2022 Acura TLX

In a world being dominated by SUVs, the humble family sedan, and the sporty one like that, is becoming a rare commodity for automotive enthusiasts. In the segment typically dominated by the BMW 3 Series, the Acura TLX is a return to form for the luxury arm of Japanese automaker, Honda. The TLX is still glowing from its second-generation debut last year when it completely reinvigorated the nameplate. It might only be front-wheel drive-based compared to rear-drive rivals like the Alfa Romeo Giulia and aforementioned BMW, but with trick AWD available, especially on the Audi S4 rivaling Type S, along with a headlining 355-horsepower twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 and 10-speed automatic gearbox, the TLX is proof that great engineering can overcome on-paper deficits to provide a compelling alternative to the mainstream offerings from german brands.

The TLX continues the Acura trend of sharp angles and highly sculpted exteriors that aren't exactly subtle but still very easy on the eye. The 2022 TLX gets a standard power moonroof across the board, as well as Jewel Eye LED headlights, DRLs, and LED side mirror-integrated directional signals. A-Spec and Advance trim cars get LED fog lights, while LED puddle lights are given to Advance and Type S trims. All models feature LED taillights. The A-Spec and Type S trims also feature a Sport Appearance package and gloss black decklid spoiler. The Type S gets exclusive access to an open surface Diamond Pentagon grille and a gloss black splitter and rear diffuser.

The base model gets 18-inch Glitter Silver alloy wheels, while Technology, A-Spec, and Advance models get a variety of 19-inch wheels. The Type S models feature 20-inch wheels and on Type S Performance models, these are wrapped in Pirelli summer tires.

The 2022 Acura TLX is classified as an executive sedan and its dimensions are similar to competitors such as the Honda Accord and Lexus ES. The TLX rolls on a 113-inch wheelbase and measures 194.6 inches in length. The car is 56.4 inches tall and width is 75.2 inches. Ground clearance is 5.3 inches.

The TLX weighs in at 3,709 pounds in base form with front-wheel drive, but increases in heft to 4,221 lbs in Type S AWD configuration.

There's a color for every personality type here, from mature hues of green, red, and blue to in-your-face options for the young at heart. Acura offers the TLX in no-cost colors such as Modern Steel metallic, Fathom Blue Pearl, Lunar Silver, and extra-cost colors like Majestic Black Pearl, Performance Red Pearl, Platinum White Pearl, and Phantom Violet Pearl, all for $500. The latter isn't available to the base model, however. Sporty Type S models lose out on some of the no-cost options but they do get Apex Blue Pearl and the striking yellow of Tiger Eye Pearl for an additional $500.

The Acura TLX is undeniably sporty, especially in V6 form, but it doesn't quite manage to measure up to more established German competitors such as the Audi S4. In base form, its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and ten-speed automatic transmission deliver good grunt and should suffice for the majority of drivers, but we found that its excessive curb weight hampered performance. Independent testing has shown that the TLX in 2.0T FWD guise can scoot to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds, making it slower than its less powerful sibling, the Honda Accord. The turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 Type S is the car to go for if you're after real performance, cutting the 0 to 60 sprint time down to five seconds. With 355 hp on tap, this car feels more eager to get out of the starting blocks and delivers a more focused and urgent driving experience, but it is still not as rapid as equally powerful cars from BMW and Audi. All Acura TLX models are offered with Acura's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive system (SH-AWD) - made standard on the Type S. In comparison, most rivals are rear-wheel drive by default, with exceptions only found in a handful of rivals like Audi.

There are two engine options on offer for 2022, and they're both good. The base model, Technology, A-Spec, and Advance trims are all powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter VTEC engine that produces 272 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque, a significant upgrade over the old naturally-aspirated 2.4-liter engine. Power is sent to the front or all four wheels via a ten-speed automatic transmission. This power plant boasts decent punch and is happy to cruise along on city streets, but it has enough power to be a confident highway cruiser. For those looking for a bit more punch, the 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 found in the Type S and Type S Performance delivers 355 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent exclusively to all four wheels via a ten-speed automatic transmission. This drivetrain package provides strong acceleration and mid-gear pull and should be the choice if you're after a more engaging driving experience. It also sounds a lot better than the four-banger.

