The facelifted 2018 Acura TLX sedan was unveiled at the New York Auto Show sporting a new look that incorporates a grille design similar to that used on the updated 2017 MDX that bowed at the same show a year ago. In addition to its bolder new face, the TLX now offers three distinct variants including an all-new A-Spec model.
“We’ve really upped the ante in terms of styling, emotion and road presence, more effectively communicating the TLX’s dynamic capabilities,” Jon Ikeda, Acura’s vice president and general manager, said of the redesign.
Distinct characteristics
The base 2018 TLX with the carryover 206-horsepower 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine backed by an 8-speed dual clutch transmission boasts a its own sporty front fascia, including the diamond pentagon grille, new bumper, a more sculpted hood and fenders plus redesigned headlamps with LED turn signals. It rides on a new standard 17-inch wheel and tire package.
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The V6 TLX has a slightly more aggressive look, including a revamped rear fascia with exposed rectangular dual exhaust tips, rear diffuser and standard 18-inch wheels. This model also comes with a 9-speed automatic transmission. When equipped with the Technology Package, the V6 TLX gains a chrome side-sill garnish, new seats with contrast stitching and power adjustable thigh support on the driver’s side. Models equipped with the Advance Package benefit from new trapezoidal LED fog lights, surround view camera, built-in wireless charging pad, white LED ambient lighting, heated steering wheel, heated outboard rear seats, body-colored decklid spoiler and power-folding side mirrors.
New A-spec
At the top of the line is the new 2018 TLX A-Spec model, which is available in either front- or Super Handling-All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). It has its own front fascia featuring round LED fog lights, aggressive side sill extensions; rear diffuser with large round dual exhaust tips; a gloss black decklid spoiler along with other exterior trim bits and dark finish 19-inch alloy wheels with 245-series performance tires.
The A Spec backs up its sportier look with a tauter suspension and retuned steering for a sharper response, while SH-AWD versions have stiffer springs and a rear stabilizer bar for improved body control. Inside, the sport-oriented theme is carried over with more aggressively bolstered leather-covered seats, red highlights on the instruments, brushed aluminum-look accents and a thick-rimmed sport steering wheel. The leather upholstery is offer in red or black with Alcantara seat and door inserts.
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Among the standard features on all TLX models is collision mitigation braking, with automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control and road departure mitigation all bundled in the AcuraWatch safety suite.
The 2018 Acura TLX goes on sale later this year with pricing yet to be announced.
