AcuraTLX Type S

　　

2023 Acura TLX Type S Review

byKurt NiebuhrSenior Vehicle Test Editor

　　Kurt Niebuhr has worked in the automotive industry since 2005. A automotive photographer by trade, Kurt is now one of zzdcar' high-performance test drivers. He's driven and photographed hundreds, if not thousands, of vehicles all over the world, so Kurt's library of automotive experiences would certainly make for a good book. When not dreaming about getting his racing license or trying to buy out-of-date film for his cameras, Kurt can usually be found cursing at his 1966 Mustang.

　　, rating written byKurt NiebuhrManager, News

　　Cameron Rogers has worked in the automotive industry since 2013. He has tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Today, he leads the news team in developing cutting-edge news articles, opinion pieces and sneak peeks at upcoming vehicles. Favorite cars that he's driven during his tenure at zzdcar include the 991-era Porsche 911 Turbo S, Rolls-Royce Ghost and several generations of Honda Odyssey (really).

　　The second-generation Acura TLX was introduced just a few years ago, vastly improving what was a fine but mostly unexceptional sedan. New tech, new driver aids and updated powertrains accompanied new interior and exterior styling. What sets the TLX apart is that it offers all this tech, performance and premium features for much less than its rivals.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2023 Acura TLX Type S 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.78 per gallon for premium unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$218/mo  for TLX Type S

　　TLX Type S

　　Type S 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A) - $55,550 MSRPType S 4dr Sedan AWD w/Performance Wheel & Tire Package (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A) (Most Popular) - $56,350 MSRP

　　vs

　　$165/mo

　　Avg. Midsize Car

　　Not much changes for 2023 Acura TLX, though there is a new Type S PMC Edition. The PMC Edition can be had in three exclusive paint colors that were formerly reserved for the now discontinued Acura NSX. It also comes with special 20-inch copper-painted wheels, a black-painted roof, a carbon-fiber rear spoiler and diffuser, and distinctive contrasting seat stitching.

　　Despite an ever-growing shift toward SUVs, there are quite a few competitors in this class. Rivals from Europe include the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Alfa Romeo Giulia and Volvo S60, a car that offers a similar mix of features and value. The Genesis G70 and Lexus IS are in the same boat, offering premium features at competitive prices.

　　The TLX isn't as quick as some and not as affordable as others, but there's no one area where the TLX is truly flawed. Check out our Expert Rating below to see more of the strengths and weaknesses of the Acura TLX.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Good

　　7.7

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

8.0/10

　　How does the TLX Type S drive? The all-wheel-drive system that's standard on the Type S is unlike most others in the market. It's able to apply more power to the outside rear wheel in a corner, and doing so helps the Type S turn harder when you apply more gas. In practice, this makes the Type S highly enjoyable to drive on curvy roads or through freeway interchanges, especially so when you factor in its light and accurate steering.

　　At our test track, our Type S test car sprinted from 0 to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds. That's reasonably quick, though some rival six-cylinder-powered small luxury sedans are quicker still. The V6's responsiveness helps this TLX feel quicker than it is. The 10-speed automatic shifts smoothly, helping round out a pleasing and fun driving experience.

　　

Comfort

8.0/10

　　How comfortable is the TLX Type S? The sporty elements of the Type S nearly disappear from the driving experience during the commute. The front seats have ample bolstering that keeps you in place on twisty roads, yet they're also supportive and pleasing places to sit for extended periods. The ride finds a sweet spot between compliant and controlled. You'll sense the presence of the available summer tires through some additional noise, but it's the kind that keeps you invested in the drive rather than complaining about it.

　　We appreciate the auto setting for the seat heating and ventilation but were surprised by the absence of three-zone climate control. Backseat passengers have no climate adjustment options aside from the vents.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below