Acura has traditionally delivered some impressive driver's cars and hopes to continue that legacy with the second-generation TLX. This executive sedan was based on an all-new platform when it launched in 2021, and we've previously noted its improved balance and the excellent SH-AWD system. The Acura TLX doesn't simply rely on a well-balanced chassis, however; Acura has borrowed tech from its most serious performer, the NSX supercar, including variable-ratio steering and Electric-servo braking.

In FWD-only spec, the Acura TLX is a responsive and balanced car, and despite a well-tuned double-wishbone front suspension setup, the sheer weight of the car still makes itself felt in the corners. For a more dynamic driving experience, we'd recommend going for an AWD model. The Acura's AWD system can channel up to 70 percent of the car's power to the rear, making it a much more enjoyable car to manipulate in the corners.

The adaptive suspension system feels compliant in comfort mode, and Sport mode stiffens the car significantly. With the larger 20-inch wheels fitted, some might find the ride, especially in sports mode, to be too stiff. Type S Performance models also come with sticky summer tires to add to the Type S's larger Brembo brakes and improved chassis bracing, which all contribute to a sharper handling experience, but it still does not make it a track day weapon.

The TLX is a heavy executive sedan that is powered by a selection of turbocharged engines - it also has access to AWD across the range. This isn't exactly a recipe for great fuel economy, but Acura has managed to keep the consumption of the TLX on the reasonable side. The base model, in FWD configuration, will return gas mileage of 22/31/25 mpg on the city/highway/combined cycles. 2.0-liter AWD models will see those numbers shift to 21/29/24 mpg. A-Spec variants are slightly different, with FWD models doing 22/30/25 mpg. The 3.0-liter Type S will manage 19/25/21 mpg, and the Type S Performance will do 19/24/21 mpg.

With a 15.85-gallon fuel tank, the TLX will get between 333 miles and 396 miles on a single tank.

The interior of the 2022 Acura TLX highlights two things: its sporty character and a refined nature. Acura has gone to great lengths to improve the interior of the second-generation TLX, and we think it has done an excellent job. The choice of materials is spot on and includes classy options like open-pore wood, and the build quality is up there with the best of them. There are several materials to choose from and a slew of impressive standard features. In terms of interior space, the back seat gets a bit tight, but there's lots of space in front, and driver visibility is good in general. Acura has crafted a comfortable and classy space that will appeal to many.

Step inside the TLX, and you'll be welcomed by a spacious cabin that offers its front seat passengers ample space. Headroom isn't class-leading, but at 37.2 inches, taller passengers will still feel comfortable, and with 42.5 inches of legroom, the majority of people will have more than enough space to get comfortable. The front seats boast heated 12-way power adjustability in the base, Technology, and A-Spec class, although A-Spec models also include ventilation up front. From the Advance trim, 16-way power adjustability with power lumbar support, thigh extensions, and side bolsters is standard Those in the rear will have less of a good time: with only 34.9-inches of legroom, taller passengers will feel slightly cramped, and the 36.3 inches of headroom can also feel tight for lanky persons.

The base model is fitted with leatherette upholstery available in Ebony or Parchment, depending on the exterior color chosen. Depending on the color scheme, interior accents are either copper-brushed aluminum trim, or silver-brushed aluminum. The Technology trim features perforated Milano premium leather seats with contrast stitching in your choice of Ebony with copper-brushed aluminum trim, Graystone or Parchment with silver brushed aluminum, or Espresso with copper-brushed aluminum. A-Spec, Advance, and Type S models feature sport seats with Perforated Milano premium leather and Ultrasuede upholstery in your choice of Ebony or Red with geometric aluminum pattern trim. Type S models get Orchid additionally, once again depending on which exterior color you've chosen. A-Spec and Type S Vehicles feature an Ebony headliner, while other trim levels get a color-matched headliner. Advance trim vehicles feature open-pore wood trim.

Executive sedans are expected to carry their occupants in comfort, deliver an engaging driving experience, and offer a reasonable amount of cargo space. The Acura TLX manages to do all of these with varying yet impressive levels of competence, but its cargo-holding capacity isn't one of its better traits. The 2022 TLX has 13.5 cubic feet of trunk space, which is disappointingly low when compared to cars such as the Honda Accord, which gets 16.7 cubes, or the BMW 3 Series, which boasts 17 cubic feet. Still, seats fold down in a 60/40 split if you need more space.

Small items can be stored in the glovebox, large center console storage bin, and sizable door pockets. Those in front get a set of cupholders in the center console.

