In many ways, the second-generation 2024 Acura TLX is a marked improvement over its predecessor. The four-cylinder engine and 10-speed automatic together are smoother and react more naturally to inputs than the previous V6 and nine-speed, and the interior is more upscale.
However, the TLX takes a step backward as well. The powertrain is a tad thirstier and slower than similar engines in rivals, but the biggest issue is the new touchpad controller for the infotainment system, which is often frustrating to use.Read full review
Nimble handling with optional all-wheel-drive system
Optional ELS audio system is among today's best
Cons
Infotainment touchpad controller is distracting to use
Rear seats can feel cramped
Not as quick or fuel-efficient as many rivals
What's new
Minor styling tweaks and a new, larger touchscreen
Part of the second TLX generation introduced for 2021
Overview
The 2024 Acura TLX is a sedan that gives you a little bit of everything. It's roomier than the typical small luxury sedan but not as big as a midsize model. That middle ground applies to pricing too. But you do get a lot for your money. For example, the TLX comes standard with a sunroof, heated seats, adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assistance, features that typically cost extra in competing sedans. The TLX is also sharply styled and backs it up with enjoyable performance, especially in the 355-horsepower Type S version. New for 2024 is a larger infotainment screen, now 12.3 inches, and a new-look front end.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2024 Acura TLX 4dr Sedan w/Technology Package (2.0L 4cyl 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 $4.16 per gallon for premium unleaded in Ohio.
Edmunds spotlight: New touchscreen adds to upscale interior
The 2024 TLX gets an all-new, and larger, infotainment screen. The 12.3-inch screen is 20% larger than the unit it replaces, and the top-of-the-line Type S adds a 10.5-inch head-up display. Unfortunately, the much-maligned touchpad interface remains. You can read more about that in our Expert Rating.
Competitors to consider
The BMW 3 Series is a top small luxury sedan to check out. It has easier-to-use technology features than the TLX as well as an available plug-in hybrid model. Mercedes' recently redesigned C-Class is another benchmark pick. We also recommend the Genesis G70 and Volvo S60.
Edmunds Expert Rating
Our VerdictThe Edmunds 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
edmunds TESTED
In many ways, the second-generation 2024 Acura TLX is a marked improvement over its predecessor. The four-cylinder engine and 10-speed automatic together are smoother and react more naturally to inputs than the previous V6 and nine-speed, and the interior is more upscale.
However, the TLX takes a step backward as well. The powertrain is a tad thirstier and slower than similar engines in rivals, but the biggest issue is the new touchpad controller for the infotainment system, which is often frustrating to use.
How does the TLX drive? We tested the TLX A-Spec, which has the turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Our vehicle also came with all-wheel drive. At our test track it accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, which is a bit better than rival midsize luxury sedans with base four-cylinder engines.
On the upside, the all-wheel-drive system contributes to more agile and controlled body motions while you're navigating tight turns. The steering lacks communication, but turn the drive mode selector to Sport and the wheel gains some heft, which feels better suited to spirited driving.
The 10-speed transmission is a massive improvement over the last-gen nine-speed automatic, though it still isn't quite perfect. It shifts early under light throttle and feels a little lazy in the Normal and Comfort drive modes. But it keeps the turbo boost at the ready when you have Sport mode selected and need responsive acceleration.
Comfort
8/10
How comfortable is the TLX? In addition to enjoyable performance, the TLX delivers a comfortable driving experience. The front seats are nicely padded and the rear seats are angled back for a relaxed seating position. That said, the front seats aren't highly adjustable, and the side bolsters provide little support for performance driving.
The ride achieves a great balance between suppleness and composure over a variety of road surfaces, though sharp-edged road bumps can send a prominent thunk through the cabin. Noise is well abated. It's a pretty quiet vehicle overall, even though instrumented testing shows the TLX is a few decibels louder on the inside than rivals. The climate control system is easy to use, and we like that the A-Spec's heated and ventilated front seats can be set to an automatic mode that adjusts the amount of heating or cooling based outside and desired interior temperatures.
Interior
7/10
How’s the interior? There's a lot to like about the TLX's cabin. It's easy to find a good driving position thanks to the seat's ample amount of travel in all directions and the similarly generous tilt-and-reach range for the steering wheel. The large door openings and gently tapered roof help you enter and exit the vehicle gracefully. On the downside, rear legroom is tight, especially for tall passengers. It's even less than what you get in the Acura's smaller Integra.
The TLX's main tech interface, which consists of a display screen and trackpad controller, can be annoying and distracting to use. The trackpad mimics your inputs like a touchscreen, but it isn't large enough and lacks the precision needed to successfully navigate the numerous virtual buttons on screen at any one time.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
Save as much as $5,856 with Edmunds Click on the trim you’re interested in to see what Edmunds suggests you should pay to get a good deal. Savings vary by trim; $5,856 refers to estimated savings off of MSRP for the Type S trim.
How’s the tech? Major touchpad-interface issues aside, the integrated navigation system has sharp-looking maps and is easy to use. The touchscreen is responsive and quick, and the ELS audio system packs serious punch and accuracy.
Wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration is standard. While wireless charging is standard, there aren't any USB ports for rear passengers, which is odd for a luxury sedan. We like that most of the advanced driver assist systems are standard, and they do a respectable job of approximating natural driving. But we did notice that the adaptive cruise system is slow to react when the driver ahead moves out of your lane.
Storage
7.5/10
How’s the storage? At 13.5 cubic feet, the TLX's trunk is larger than the trunks of most rivals. The trunk opening is also wide, allowing you to load long items horizontally without issue. However, a short decklid somewhat hinders your access to the deep end of the trunk, and it'll be a reach to load and retrieve items butted up against the rear seats. The cabin offers numerous places to store items, though most are modestly sized.
If your sport sedan will also be a family hauler, know that the lower anchors for car seats are hidden behind a Velcro-backed strip of leather that must be removed. The wide doors should make it easy to load a car seat, but the TLX's relatively small size will require some compromise on front seat space.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
Fuel Economy
7/10
How’s the fuel economy? The Acura TLX with all-wheel drive (which is what we tested) gets an EPA-estimated 24 mpg combined (21 city/29 highway). That's a few mpg worse than what rivals such as the Audi A6 (27 mpg) or BMW 530i xDrive (26 mpg) achieve. Our test TLX posted a more competitive 26.2 mpg on our real-world evaluation route, but overall the TLX's fuel efficiency is a little disappointing.
Value
8/10
Is the TLX a good value? The TLX starts at a hair above $41,000, which is lower than just about every rival small midsize sedan. Our well-equipped TLX A-Spec with all-wheel drive rang in at under $50,000 — thousands of dollars less than similarly equipped competitors. This Acura makes a strong value statement, especially when you consider the pleasant materials and build quality.
Its bumper-to-bumper warranty of four years/50,000 miles is typical for the segment, though its powertrain coverage of six years/70,000 miles is more generous than what the German competition offers. And in a recent improvement, Acura added complimentary maintenance for the first two services (two years/24,000 miles).
Wildcard
8/10
The so-so engine doesn't give you the thrust you'd expect of a real sport sedan, and only the Sport driving mode has the steering heft you'll want for accurately placing the vehicle while cornering. But the rest of the TLX is tuned to provide a sense of excitement. Slap on a set of summer tires, and the TLX could probably hang with the BMW 5 Series on mountain roads.
This is a sharp sedan that will look good in just about anyone's driveway. That's especially true of the A-Spec model, which brings the styling elements of the Type S to the standard TLX lineup. The leather/faux suede interior is also pretty spiffy. It isn't the corner-carving all-star that some rivals are, but at the TLX's bargain price tag, it's hard to justify paying thousands of dollars more for an incrementally better sedan. It might be worth paying extra to never deal with the TLX's infuriating touchpad controller, but that's not an option.
Which TLX does Edmunds recommend?
We'd get the TLX A-Spec with all-wheel drive. The Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system improves wet and dry traction and boosts the TLX's agility to a level similar to its rear-drive-based rivals. The A-Spec package adds some desirable features, including additional sound deadening for a quieter ride and an upgraded audio system with 17 speakers.
2021 Acura TLX SH-AWD 4dr Sedan AWD w/2.0T and A-Spec Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A)
Recently picked up a redesigned AWD TLX w/turbo 4 cyl. in A-Spec trim. Really wanted the Type S but decided that the eventual ramp up in cost and lower fuel economy probably would have been deal breakers. I am very glad the TLX is no longer based on the Accord platform as it looks great and can stand out more from its Honda brethren. Here are my initial impressions.
