2021 Acura TLX SH-AWD 4dr Sedan AWD w/2.0T and A-Spec Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A)
Recently picked up a redesigned AWD TLX w/turbo 4 cyl. in A-Spec trim. Really wanted the Type S but decided that the eventual ramp up in cost and lower fuel economy probably would have been deal breakers. I am very glad the TLX is no longer based on the Accord platform as it looks great and can stand out more from its Honda brethren. Here are my initial impressions.
Pros:
- Engine … has some zip and should be more than adequate for most people (enthusiasts can continue waiting for the Type S)
- Looks like a sleek sports car (especially if you choose the red/black interior seating)!
- Seats are super comfortable, even more so than the ones on the MDX I was driving. Good support and I can imagine long drives being pleasant.
- Suspension has been upgraded to double-wishbone. I don't feel I miss the active-dampening of the Advance trim.
- Trunk release button is handy for when your hands are full (just stand there with fob in proximity and push the button!)
- Awesome ELS sound system
- Wireless phone charging
Cons:
- There is no spare tire (for additional fuel economy). You'll deal with a compressor and sealant in the trunk. You can always ask roadside assistance to do it for you.
- The touchpad takes some getting used to. Unfortunately the method to operate the tactile pad for Acura apps is not the same as for when you use Carplay. I can't comment on the Android version but it may be the same issue. I've gotten used to this but I can see this being a deal breaker for some folks.
- Car is marketed to compete with the BMW 3 series, C-Class, etc. and is competitive in price, interior space, trunk space, but not in fuel economy. I believe the exterior being more like the 5-series or E-Class size and the weight has quite a bit to do with it. This oddball combination forces the TLX to be more of a direct competitor with the Kia Stinger GT-Line for these reasons (fuel economy is identical).
Speaking of weight, the TLX is only about 250 lb less than the MDX I gave up. Luckily the engine is more than sufficient to power the car on the highway. I always hated how underpowered a 2012 C-Class I owned was similar in weight to this TLX but struggled to accelerate with its underpowered V6.
In conclusion, I'll stop short of saying this car is for "Acura fans only" but it is definitely not for everyone. The looks may keep sales high but only time will tell how long-term owners feel. Either way, it is most definitely worth it to get a test drive if you are on the fence after this review!
2 Year update:
I've turned in the car a year early as I got tired of the following issues:
1) Infotainment works about 90% of the time. It's also quite slow when compared to true luxury makes.
2) Braking on this car is very inconsistent. I always feel like I have to give quite a bit of room to the car in front of me. This car never let me forget how heavy it is.
3) I was hoping I could get closer to 30 mpg but it was really more b/w 23-24 mpg from mixed driving.
4) It's an adventure when driving through narrow streets. I always hated visiting NYC with this car, especially when looking for parking!
You may get this car for the looks but make sure it checks a lot of other boxes before you do!
There are a number of incentives offered by Acura in Virginia. Note that the incentives change every month and can differ based on the make and model of the vehicle. Follow this link on Edmunds for all the latest Acura incentives.
Edmunds Expert OpinionsThe Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
edmundsTESTED
We drove it! Our ratings are based on our Edmunds expert’s extensive vehicle testing.