2021 Acura TLX Review
Price Range: $20,249 - $41,990
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Average
7.6
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
In many ways, the second-generation 2021 Acura TLX is a marked improvement over the last model. The four-cylinder engine and 10-speed automatic together are smoother and react more naturally to inputs than the previous V6 and nine-speed, and the interior is more upscale.
However, the TLX takes a step backward as well. The powertrain is a tad thirstier and slower than similar engines in rivals, but the biggest issue is the new touchpad controller for the infotainment system, which is often frustrating to use.
However, the TLX takes a step backward as well. The powertrain is a tad thirstier and slower than similar engines in rivals, but the biggest issue is the new touchpad controller for the infotainment system, which is often frustrating to use.
Price & Payment
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Average price: $28,151
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Pros
- Lots of features for the money
- Available all-wheel-drive system enhances the TLX's handling
- Great sound quality from optional ELS audio system
Cons
- Infotainment touchpad controller is distracting to use
- Rear seats can feel cramped
- Not as quick or fuel-efficient as many rivals
What's new
- Fully redesigned for 2021
- Improved interior materials
- New Type S version with a 355-horsepower V6
- Kicks off the second TLX generation for 2021
Overview
The Acura TLX is a small luxury sedan that competes with the likes of the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. While older Acura sedans have developed something of a cult status, more recent four-door models have fallen short in terms of both performance and luxury. Acura is looking to reset expectations with the fully redesigned 2021 Acura TLX.
For sale near Ashburn, VA
20 listings
- 76,002 miles
- No accidents, 1 owner, personal use only
- 21 City / 29 Hwy MPG
- Lindsay Volkswagen of Dulles (4 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
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Located in Sterling, VA
Dealer processing fee is already included in our advertised price. We believe an All In Price is the most transparent, honest, and trustworthy approac...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
24 Combined MPG (21 City/29 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 19UUB6F64MA005004
Stock: VX805075A
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 02-14-2026- 63,990 miles
- No accidents, 3 owners, personal use
- 22 City / 30 Hwy MPG
- CarMax Frederick (18 mi away)
- Free delivery available*
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Keyless Entry/Start
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Located in Gaithersburg, MD
Wanna drive? CarMax puts you in the driver's seat-and that includes transparency. Certain cars may have unrepaired safety recalls, so check nhtsa.gov/...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
25 Combined MPG (22 City/30 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 19UUB5F57MA014037
Stock: 28038016
Certified Pre-Owned: No
This new Acura has been built from the ground up on a new platform to improve every facet of the TLX experience. Outside, it's longer and wider, with a longer hood and more aggressive proportions. In person, the TLX certainly looks the part. It gets new engines, Acura's latest tech features and higher-quality materials in the cabin. Notably, the new performance-oriented TLX Type S has a turbocharged V6 good for 355 horsepower.
All these changes add up to the best Acura sedan in years. But is that enough to make you want to buy one instead of the typical Audi, BMW or Mercedes? Read our Expert Rating below to see how the TLX stacks up against the competition.
Edmunds Expert Rating
edmunds TESTED
by the Edmunds Experts
Average
7.6
out of 10
We drove the 2021 Acura TLX on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.
Performance
7.5/10
How does the TLX drive? We tested the TLX A-Spec, which has the turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Our vehicle also came with all-wheel drive. At our test track it accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, which is a bit slower than rival small luxury sedans with base four-cylinder engines.
On the upside, the all-wheel-drive system contributes to more agile and controlled body motions while you're navigating tight turns. The steering lacks communication, but turn the drive mode selector to Sport and the wheel gains some heft, which feels better suited to spirited driving.
The 10-speed transmission is a massive improvement over the last-gen nine-speed automatic, though it still isn't quite perfect. It shifts early under light throttle and feels a little lazy in the Normal and Comfort drive modes. But it keeps the turbo boost at the ready when you have Sport mode selected and need responsive acceleration.
