The new debut of the 2021 Acura TLX is an exciting throwback to the 90’s affordable sports car era. While not exactly cheap, the mid-tier price point promises staple performance-grade mechanicals such as a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that nicely couples with one of Acura’s in-house crown jewels – the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system with torque vectoring capability and a snappy 10-speed gearbox. Those that want to take the TLX further to the edge can opt for the performance-oriented Type S model that’s retrofitted with a turbocharged V6 instead, bringing the total power output to 355 hp.
Engineers have also completely revamped both the chassis and vehicle platform to further enhance and embrace the TLX’s thrilling driving dynamics. The interior has also been more refined to create a cleaner and more luxurious look.
Five trims are available (base, Tech, A-Spec, Platinum Elite and Type S) out of which the base model still comes generously packaged with SH-AWD, a 10-speed automatic transmission, a 10.2” infotainment touchpad, 12-way adjustable power seats and a remote engine starter. Still, we like the A-Spec trim as it’s nicely packaged with extended tech features including a more premium ELS Studio 17-speaker sound system, ventilated front seats, dual-zone climate controls and voice navigation software along with larger 19” wheels and other cosmetic enhancements.
Models up until the sub-highest Elite trim get the 272-horsepower turbocharged four cylinder engine mated to a 10-speed automatic gearbox with SH-AWD pre-configured as the standard offering. Opting for the highest performance-oriented Type-S trim receives an upgraded 3.0 liter turbocharged V6 that outputs 355 horsepower. The Platinum-Elite trim comes will come with adaptive damper systems for a better balance of both performance and comfort.
Amongst other features is a drive-mode selector via a rotary push dial knob on the center console for Eco, Normal and Sport mode as well as further customization in the throttle, suspension and steering response that can be configured on the infotainment screen. Fuel economy manages 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, which is not exceptional within the realm of fuel efficiency but is on par with other competitors within the sports-sedan segment.
The 2021 TLX’s cabin space is reminiscent of the well-acclaimed RDX with a performance-inspired center console, push-button gear selector, rotary drive mode selector and supportive yet comfortable bucket seats. Acura has also retained the raw and original instrument cluster look with its basic, red-illuminated analog speed and tachometer dials, but modernized it with a center LCD screen for displaying vehicle metrics and configurations. The perforated leather steering wheel and driver-side arm rest also adds a nice touch of both luxury and ergonomics.
All trims receive an enlarged 10.2” infotainment screen controlled via a touch pad mounted on the center console with most of the menu controls proven to be intuitive and responsive. Voice-activated navigation was also accurate during our test drive.
The TLX exemplifies what Acura does best by bringing the best of both affordability and performance. Despite the high-tech componentry, the 2021 TLX still feels raw and natural with plenty of grip around corners and winding roads thanks to its exceptional SH-AWD system. At 272 horsepower, the turbocharged four-cylinder engine gets the job done – that’s if high engine RPM is maintained. We were a bit disappointed about the absence of Acura’s dual-clutch automatic (available in the Acura ILX) transmission, which would have been perfectly suited for the TLX and would have elevated the driving experience to another level. Nevertheless, TLX delivers a fun and engaging driving experience with plenty of practicality offered in a full-size sedan form factor. Our A-Spec trim, as tested, comes priced starting at $45,275.
