2025 Acura TLX Type S
Price Range: $57,750 Price range reflects Base MSRP for various trim levels, not including options or fees.
2025 Acura TLX Type S
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+3
Good
7.8
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
The Acura TLX Type S is a compelling alternative to traditional sport luxury sedans. It's fun to drive and priced below most other rivals. Lackluster acceleration and a frustrating-to-use infotainment interface are drawbacks, however.Read full review
Pricing
Changing year or type will take you to a new page
Type S (Most Popular) - $58,945 MSRP
Edmunds suggests you pay
$58,2072025 Acura TLX Type S Review
byChristian Wardlaw
Correspondent
Christian Wardlaw has worked in the automotive industry since 1994. He has written nearly 10,000 car-related articles and tested and reviewed more than 2,000 vehicles over the course of his career. Chris is a correspondent at Edmunds and was the first editor-in-chief of Edmunds.com in the 1990s. He has also contributed to Autotrader, CarGurus, J.D. Power, Kelley Blue Book, NADAguides, New York Daily News Autos and WardsAuto. His mom claims that his first word was “car,” and Chris believes that Miata is always the answer.
rating written byCameron Rogers
Manager, News
Cameron Rogers has worked in the automotive industry since 2013. He has tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Today, he leads the news team in developing cutting-edge news articles, opinion pieces and sneak peeks at upcoming vehicles. Favorite cars that he's driven during his tenure at Edmunds include the 991-era Porsche 911 Turbo S, Rolls-Royce Ghost and several generations of Honda Odyssey (really).
Pros
- A lot of features for the money
- Nimble handling with optional all-wheel-drive system
- Available ELS Studio 3D audio system is among today's best
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
- No major changes for 2025
- Part of the second TLX generation introduced for 2021
Overview
With the 2025 TLX, Acura straddles the line between compact and midsize luxury sedans. From the front seats, it feels large and wide, like a BMW 5 Series. But in the back, it seems small and narrow, more like a BMW 3 Series. Acura does price the TLX more like compact luxury sedans, though, and the TLX is a step up from the smaller Integra hatchback. For the 2025 model year, the automaker has made almost no changes to the TLX, though the complimentary maintenance program is cut in half to one year or 12,000 miles.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2025 Acura TLX Type S 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of N/A undefined in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
Not EPA tested for TLX Type S
TLX Type S
vs
$159/mo
Avg. Midsize Car
Edmunds spotlight: What's the deal with the True Touchpad Interface?
Two factors contribute to the Acura TLX's relatively low Edmunds rating: its unimpressive fuel economy estimates and the True Touchpad Interface (TTI). The TTI is how you operate the TLX's infotainment system. Located on the center console, it consists of a trackpad, a Back button, and a Home button, and it responds to fingertip movement and pressure. The theory behind the TTI is noble — reduced driver distraction — but it often has the opposite effect because making accurate inputs on the small pad is challenging in a moving car. Acura has started removing the TTI from some of its models, but the TLX still uses it.
Competitors to consider
The TLX credibly competes with sedans in two different segments. Based on our in-depth Expert Rating, which you can read below, the TLX doesn't fare well against most models in the midsize class, which are typically larger and more sophisticated (though more expensive). However, it's not far behind the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series in the small sedan category, making it worthy of consideration against those rivals.
Edmunds Expert Rating
Our VerdictThe 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.
Good
7.8
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
The Acura TLX Type S is a compelling alternative to traditional sport luxury sedans. It's fun to drive and priced below most other rivals. Lackluster acceleration and a frustrating-to-use infotainment interface are drawbacks, however.
Rated for you by America's best test team.Performance
8/10
How does the TLX Type S drive? At our test track, the TLX Type S sprinted from zero to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds. That's respectably quick but competing sport sedans such as the Audi S4 and BMW M340i are quicker still. Its results for handling (1.0 g around our skidpad) and braking (panic stops from 60 mph in a solid 107 feet) were more competitive.
The TLX Type S shines once you leave the test track and head out onto real roads. Power from the turbocharged V6 is readily available and the automatic transmission shifts smoothly and quickly. The Type S also uses a trick all-wheel-drive system that makes the TLX feel more like a rear-wheel-drive car when driving down a twisty bit of road.