On the upside, the all-wheel-drive system contributes to more agile and controlled body motions while you're navigating tight turns. The steering lacks communication, but turn the drive mode selector to Sport and the wheel gains some heft, which feels better suited to spirited driving.
The 10-speed transmission is a massive improvement over the last-gen nine-speed automatic, though it still isn't quite perfect. It shifts early under light throttle and feels a little lazy in the Normal and Comfort drive modes. But it keeps the turbo boost at the ready when you have Sport mode selected and need responsive acceleration.
Comfort
8/10
How comfortable is the TLX? The TLX makes up for the lack of outright performance with a comfortable driving experience. The front seats are nicely padded and the rear seats are angled back for a relaxed seating position. That said, the front seats aren't highly adjustable, and the side bolsters provide little support for performance driving.
The ride achieves a great balance between suppleness and composure over a variety of road surfaces, though sharp-edged road bumps can still send a prominent thunk through the cabin. Noise is well abated. It's a pretty quiet vehicle overall, even though instrumented testing shows the TLX is a few decibels louder on the inside than rivals. The climate control system is easy to use, and we like that the A-Spec's heated and ventilated front seats can be set to an automatic mode that adjusts the amount of heating or cooling based outside and desired interior temperatures.
The ride achieves a great balance between suppleness and composure over a variety of road surfaces, though sharp-edged road bumps can still send a prominent thunk through the cabin. Noise is well abated. It's a pretty quiet vehicle overall, even though instrumented testing shows the TLX is a few decibels louder on the inside than rivals. The climate control system is easy to use, and we like that the A-Spec's heated and ventilated front seats can be set to an automatic mode that adjusts the amount of heating or cooling based outside and desired interior temperatures.
Interior
7/10
How’s the interior? There's a lot to like about the TLX cabin. It's easy to find a good driving position thanks to the seat's ample amount of travel in all directions and the similarly generous tilt-and-reach range for the steering wheel. The large door openings and gently tapered roof help you enter and exit the vehicle gracefully. On the downside, there's not an abundance of rear leg- or headroom, and tall folks will feel uncomfortably close to the roof.
The outgoing TLX's dual-touchscreen infotainment has been replaced by a display screen with a trackpad controller. We consider it a step backward for this generation. The trackpad mimics your inputs like a touchscreen, but it isn't large enough and lacks the precision needed to successfully navigate the numerous virtual buttons on screen at any one time.
The outgoing TLX's dual-touchscreen infotainment has been replaced by a display screen with a trackpad controller. We consider it a step backward for this generation. The trackpad mimics your inputs like a touchscreen, but it isn't large enough and lacks the precision needed to successfully navigate the numerous virtual buttons on screen at any one time.
Technology
7.5/10
How’s the tech? Touchpad-interface issues aside, the integrated navigation system has sharp-looking maps and is easy to use. But results from the navigation system's point-of-interest search were sometimes a bit wonky in our tests. There's also no directional information, so there's no way of knowing if the nearest Starbucks you requested is on your intended travel route or a mile behind you. It is worth upgrading to the A-Spec or Advance trim for the ELS audio system alone. It's that superlative.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard but cannot be operated wirelessly; some rivals offer wireless phone integration. There also aren't any USB ports in the back, which is odd for a luxury car. We like that most of the advanced driving systems are standard, and they do a respectable job of approximating natural driving. There are some missteps — for example, the adaptive cruise system is slow to react when the driver ahead moves out of your lane.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard but cannot be operated wirelessly; some rivals offer wireless phone integration. There also aren't any USB ports in the back, which is odd for a luxury car. We like that most of the advanced driving systems are standard, and they do a respectable job of approximating natural driving. There are some missteps — for example, the adaptive cruise system is slow to react when the driver ahead moves out of your lane.
Storage
7.5/10
How’s the storage? At 13.5 cubic feet, the TLX's trunk is larger than the trunks of most rivals. The trunk opening is also wide, allowing you to load long items horizontally without issue. However, a short decklid somewhat hinders your access to the deep end of the trunk, and it'll be a reach to load and retrieve items butted up against the rear seats. The cabin offers numerous places to store items, though most are modestly sized.
