Still worthy of the Caliper badge Tested: 2021 Acura TLX SH-AWD A-Spec

By William Jinkins

What's new:

Improved styling, sitting on its own unique chassis with better rigidity,

Pros:

Sporty design, value, high quality interior details.

Cons:

Not quite as impressive as the TLX Type-S, quirky rotary transmission selector, unimpressive gas mileage,

One would think that Acura was more of an SUV brand, with the discontinuation of the RLX sedan, and the pending dismissal of the NSX, which goes out in flying colors in a special limited-edition “S” model. But not to worry for the Integra is making a comeback, and both the TLX and it will eventual be offered in the “S” guise.

So far, Acura’s SUVs in question are limited to the smaller RDX and larger MDX, both very popular in their respected segments. However, it would seem like there’s plenty of room for other models to compete against its rival brands.

The Acura TLX was first shown as the "TLX Prototype", a sedan designed in Acura's Los Angeles Design Studio, as a replacement of the TL and TSX sedans. The production version was unveiled in April at the 2014 New York International Auto Show. Sales began in August, the TLX entered production during July at Marysville, Ohio.

When Acura introduced the all-new TLX for the 2021 model year, it arrived wearing a far more aggressive design since the public has seen from the nameplate in the past few years. Sharp headlights, a diamond-shaped grille, and chiseled front fascia all give the current TLX a razor-edge look. Along the side, the sedan wears athletic body lines, highlighting its sporty character. The rear end sports triangular taillights and rectangular exhaust pipes.

Acura’s sports sedan relaunched for its next act and this one is a blockbuster. A dedicated platform, double-wishbone suspension, turbocharged VTEC engine, super-handling all-wheel drive; these are the cast members that’ll have Acura devotees returning to the showroom. Just one thing; the role of the stick shift is played by a 10-speed auto with paddle shifters.

There’s a sport appearance package which brings you as close to the upcoming high performance Type S as possible. No, it doesn’t distinguish itself mechanically from the other trims, but it does bring the look; specific 19” wheels, gloss black trim, piano black rear styling, red sport seats with black suede inserts, flat bottom steering wheel, sport pedals and red gauge illumination highlight the A-Spec offerings.

Based on the design of the Type-S concept introduced in 2019, the second generation TLX launched digitally on May 28, 2020, production began on August 28, with sales following a month later. A Type-S model with a new turbocharged 3.0-liter DOHC V6 engine marks the return of the variant after a decade-long hiatus, which is scheduled to go on sale in showrooms starting on June 23, 2021. Without a direct replacement for the discontinued RLX, the TLX serves as Acura’s flagship sedan, slotting above the ILX. The four-cylinder TLX's model code is UB5 for front-wheel drives, UB6 for the SH-AWD model, and UB7 for the Type S.

Built on its own new platform, the TLX uses a front double wishbone suspension with forged aluminum lower control arms, mounted to cast aluminum damper towers and an aluminum subframe. To increase front suspension rigidity, a steel tubular strut bar connects the front damper towers together, with two additional bars tying each tower to the cowl in a triangular arrangement. Included on higher trims is a front subframe lower tie bar. To further reduce weight, the front fenders are aluminum, with the AGM battery moved to the rear to improve weight distribution.

In total, 64 percent of the body structure's mass is comprised from high-strength steel (HSS) and aluminum, with 1,500-MPa steel making up 10.1%. To further increase body rigidity a larger center tunnel, reinforced lengthwise with 980-MPa grade steel is used. A single-piece rear bulkhead steel stamping improves body rigidity without the rear seat brace found on previous TL models, allowing for a folding rear seat trunk pass-through. An underbody triangular brace is added to stiffen the rear suspension on AWD models.

An electric-servo brake-by-wire system similar to the second generation Acura NSX replaces the hydraulic brake, with Type S models adopting four-piston Brembo front brake calipers.

New options include adaptive dampers, a 10.5-inch head-up display (HUD), a 17-speaker audio system with four ceiling mounted speakers, open-pore wood, and 16-way power full grain leather front seats with four-way lumbar adjustability as introduced on the third generation RDX.

The base front-wheel drive TLX starts at $38,525 while my all-wheel drive A-Spec tester comes in at $47,275. the sole engine offering is a 2.0-liter turbo-4 for both.

Acura's TLX is one of the few wallet-friendly choices in the luxury sedan market. With a starting price under $40,000, the TLX joins the Genesis G70, Lexus IS 300 and Volvo S60 as the more affordable alternatives to the German brands.

The TLX is a solid entry in its class. The standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine runs with the Mercedes-Benz C 300s and Audi A4s of the world, while the turbo V6 in the Type S battles other impressive sport sedans. The interior is roomy up front, and Acura has really stepped up its game in terms of materials in the newest TLX.

However, the TLX's cabin isn't as impressive as the interiors of some pricier rivals, and its technology interface leaves something to be desired. And while its slinky styling suggests a dynamic driving experience, it feels sedate from behind the wheel until you start adding options. Frankly a bone-stock BMW 330i is more engaging.

The Acura TLX is a solid pick in the entry-level luxury segment. It costs thousands of dollars less than its primary competition, but in return, you'll give up a little in terms of cabin design and driving excitement.

