2017 Acura TLX Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?
What’s New for 2017?
Acura decided not to make any significant changes to the new TLX.
Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2017 Acura TLX – The Pros
1) Fuel-Efficient Four-Cylinder Engine
Although the base four-cylinder engine’s power won’t blow you away, it does have enough pep for the average driver. It pumps out a solid 206 horsepower and 182 pound-feet of torque. You will quickly grow to appreciate the extra fuel savings. According to the EPA, drivers can obtain 24 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.
2) Strong V-6 Engine
The optional V-6 engine transforms the TLX into a more engaging sedan to drive. Acura tuned the upgraded engine to develop a healthy 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. When you push down on the accelerator, you immediately feel the extra power. The V-6 version of the TLX clocked a competitive 0-60 time of 5.9 seconds.
3) Great Base Transmission
While a nine-speed transmission comes with the available V-6 engine, the standard eight-speed transmission performs even better. A Sport+ mode enables you to squeeze the most possible performance from the four-cylinder engine. The gear shifts are quick and precise. Whether you are cruising around town or merging onto the freeway, the transmission will always feel responsive.
4) Super Handling All-Wheel Drive
An optional AWD system makes the TLX a solid performer in wintry weather. However, the Super Handling AWD system does more than just enhance traction. The system also gives the sedan an extra degree of sportiness, allowing you to have a bit of fun on curvy roads. Fortunately, the system does not drastically reduce your fuel economy.
5) Quiet and Comfortable Ride
The TLX’s suspension does a fine job of keeping the ride comfortable. The suspension dampers absorb rough pavement without compromising the sedan’s handling. Your family will also like the TLX’s well-insulated cabin. You are unlikely to hear a great deal of wind noise. It has the build quality of a far more expensive luxury sedan.
6) Standout Reliability
Acura is Honda’s luxury brand. As you may know, Honda has a reputation for producing vehicles that offer legendary reliability. The new Acura TLX is a car that you can keep in your family for years to come. With the proper maintenance, you can easily rack up more than 200,000 miles with no trouble.
7) Sports Sedan Styling
The 2017 Acura TLX certainly has the appearance of a sleek sports sedan. Acura’s signature Jewel Eye headlights help give the TLX a unique look. A stylish set of 17-inch alloy wheels come standard on every trim. Meanwhile, LED fog lights are available as an option. Some of the most tempting exterior colors include San Marino Red, Black Copper, and Lunar Silver.
8) Roomy & Comfortable Family Vehicle
With the ability to seat up to five people, the 2017 Acura TLX proves to be an ideal family car. A spacious backseat enables everyone to travel in comfort. Numerous test drivers have praised the new TLX for its plush seats. The seats provide a great deal of support, which comes in handy on long-distance trips.
9) Affordable Price Tag
When compared to today’s other entry-level luxury sedans, the 2017 Acura TLX proves to be one of the segment’s strongest values. Expect to pay around $32,900 for the base version. Some of the nice standard features include a dual-screen infotainment system, heated front seats, and satellite radio.
10) Excellent Safety Profile
Superb crash-test scores make the 2017 Acura TLX an especially appealing sedan. A convenient backup camera comes standard. Available as an option, automatic braking technology gives you an extra measure of protection on the road. Some of the other available driving aids include blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure intervention.
Reasons Not to Buy a 2017 Acura TLX – The Cons
1) So-So Braking Power
During the typical day-to-day driving situations, the 2017 Acura TLX will provide the necessary stopping power. However, it is important to note that some of the TLX’s main rivals benefit from a stronger braking system.
2) Four-Cylinder Engine Sacrifices Some Performance
When equipped with the standard four-cylinder engine, the TLX is not as quick. You probably won’t be able to keep up with the luxury sedans that are powered by a more potent engine. If you craze sports car-like acceleration, the available V-6 becomes a must-have feature.
3) No Sports-Tuned Suspension
The 2017 Acura TLX handles quite well. However, a sports-tuned suspension would further sharpen its driving dynamics. Rivals, such as the BMW 3 Series and the Infiniti Q50, offer a sports-tuned suspension.
How it stacks up to the competition:
Some of the TLX’s key competitors include the BMW 3 Series and the Audi A4. In terms of long-term reliability and maintenance costs, the 2017 Acura TLX has a big advantage over these European sedans. Furthermore, a fully loaded TLX has a less expensive price tag.
Conclusion:
If you are searching for an entertaining luxury sedan that is affordable to own, the new 2017 Acura TLX deserves serious consideration. Its high-quality construction and proven reliability will intrigue plenty of car shoppers. When equipped with the Super Handling AWD system, the TLX becomes a great sedan for year-round traveling. While the new TLX comes loaded with a lot of equipment, you can also choose from nice options such as a premium sound system and ventilated seats.
