Although Acura has long billed the TLX as a premium sports sedan, it didn’t always perform like one. However, that’s no longer the case for the redesigned 2021 model. Not only does the all-new 2021 Acura TLX pack more performance than ever, but it also has an especially nice interior. A beautiful exterior design gives drivers more reason to love the new model.
What’s New for 2021?
Acura has completely overhauled the TLX from the inside out. This means upgraded features and an all-new engine lineup. While prices have increased this year, the new TLX is still a superior value.
What Styles Does It Come In?
The 2020 Acura TLX is a five-passenger sports sedan. While front-wheel drive is standard, Acura’s renowned Super-Handling AWD system is available.
What Trims Does It Come In?
Acura offers the TLX in five main trim levels: Standard, Technology Package, A-Spec, Advance, and Type S. Even the base model proves to be a fine choice. It features a new 10.2-inch touchscreen with all the latest smartphone integration technologies. A sunroof and dual-zone automatic climate control also come standard. Leatherette upholstery covers the interior.
The TLX with Technology Package brings a greater sense of luxury. Aside from navigation and a 13-speaker ELS sound system, it also receives leather-trimmed seats.
Drivers seeking a more powerful look will prefer the TLX A-Spec. It receives a sport body kit and exclusive wheels. Interior upgrades include heated/ventilated seats, wireless smartphone charging, and remote start.
Featuring open-pore wood trim and 16-way sport seats, the TLX Advance feels even more plush. It also receives a bit more technology, including a 360-degree camera and a color head-up display.
From a performance standpoint, the more powerful Type-S model sits atop the lineup. It comes standard with adaptive suspension dampers and 20-inch performance tires.
The TLX’s Exterior Styling
When checking out the all-new 2021 Acura TLX, car shoppers will notice it’s a tad larger and wider than before. A lower roof accentuates the sedan’s sleeker design. On the front, a reworked Diamond Pentagon grille lets onlookers know this is an Acura product. The car is especially stunning when outfitted with one of the available premium paint options, such as Phantom Violet Pearl.
While the standard TLX will get some attention, the A-Spec model is sportier. Some of its stylish exterior treatments include smoked headlamp/taillight housings, a rear spoiler, and gloss black accents. Expect the high-performance Type-S model to look even more aggressive.
Interior Features
Acura’s new infotainment system is a step above the previous interface. Many drivers will enjoy using its 10.2-inch touchscreen. Drivers seeking the best possible audio quality should choose the 17-speaker ELS Studio 3D premium sound system. To make the TLX more appealing to serious driving enthusiasts, Acura equips the A-Spec and Type-S models with a few more racy interior touches. This includes a flat-bottom performance steering wheel and medal-plated paddle shifters.
Driving Experience
When driving the new 2021 Acura TLX, look forward to noticing a big difference in performance. The sedan’s base turbo four-cylinder engine kicks out 272 horsepower. Keep in mind that the previous base engine developed just 206 horsepower. Drivers seeking an adrenaline rush will be interested in the Type-S model’s turbo V6 engine with 355 horsepower.
Test drivers give the new TLX high marks for its much-improved handling. Acura’s updated Super Handling AWD system can now send even more power to the rear wheels. This feature makes the car feel even more confident on bending roads.
Fuel Economy
Although fuel economy is lower for 2021 model, most drivers in this segment are willing to sacrifice some efficiency for greater performance. EPA fuel economy estimates stand at 21 mpg town/31 mpg freeway. Gas mileage for the Type-S model has yet to be revealed.
Quality and Comfort
The new TLX feels nicer on the inside. Trims featuring upgraded leather upholstery compete on a higher level. Although the new TLX still doesn’t rank among the segment leaders in passenger room, rear occupants can now enjoy an extra 0.4 inches of legroom.
Safety
Like before, the new TLX receives an AcuraWatch safety package as standard equipment. It brings highly sought-after driving aids, like automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping technology. For the first time, Traffic Jam Assist is included in AcuraWatch. This system is designed to help drivers deal with heavy congestion. Blind-spot monitoring remains on the sedan’s list of options.
Significant improvements transform the 2021 Acura TLX into a much better sports sedan. There’s no reason not to take this car on a test drive.
Acura MDX Trims and Features
Acura tends to release just one trim of each model, which can then be upgraded with a range of options packages. This allows you to truly customize your SUV with the features you want. In addition to the new infotainment system, the base model of the MDX is equipped with four USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, an eight-speaker audio system, satellite radio, a moonroof, and the Siri Eyes Free app.
The Technology package replaces the standard 18-inch wheels with 20-inch versions and adds a premium 10-speaker audio system, navigation, and HD radio along with additional safety features that include rear cross-traffic alert and a system that monitors your blind spot.
If you choose the Advance package, you'll enjoy premium leather upholstery, climate-controlled front seats, heated captain's chairs in the second row, and a heated steering wheel.
The Entertainment package is available when you choose either the Technology or the Advance package. It comes with additional speakers and a rear-screen entertainment system with HDMI compatibility and a choice of two screen sizes.
Interior
The MDX is available with either a second-row bench or captain's chairs (which lower passenger capacity to six). You'll have 15 cubic feet of cargo space to work with, which expands to 68 cubic feet with the seats folded flat.
Performance
Acura MDX drivers will enjoy the 290 horses provided by the standard V6 paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. You'll get an EPA-estimated 20 city/27 highway miles per gallon, better than most class rivals. The SUV delivers sporty handling and impressive agility whether you opt for the front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel-drive model.
Safety
The Acura MDX has received a five-star overall crash test rating from the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration. All trims include both a rearview camera and the AcuraWatch suite of advanced driver assistance features. Active lane keep assist helps keep you from swerving into another lane, while road departure mitigation keeps you from going off the road if you lose control of the vehicle. Adaptive cruise control allows you to maintain a safe following distance at any speed.
Formula for Calculating Dealer Cost:
Total Dealer Cost - Rebate and Incentive + Taxes / Licensing Fees = True Dealer Cost. (You can get rebates and incentives here.)
Note: All Acura TLX MSRP, invoice and dealer cost dollar figures above are approximate amounts. Prices are subject to change without notice.
A note about rebates: Most rebates are subtracted from the "on the road" figure. In most cases, you can have the rebate if you are arranging your own financing or you are paying cash. If you decide to use the manufacturer’s low interest financing, you do not usually get the rebate. Ask your dealer for details.
