Used 2019 Acura TLX A-Spec Sedan Review

The 2019 Acura TLX remains true to its mission of providing substance over flash. While its European and American competitors battle for brand cachet, the TLX quietly continues offering an expert blend of performance, comfort and reliability. It won't set your pulse alight, but it's no snoozer either, especially when equipped with its optional V6 engine.

Acura introduced the TLX in 2015 to replace its TSX and TL sedans, aiming to combine the appeal of both cars in a single model. Largely, it's worked. Today's TLX offers the available power and performance of the older TL and bundles it up inside tidier, more TSX-like dimensions.

Last year's model featured a freshened look and a new A-Spec trim level with a sport-tuned suspension. For 2019, the TLX remains the same under the skin but offers a few new treatments, including the A-Spec package for four-cylinder models and a new wheel design for certain V6 trims.

Key to the Acura TLX's charm is its authenticity. Although it offers a good measure of performance, especially in the way it takes curves and turns, the TLX isn't trying to match its global competitors in adrenaline output. Instead, it ties together satisfying speed and power, with impressive levels of comfort and convenience. It's still a smart choice if you seek a lot of value from a luxury sedan.

What it's like to live with?

Edmunds' editorial team acquired and lived with a 2015 Acura TLX SH-AWD for a full year, logging 20,000 miles. We found the TLX to be a well-appointed luxury sedan with a refined ride and ample motivation from the optional V6 engine. We weren't a fan of its nine-speed transmission, however, especially in the earlier generation models. Check out our long-term TLX test to learn more.

Note that the 2019 Acura TLX differs from our long-term TLX in that it has received a cosmetic face-lift inside and out and has a revised infotainment interface. It's the same generation, though, so most of our observations still apply.

Choosing a 2019 Acura TLX is straightforward. Acura offers the TLX with one of two engines, a four-cylinder or a V6, and a couple of option packages. Four-cylinder models are front-wheel-drive only and available in three trims: the TLX 2.4L, the TLX 2.4L with Technology package and, new for 2019, the TLX 2.4L A-Spec. The base V6 model is the TLX 3.5L. You can also get the TLX 3.5L with Technology package, the TLX 3.5L A-Spec and the TLX 3.5L with Advance package. All-wheel drive is available for the V6-equipped TLX.

The base TLX 2.4L comes with a 2.4-liter engine (206 horsepower, 182 pound-feet), an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with paddle shifters, and front-wheel drive. Standard features include LED headlights, 17-inch wheels, a sunroof, keyless entry and ignition, dual-zone automatic climate control, simulated leather upholstery and heated, power-adjustable front seats.

TLX tech conveniences include Bluetooth, two display screens (upper 8-inch and lower 7-inch touchscreens), Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, and a seven-speaker audio system with satellite radio and a USB media interface. Apple iPhone users also get Siri Eye Free voice control when operating outside of CarPlay.

All TLXs come with a standard set of driver assistance features called AcuraWatch. This suite includes lane departure warning and intervention, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, road departure mitigation, adaptive cruise control and automatic high-beam control.

You'll probably like the extra convenience features of the TLX 2.4L with Technology package. It adds keyless entry for the rear doors, leather upholstery, automatic wipers, a climate control system that adjusts for sun direction, navigation, a 10-speaker premium audio system, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The TLX 2.4L A-Spec offers the same features as the Technology package, but it adds 19-inch wheels, simulated suede seat inserts, and unique exterior trim elements such as a matte-black grille, decklid spoiler, lower diffuser, dual exhaust and LED foglights.

TLX 3.5L models are, appropriately enough, powered by a 3.5-liter V6 (290 hp, 267 lb-ft) connected to a nine-speed automatic transmission. Beyond what comes with the base four-cylinder model, the 3.5L gets 18-inch wheels and more power adjustments for the front passenger seat.

The TLX 3.5L with Technology package mirrors the features available on the four-cylinder, but with contrast leather trim and stitching as well as power-extending thigh support for the driver's seat.

Maximum creature comforts await with the TLX 3.5L with Advance package. It builds on the Technology package features with front and rear parking sensors, remote engine start, touchless locking and unlocking and trunk opening, ventilated front seats, heated outboard rear seats, a heated steering wheel, LED ambient cabin lighting, wireless device charging, auto-dimming and power-folding side mirrors, a surround-view camera system and a heated windshield.

The TLX 3.5L A-Spec combines the Technology package features with some Advance package features, along with a sport-tuned suspension, 19-inch wheels, quicker steering and unique exterior trim pieces.