The midsize 2015 Acura TLX slipped between Acura’s compact TSX and the midsize TL and replaced both models. While the Acura TLX exhibits poor acceleration for a midsize luxury sedan, it counters with good fuel economy ratings, spirited handling, and a long list of standard features. So is a 2015 TLX a good used car for you?

Three reasons to choose the 2015 Acura TLX

The 2015 Acura TLX came as either a 2.4-liter four-cylinder front-wheel drive or a 3.5-liter V6 with an all-wheel drive (AWD) option that Acura calls “Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD).” 

While the 206-horsepower four-cylinder left MotorTrend reviewers feeling underwhelmed compared to rivals’ turbocharged options, the front-wheel drive V6, with 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, offers “good performance and handling.”

However, reviewers noted that the addition of Acura’s SH-AWD created a significant amount of understeer that “ruins the car due to its abrupt mid-corner transitions.”

Good fuel economy ratings

Regardless of engine choice or drivetrain, the 2015 TLX provides good fuel economy for a midsize sedan. The four-cylinder front-wheel drive model received an EPA-estimated rating of 24 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

Opting for the more exciting V6 only drops the rating a few mpg, with the front-wheel drive model rated at 21 mpg in the city and 34 on the highway. Even the SH-AWD-equipped V6 manages to get 21 mpg in town and 31 mpg on the highway. 

Spirited handling

In contrast to MotorTrend’s opinion of SH-AWD, Edmunds found it “particularly sporty,” but the lack of steering wheel feedback detracted from the experience.

Overall, however, the TLX provides an “enjoyable combination of everyday comfort and sporty back-roads prowess.” Edmunds found the TLX handling unexpectedly agile thanks to the front-wheel drive’s rear-wheel steering and the SH-AWD’s application of engine torque to each wheel individually when needed to power out of turns. 

Tons of features for the money

According to U.S. News, the 2015 TLX only came in one trim level with a couple of optional packages for upgrades. The standard feature list for every TLX includes the following:

• A dual-screen seven-speaker infotainment system with:
• Siri Eyes Free 
• Bluetooth
• A USB port
• Satellite Radio
• A rearview camera
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• A moonroof
• Push-button start
• Synthetic leather upholstery
• A power-adjustable driver’s seat
• A leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
• Heated front seats

A used TLX may have some additional factory options, such as:

• Heated and ventilated front seats
• Leather upholstery
• A 10-speaker premium audio system
• Navigation

Two reasons to skip the 2015 Acura TLX

In its review of the 2015 Acura TLX, U.S. News found the cabin “upscale” but with a confusing dual-screen infotainment system that is “frustrating to use.” This is fair but this complaint could be true for any car as you get used to navigating a new system.

Reviews also note that the 2015 TLX’s poor reliability rating is another reason to skip it. This is definitely something to watch out for when purchasing a used car, so make sure to do your homework. When in doubt, don’t hesitate to get a car inspected by a trusted mechanic.

Is the 2015 Acura TLX a good car?

While the 2015 Acura TLX offers some good points, there are better choices in the midsize luxury car segment that provide more value and better reliability for the money. For other options near the same price point, consider the 2015 Hyundai Genesis, 2015 Lexus ES, and 2015 Infiniti Q40.