2021 Acura TLX

Overview

New engine. New transmission. New design. New interior. New suspension. New steering. New brake system. Longer wheelbase. Wider track width. Increased interior volume. The 2021 TLX is a whole new beast, and one of the only things this sport sedan has in common with the previous year model is the name. Beyond the nameplate, this sedan has evolved into a luxury sport sedan that offers as much heart-pounding performance as it does lavish comfort. With the TLX being the platform that revives the Type-S badge, Acura had to pull out all the stops, and it certainly did. 

The Perfect Ride For…

The mature enthusiast. This model is inspiring. The sculpted fenders, aggressive front end, muscular rear, and wide, low stance create a head-turning silhouette. Under the hood, the turbocharged powertrains and available Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ make for an exciting experience. Coupled with the advanced technology, powerful safety, and driver-focused cockpit, the 2021 Acura TLX is the perfect vehicle for automotive enthusiasts with refined taste. If you’re craving modern performance, this is the sedan you’ve been waiting for. Practicality doesn’t have to be bland, and the TLX comes standard with the fuel efficiency, reliability, and spacious comfort you’d expect from Acura. 

Drive and Handling

For standard models, a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine will produce an impressive 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This is an increase of 66 horsepower and 98 pound-feet of torque over the outgoing 2020 model. Responsive but efficient, this powertrain will reward drivers with peppy acceleration, and ample power for spirited driving. A second engine, a 3.0-liter turbocharged transverse-mounted V6 engine is estimated to produce more than 350 horsepower as well as more than 350 pound-feet of torque. This engine is lightweight and the dual-scroll turbocharger optimizes output for peak performance. 

Two-wheel drive is standard on the base model 2021 TLX, but Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD®) is well worth the upgrade. This sophisticated system will be standard on the Type S variant and offers rear-biased, intelligent all-wheel drive. It sends power to the wheels that have the most traction and can divert up to 70 percent of the engine’s torque to the rear axle. Combine this system with a variable-ratio steering system, electro-servo brake-by-wire system (adapted from the NSX supercar), and the available selectable Adaptive Damper System and you’ve got a sedan set up for precision cornering, handling, and steering.

Key Features

Advanced Technology

Everything about the 2021 Acura TLX is advanced. From the performance to the technology, this new sedan is packed with innovation. Standard features like the True Touchpad Interface with 10.2-inch HD display, Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and LED Ambient Interior Lighting work together seamlessly to create a connected cockpit. The available 17-speaker ELS STUDIO 3D® Premium Audio system is perfect for audiophiles who only want the best sound production on their commute. Never get lost, thanks to the optional Acura Navigation System with 3D View and avoid traffic delays with the AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™. The available 10.5-inch Head-Up Display lets you keep your eyes on the road while displaying vital information about your vehicle. GPS-linked climate control can monitor the outside temperature and adjust the interior temperature based on your location. 

Premium Interior

Crafted around the driving experience, the interior of the 2021 Acura TLX is focused on the best two seats in the house: the driver and front passenger. The high and wide center tunnel allows the driver and front passenger to feel entirely immersed in the Acura TLX’s lavish interior. For enthusiasts who crave luxury, high-quality materials like aluminum, open-pore wood, and full-grain Milano leather are used throughout the cabin. The body is wider than the previous generation, allowing for extended space and comfort in the front and back seats. Front sport seats feature available 16-way adjustment and the leather-wrapped steering wheel allows the driver to take control while remaining relaxed. The driving position is designed around the human body and offers a commanding view of the road ahead. 

Alternative Options

If you’re interested in the sporty feel of the new TLX but need an SUV, take a look at the RDX. This exciting SUV produces up to 272 horsepower and sends power to all four wheels via the same SH-AWD® system that’s available on the TLX. Maybe you prefer a more compact vehicle. The Acura ILX packs the comfort and luxury you need, in a package that’s perfect for busy city streets. 

To find out more about this outstanding new sports sedan, contact the MotorWorld | MileOne Autogroup team online today. The entire Acura lineup offers the perfect intersection between performance and luxury, and once you get behind the wheel of the new TLX, you won’t be able to get it out of your mind.

Image Credit: Acura