Acura TLX V6 (2017-2020) 

• 1st Generation
• Sold in the USA = 2017-2020
• Status = 2nd Generation Introduced in 2021

Acura TLX Price in USA in 2020

Ever since its launch, this car has consistently maintained its position as Acura’s best-selling sedan. Although the 2017 model didn’t undergo significant changes, it remains an exceptionally attractive vehicle. The car is available in three trim levels: standard, advance, and technology, each offering a range of standard options. However, certain features are specifically included to differentiate these versions from one another. In this review, we will primarily focus on the Acura TLX front-wheel-drive V6 A-Spec, delving into its unique characteristics and potential differences compared to the other trims.

Design & Features:

The Acura TLX’s exterior design is notably appealing, particularly from the front. The car features a sleek and stylish shield grille that sets it apart from other Acura models. This grille design exhibits a smoother aesthetic, contributing to the overall elegance of the vehicle. At the front, the TLX boasts eye-catching July headlamps, each consisting of five cells arranged in a row. This distinctive lighting arrangement not only enhances visibility but also adds a touch of sophistication to the car’s frontal appearance. The combination of the attractive shield grille and the captivating row of headlamp cells makes the front of the Acura TLX a focal point that effortlessly captures attention on the road.

The Acura TLX showcases a distinctive set of headlamps that are exclusive to the Acura brand, making them a defining feature across all versions of the TLX model. These headlamps not only contribute to the car’s unique identity but also come as standard equipment across the entire TLX lineup. Directing our attention to the front of the car, we find a body-colored bumper with air dams, enhancing the TLX’s sporty appearance and aiding in aerodynamic efficiency. However, it’s worth noting that the current version of the TLX does not feature fog lamps as standard. The fog lamps are included as part of the advance package, which offers additional features and enhancements.

Moving along to the side profile of the TLX, it boasts 18-inch machine-finished alloy wheels, available in three different color options. These 18-inch wheels come as standard on the TLX models equipped with a robust six-cylinder engine, delivering a visually striking and dynamic presence. On the other hand, TLX models powered by the four-cylinder engine are fitted with slightly smaller 17-inch wheels, which still maintain an attractive aesthetic while optimizing performance for the respective engine configuration.

Across all versions of the TLX, heated side mirrors with turn signals are a standard feature, providing both convenience and enhanced visibility. However, the advance package offers additional features for the side mirrors, including paddle lamps and auto dimming capabilities. These added functionalities contribute to a more advanced and convenient driving experience.

Shifting our focus to the rear of the TLX, the captivating design continues. The car is equipped with LED tail lights that complement the aesthetics of the front headlights. These LED tail lights feature a similar cell-like arrangement, creating a harmonious and cohesive visual appeal between the front and rear of the vehicle. This design choice not only enhances the TLX’s overall beauty but also ensures a consistent and eye-catching lighting signature.

The Acura TLX features dual stainless steel exhausts, which are discreetly hidden from view. Acura’s intention in concealing the exhausts is to emphasize the eco-friendliness of the car. By minimizing the visual prominence of the exhaust system, Acura aims to convey that the TLX prioritizes environmental consciousness without compromising on performance.

Shifting our attention to the interior, the Acura TLX offers a luxurious and visually appealing cabin that matches its exterior aesthetics. The seats and door panels are upholstered with high-quality leather, exuding an air of sophistication and comfort. Acura provides three different color options for the interior: Ebony espresso, Graystone, and parchment. These color choices allow for personalization and provide a range of atmospheres to suit different preferences. In addition to the premium leather upholstery, the door panels and center console are adorned with high-class wood trim. This incorporation of wood accents adds a touch of elegance and refinement to the interior, enhancing the overall ambiance of the cabin. The combination of leather and wood elements creates a harmonious and upscale environment that elevates the driving experience.

he dashboard of the Acura TLX is adorned with high-quality plastic, providing a sleek and durable surface. As a standard feature across all versions, the TLX comes equipped with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, which enhances both comfort and style for the driver.

The TLX incorporates a dual-screen setup on the dashboard. The upper screen features an eight-inch display and is operated using a knob or similar control mechanism. This display provides access to various functions and settings, allowing the driver to interact with the vehicle’s navigation system, audio controls, and other features conveniently.

Situated below the upper screen is the infotainment screen, which boasts a seven-inch display. This screen provides additional access to various entertainment and connectivity options, allowing passengers to enjoy multimedia content and interact with smartphone integration features. The presence of two screens offers a user-friendly interface and helps to streamline the overall functionality of the TLX’s technology systems.

Engine & Transmission:

The current version of the Acura TLX offers a powerful and capable engine lineup. The highlight is the 3.5-liter V6 engine with six inline cylinders, delivering impressive performance. This engine generates a robust 290 horsepower, ensuring thrilling acceleration and ample power for various driving situations. It also produces a peak torque of 362 Nm at 4500 RPM, providing the TLX with excellent low-end torque for quick and responsive acceleration.

For those who prefer a more fuel-efficient option, the standard version of the TLX comes equipped with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. While slightly smaller in displacement, this engine still offers respectable performance. It produces a torque of 189 lb-ft, allowing for a smooth and enjoyable driving experience. Regardless of the chosen engine, the TLX delivers a balanced combination of power, efficiency, and performance. Whether it’s the V6 engine with its impressive horsepower and torque or the four-cylinder engine with its optimal fuel economy, drivers can expect a satisfying and dynamic driving experience behind the wheel of the Acura TLX.

In terms of fuel economy, the standard version of the Acura TLX outperforms the current version. It achieves an efficient rating of 24 miles per gallon in city driving and 33 miles per gallon on the highway. This translates to a combined fuel economy rating of 27 miles per gallon, providing drivers with a balance between performance and efficiency. On the other hand, the current version of the TLX, specifically the TLX A-Spec, offers slightly lower fuel efficiency but still delivers respectable numbers. It achieves approximately 21 miles per gallon in city driving, 34 miles per gallon on the highway, and a combined rating of 25 miles per gallon. While not as efficient as the standard version, these figures are still commendable for a vehicle of its class.

In terms of transmission, the current version of the TLX A-Spec is equipped with a ZF 9-speed automatic transmission. This transmission provides smooth and precise shifts, enhancing both performance and fuel efficiency. Additionally, the TLX A-Spec features paddle shifters, allowing drivers to manually shift gears for a more engaging and personalized driving experience.

Seating & Comfort:

The Acura TLX prioritizes comfort and convenience with its seating features. In all versions of the TLX, two-person memory seats are included as standard, allowing drivers to easily save and recall their preferred seat settings. The driver’s seat itself is equipped with a 10-way power-adjustable function, providing ample options for customization and ensuring optimal comfort during drives. Additionally, the TLX seats are designed with power lumbar support, further enhancing the ergonomic support for occupants. The seating surfaces of the TLX are crafted with leatherette, offering a luxurious look and feel. The use of high-quality materials ensures both durability and comfort for prolonged periods of sitting.

Moving to the front cabin, the TLX provides a spacious and inviting environment for occupants. The generous amount of space allows for a relaxing driving experience, ensuring that both the driver and front passenger can stretch out comfortably. Additionally, a standard moonroof is included in all TLX versions, which brings in natural light and adds to the overall open and airy feel of the cabin. While the front cabin excels in terms of space and comfort, the rear seats of the TLX are still designed to provide a comfortable seating experience. However, it’s worth noting that the rear seating area may lack sufficient headroom and legroom, particularly for taller passengers. This can slightly limit the space and may result in a slightly more confined feeling for those seated in the back.

Safety Features:

• Vehicle stability assist electronic stability controls (ESC)

• ABS and driveline traction control
• Side impact beams
• Dual stage driver and passenger seat mounted side airbags
• Road departure mitigation system lane keeping assist

• Road departure mitigation system lane departure warning
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Blind spot information system blind spot sensor
• Collision mitigation braking system forward collision and rear cross traffic monitor rear collision

• Tire specific low tire passenger front airbags
• Curtain 1st and 2nd row airbags
• Airbag occupancy sensor
• Driver knee airbag

• Rear child safety locks
• Outboard front lap and shoulder safety belts-inc: rear center 3 point- height adjusters and pretesioners
• Back up camera

Major Competitors:

• Mercedes-Benz C-Class
• BMW 3 Series
• Infiniti Q50
• Audi A4
• Alfa Romeo Giulia
• Jaguar XE
• Mercedes-Benz CLA
• Lexus IS
• Volvo S60
• Lexus ES