMW and Mercedes-Benz, rather than front-drive-based offerings like the Audi A4. Throw in Acura's SH-AWD and you have the fixing's for a proper contender.
The Type S is the lineup's true performance champ, offering 355 horsepower, sport suspension, beefed up brakes, firmer steering and sticky summer tires on 20-inch wheels. However, the base model is no slouch, especially when equipped with the optional wheels and tires. Still, both suffer from a lot more impact harshness that you might expect from Acura. It might not be something that a sport-minded buyer would object to, but the average luxury sedan buyer might be turned off by the firm ride. Thankfully the base model rides quite comfortably.
All TLX models have sharp steering and powerful brakes. Interior noise levels are low, though the summer tires on the Type S can get a bit noisy on the highway.
Refreshingly, the TLX has an expressive interior design that highlights its sporty character without tacking on button overload. The instrument cluster features attractive analog gauges and there's a prominent rotary drive-mode selector in the middle of the dashboard. Build quality is top notch and materials, including open-pore wood and real aluminum, are beyond reproach for the price point.
Every TLX gets a 10.2-inch infotainment screen that's controlled through a touchpad on the center console that has a padded resting place for your wrist. The TLX comes standard with wireless support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Those who want the terrific ELS sound system and a wireless charging pad will have to pony up for the Advance package.
From the front seats, the TLX feels wider than before and has plenty of head and leg room. The seats are not nearly as firm as in European competitors, proving to be both comfortable and coddling. Rear-seat head and leg room are unimpressive, but likely enough for average-size adults The TLX offers excellent outward visibility and easy entry and exit.
Trunk volume is an unimpressive 14 cubic feet. Other sedans in this class offer a cube or more of additional space. Thankfully the rear seats fold to increase cargo space. Interior storage is unimpressive with almost no open storage up front and a center-console lid that's a bit bulky to open from the driver seat.
Bottom Line - OK everyone that wanted Acura to build a big sport sedan in the tradition of the original Legend, get out and buy the new TLX! Thanks to a much-improved chassis, better breathing engines and road-hugging dynamics, the new TLX gets back to Acura's sport-minded roots. Sure, this new TLX is bigger and heaver than you might expect, but it's a pleasure to drive and offers a no-nonsense interior that's sure to please the technophile. The base engine is plenty quick and can be had with the terrific all-wheel drive system. The Type S offers a reality check for significantly more expensive offerings from Europe.
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