Inside, the TLX has an expressive design that highlights its sporty character. We haven't tested the Type S on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy route yet, which is part of our extensive testing regimen, but we've run the regular version and saw 30 mpg. The TLX Type S is rated at 19 mpg city and 25 highway. However, the all-wheel-drive, four-cylinder 3-series is significantly more efficient. For comparison, the Acura's ratings closely align with front-drive-based rivals such as the VW Arteon. Models equipped with SH-AWD see those figures drop to 21 mpg city and 29 highway. The EPA estimates the front-drive TLX will earn up to 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. Tested: 2021 Acura TLX Shows Signs of Greatness.2021 Acura TLX Type S Starts at $53,325.Tested: 2021 TLX Type S Remembers What's Important.However, it does have a firm ride that doesn't mask road imperfections, and it didn't feel as nimble as shorter sporty competitors such as the Audi S4. Our first drive showcased its gutsy engine, engaging steering, terrific body control, and strong brakes. Unlike the regular TLX, it's available with stickier summer tires on lighter 20-inch wheels. This sentiment is especially true of the higher-performance Type S, which boasts a 355-hp turbo 3.0-liter V-6, a responsive 10-speed auto, SH-AWD, and a sportier suspension setup. Still, the TLX's terrific chassis tuning made it very entertaining to drive and proved that Acura can still build a sports sedan. While it hit 60 mph in 5.9 seconds, that's slower than similar setups in this segment and even the less powerful, albeit lighter, Honda Accord 2.0T we tested. Unfortunately, our test car's two-ton curb weight diminished its acceleration times. Front-wheel drive is standard, and Acura's all-wheel-drive system, which is called SH-AWD and shuffles power among the wheels to improve agility and traction, is optional. The regular TLX features a 272-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder lashed to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Instead, we'd only opt for the $2000 SH-AWD system that will help maximize the sedan's agility and all-weather traction. Although the Technology package includes 19-inch wheels, real leather upholstery, several driver assists, and a host of infotainment upgrades, we don't think it's worth $4000. However, choosing one requires the other and adds $7550 to the bottom line. This means we're stuck with 18-inch wheels and miss out on many of the fancier features that come with the Advance and A-Spec packages. To take advantage of this, we'd choose the base model. One of the best attributes of the 2021 TLX is that it's an excellent value compared with luxury competitors. The storied Type S model also rejoins the lineup for the first time since the 2008 TL, and we've been told the badge will proliferate to other Acura models, too. It also adds more powerful engines, an updated version of SH-AWD, and enhanced chassis components. The sports sedan gains a more distinct presence from longer, lower, and wider proportions. The latest generation was nicknamed the "Seven-Second Knockout" during development, because the company intends it to be significantly more exciting than the version it replaces. What's New for 2021?Īcura gives its best-selling TLX sedan a full redesign for 2021. Likewise, the 2021 Acura TLX receives a snazzier interior that helps it better compete against rivals, such as the BMW 3-series and Cadillac CT5. A new dedicated platform with a more sophisticated chassis enhances the car's ride and handling compared with the outgoing model. Acura also offers every model with its effective Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), which has become a company staple. While it'll feature a a gutsy turbo V-6 engine, the regular version has a potent turbocharged four-cylinder. Along with a stylized design that looks faithful to the concept car, the 2021 TLX marks a return to form of sorts by resurrecting the revered Type S high-performance nameplate. The new Acura TLX aims to reclaim the performance image that once helped Honda's luxury brand stand out.
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