Two years ago, Acura consolidated its two most popular sedans – the intermediate-sized and 3 Series-rivaling TSX, and the mid-size TL – to create the TLX. Since then, very little has changed with this entry-level premium sedan. For 2017 the TLX carries over but adds three new exterior colours: San Marino Red, Lunar Silver, and Modern Steel, a sort of medium metallic gray.
The Acura TLX is available with two engines. The standard powerplant is a 2.4-litre four-cylinder that develops 206 horsepower and 182 lb-ft of torque. This efficient, smooth, and free-revving engine comes matched to an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic as standard.
Those who prefer their sports sedans with a bit more power and refinement may wish to consider the optional 3.5-litre V6 engine. The direct-injected single-cam engine delivers its 290-hp and 267 lb-ft of torque in a smooth manner, and pairs to a ZF-designed nine-speed automatic with an unusual push-button electronic shifter layout similar to what is featured in the RLX hybrid. The nine-speed automatic helps keep consumption in check, which is rated at 11.2 L/100 km city and 7.5 L/100 km highway. By comparison, the TLX four-cylinder consumes 9.6 L/100 km city and 6.6 L/100 km highway.
Four-cylinder TLXs are front-wheel drive but feature a nifty little trick to help provide a more agile feel when driving and a more secure feel at highway speeds. Dubbed P-AWS, which is short for Precision All-Wheel Steer, the rear wheels swivel. You’ll find a similar system on the RLX. Conceptually, this technology isn’t new; Honda has been using on vehicles since the ‘80s.
With 84 more horsepower, V6 TLXs receive Acura’s Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive system, which helps the car put its power to the ground. The system also helps improve handling by reducing oversteer and understeer due to torque vectoring. Both four and six-cylinder TLX also feature selectable drive modes which alter parameters for steering, throttle response, gearshift and on the V6 model, the SH-AWD system.
The TLX is available in three packages: standard, Technology, and the V6-only Elite.
Standard trim level vehicles receive leatherette upholstered seats, 10-way power driver's seat, power moonroof, amplitude reactive dampers, Jewel-Eye LED headlamps, keyless access with push-button start, and 17-inch alloy wheels.
The Technology Package hits the sweet spot for luxury and equipment with a heated steering wheel, premium leather-upholstered seats (upgraded from leatherette), heated rear seats, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, cross-traffic monitor, forward collision warning, remote engine start, full colour instrument display, navigation, and a premium audio system. The Elite V6 adds LED fog lights, emergency autonomous braking, radar cruise control with low-speed follow, and ventilated front seats. TLXs receive USB and Bluetooth connectivity as standard, plus Siri Eyes-Free, but unlike recent Honda products, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are not yet available.
Pricing for the 2017 Acura TLX climbs slightly; pricing now start at $35,690 for the base front-drive sedan. The entry level V6 starts at $40,690 with the range-topping Elite selling for $48,190. The fully-loaded Elite sells for thousands less than comparably equipped rivals from Europe and Japan.
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