Acura TLX 2018: a step in the right direction, but…

Frédéric Mercier

Tuesday, 3 October 2017 11:21

UPDATE
Tuesday, 3 October 2017 11:21

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After years of looking in terms of design, Acura finally seems to be on the right track. The TLX changes look to 2018, and finally, we can say that it has the mouth.

Thanks to a new storefront much more aggressive, the Acura TLX is finally proposing a design that can finally measure up to that of its direct rivals are the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Infiniti Q50 and the BMW 3 Series, to name a few.

But beyond appearances, the Acura TLX remains essentially the same sedan since its debut in 2015. Without ado, Acura has a vehicle that is certainly interesting, but still lacks personality when compared with its competitors.

Acura TLX 2018

A version A-Spec which is good

Obviously aware of the problem, Acura partially corrects the situation in 2018 with a image a lot more captivating. Inspired by the concept of Precision as it was presented at the Auto Show in Detroit in 2016, the TLX receives a real cure of youth. At least, in appearance.

The new version-Spec also allows Acura to hope to be able to attract a broader customer base in its concessions. With 19-inch wheels, side air intakes, a rear diffuser and several other aesthetic details that give the TLX a little more attitude.

Acura TLX 2018

Available with both the four-cylinders than with the version with engine V6, the range-Spec also incorporates shock setting stiffer as well as an electric power steering tuned to be firmer and more direct.

The model we tested for a week was just that, with the whole A-Spec, and the road behavior differs indeed from that of the other versions of the TLX. Except that it is not only versions A-Spec that would have to benefit from this update. It is the whole range of the TLX that needed it.

Inside, the TLX also has a small update aesthetic that does certainly not harm. Unfortunately, Acura has not yet got rid of this display system with two screens, of which the orders are of a complexity absurd. Several car manufacturers have already proven that we can make the handling of such a system easy for the user, but Acura is heading to offer one of the worst interfaces in the industry. It is really time to change this.

At least, the system in question is now compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It is always much better than nothing.

Acura TLX 2018

Two engines, two configurations

On the road, the Acura TLX does not have the force of his rival. At least the majority of them. However, the sedan japanese is distinguished by a level of comfort more than appreciable. The soundproofing has been revised to 2018, and it shows. Even at high speed, the cabin of the TLX is quiet, disconcerting.

The Acura TLX remains a sedan that feels heavy, sometimes hesitant. Even with the V6 engine, 290 hp, automatic transmission to nine reports do not always seem to know which foot to dance, and it can become annoying.

In its basic version, the TLX continues to appeal to a four-cylinder engine 2.4-litre, 206-horsepower and 182 pound-feet of torque. With this mechanical, Acura has decided to go with a transmission that is different which has a ratio of less than one coupled to the V6.

Acura TLX 2018

The two mechanisms also come with wheels appropriate to each. While the versions with the four-cylinder are automatically driven by the front wheels, all TLX V6 instead call for a truck full. Until last year, Acura also offered a version with two-wheel drive with its V6 engine, but it has eliminated that possibility for 2018. Not enough demand, I believe.

Acura is catching up, however, by making its technology group AcuraWatch is standard on all versions of the TLX. With systems of driving assistance, such as forward collision alert, aid to maintain lane, the adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking, AcuraWatch enhances indeed the safety on board. And the democratization of its use can only be welcomed with open arms.

Acura TLX 2018

In comparison with a BMW 3-Series or even a Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the TLX retains the same deficiencies that are difficult to justify, primarily in terms of road behavior. Fortunately, his comfort above the average, and the price is also very aggressive we can forgive him, at least partially.

At a starting price of 35 990$, the TLX might indeed be tempting. Even with the V6 engine and the wheel to the full, the invoice of 40$ 990 per remains well below the starting price of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class or a BMW 3 Series.

If the TLX fails to take you by the feelings, perhaps, will she manage to at least flirt with your portfolio.

Acura TLX 2018

Technical data sheet

Name: Acura TLX 2018
Base price: 35$990 per
Trial Version: Tech A-Spec SH-AWD
Price of model tested: 47 390$
Configuration : Vehicle with two or four-wheel drive with engine at the front

Engine base: four-cylinder Engine i-VTEC 2.4 liter
Transmission: Automatic 8-speed
Power/torque: 206 hp/ 182 lb-ft
Fuel consumption announced (FWD): 10,0 L/100 km (city), 7.1 L/100 km (highway)

Engine optional: Engine six-cylinder, i-VTEC 3.5 liter
Transmission: Automatic 9 reports
Power/torque: 290 hp/ 267 lb-ft
Fuel consumption announced (AWD): 11.4 L/100 km (city), 7.7 L/100 km (highway)

Warranty basic: 4 years/80,000 km
Competition: BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Infiniti Q50, Cadillac ATS

Rating (out of 10)

Fuel consumption: 7
Equipment : 7
Price : 8
Style : 8
Comfort (front) : 8
Comfort (rear) : 6
Road holding : 7
Performance : 8
Storage space : 8
Overall rating: 7

Forces

Security system AcuraWatch is standard
Excellent soundproofing
Competitive price

Weaknesses

Not gear integral with the engine 4-cylinder
Infotainment system sorry
On the road any