From the base model up to the sporty Type S, the 2022 Acura TLX comes stuffed with features and tech. The base model will keep even the most discerning passenger happy with its heated 12-way adjustable front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless access, push-button ignition, active sound control, ambient led cabin lighting, and automatic-dimming frameless rearview mirror. Every TLX also comes standard with driver assistance tech such as collision mitigation braking with advanced pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, lane-keeping assist system, road departure mitigation, traffic jam assist, traffic sign recognition, forward collision warning, and lane departure warning. The base model has a multi-view rear camera.

The Technology trim adds leather seats, GPs-linked climate control, ambient LED cabin lighting, a blind-spot information system, front and rear parking sensors, and a rear cross-traffic monitor. A-Spec vehicles include heated and ventilated front seats finished in Milano leather and Ultrasuede, and a flat-bottom steering wheel. The Advance trim comes standard with a multitude of premium features such as 16-way power seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, a 10.5-inch head-up display, a surround-view camera system, and head-up warning.

Type S models get rev-matching downshift technology and an integrated dynamic system with Individual mode and Sport+, as well as Brembo brakes. The Type S gets Pirelli All-Season tires while the Type S Performance gets P-Zero Summer slicks.

The 10.2-inch touchscreen display in the 2022 Acura TLX is controlled via a touchpad on the center console or steering wheel controls and is easy enough to work with. Every TLX, regardless of trim, comes standard with infotainment features such as SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth streaming, two USB charging ports, HD Radio, and a ten-speaker sound system with speed-sensitive volume compensation. All models also get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.

Technology trim cars add a 13-speaker ELS Studio premium sound system and navigation. A-Spec models and up get an even better ELS Studio 3D premium sound system with 17 speakers and a wireless charging pad.

Despite receiving a middling quality and reliability score from JD Power of 75/100 for quality and reliability, the second-generation 2022 Acura TLX has not been recalled for any serious issues.

Acura covers the TLX with a four-year/50,000-mile limited vehicle warranty, a six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty, and four years/50,000 miles of roadside assistance plan.

Few sedans in the USA offer such impressive safety levels. The NHTSA gave the 2022 Acura TLX a full five out of five stars for all crash tests and the IIHS presented the TLX with a Top Safety Pick+ award, its highest honor.

Thanks to an array of high-tech driver assistance systems, the Acura TLX is one of the safest sedans on the road. Every TLX comes fitted with LED headlights, ABS brakes, traction and stability control, hill start assist, and an advanced airbag safety system with eight airbags.

All models also benefit from standard driver assistance features such as adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, traffic jam assist, traffic sign recognition, lane keeping assist, collision mitigation braking with advanced pedestrian detection, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and road departure mitigation. Technology trim cars feature a blind-spot information system, a rear cross-traffic monitor, and front, and rear parking sensors. The range-topping model gets a surround-view camera and a head-up display.

The TLX has come a long way in terms of refinement and performance, and it's a much better car than the previous generation. After a thorough test of the 2022 model, we were left pleasantly surprised by the overall performance of the TLX. With significantly more power than the old 2.4-liter engine, the TXL has been competing with bigger players such as the Genesis G70 and Volvo S60, and we can say with confidence that it deserves its spot at the premium table. The Honda Civic Type R-sourced 2.0-liter engine delivers plenty of fire and the standard features are impressive, not to mention the fantastic safety scores. The Type S is your best bet if you're after a driving machine, but established performance sedans such as the Audi S4 and BMW M340i will still deliver a more satisfying driving experience and more street cred. The TLX provides impressive bang for your buck and feels decidedly premium, but in this segment, Mercedes-Benz and BMW still hold all the cards.

The 2022 Acura TLX starts with an MSRP of $38,900 for the FWD TLX. This price increases to $41,100 if you opt for the AWD version. The Technology trim costs $42,900 in FWD spec and $45,100 in AWD guise. The mid-level A-Spec will set you back $45,650 in FWD configuration, and the AWD version goes for $47,850. The Advance trim is priced at $49,900 and the Type S at $53,700. The Type S Performance is priced the highest at $54,500. These prices do not include tax, registration, or a destination fee of $1,095.

Acura offers the TLX in five different trim levels. The base TLX, Technology, A-Spec, and Advance trims are all powered by a 2.0-liter VTEC engine that produces 272 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to the front or all four wheels via a ten-speed automatic transmission. Type S and Type S Performance Wheel & Tire models use a twin-scroll turbocharged V6 with 355 hp and 354 lb-ft.

