Related: 2021 Acura TLX Review: Subtle Changes, Big ImprovementsĪcura has been a quirky brand over the past decade, with beak-nosed sedans and SUVs, dual-screen multimedia systems and hybrids that don’t do much for fuel economy. Including destination, the sedan starts at $53,845 - fully loaded. The TLX Type S is just that, with a turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 and a stack of goodies in a refined performance package that doesn’t break the bank. Redesigned for 2021, the TLX compact luxury sedan has impressive dynamics and a strong turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, but it longs for more. Versus the competition: Most luxury brands have ditched affordable performance versions of their mainstream sedans, but the TLX Type S is a compellingly frugal option - if not as fire-breathing as some. Our local Acura dealer told us later models supposedly had the fix, but as it was hardware and not software-related, our car still does not have wireless charging.The verdict: Through an array of technological wizardry, the Acura TLX Type S makes you grin in the corners without frowning in the straights. What bugged us the most, as it relates to the infotainment, was that our 2021 model-year Type S only supported older iPhones for wireless charging. We’re not huge fans of large infotainment screens, so we found Acura’s system adequate and less-intrusive. The fit and finish of the interior is top-notch, but more rear-passenger space would have been appreciated.
During our ownership, we were forced to move the front passenger seat significantly forward to allow legroom for our children who still use front-facing car seats. It's completely the opposite for the interior, despite its larger size, the interior is slightly smaller than its competitors'.
The direct competitors of the Type S are currently the S4 and M340i, but it’s roughly the same size as the Audi A6 or BMW 5-series. Starting with its segment, compact sports sedan, there was nothing “compact” about the TLX other than its interior. The handling of this car truly invokes a sense of overconfidence.Īlthough the Acura TLX Type S has proven to be a great all around car of the compact sports sedan segment, its shortcomings became apparent during our 1-year ownership. At any speed, in any mode, in any condition, the Type S felt planted, thanks to its SH AWD system. Driving dynamics in the sport modes changed as suspension stiffened, acceleration became more responsive, and the steering feel became more weighted. We were also grateful the sound piped into the cabin did not sound too artificial looking at you Mercedes. With sport valves open, the Type S has a raspy exhaust note that’s pleasant and not overbearing. Sport and Sport+ modes were ideal for the occasional on-ramp acceleration or necessary sudden overtake, they also allowed the turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 to clear its throat and sing. Any performance difference of the Type S compared to its competitors are virtually unnoticed in the real world, unless a M340i X-Drive pulled up beside us. With the sportier modes engaged, the Type S became hugely entertaining. Even though the TLX Type S uses the same fly-by-wire braking technology as the NSX, we found the pedal feel to still be engaging, regardless of the driving mode we found ourselves in. It may not be Rolls-Royce-comfortable, but we never got tired or sore after long drives. In the two placid modes, we always felt connected to the road while the ride was relaxed, the TLX Type S maintained its composure without sacrificing comfort or road feel. Of the various driving modes, most of our time was spent in Comfort and Normal, where the noticeable difference between the two is mainly the weight of the steering feel. The Type S is docile and calm in normal driving, to the point where your family won’t think twice that 0-60 mph can be achieved in less than 5 seconds.
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