Flash Drive

2018 Acura TLX

Model Tested: 2018 Acura TLX 3.5L AWD A-SPEC

The 2018 Acura TLX V6 A-Spec is the top model and the most fun to drive.

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

The 2018 Acura TLX V6 A-Spec styling is crisp and contemporary in a slightly restrained manner.

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

Front seat space and comfort are outstanding in the 2018 Acura TLX V6 A-Spec compact luxury sport sedan.

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

Rear seats are comfortable, but legroom is limited unless the front seats are moved up.

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.

Styling on the 2018 Acura TLX V6 A-Spec echoes similar themes found on other Acura products.