If your sport sedan will also be a family hauler, know that the lower LATCH anchors for car seats are hidden behind a Velcro-backed strip of leather that must be removed. The wide doors should make it easy to load a car seat, but the TLX's compact size will require some compromise on front seat space.
If your sport sedan will also be a family hauler, know that the lower LATCH anchors for car seats are hidden behind a Velcro-backed strip of leather that must be removed. The wide doors should make it easy to load a car seat, but the TLX's compact size will require some compromise on front seat space.
Fuel Economy
7/10
How’s the fuel economy? The Acura TLX with all-wheel drive (which is what we tested) gets an EPA-estimated 24 mpg combined (21 city/29 highway). That's a few mpg worse than what rivals such as the Audi A4 S line (27 mpg) or BMW 330i xDrive (28 mpg) achieve. Our test TLX posted a more competitive 26.2 mpg on our real-world evaluation route, but overall the TLX's fuel efficiency is a little disappointing.
Value
8/10
Is the TLX a good value? The TLX starts below $40,000, which is lower than just about every rival small luxury sedan. Our well-equipped TLX A-Spec with all-wheel drive rang in at under $48,000 — thousands of dollars less than similarly equipped competitors. This Acura makes a strong value statement, especially when you consider the pleasant materials and build quality.
Its bumper-to-bumper warranty of four years/50,000 miles is typical for the segment, though its powertrain coverage of six years/70,000 miles is more generous than what the German competition offers. But complimentary maintenance is not included on the TLX, unlike many of its German rivals.
Its bumper-to-bumper warranty of four years/50,000 miles is typical for the segment, though its powertrain coverage of six years/70,000 miles is more generous than what the German competition offers. But complimentary maintenance is not included on the TLX, unlike many of its German rivals.
Wildcard
8/10
The so-so engine doesn't give you the thrust you'd expect of a real sport sedan, and only the Sport driving mode has the steering heft you'll want for accurately placing the vehicle while cornering. But the rest of the TLX is tuned to provide a sense of excitement. Slap on a set of summer tires, and the TLX could probably hang with the BMW 3 Series and Alfa Romeo Giulia on mountain roads.
This is a sharp sedan that will look good in just about anyone's driveway. That's especially true of the A-Spec model, which brings the styling elements of the Type S to the standard TLX lineup. The leather/faux suede interior is also pretty spiffy. It isn't the corner-carving all-star that some rivals are, but at the TLX's bargain price tag, it's hard to justify paying thousands of dollars more for an incrementally better sedan.
It might be worth paying extra to never deal with the TLX's infuriating touchpad controller, however, but that's not an option.
This is a sharp sedan that will look good in just about anyone's driveway. That's especially true of the A-Spec model, which brings the styling elements of the Type S to the standard TLX lineup. The leather/faux suede interior is also pretty spiffy. It isn't the corner-carving all-star that some rivals are, but at the TLX's bargain price tag, it's hard to justify paying thousands of dollars more for an incrementally better sedan.
It might be worth paying extra to never deal with the TLX's infuriating touchpad controller, however, but that's not an option.
2021 Acura TLX trim level differences
The 2021 Acura TLX is a compact luxury sedan available in five trim levels: base, Technology, A-Spec, Advance and Type S. Technically, Acura refers to each as packages, but they're no different than trim levels. The first four trim levels come with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (272 horsepower, 280 lb-ft of torque), a 10-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system is optional. The Type S sports a unique turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 (355 hp, 354 lb-ft) and comes with AWD standard. Feature highlights for the TLX include: Compare the 2021 Acura TLX trim levels in-depth.
Which TLX trim does Edmunds recommend?
