The TLX Type S is one of the most well-balanced performance sedans on the market. It looks and drives like a true sports sedan. While it is not the fastest in its class, it offers one of the most rewarding driving experiences and stands out as the most comfortable option for daily use.
Performance & Handling
The TLX Type S is powered by a 3.0L turbocharged V6 engine that produces 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque, giving it plenty of muscle on paper. However, with a curb weight of 4,221 pounds, it’s one of the heaviest sedans in its class. That weight impacts overall performance, and it’s one of the key drawbacks we noticed during our time with the car. It’s not slow, but considering the power under the hood, it should be quicker in terms of acceleration.
That said, the TLX still manages to feel quick and responsive in most driving conditions. Acceleration is strong whether you’re pulling away from a stop or overtaking on the highway. The 10-speed automatic transmission plays a big role here, delivering smooth and quick gear changes that keep the engine in its sweet spot. Whether you’re driving casually or with more enthusiasm, the transmission adds to the overall driving experience and helps make the TLX Type S feel refined and engaging.
Despite its size and weight, the TLX Type S handles impressively well. The steering is precise and well-weighted, offering solid feedback during both everyday driving and more spirited cornering. The SH-AWD system, or Super Handling All-Wheel Drive, enhances grip and stability, making the car feel more agile than its dimensions suggest.
One highlight is the active exhaust system, which becomes more pronounced in Sport mode. It delivers a deep, aggressive sound that adds character to the drive, especially during hard acceleration and downshifts. It gives the TLX a more engaging and performance-oriented feel without being over the top.
The Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) gives drivers control over how the TLX Type S behaves, with five selectable modes: Comfort, Normal, Sport, Sport+, and Individual. Each mode adjusts key settings like throttle response, steering feel, suspension stiffness, and engine sound to match the desired driving style.
Switching to Sport or Sport+ transforms the TLX into a much more engaging car. Engine noise becomes more pronounced, throttle response sharpens, and the adaptive suspension firms up to reduce body roll and improve handling. These changes help the TLX feel more focused and athletic, making it better suited for spirited driving while still offering the flexibility to dial things back when needed.
Interior & Comfort
The cabin of the TLX Type S feels modern and upscale, with impressive build quality and a thoughtful use of high-end materials throughout. Visually, it makes a strong first impression, and the design feels well-executed. The front seats are a highlight, offering excellent support and a wide range of adjustments. With 16-way power controls, including lumbar support, thigh extension, and adjustable side bolsters, it’s easy to find a comfortable driving position for long trips or spirited drives. However, space in the rear is more limited. Despite the TLX’s overall size, rear legroom and headroom are surprisingly tight. The back seat feels cramped, which may be a drawback for taller passengers or those who frequently carry rear-seat passengers. This is one area where the TLX falls short compared to some of its rivals, and it’s something Acura could address in future updates. Still, the overall interior experience is a strong point. The available ambient lighting, with 27 colour options, adds a refined touch at night, creating a pleasant and customizable atmosphere that enhances the premium feel of the cabin.
The TLX Type S does a great job balancing performance with everyday comfort. Ride quality is smooth and composed on most road surfaces, making it easy to live with as a daily driver. That said, some harshness and sharper impacts are noticeable over potholes and rough patches. This is likely a result of the 20-inch wheels and low-profile tires fitted on the test model, which trade a bit of comfort for a sportier look and feel.
Inside the cabin, noise levels are well-controlled. Wind and road noise are minimal at highway speeds, which adds to the overall sense of refinement. It feels solid and insulated, making longer drives more relaxing without sacrificing the sporty character of the car.
Technology & Connectivity
Most of the driver-assist features in the TLX Type S come standard through Acura’s ACURAWATCH suite. This includes key technologies like Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, and the Collision Mitigation Braking System. These systems work together to enhance safety and reduce driver fatigue, especially during longer drives or in stop-and-go traffic. It’s a solid offering that brings added confidence to the overall driving experience.
The infotainment system in the TLX Type S is centered around a 12.3-inch display, controlled through a touchpad interface. This setup has sparked some debate among buyers, mainly due to the learning curve involved in using the touchpad. While it may take some getting used to, the benefit is a smudge-free screen, which keeps the interior looking clean and polished.
The interface itself is straightforward, and features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included and function smoothly, adding everyday convenience. A welcome upgrade for the 2025 model is the new 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster, replacing the analog gauges found in earlier TLX Type S models. While the analog setup had a more classic appeal, the digital cluster offers better customization and a more modern, high-tech feel, making it a worthwhile improvement.
The sound system in the TLX Type S delivers impressive audio quality. The available 17-speaker ELS Studio 3D setup provides clear, balanced, and immersive sound throughout the cabin. Whether listening to music at a low volume or turning it up for a highway drive, the system offers a great listening experience.
Cargo Space & Storage
The TLX offers a generous 382L of cargo space in the trunk, placing it among the best in its class for trunk capacity. It’s practical for everyday use and easily handles groceries, luggage, or weekend bags. However, interior storage is more limited. The front cabin could benefit from additional compartments or storage slots for smaller personal items like phones, wallets, or keys. It’s a small but noticeable area where Acura could make improvements to enhance everyday convenience.
Fuel Economy
The Type S variant of the TLX is officially rated at 11.2 L/100km combined, with 12.3 L/100km in the city and 9.8 L/100km on the highway. In real-world driving that included a mix of both city and highway conditions, the average came out to 13.2 L/100km. While that’s higher than the official rating, it’s not unexpected given the performance focus and weight of the vehicle.
