So, as you can see, the term “facelift” is perfect for this model as the updates are focused primarily on the exterior design. And, while there isn’t any major improvement to the interior and absolutely zero improvements to the mechanical bits and pieces under the hood, it’s still a fitting update after just a few short years on the market. With competition like the Infiniti Q50, Cadillac ATS, BMW 3 Series, and the Mercedes C-Class, the Acura TLX has its work cut out. Will the new looks be enough to keep the TLX relevant? Let’s take a good look and find out.
The Exterior Concept
The grille takes on a pentagonal shape with bold, thick chrome trim on all sides. It’s a nice look that is built upon by the new headlights which now come to a point in the upper, inner corners. They are still jewel-eye units in nature, but the outer corners of the lens also got a redesign for good measure. Down below, the rest of the fascia changed very little, but the corner vents have been redesigned for a sharper look and include new mesh. The fog lights here are also rectangular units as opposed to the round units found on pre-2018 models. The corner vents are accented by a much thicker chrome strip that wraps around the outside edge while the lips on the lower corners of the fascia are now more dominant.
The side profile of the TLX sees absolutely no change outside of a different matrix that’s visible in the portion of the external light units that wrap around the corners. Most models roll on 19-inch wheels while the A-Spec model gets 19-inch wheels. Around back, however, you’ll find that the taillights are much more attractive thanks to a new matrix layout while the lower portion of the rear fascia gets a nice makeover as well. Chrome strips that mimic those up front grace to corners while the rectangular exhaust outlets are surrounded by a mild diffuser-like element that adds a bit of style and class to this luxury sedan. All told, it’s a pretty good look vehicle, and the refresh was just what the doctor ordered, but how does it compare to the competition?
The New Interior Design
One complaint I didn’t have about the TLX when it debuted a few years ago was the interior. Acura actually did it right with the single-piece soft-touch dash to go with wood trim inserts on the face of the dash, the armrests of the door trim panels, and the center console. To help contrast things a bit, there’s a silver insert on the center console, center stack, and armrest to match the accents on the steering wheel. Milano leather is available as an option, while things like triple door seals, acoustic glass windshield, and active noise control are all standard. There’s heated and ventilated front seats, LED accent lighting, USB phone connectivity, and two displays in the center stack – one to display navigation and other information and another to control the infotainment system.
Now, this two-screen system felt a little unorthodox at first, but for 2018, it has been updated with more intuitive menus and is also 30-percent quicker than before. This system also includes a new capacitive screen that replaces the previously used resistive-style display. Standard features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Sirius XM, and a full-color TFT display in the instrument cluster.
The base model now comes standard with the AcuraWatch suite of driver-assist technologies. The V-6 models with the technology package now get updated seat styling with high-contrast stitching and piping, while the A-Spec gets new styling and trim inside to go with increased front seat bolstering, ventilated front seats, and a wireless charging pad. The TLX Advance Package adds on goodies like heated outboard rear seats, heated steering wheel, and a heated windshield. A-Spec models get red LED ambient light piping while the TLX V-6 Advance gets white LED light piping. All told, it’s a pretty impressive and comfortable cabin. It may not have taken too many updates with the facelift, but one could argue that meddling too much would have done more bad than good.
The Engine Power
We originally thought that Acura might see fit to provide at least some kind of minor upgrade in the powertrain department, but unfortunately, that isn’t the case. The TLX will carry over with the same engine options as before. The entry-level engine is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that delivers 206 horsepower at 6,800 rpm and 182 pound-feet of torque at 4,500 rpm. For those who prefer the power of six pistons, higher trim levels come with the 3.6-liter V-6 unit that has 290 horsepower and 6,200 rpm and 267 pound-feet of torque at 4,500 rpm.
Fuel economy ratings for the four-cylinder come in at 24 mpg in the city, 35 mpg on the highway, and 28 mpg combined while the V-6 gets 21, 34, and 25, respectively. V-6 models equipped with Acura’s SH-AWD system manage to pull 21 mpg in the city, 31 mpg on the highway, and 25 mpg combined. The V-6 gets variable cylinder management to assist with saving fuel. As far as shifting duties are concerned, four-cylinder models get an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission with paddle shifters while the V-6 models get a nine-speed automatic with paddle shifters. Both drivetrain setups get Acura’s Precision All-Wheel Steering. Most models roll on a 225/50-series, 18-inch tires while the TLX A-Spec rides on 245/40-series, 19-inch Michelin Primacy rubbers.
The Pricing and Release Date
The 2018 TLX sees a marginal pricing increase across the board, with the entry-level model increasing by as much as $1000 and the range-topping 3.5L SH-AWD with Advance Package increasing by as much as $550. With that in mind, expect to see a sticker price of $33,000 even on the entry-level TLX 2.4 (FWD only) if you want the technology package with the four-banger model, you’ll have to shell out $36,700. Moving up to the TLX V6 will have you paying out at least $36,200. Adding the technology package will up your buy-in to $39,900. If you want the A-Spec model, you’ll need to beg your wife for $42,800 or $44,800 if you want SH-AWD. Prices continue to increase from there with SH-AWD V-6 models climbing to $38,200. Add on the technology package, and you’ll pay $41,900. Going with the SH-AWD with the Advance Package will cost you $45,750.