Pros:
- Engine … has some zip and should be more than adequate for most people (enthusiasts can continue waiting for the Type S)
- Looks like a sleek sports car (especially if you choose the red/black interior seating)!
- Seats are super comfortable, even more so than the ones on the MDX I was driving. Good support and I can imagine long drives being pleasant.
- Suspension has been upgraded to double-wishbone. I don't feel I miss the active-dampening of the Advance trim.
- Trunk release button is handy for when your hands are full (just stand there with fob in proximity and push the button!)
- Awesome ELS sound system
- Wireless phone charging
Cons:
- There is no spare tire (for additional fuel economy). You'll deal with a compressor and sealant in the trunk. You can always ask roadside assistance to do it for you.
- The touchpad takes some getting used to. Unfortunately the method to operate the tactile pad for Acura apps is not the same as for when you use Carplay. I can't comment on the Android version but it may be the same issue. I've gotten used to this but I can see this being a deal breaker for some folks.
- Car is marketed to compete with the BMW 3 series, C-Class, etc. and is competitive in price, interior space, trunk space, but not in fuel economy. I believe the exterior being more like the 5-series or E-Class size and the weight has quite a bit to do with it. This oddball combination forces the TLX to be more of a direct competitor with the Kia Stinger GT-Line for these reasons (fuel economy is identical).
Speaking of weight, the TLX is only about 250 lb less than the MDX I gave up. Luckily the engine is more than sufficient to power the car on the highway. I always hated how underpowered a 2012 C-Class I owned was similar in weight to this TLX but struggled to accelerate with its underpowered V6.
In conclusion, I'll stop short of saying this car is for "Acura fans only" but it is definitely not for everyone. The looks may keep sales high but only time will tell how long-term owners feel. Either way, it is most definitely worth it to get a test drive if you are on the fence after this review!
2 Year update:
I've turned in the car a year early as I got tired of the following issues:
1) Infotainment works about 90% of the time. It's also quite slow when compared to true luxury makes.
2) Braking on this car is very inconsistent. I always feel like I have to give quite a bit of room to the car in front of me. This car never let me forget how heavy it is.
3) I was hoping I could get closer to 30 mpg but it was really more b/w 23-24 mpg from mixed driving.
4) It's an adventure when driving through narrow streets. I always hated visiting NYC with this car, especially when looking for parking!
You may get this car for the looks but make sure it checks a lot of other boxes before you do!
Fast Yet Practical
5 out of 5 stars
Ajpetro, 02/24/2022
2021 Acura TLX Type S 4dr Sedan AWD w/3.0T (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A)
I've owned a number of fun to drive vehicles over the years including an Eclipse GSX, Integra Type R and a Mustang GT. Currently, along with TLX Type S, my wife and I drive a 2015 M4 Convertible and a 2012 Acura TL SHAWD with a manual transmission. While the Type S isn't quite as fast as our M4, it's much easier to live with on a daily basis. Good power, great handling and enough room … to make it practical. Plans are to take it along with the M4 to a HPDE this Spring. It will be interesting to see which one is the most fun on the track.
Acura TLX Type S and it’s worth it
5 out of 5 stars
Mark F., 04/30/2023
2023 Acura TLX Type S 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A)
I researched the trio of the Audi S4, BMW M340, and Acura TLX Type S narrowing it down to the TLX because of a few factors: (1) Design and color choice; (2) Acura reliability; (3) Value with included features; and (4) Performance. We all know the TLX is heavier and not as fast as the S4 or M340 however the package of features and quality build of the car ultimately were the determining … factors. I use the car for daily driving and it has enough HP to get around fast. The SH-AWD is fantastic in both dry and wet conditions. My two complaints about the car is the fact that I’ve had to get my puddle lights replaced twice because moisture gets in the side view mirrors, and I wish the car came with HUD. Overall, I do recommend this car because it is fun to drive, interior materials are high quality, and the design is amazing.