The base model features standard exterior features such as LED headlights, a power moonroof, and 18-inch alloy wheels. The interior has dual-zone automatic climate control, an auto-dimming frameless rearview mirror, heated 12-way adjustable front seats, and active sound control. The base infotainment system consists of a 10.2-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a ten-speaker sound system. Driver assistance tech includes adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, traffic jam assist, lane-keeping assist, collision mitigation braking with advanced pedestrian detection, traffic sign recognition, road departure mitigation, forward collision warning, and lane departure warning.

As the name implies, the Technology trim adds many nicer-to-have tech features such as Iconic LED cabin lighting, a blind-spot information system, a rear cross-traffic monitor, GPs-linked climate control, and front and rear parking sensors. The Technology trim also adds leather seats, an ELS 13-speaker premium sound system, and navigation for added comfort.

Stepping up to the A-Spec bags you a sport appearance package, a gloss black decklid spoiler, and 19-inch wheels. Inside the cabin, you get heated and ventilated front seats finished in Milano leather and Ultrasuede, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and unique aluminum trim. The sound system is upgraded to a 17-speaker ELS unit, and a wireless charging pad is also included.

Advance trim models add premium 16-way power-adjustable seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, open-pore wood interior trim, a 10.5-inch head-up display, and a surround-view camera system.

The Type S and Type S Performance Wheel & Tire trims come with more power, which is sent exclusively to all four wheels via a ten-speed automatic transmission with a rev-matching feature. Type-S models feature exterior changes such as an open surface diamond pentagon grille, a gloss black front splitter and rear diffuser, Brembo brakes, and added chassis bracing under the skin. The Type S also features an integrated dynamics system with Individual mode and Sport+ for added driving pleasure. The Type S Performance Wheel & Tire makes few changes, has a slightly lower curb weight, and wears Pirelli P-Zero Summer tires on model-specific 20-inch Shark Gray lightweight Y-spoke wheels.

The base and Technology models are offered with two Sport Black Styling packages ranging in price from $1,642 to $3,0009, which adds features such as black chrome emblems, black valve stem caps, a rear diffuser, a sport steering wheel with heating function, and 19-inch black alloy wheels, to name a few. The Premium Plus Package costs $1,521 and contains chrome blade accent trim, illuminated door sill trim, premium carpet floor mas, and remote engine start.

A-Spec and Type S models can be enhanced with a carbon fiber decklid spoiler for $1,046, and from this trim up, you can add carbon fiber interior trim for $713. Type S cars get a few black chrome exterior options, too.

The Acura TLX is great value for money, a decent driving experience, and has excellent safety. Let's be honest, if you're in the market for a performance sedan, you're not going to be looking at the TLX, and for that reason, we'd suggest going for the Technology trim. This model has tons of standard safety and comfort features and can be ordered in AWD configuration. The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine isn't going to set the world on fire, but it will get you to your destination at a convincing pace. The Technology trim includes standard features such as leather seats, GPS-linked climate control, LED Cabin Lighting, a blind-spot information system, and front and rear parking sensors.

We wouldn't hold it against you if you got the Type S either, as it's a left-field choice that is highly capable against rivals, despite costing less.

The ILX is Acura's smallest sedan offering and is priced from $27,300. With a price difference of over $10,000, the ILX will appeal to a slightly more budget-conscious market, and the car reflects this discount in a few key areas. Most notably, the ILX is powered by the older naturally-aspirated 2.4-liter engine producing specs of 201 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque. The ILX is exclusively available in FWD and channels its power through an eight-speed automatic transmission. The ILX is not as pleasing to drive, owing to the fact that it has no turbo option, and its chassis is set up for a more comfortable ride. Inside, the ILX is well built but lacks the impressive features found on the TLX. It also lacks the overall cargo and interior space found in the TLX. This is a solid sedan option for families on a tighter budget, but the TLX is the better car.

The Honda Accord is a well-known and trusted family sedan that has been serving families for decades and is now in its tenth generation. Starting at just over $26k, the Accord is aimed at a more budget-minded market, and its 1.5-liter turbocharged engine is more focused on fuel economy than all-out performance. That being said, the Sport models share their 2.0-liter engine with the TLX, although in a lower state of tune. The Accord is the more pleasurable car to drive fast thanks to its lighter curb weight and athletic chassis, but it isn't available with AWD. The Accord provides more interior and cargo space and provides a beautifully refined interior. The Accord is an awesomely balanced family sedan and it's our pick in this comparison.