TLXcellence: Our In-Depth Review of the 2024 Acura TLX Type S

So, you want a sports sedan, but you’re not so into that whole $80,000 German luxury car thing? Enter the 2024 Acura TLX Type S, the overachiever through and through. It’s got the speed to get your heart pounding, the luxury to keep your passengers smiling, and the durability Acura has been boasting about for years. But is it the right car for you?

First, Let’s Talk Trims

Whether you’re a lead-foot or just need a comfort-focused commuter car, there’s something for you in the 2024 TLX lineup. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• TLX Base: Decent entry-level choice here with a 2.0L turbo inline-4 engine pumping out 272 hp
• TLX Technology: Gets you premium features such as leather seating surfaces, a 13-speaker ELS Studio sound system, and advanced driver-assistance tech
• TLX A-Spec: Adds even more sporty attitude with gloss black trim, unique wheels, and sport seats that incorporate Ultrasuede inserts
• TLX Advance: Luxury king, with cooling ventilated front seats, a heads-up display, and adaptive suspension
• TLX Type S: The headliner, with a 3.0L turbo V6, 355 hp and AWD with torque vectoring

What Makes the Type S unlike others?

This is where the dial got a little more crank from Acura. The TLX Type S isn’t merely a sporty trim level; it’s a bona fide sport machine that gives its closest competitors a serious run for their money.

• Powertrain: 3.0L turbocharged V6 making 355 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque
• Transmission: 10-speed auto so slick that it’s as smooth as melted butter, yet can respond in an instant
• All-Wheel Drive: Acura SH-AWD with torque vectoring
• Suspension: For that Goldilocks balance of softness and firmness, adaptive dampers
• Brakes: Brembo front brakes provide strong stopping power
• Fuel Economy: EPA rated 19/24 city/hwy—not bad for a performance sedan

Inside the Cabin

Acura understands that sporty doesn’t have to be super harsh. The TLX Type S interior is more on the plush side of things, with soft-touch materials, neato contrast stitching, and a driver-centered design.

Highlights include:

• A 10.2-inch infotainment screen served through Acura’s touchpad interface (controversial, but you’ll learn it – eventually)
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (without the pesky wires)
• A flat-bottomed steering wheel and metallic paddle shifters that shout “let’s drive!”
• Optional NSX-inspired Orchid leather upholstery

TLX Type S Positive & Negative Aspects

The Pros 😁

• Stellar handling, helped by SH-AWD and adaptive suspension
• Inside, it is comfortable and plush with a handful of sporty accents
• It has an aggressive but civilized style — it will definitely garner attention
• Costs less than German competitors

The Cons 😞

• Steep learning curve for the infotainment
• Rear legroom is snug — it’s not going to be anyone’s first choice for shuttling adults around town
• MPG isn’t all that great

Competitors: Who’s in the Ring?

The TLX Type S faces stiff competition in the luxury sports sedan market. Here are its main rivals:

1. BMW M340i

   • Specs: 3.0L turbo inline-6, 382 HP, RWD (AWD available)
   • Pros: Typical BMW driving character, smooth powertrain
   • Cons: Becomes pricier with a few options

2. Audi S4

   • Specs: 3.0L turbo V6, 349 HP, Quattro AWD
   • Pros: Refined interior, standard AWD
   • Cons: Arguably a little too subtle styling-wise

3. Genesis G70 3.3T

   • Specs: 3.3L twin-turbo V6, 365 HP, RWD or AWD
   • Pros: Fantastic value, stunning, more daring design
   • Cons: Tighter back seat and trunk space

4. Kia Stinger GT2

   • Specs: 3.3L twin-turbo V6, 368 HP, optional AWD
   • Pros: Plenty of standard features, fun spirit
   • Cons: Restyled Kia badge won’t have the same lux cachet

Should You Snag a TLX Type S for yourself?

If you want a sporty sedan that’s entertaining behind the wheel yet still well-made and that won’t decimate your bank account, the 2024 Acura TLX Type S is a nice choice. No, it’s not perfect, but if you’re pricing out performance, luxury, and value, the G70 makes a compelling case. Added to that is the confidence of Acura’s reliability rep.

So, what do you think? Is the TLX Type S whispering your name, or are you tempted by a sporty rival? Share your thoughts in the comments below!