Adapted Video Transcript
In simplest terms, the 2021 Acura TLX Type S is a TLX with more power, racier handling, and track-ready Brembo brakes. That is a lazy encapsulation, but Acura went to all the effort of renting a racetrack for our TLX test, so let’s dig deeper.
2021 Acura TLX Type S Engine
Item one is the engine. The base TLX’s turbocharged 2-liter engine has been replaced with V6, boosted by a single twin-scroll turbocharger (355hp, 354 lb-ft). The V6’s output is shuttled through a “sport-tuned” 10-speed automatic transmission to Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system.
Quick recap, the “super” part of that name refers to how the system can send up to 70% of the engine’s power rearward. And up to 100% of that power to either the left or right rear tire. The ability to focus power on the outside tire helps the TLX turn with enhanced gusto.
As for the chassis, it has been stiffened, including through the use of a cool brace located behind the rear seats. Attached to the chassis is a suspension with standard adaptive dampers. The wheels are 20-inchers, and the tires are 255/35 Pirelli all-seasons. But you can also choose Pirelli P Zero summer tires mounted to NSX-inspired wheels that drop nearly 6 pounds per corner.
Acura TLX Type S Interior and Exterior
If you would like to spot the Type S in a crowd, just look for its dark trim, quad exhaust outlets, lower lip spoiler, and this pentagonal grille that has been reworked for better airflow. Or, perhaps, a slew of Type S badges might tip you off. Inside, you’ll find more Type S insignia and Ultrasuede 16-way seats with adjustable side bolsters.
Driving Performance of the 2021 Acura TLX Type S
In motion, I love how the standard TLX steers. It has a steering ratio that quickens off-center yields a satisfying blend of high-speed stability and low-speed agility. The Type S offers that same feel just slightly quickened throughout the steering wheels movement. The result is a satisfying urgency when steering.
Despite the Type S’s sporting intentions, ride comfort is excellent in comfort mode. While the Type S features 40% stiffer front springs versus the standard car, the standard adaptive dampers still mask the worst road imperfections
As for power, there is more than enough. Floor the accelerator for immediate propulsive hit followed by a rising swell of thrust as the turbocharger spins up to speed.
In comfort or normal modes, the transmission doesn’t downshift as quickly as I might expect. But, switching to Sport mode perks up the transmission’s alertness.
Sports Mode on the Acura TLX Type S
I will add that the Type S adds a 5th drive mode to the TLX’s roster. Sport + mode speeds upshifts, tweaks throttle response, opens the active exhaust valves for all phases of flight, and optimizes the SH-AWD system. To activate Sport +, just hold the dynamic mode knob to the right for 1 second while in sport mode.
Oh, and while there isn’t a true launch control feature, with Sport + active, you can mash the brake pedal, floor the accelerator, and the Type S will hold the revs around 2,000 rpm for an eager standing start.
When applied to the nearest racetrack, the 2021 TLX Type S continues to impress. While there is enough power for a good time, what impressed me were the brakes. They stop confidently with a firm, satisfying pedal feel. That excellent brake feel comes via 4-piston Brembo front brakes with 14.3-inch discs operated by an electro server brake controller derived from the NSX.
Left in Sport Plus mode, the transmission was always in the correct gear. Approaching Laguna Seca’s renowned corkscrew, the 10-speed smartly downshifted without my intervention, landing in the correct gear for a speedy departure at the corner’s exit.
Adding to the good track vibes is a steering wheel that approaches ergonomic perfection when held at the 9 and 3 position. I will add that the seats held me in place well, and their standard ventilation kept me comfortably cool.
On a critical note, the V6 sounds fine, but Acura could have injected more audible emotion. For reference, check out the crackly bombastic sounds of the Hyundai Veloster N.
Acura TLX Type S Gas Mileage
The TLX Type S is decently efficient, returning 19 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway.
Price: How Much the 2021 Acura TLX Type S Costs
As for price, the 2021 Acura TLX Type S starts at $52,300 plus destination charges. That is a healthy jump versus the standard TLX’s base price of $37,500, but the Type S does come loaded, and some types of fun cost money.
Final Thoughts
Keep in mind, there are pricier performance sedans out there. For instance, a base BMW M340i xDrive has a 27-horsepower advantage versus the Type S but costs thousands more. Meanwhile, the Audi S4 starts under $50,000, but it is down 6 horsepower and lacks the Type S’s rich equipment list.
Compare similarly equipped models, and the TLX Type S is a compelling value. That said, the Type S alternative I am interested in is the upcoming 2022 Genesis G70. With a twin-turbo, 365-horsepower V6, rear-wheel drive, and a limited-slip differential, that G70 should be a heaping pile of fun.
Like the standard TLX, the TLX Type S is a bit understated. Depending on your taste, that is a plus or minus. Personally, I dig it. I also dig Acura’s holistic approach to performance. Every aspect of the Type S has been thoughtfully considered. Whether driving the open road or a closed course, the Type S quick, composed, and, most importantly, fun. And man, I think we’re all overdue for a bit of fun.