The model featured here is the 2021 TLX SH-AWD A-Spec; and yes, there is the previously mentioned TLX S now available, which hopefully I’ll have a chance e to review later. It came in a Lunar Silver Metallic with black leather appointments. Base sticker was $46,250 with an out the door price of $47,275. This TLX came fully loaded, so designation charges of $1,250 made up the difference. My tester was caulk full of all the expected options and safety features, yet lack a panoramic roof.

Acura turns up the heat with 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque – numbers that best just about every other car in its segment. However, this is where numbers don’t tell the full story because the TLX’s 0-to-60mph time in the low 6s is slower than the rest of the pack, but tit never feels slow considering it hefty near 2 tons.

That’s because the TLX is a handling machine that creates a sporting environment for the driver – from the perfect position, adjustably bolstered driver’s seat to the right-sized steering wheel and exciting, albeit electronically enhanced sounds from the engine Acura creates a visceral experience with which drivers will connect.

This car makes you feel exhilarating when driving, and I’ll take that over a faster more diluted model any day. Though an adaptive suspension is reserved for the Advance Package these 2-stage reactive dampers don’t leave me wanting as the TLX exhibits a dynamic range that delivers high levels of agility and comfort. However, I’m surprised that the A-Spec doesn’t come with a higher performance tire choice. The Michelin Primacy all-seasons have reappeared on a number of cars I’ve recently tested, so even though they’re quiet and seem to do the job in winter driving (not that it’s a big issue in my neck of the woods), an all-seasons option would be more welcomed.

I really loved this vehicle. It’s hands-down one of the most fun-to-drive cars I’ve tested this year. I don’t care if it’s front-wheel drive-based or not, this car is an absolute blast to take on the twisties. Dial into sport and you get these cool graphics, red accent light color, heightened throttle response, higher steering effort, more responsive handling and racier sounds. Additionally, there are comfort, normal and individual settings. The shifter buttons are a little clunky to use, otherwise I really like the driver controls.

Acura’s touchpad interface debuted on the redesigned RDX, and they have gone to great lengths to explain why it’s better than Lexus’ setup (which is inarguably the worst infotainment controls on the market). And while I can say that it is better it’s still not at all what I would prefer and frankly lowers my overall impression of the car. That said, it’s a shame Acura’s screen wasn’t within reach of the driver because in the week I spent with this system it was frustrating and had led me to avoiding its use. However, it does house one of the most immersive sound systems I’ve tested – the 17 speaker ELS Studio 3D integrates speakers into the rear headliner, wrapping you in sound. It’s an amazing feature that comes standard.

Another issue I had was the hard to interpret push button gear selector. It’s unique to its market and frankly, a little overkill. However, manual shifting is made easy by paddle shifters.

What I prefer from the back of a compact sport sedan are seats that are contoured which hold the passengers in place. After all, some sporty driving will ensue, and you want everyone to be comfortable. And indeed, the TLX delivers on that including some suede inserts they keep you from sliding around on the leather. But that’s just about it back here. You get a couple air vents but no USB ports.

Dimensionally, all of the cars in this segment are nearly identical in both passenger and luggage space - though the TLX offers the largest trunk at 14 cubic feet. Where it doesn’t compare particularly well is at the pump where its 24mpg combined rating trails the BMW 330i and Audi A4 by 4 MPGs.

Longer, wider and lower it’s a great looking car and at this price point makes an excellent choice. It’s all of Acura’s best traits in a fun-to-drive, reasonably priced package.

For more, see this YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WTd06SRjDXM

What’s new for 2022

With it fresh off last year's full redesign, don't expect any major changes for the 2022 Acura TLX. If you're in the market for a budget-friendly small sedan now, a 2021 model is just as good, provided you can still find one on dealer’s lots.

The overall design of TLX will carry over. On the inside, the 2022 model will continue to share the same overall design as the current model. The sedan has a unique interior design with hard edges, a distinct center console layout, and clear gauges. The current TLX features Acura’s True Touchpad Interface, which features a centrally located touchpad and a few physical buttons that are used to control the infotainment screen.

When it comes to tech features, the 2022 TLX should come with a 10.2-inch display as standard. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, 10 audio speakers, Wi-Fi hot spot, two USB ports, and Bluetooth will also be standard. Tech features on will match the ones found on the current sedan.

Acura will continue to offer two powertrains with the 2022 TLX. The base engine will still be the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine which produces 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. A more powerful turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine is offered with the TLX Type S. The high-performance engine makes 355 hp and 354 lb.-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive will be standard with the TLX, while all-wheel drive will be available.

When it comes to safety features, the 2022 TLX will likely come with the same standard features as the current model. Forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, lane keeping assist, traffic sign recognition, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking will continue to be standard. Optional features will include rear cross traffic alert, blind spot monitoring, a head-up display, and a surround-view camera.

Pricing for the 2022 Acura TLX will be released closer to its on-sale date. Without any large changes, I expect pricing to remain close to the current model’s range. Prices for the current TLX range from $39,0125 (including destination) and go up to $49,825.

Acura hasn’t released any information on when the 2022 TLX will be released. However, expect it to arrive this fall.

The 2022 TLX will continue to sit in an interesting part of the segment, competing with both compact and midsize sedans. Main competitors include the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Genesis G70, BMW 3-Series, and Lexus ES.