The TLX Type S shines once you leave the test track and head out onto real roads. Power from the turbocharged V6 is readily available and the automatic transmission shifts smoothly and quickly. The Type S also uses a trick all-wheel-drive system that makes the TLX feel more like a rear-wheel-drive car when driving down a twisty bit of road.
Comfort
8/10
How comfortable is the TLX Type S? The sporty elements of the Type S nearly disappear from the driving experience during the commute. The front seats have ample bolstering that keeps you in place around corners, yet they're also supportive and pleasing places to sit for extended periods. The ride finds a sweet spot between compliant and controlled. You'll sense the presence of the available summer tires through some additional noise, but it's the kind that keeps you invested in the drive rather than complaining about it.
We appreciate the auto setting for the seat heating and ventilation but were surprised by the absence of three-zone climate control. Backseat passengers have no climate adjustment options aside from the vents.
We appreciate the auto setting for the seat heating and ventilation but were surprised by the absence of three-zone climate control. Backseat passengers have no climate adjustment options aside from the vents.
Interior
7/10
How’s the interior? There's a lot to like about the TLX's 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, rear legroom is tight, especially for tall passengers. It's even less than what you get in the Acura's smaller Integra.
The TLX's main tech interface, which consists of a display screen and trackpad controller, can be annoying and distracting to use. 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 TLX's main tech interface, which consists of a display screen and trackpad controller, can be annoying and distracting to use. 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.
Save as much as $738 with Edmunds Click on the trim you’re interested in to see what Edmunds suggests you should pay to get a good deal. Savings vary by trim; $738 refers to estimated savings off of MSRP for the Type S trim.
2025 Acura TLX Type S pricing in Ashburn, VA
Edmunds suggests you pay
Technology
7.5/10
How’s the tech? Major touchpad-interface issues aside, the integrated navigation system has sharp-looking maps and is easy to use. We also like the ELS audio system; it packs serious punch and accuracy.
Wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration is standard. While wireless charging is standard, there aren't any USB ports for rear passengers, which is odd for a luxury sedan. We like that most of the advanced driver assist systems are standard, and they do a respectable job of approximating natural driving. But we did notice that the adaptive cruise system is slow to react when the driver ahead moves out of your lane.
Wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration is standard. While wireless charging is standard, there aren't any USB ports for rear passengers, which is odd for a luxury sedan. We like that most of the advanced driver assist systems are standard, and they do a respectable job of approximating natural driving. But we did notice that 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? The Type S makes a mostly insignificant sacrifice to the TLX's overall storage with additional chassis bracing that partially blocks the rear seat pass-through. Otherwise, at 13.5 cubic feet, the trunk is larger than the trunks of most rivals. A wide opening helps with loading, but a short decklid somewhat hinders access to the deep side of the trunk. The cabin offers numerous places to store items, though most are modestly sized.
Got small children? The lower 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 cramped rear seat will require some compromise in front seat space.
Got small children? The lower 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 cramped rear seat will require some compromise in front seat space.
Fuel Economy
7/10
How economical is the TLX Type S? A turbocharged V6 engine isn't going to be the most fuel-efficient option in a sedan, but the TLX Type S, with the optional summer tire package, is rated at a respectable 21 mpg combined. If you don't opt for the available summer tires, the combined number stays the same but the highway estimate goes up 1 mpg to 25 mpg. Over our real-world evaluation route, the TLX Type S was true to form and returned 20.9 mpg. The bad news for the Type S is that its main rivals, the Audi S4 and Mercedes-AMG C 43, both proved more fuel-efficient over the same evaluation loop, getting 24.5 mpg and 24.2 mpg, respectively.
Value
8/10
Is the TLX Type S a good value? The TLX Type S includes all the options available on the standard TLX. The Type S' only upgrade option is the performance wheel-and-tire setup, which is worth getting. As equipped, the TLX is attractive from a features-to-dollar perspective, especially compared to an equivalent Audi, BMW or Mercedes-Benz. Warranty coverage is typical, though Acura does provide complimentary maintenance for two years/24,000 miles.
Wildcard
8.5/10
The Type S looks special, but in a way you can't quite put your finger on. This effect is magnified when you add the performance wheel-and-tire option, which emphasizes the TLX's apparent athleticism. Fortunately, the driving experience largely cashes the check written by the design. You have to push the Type S hard to find the benefits, but when you do, you start looking for reasons to do it again.