The 2021 TLX is well equipped right out of the gate, but buyers looking to upgrade from a loaded Honda Accord might find the features on the base TLX a little lacking. We think it's worth upgrading to the A-Spec, which offers ventilated front seats, a sporty appearance package and the supremely satisfying 17-speaker ELS audio system. Tick the box for the SH-AWD system if you want to have a little fun on mountain roads. No matter which trim and powertrain you choose, however, rest assured that you're getting more bang for your buck than your neighbor with a new C-Class.

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Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$235/mo for TLX Base
TLX Base
vs
$221/mo
Avg. Midsize Car
Reliability
The 2021 Acura TLX has a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic warranty and 4 recalls. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5, ranks it #1 out of 68 among Luxury Midsize Cars. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Reliability Rating by RepairPal
4.5 out of 5 stars4.5/5Excellent
#1 out of 68 among Luxury Midsize Cars
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
$353/yr
vs. $607/yr
for Average Luxury Midsize Car
for Average Luxury Midsize Car
Frequency
0.4x/yr
vs. 1.36x/yr
for Average Luxury Midsize Car
for Average Luxury Midsize Car
Severity
5.7%
vs. 10.5%
for Average Luxury Midsize Car
for Average Luxury Midsize Car
powered by RepairPal
Recalls
4 recalls foundChecking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.
If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).
- Recall Number:
- 25V391000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- FLX, XLY
- Manufactured from:
- 2022-12-16 to 2024-11-06
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 259033
- Defect Description:
- Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2021-2025 Acura TLX, 2023-2025 Acura MDX, and 2023-2025 Honda Pilot vehicles. The brake pedal pivot pin was not secured properly, which can cause the pedal to shift out of position. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment" and 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
- Defect Consequence:
- A brake pedal that shifts out of position can prevent the driver from applying the brakes as intended, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
- Corrective Action:
- Dealers will inspect and replace the brake pedal assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed July 28, 2025. Owners may contact Honda's customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are FLX and XLY.
- Recall Number:
- 25V031000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- EL1, AL0
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 294612
- Defect Description:
- Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2022-2025 Acura MDX Type-S, 2023-2025 Honda Pilot, and 2021-2025 Acura TLX Type-S vehicles. A software error in the fuel injection electronic control unit (FI-ECU) may cause an engine stall or a loss of power.
- Defect Consequence:
- An engine stall or loss of power can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
- Corrective Action:
- Dealers will reprogram the FI-ECU software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 17, 2025. Owners may contact Honda's customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are EL1 and AL0.
- Recall Number:
- 24V950000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- JKX
- Manufactured from:
- 2020-12-08 to 2023-11-10
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 167
- Defect Description:
- Acura (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2021-2023 TLX vehicles. The fuel filler neck and fuel tank may have been improperly welded, which can result in a fuel leak.
- Defect Consequence:
- A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
- Corrective Action:
- Dealers will replace the fuel tank assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 3, 2025. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Acura's number for this recall is JKX.
- Recall Number:
- 24V064000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- XHP, VHQ
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 750114
- Defect Description:
- Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Pilot, Accord, Civic sedan, HR-V, Odyssey, 2020 Civic coupe, Fit, 2021-2022 Civic hatchback, 2021 Civic Type R, Insight, 2020-2021 CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline, Accord Hybrid, 2020 Acura MDX, 2022 Acura MDX, 2020-2022 Acura RDX, and 2020-2021 Acura TLX vehicles. The front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short circuit, failing to suppress the air bag as intended.
- Defect Consequence:
- An air bag that deploys unintentionally during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
- Corrective Action:
- Dealers will replace the seat weight sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2024, and October 18, 2024. This is a phased recall. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for these recalls are XHP and VHQ.
Warranty
4 years / 50,000 miles Basic Warranty- Basic Warranty
- 4 years / 50,000 miles
- Drivetrain Warranty
- 6 years / 70,000 miles
- Rust Warranty
- 5 years / unlimited miles
- Roadside assistance Warranty
- 4 years / 50,000 miles
Acura TLX Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(45%)
4(35%)
3(10%)
2(3%)
1(7%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Expectations are Key!
4 out of 5 starsE. Lin, 11/03/2020
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!
