2023 Acura TLX: What We Expect for Specs, Tech, Starting Price
Acura’s TLX sedan experienced a complete redesign in 2021, shaping the formerly vague-looking family car into an aggressive second-generation sports sedan ready to take on its European rivals from car brands like Audi, BMW, and Mercedes. Given the recent revamp, buyers should expect a carry-over model from Japanese automotive giant Honda, with only slight upgrades in the high-performance Type S, Kelley Blue Book (KBB) reports.
2023 Acura TLX performance and technology
When the Acura TLX emerged from its redesign, it debuted with a powerplant to match its imposing stance. Base model Acura sedans come stock with a turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4 with an impressive 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque driven through the front wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Front-wheel drive is standard on the TLX, but buyers can upgrade to Acura’s all-wheel drive system to take full advantage of the four-door’s performance as a $2,000 upgrade. On the other hand, if you’re looking to get more oomph out of the midsize luxury sedan can opt for the TLX Type S.
And when it comes to tech features and creature comforts in the TLX? Acura’s four-door offering comes standard with a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting Wi-Fi, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
The TLX also gives buyers a host of safety equipment in the base model, much more than its rivals from Europe and Japan at its price point. The base 2023 Acura TLX will include:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Automatic emergency braking
- Forward collision warning
- Lane departure warning
- Lane-keeping assist
- Traffic sign recognition
How much do we expect the Acura TLX cost in 2023?
Acura has yet to release the 2023 sedan’s starting price. Regardless, with no critical upgrades expected, TLX base models are predicted to be priced at $38,000, KBB reports, and we agree.
Although buyers may have been waiting for more high-dollar upgrades, the TLX remains one of the best-value vehicles in its segment. In fact, those seeking a luxury midsize car would have to dole out $3,000 more for options like the BMW’s 3 Series, $4,000 more for Alfa Romeo’s Giulia, and a whopping $16,000 more for an E-Class sedan from Mercedes.
Is the 2023 Acura TLX Type S worth the money?
Anyone seeking a fast four-door car should take Acura’s Type S seriously. With a turbocharged 3.0 V6 churning out 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque, it’s eager to challenge performance models from the brand’s competitors.
The Type S also features Acura’s torque-vectoring Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, brawny Brembo brakes, bespoke Sport+ performance management software, and sleek 20-inch alloy wheels.
Even if a 0-60 time in the mid-four-second range may bring a smile to drivers’ faces, the added power of the TLX Type S demands a generous bump in price. Therefore, the $54,000 price tag may sway Acura buyers to stick with the adequately-powered TLX base turbo four-cylinder.
Should you wait for the 2023 TLX Sedan or order a 2022 model now?
If you want the base model TLX, get one now. Unless, of course, you want a performance model. If so, wait until 2023 models hit the market later this year. Acura is set to introduce the TLX Type S PMC Edition that pays homage to the NSX. Hand built in the Performance Manufacturing Center, the model will feature new color options Long Beach Blue Pearl, 130R White, and Curva Red, finished off with carbon fiber enhancements and lightweight Y-spoke 20-inch wheels.