Which TLX does Edmunds recommend?
For the best blend of style, performance, efficiency and slick-road traction, choose the TLX A-Spec. In addition to good looks and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, the A-Spec also offers a wider range of colors and more standard equipment.
Compare 2025 Acura TLX trim levels
Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart
Acura TLX models
Acura attempts to cover two bases at once with the 2025 TLX sedan. In some ways, it is more like a midsize luxury car, while in others, the more appropriate categorization would be compact. Either way, it is available in Technology, A-Spec and Type S trim levels.
A turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (272 horsepower, 280 lb-ft of torque) is standard with Technology and A-Spec trim. It uses a 10-speed automatic transmission to power the TLX Technology's front wheels, while the A-Spec has standard all-wheel drive. The TLX Type S gets a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 (355 hp, 354 lb-ft), a 10-speed automatic with rev-matching downshifts, and AWD.
Technology
The most affordable version of the TLX has:
- 19-inch machined-finish wheels
- Power sunroof
- 12-way power-adjustable and heated front seats
- Leather upholstery
- 12.3-inch infotainment screen with touchpad controller
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
- Amazon Alexa Built-in natural voice recognition
- Connected services with access to a Wi-Fi hotspot
- Wireless smartphone charging pad
- 13-speaker sound system
The TLX Technology also comes standard with these safety features:
- Forward collision warning with automatic braking (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
- Lane departure mitigation (warns you of a lane departure when a turn signal isn't used and can automatically steer to maintain lane position)
- Lane centering system (makes minor steering corrections to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane)
- Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the Acura and the car in front)
- Blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic warning (alerts you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while in reverse)
- Parking sensors (alert you to obstacles that may not be visible in front of or behind the vehicle when parking)
A-Spec
The TLX A-Spec adds sporty exterior styling and more equipment, including:
- 19-inch dark gray alloy wheels
- LED foglights
- Flat-bottom sport steering wheel
- Brushed aluminum interior trim
- Black headliner
- Mixed leather and synthetic suede seat upholstery
- Ventilated front seats
- 17-speaker ELS Studio 3D premium sound system
Type S
This is the performance-tuned version of the TLX, building on the A-Spec package with a more powerful engine, exclusive design details, and:
- 20-inch black alloy wheels
- Sport+ driving mode
- Adaptive suspension with thicker stabilizer bars
- Extra chassis bracing (can help to enhance handling)
- Front Brembo performance brakes
- Power-folding side mirrors
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers with a de-icer
- 16-way power-adjustable front sport seats
- 10.5-inch head-up display
- Surround-view camera system (gives you a top-down view of the TLX and its surroundings in tight parking situations)
Highlights from the TLX's stand-alone accessories list include:
- Upgraded wheels with different finishes
- Welcome lighting
- Premium floor mats
- Heated steering wheel
- Wood interior trim
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Acura TLX Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(56%)
4(27%)
3(4%)
2(9%)
1(4%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Helpful shopping links
2025 Acura TLX Features & Specs
Type S
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $57,750 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 13.5 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | all wheel drive |
Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
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Safety
Key safety features on the TLX include:
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Lane Departure Warning
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
- Pre-collision safety system
- Post-collision safety system
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test | Good |
---|---|
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test | Good |
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original | Good |
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated | Not Tested |
Side Impact Test – Original | Good |
Side Impact Test – Updated | Not Tested |
Roof Strength Test | Not Tested |
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint | Not Tested |
FAQ
Is the Acura TLX a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2025 TLX both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.8 out of 10. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the TLX has 13.5 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Acura TLX. Learn more
What's new in the 2025 Acura TLX?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2025 Acura TLX:
- No major changes for 2025
- Part of the second TLX generation introduced for 2021
Is the Acura TLX reliable?
To determine whether the Acura TLX is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the TLX. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the TLX's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2025 Acura TLX a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2025 Acura TLX is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2025 TLX and gave it a 7.8 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2025 TLX is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2025 Acura TLX?
The least-expensive 2025 Acura TLX is the 2025 Acura TLX Type S 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $57,750.
Other versions include:
- Type S 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $57,750
What are the different models of Acura TLX?
If you're interested in the Acura TLX, the next question is, which TLX model is right for you? TLX variants include Type S 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A). For a full list of TLX models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more