Model Tested: 2018 Acura TLX 3.5L AWD A-SPEC
Engine: 3.5-liter V-6, 290 horsepower 267 lb-ft torque
Transmission: 9-speed automatic, all-wheel-drive
EPA Rating: 20-mpg city/29-mpg highway/23-mpg combined
Base Price: $44,800
As Tested: $45,750
Performance:
Athletic handling
Good highway fuel economy—our best was 32.4 mpg
Very smooth V-6
Strong acceleration and power
Seamless all-wheel-drive
Paddle shifters
Odd pushbuttons for console gear selection
Auto stop/start feature
Big, efficient brakes
Comfort:
Comfortable, supportive front seats
Three-temps heated and cooled front seats
Stretch-out driver legroom
Oversized metal covered dead pedal
Very thick, nicely contoured leather steering wheel
Lots of good auxiliary controls
Nicely padded armrest on console bin
Very soft headrests
Quality interior materials
Tight backseat unless front seats are moved up
Rear headroom tight for tall passengers
Soft rear armrest with two cupholders
Utility:
Front doors open extra wide
Medium size console bin with power points
Medium size front door bins
Medium size, locking glove box with shelf for manuals
Large trunk
Flat trunk floor
Split rear seats fold almost flat
Arched pass-through
Carpeted deck lid and covered hinges
Great storage under cargo deck—one deep bin and one shallow
WOW Factors:
Great safety features with A-Spec package
Segment leader for driver assist technology
Nimble handling; fun to drive
Bonus storage under cargo deck
Whines:
Seat heat/cooling controls only on touch screen
No rear door bins
Cramped rear seat room if front seats are all back
Bottom Line:
The 2018 Acura TLX 3.5L AWD A-Spec is an engaging compact luxury sport sedan. The V-6 and all-wheel-drive make it fun to drive spiritedly, but it’s also a pleasant, comfortable commuter. Front seat accommodations are excellent, but at the expense of rear seat room. Cargo space and flexibility are very good. Technology and safety features are outstanding.
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