Fast Yet Practical
5 out of 5 starsAjpetro, 02/24/2022
2021 Acura TLX Type S 4dr Sedan AWD w/3.0T (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A)
I've owned a number of fun to drive vehicles over the years including an Eclipse GSX, Integra Type R and a Mustang GT. Currently, along with TLX Type S, my wife and I drive a 2015 M4 Convertible and a 2012 Acura TL SHAWD with a manual transmission. While the Type S isn't quite as fast as our M4, it's much easier to live with on a daily basis. Good power, great handling and enough room … to make it practical. Plans are to take it along with the M4 to a HPDE this Spring. It will be interesting to see which one is the most fun on the track.
Feeling conflicted
4 out of 5 starsZoomnbyu, 09/30/2021
2021 Acura TLX 4dr Sedan w/2.0T and A-Spec Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A)
I am on my 4th three year Acura lease in a row now. It all started with a 2013 TSX Special Edition, followed by a 2016 TLX 2.4 Tech and then a 2019 TLX 2.4 A-Spec. I recently took delivery of a 2021 TLX A-Spec and while I am enjoying it, I find myself somewhat conflicted. Each of my cars was generally an improvement over the one previous to it. They offered enough changes to keep me … interested enough to remain a loyal Acura customer. Enter the all-new 2021 TLX. It by all measures is one of the biggest leaps that Acura has made in a number of years. This leap, though, may leave some longtime customers slightly frustrated. Where evolution and constant improvement is key to continued loyalty, the new TLX has an Achilles heel. Where the past few cars have always been better than the last, this new car, while still better in most ways, also falls short in a few areas, but let's start with what is good.
Performance is definitely at the head of that list. Acura has finally given the TLX the base engine that it deserves. It’s basically a detuned version of that which powers the mighty Civic Type R and it is a strong performer. While lacking the rev happiness and true aural pleasure that was a mainstay of the previous two engines offered, it makes up for it by offering a strong punch and it moves this car with absolute authority. Gas mileage, thankfully, has thus far been better than the EPA estimate getting 24-25 in and around town and 32 on the highway. Unfortunately, while the engine is eager, Honda's new 10 speed transmission is simply not quite the dance partner that my previous cars 8 speed DCT was to the 2.4L. That DCT was simply seamless and with the exception of the occasional lag when down-shifting was always what made those cars a blast to drive in spite of the 2.4's somewhat limited power. The new tranny just feels like there may be a bit of work left to do on the software to get rid of some clumsiness and sharpen up its smoothness of operation. And this is where everything that follows really starts to be a list of tradeoffs from the old car to the new.
The Chassis is all new and is said to be presently exclusive to Acura. Gone is the front strut suspension in favor a double wishbone setup that harkens Acuras of yore. The steering feel and overall composure are finally deserving of this car. One slight downside, at least in the A-Spec trim, is ride. While generally well composed over smooth to moderate surfaces, it quickly loses that composure when the going gets rough. It simply runs out of compliance and behaves poorly over bigger bumps. Despite that shortcoming and likely because of this setup, the handing is quite impressive. Especially considering that Acura has now ditched its impressive PAWS all-wheel steering system. Another tradeoff, this one sacrificing turning radius which is fairly poor for a mid-sized sedan. Lastly, where the overall driving experience is much quieter, tire noise is much more intrusive. This is a strange tradeoff and may also the source of the handling's weakest point, its average at best Bridgestone touring tires.
From the outside, the car is sharp. Everything is nicely improved and more aggressive yet balanced in its execution. The interior is a drastic change and mostly a better place to live, but some weaknesses quickly become apparent, primarily in the driver's seat. Its position and available adjustments are lacking. Adjusted to my frame as in my last three Acuras, I find myself sitting abnormally low in this car. While I can raise the seat base, I then lose support under my thighs. It's just awkward feeling. The next issue is Acura's new infotainment system. Both the interface and the sound system itself, while quite different is simply not really an actual improvement over their previous tech. There is simply very little that is intuitive in using their new touchpad. And on the new ELS 3D sound system, while the overall sound is impressive, it simply does not produce the flawless and incredibly deep bass response that the previous ELS system delivered. The deletion of the rear deck mounted subwoofer is largely to blame here. The front doors, now the new home for the subs, vibrate annoyingly under-arm when music with heavy bass is played. Lastly is a features issue. Missing is the auto-wipers that were standard on my last A-Spec. A simple deletion on Acura’s part, but an odd omission for a previous owner buying the same trim of a new model.