Feeling conflicted
4 out of 5 stars
Zoomnbyu, 09/30/2021
2021 Acura TLX 4dr Sedan w/2.0T and A-Spec Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A)
I am on my 4th three year Acura lease in a row now. It all started with a 2013 TSX Special Edition, followed by a 2016 TLX 2.4 Tech and then a 2019 TLX 2.4 A-Spec. I recently took delivery of a 2021 TLX A-Spec and while I am enjoying it, I find myself somewhat conflicted. Each of my cars was generally an improvement over the one previous to it. They offered enough changes to keep me … interested enough to remain a loyal Acura customer. Enter the all-new 2021 TLX. It by all measures is one of the biggest leaps that Acura has made in a number of years. This leap, though, may leave some longtime customers slightly frustrated. Where evolution and constant improvement is key to continued loyalty, the new TLX has an Achilles heel. Where the past few cars have always been better than the last, this new car, while still better in most ways, also falls short in a few areas, but let's start with what is good.
Performance is definitely at the head of that list. Acura has finally given the TLX the base engine that it deserves. It’s basically a detuned version of that which powers the mighty Civic Type R and it is a strong performer. While lacking the rev happiness and true aural pleasure that was a mainstay of the previous two engines offered, it makes up for it by offering a strong punch and it moves this car with absolute authority. Gas mileage, thankfully, has thus far been better than the EPA estimate getting 24-25 in and around town and 32 on the highway. Unfortunately, while the engine is eager, Honda's new 10 speed transmission is simply not quite the dance partner that my previous cars 8 speed DCT was to the 2.4L. That DCT was simply seamless and with the exception of the occasional lag when down-shifting was always what made those cars a blast to drive in spite of the 2.4's somewhat limited power. The new tranny just feels like there may be a bit of work left to do on the software to get rid of some clumsiness and sharpen up its smoothness of operation. And this is where everything that follows really starts to be a list of tradeoffs from the old car to the new.
The Chassis is all new and is said to be presently exclusive to Acura. Gone is the front strut suspension in favor a double wishbone setup that harkens Acuras of yore. The steering feel and overall composure are finally deserving of this car. One slight downside, at least in the A-Spec trim, is ride. While generally well composed over smooth to moderate surfaces, it quickly loses that composure when the going gets rough. It simply runs out of compliance and behaves poorly over bigger bumps. Despite that shortcoming and likely because of this setup, the handing is quite impressive. Especially considering that Acura has now ditched its impressive PAWS all-wheel steering system. Another tradeoff, this one sacrificing turning radius which is fairly poor for a mid-sized sedan. Lastly, where the overall driving experience is much quieter, tire noise is much more intrusive. This is a strange tradeoff and may also the source of the handling's weakest point, its average at best Bridgestone touring tires.
From the outside, the car is sharp. Everything is nicely improved and more aggressive yet balanced in its execution. The interior is a drastic change and mostly a better place to live, but some weaknesses quickly become apparent, primarily in the driver's seat. Its position and available adjustments are lacking. Adjusted to my frame as in my last three Acuras, I find myself sitting abnormally low in this car. While I can raise the seat base, I then lose support under my thighs. It's just awkward feeling. The next issue is Acura's new infotainment system. Both the interface and the sound system itself, while quite different is simply not really an actual improvement over their previous tech. There is simply very little that is intuitive in using their new touchpad. And on the new ELS 3D sound system, while the overall sound is impressive, it simply does not produce the flawless and incredibly deep bass response that the previous ELS system delivered. The deletion of the rear deck mounted subwoofer is largely to blame here. The front doors, now the new home for the subs, vibrate annoyingly under-arm when music with heavy bass is played. Lastly is a features issue. Missing is the auto-wipers that were standard on my last A-Spec. A simple deletion on Acura’s part, but an odd omission for a previous owner buying the same trim of a new model.
The long and short is that this new TLX is a really nice, impressive handling and quick car to drive. If not for my previous Acura experience I may not even nit-pick some of the things that I do.
One last thing, updating this 4/1/2022: while the car has been growing on me overall, make sure to get it with SH-AWD! The power in this car is useless in FWD form. You can't put the power down even in the dry and it's pretty nearly horrible in the wet so if you are a spirited driver make sure to step up to the AWD version.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2024 Acura TLX, so we've included reviews for other years of the TLX since its last redesign.
2021 Acura TLX Type S Review | Acura's Luxury Sedan Is a Great Value | Interior, Features & More
NOTE: This video is about the 2021 Acura TLX, but since the 2024 Acura TLX is part of the same generation, our earlier analysis still applies.
Carlos Lago gets behind the wheel of the 2021 Acura TLX Type S sedan. Join Carlos as he gives his impressions of the interior and how it drives. Compared to other entries in the luxury segment, Acura’s TLX Type S delivers an enjoyable driving experience and surprising value.
