There are different categories of luxury cars, and Acura has long played the simplicity card with a decent but unremarkable luxury sedan. However, in recent years, the brand has shifted its priorities towards sportiness. The TLX has transformed from an ordinary sedan to a high-performance luxury car capable of competing with some of the biggest names in the industry. In short, the only thing it lacks now is a less anonymous name. As we have seen, Acura has started to revive names from the past with the Integra, and I believe it would be in the best interest of the Japanese manufacturer to use the same strategy with the TLX.
Acura has not made major changes for 2024. At the same time, this is normal as the model continues to be successful in its current form. However, it is clear that the Japanese manufacturer's sporty sedan would greatly benefit from the addition of an electrified version.
Range and Prices
It is evident that change is underway at Acura, as the TLX range has significantly expanded for 2024. There are now only two versions of the model. First, there is the A-Spec version, by far the most popular of the two. This one now has a starting price of $56,460, which remains very competitive, especially considering there aren't a ton of options to inflate the bill. As for the second version, we jump straight to the Acura TLX Type S with a starting price of $66,460, which is excellent considering everything the car offers, especially in terms of mechanics.
Category and Competition
While mainstream midsize sedans have significantly lost popularity in recent years, this is not necessarily the case for luxury midsize sedans. That's why the TLX's presence in the market is important for Acura. Granted, the Japanese manufacturer's sedan is a bit less competitive this year with only two versions on the menu, but it remains interesting nonetheless.
Rivals: Alfa Romeo Giulia, Audi A4, Audi A5, BMW 3 Series, BMW 4 Series, Cadillac CT5, Genesis G70, Infiniti Q50, Lexus ES, Lexus IS, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Volvo S60
Design and Technologies
The two versions that the Japanese manufacturer has chosen to retain for the TLX 2024 are by far the most interesting aesthetically. The sedan has a very sleek and elegant appearance. Let's say it's a car that doesn't fail to turn heads as it passes by. The only thing that disappoints me a bit for 2024 is the lack of options in terms of colors.
The Japanese manufacturer's sedan lacks nothing in terms of equipment. Its interior is very spacious and comfortable. I must admit that I am not a big fan of the touchpad used for the navigation of the multimedia system. However, the Japanese manufacturer has worked very hard to improve its quality and response over the years. The Acura TLX offers impeccable finishing. Its red interior is breathtaking.
Performances
Although the model's range is limited to two versions for 2024, the Acura TLX still offers two mechanical options. The A-Spec version is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that delivers 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission that sends power to all four wheels. The result is a 0-100 km/h time of less than 6.0 seconds while maintaining an average fuel consumption of 11.3 L/100 km in the city and 8.1 L/100 km on the highway. Therefore, it can be said that the Japanese manufacturer's sedan offers an ideal balance in terms of mechanics.
If you're looking for something a bit more special, I strongly recommend the Type S version. It features a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine that produces 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. While these numbers may not be as impressive as those found in the competition, I promise that the driving experience of this version is simply amazing. Like the 2.0-liter engine, it comes with a 10-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive as standard. The model's performance is very impressive, especially in terms of its handling. Instead of relying on ridiculously high power, the brand's engineers opted for a better balance with more efficient brakes, better-adapted suspension, and more. It was definitely the right thing to do because the Acura TLX Type S is one of my automotive favorites.
Weak Points
There are only two versions available, and very few options to accompany them. No electrified powertrain available at the moment. The multimedia system is still far from perfect.
Strengths
It is an exceptionally well-balanced and enjoyable car to drive. The Acura TLX doesn't fail to turn heads as it passes by. It offers excellent value for money.
Signature Element
The 2024 Acura TLX distinguishes itself from the brand with its balance and reliability. It's a car that you simply cannot regret buying.
Closing Thoughts
It's clear that we are nearing the end of the model's career, and even though I'm eager to see what the brand's engineers have prepared to replace the current TLX, I remain cautious. In my opinion, today's TLX is by far the best car ever produced by the brand, reaching a pinnacle in terms of style and driving pleasure. It's the kind of car we will fondly remember when it's gone.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier
