Auto review by Veeno Dewan
The 2022 Acura TLX replaces the first-generation car and gets an all-new platform to help it take on the benchmark BMW 3 Series, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class in the premium sports sedan market. The TLX is a handsome looking car with its sleek profile and Slim Jewel lights in the front. I like the long hood, short deck profile and the kicked-up C-pillar. It certainly looks aggressive and purposeful.
The new TLX’s 2-litre turbo engine is based on the one found in the racy Civic Type R. It delivers 272 Horsepower and a maximum of 280 lb-ft torque. The transmission is a 10-speed unit with manual paddle shifters. Other improvements include double-wishbone front suspension for more precise handling and cornering. The body is said to be Acura’s stiffest ever, for maximum control and stability.
Canadian cars all get Acura’s torque-vectoring Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system as standard equipment, its an asset in our cold climate and snowy seasons. The four-model TLX lineup starts at $43,990 and tops out with the Platinum Elite at $52,190. The base TLX is well equipped with SH-AWD system, drive mode selector, Acura Watch driver-assist tech, a 10.2-inch infotainment system, remote engine starter, and power heated front seats. The A-Spec adds the audiophile quality ELS 3D audio system, ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, exterior styling accents, and Shark Grey wheels. The top-spec Platinum Elite adds the adaptive dampers, heated rear seats and much more.
We tested the A-Spec model rolling on nice looking, Shark Grey 19-inch alloys. Equipment included navigation, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a wireless phone charger.
Acura have up the ante as far as providing safety and driving aids. There is lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear-cross traffic alert in the new TLX. Parking sensors and forward-collision warning systems are also included.
We just loved the A-Spec’s interior – the Ultrasuede and ‘Milano’ leather trim is a standout and found only on the A -Spec trim. The red stitching and piping on the seats, and metal details around the interior add that certain flair long associated with Acura’s. Drivers are also greeted with a chunky stitched D-shaped steering wheel that’s a delight to handle.
Those comfortable front seats feature 12-way power adjustment for the driver.
Infotainment is courtesy of a dash mounted 10.2-inch screen and there is a Touchpad interface. Acura’s penchant for having a myriad of buttons is well in evidence here. There are sliders and buttons for everything, and the touchpad system has a learning curve of sorts. As usual fit and finish in the TLX is superb. Nothing new here for Acura, the switches, buttons, and knobs have a heft and return action that satisfying to operate. The rear compartment is also satisfactory, with comfortable seats and ample headroom and legroom for two tall adults. There is also a decent sized trunk.
On the road, the TLX handles like a true sports sedan; there is fast, strong acceleration. The engine is very powerful and provides a lot of torque off the line. I love that urgent exhaust note! The steering has good on-center feel but is a little light in my opinion. Performance drivers can also choose from a variety of drive modes according to their personal preference or driving situation the multi drive modes when used offers slightly tightened handling and more steering feel. Selecting Sport mode increases the performance noticeably. The variable ratio steering, and electronically controlled suspension provide agile responses and a balanced ride and handling. With its new double-wishbone front suspension, the TLX offers adept, agile handling, yet does not transmit shocks or harshness to the ride. Acura’s 4th-generation Super-Handling AWD system can send up to 70 percent of the power to the rear axle and 100 per cent of that can be sent to either rear or apportioned to any wheel as needed. Estimated fuel economy is City – 11 L/100 km, Highway 8 L/100 km.
Downsides are few, the trackpad interface is finicky to use. The 2.0l engine offers good performance, but true Acura enthusiasts may want to wait for the limited run of TLX Type S models, equipped with a turbocharged V6 engine with 335 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. The Type S will be available next spring at a $60,000 plus price point. For now, the TLX A-Spec is plenty good to take on the Mercedes C-Class and BMW 3 Series offering the same performance and driver ownership experience. Killer looks, speed and handling! Nicely done and highly recommended Acura!
2022 Acura TLX A-Spec priced from $49,905. More info at :www.acura.ca