The Lexus IS looks sporty, and with its 311-horsepower V6 engine, it is. But like any Lexus, comfort is the priority. Interior fit and finish is impeccable, and like the TLX, the IS 350 appeals with a measure of value and more features for the money than its European competitors. But both the IS and TLX suffer from a small back seat and awkward infotainment interface.
The 3 Series is infused with BMW's legendary handling prowess; for drivers, it is the default choice among compact luxury sedans. Its engines are powerful yet fuel-efficient, and its in-car tech — particularly the expansive infotainment touchscreen — feels properly futuristic. But while the 3 Series base trim is a nice start, most desirable features (heated seats, for example) are optional, giving the Acura an edge when it comes to value.
Standard all-wheel drive, a high-quality interior, and a roomy back seat make the A4 one of our favorites. But the A4 isn't as sporty as it once was and today's TLX is actually more exciting to drive, at least when the road starts to bend. In a straight line, the less powerful Audi is still faster from 0 to 60 mph than the Acura. And the Audi's superior infotainment makes the A4 a less frustrating experience for daily driving.
Warns you of a possible collision with the vehicle in front. Can apply the brakes if you do not take corrective action.
Road Departure Mitigation System
Sounds an alert if the TLX is in danger of leaving its lane or the road. Can apply steering input to keep the TLX in its lane.
Surround-View Camera System
Provides a top-down view of the TLX so you can easily maneuver the vehicle while parking.
NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Driver
5 / 5
Passenger
4 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Driver
5 / 5
Passenger
5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Rating
Front Seat
5 / 5
Back Seat
5 / 5
Rollover
Rating
Rollover
5 / 5
Dynamic Test Result
No Tip
Risk Of Rollover
9%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Not Tested
Roof Strength Test
Not Tested
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Not Tested
2024 Acura TLX First Impressions
by Edmunds
•5/14/2024
What is the TLX?
The Acura TLX's strongest selling point is its exceptional value, offering the interior space and performance of a midsize at the price of a compact. Adding to the sense of bang-for-your-buck is the TLX's robust set of standard features. Even in its base trim level, every TLX comes with adaptive cruise control, a sunroof and heated seats — features typically optional in rivals. The TLX also provides a natural stepping stone for those who want something a little more upscale than a top-tier Honda Accord.
Acura hasn't announced anything official about the 2024 TLX yet. That said, 2024 will mark the fourth year of production for this TLX generation, and that's about when automakers traditionally introduce a refresh to reinvigorate interest in a model. It's conceivable, then, that Acura could update the TLX for 2024. Looks for new bumpers, lights, grille and wheel designs to differentiate the exterior from the current model. Our No. 1 ask is a rethink of the infotainment system and its seriously terrible touchpad controller. Instead, it shouldn't be hard for Acura to simply move the screen closer to the driver and enable touchscreen control.
Edmunds says
The TLX makes a lot of sense on paper, but a few things prevent it from delivering midsize luxury sedan nirvana. We hope that a refresh is coming for 2024, and with it, the banishment of the touchpad controller once and for all.
FAQ
Is the Acura TLX a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2024 TLX both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.7 out of 10. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2024 TLX gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 48 reviews) What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the TLX has 13.5 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Acura TLX. Learn more
What's new in the 2024 Acura TLX?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2024 Acura TLX:
Minor styling tweaks and a new, larger touchscreen
Part of the second TLX generation introduced for 2021
To determine whether the Acura TLX is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the TLX. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the TLX's 4-star average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2024 Acura TLX a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2024 Acura TLX is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2024 TLX and gave it a 7.7 out of 10. Our consumer reviews show that the 2024 TLX gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 48 reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2024 TLX is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2024 Acura TLX?
The least-expensive 2024 Acura TLX is the 2024 Acura TLX 4dr Sedan w/Technology Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $45,000.
Other versions include:
4dr Sedan w/Technology Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $45,000
4dr Sedan AWD w/A-Spec Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $50,000
Type S 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $57,000
If you're interested in the Acura TLX, the next question is, which TLX model is right for you? TLX variants include 4dr Sedan w/Technology Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A), 4dr Sedan AWD w/A-Spec Package (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 10A), and Type S 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A). For a full list of TLX models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more