The long and short is that this new TLX is a really nice, impressive handling and quick car to drive. If not for my previous Acura experience I may not even nit-pick some of the things that I do.
One last thing, updating this 4/1/2022: while the car has been growing on me overall, make sure to get it with SH-AWD! The power in this car is useless in FWD form. You can't put the power down even in the dry and it's pretty nearly horrible in the wet so if you are a spirited driver make sure to step up to the AWD version.
The Best TL/TLX Ever But With Inexcusable Flaws
4 out of 5 starsBluesboymark, 03/17/2021
2021 Acura TLX SH-AWD 4dr Sedan AWD w/2.0T and Advance Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A)
This is my third Acura and it is by far the best. But a few annoying features prevent it from being what should be a "great car" for the money. For starters, I'm not a big fan of the "touch pad" for controlling vehicle navigation and functions. It lags and takes getting used to. Not user friendly vs. touch screen. Also, Acura should fire the graphic designer or engineer who decided on … the fixed daytime map color scheme and use of small white text outlined in black on a light background. A real graphic design no-no. Furthermore, street route numbers are unreadable no matter how you adjust contrast and brightness. My 2010 Acura TL had five map color schemes that you could adjust to get the best viewing experience. The screen and text on my 2010 appeared larger and far more readable. But no worries - the 2021 Acura engineers give you many different colors to change your interior car accent lighting - but not the more important navigation map! Bad bad bad. I'm tempted to use the map's night color screen even during the day because it is more readable. Also, info text on the navigation screen is in smaller fonts than my 2010 TL. Text should be easily readable when driving.. Also, if you live in a region that gets snow, wet snow that collects on the Acura's front emblem where the camera is causes some safety features to be disabled. Living in the Chicago area, this happened several times. These flaws get in the way of a fabulous automobile. It looks great, rides and handles beautifully, is very comfortable, has plenty of pep for a heavy car with its four cylinder turbo and has an excellent sound system for the money. However, I expected the mileage to be better with the four cylinder and if I'd known, I'd have waited for the six cylinder turbo. Also, be prepared for smaller back seat space on this model. This is a great looking vehicle with a lot of bang for the buck versus the more expensive BMW and Lexus. I felt that shelling out another $5,000 was not in my budget. Acura...hope you have some updates to the navigation color choice schemes. It's sorely needed!
2021 Acura TLX videos
2021 Acura TLX Type S Review | Acura's Luxury Sedan Is a Great Value | Interior, Features & More
Carlos Lago gets behind the wheel of the 2021 Acura TLX Type S sedan. Join Carlos as he gives his impressions of the interior and how it drives. Compared to other entries in the luxury segment, Acura’s TLX Type S delivers an enjoyable driving experience and surprising value.
2021 TLX Features & Specs
Sedan
Base
| MSRP (New) Excludes Destination Fee | $37,500 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Gas |
| Combined MPG | 25 MPG |
| Cost to Drive | $235/month |
| Seating | 5 seats |
| Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 13.5 cu.ft. |
| Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
| Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Our experts like the TLX models:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System
- Warns you of a possible collision with the vehicle in front. Can apply the brakes if you do not take corrective action.
- Road Departure Mitigation System
- Sounds an alert if the TLX is in danger of leaving its lane or the road. Can apply steering torque to keep the TLX in its lane.
- Surround-View Camera System:
- Provides a top-down view of the TLX so you can easily place the vehicle while parking.
NHTSA Overall Rating
5 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover5 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover9%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestGood
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
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