There are cars that make you feel something, and then there are cars that make you feel something. The Acura TLX Type S is more than just a sedan; it’s a performance engine, a nod to Acura’s racing history, and a reminder that luxury can still excite the spirit.
This isn’t your typical luxury vehicle. It’s the kind of machine that rewards people who genuinely enjoy driving—the link between precision engineering and unadulterated emotion.
We’ll go into great detail about the performance, interior design, technology, and real-world living experience of the Acura TLX Type S in this review. The TLX Type S will pique your interest whether you’re a lifelong auto enthusiast or just someone who values style and functionality.
1. The Rebirth of a Legend: Why the TLX Type S Matters
Acura, Honda’s luxury brand, was renowned for its dependability and sophistication for many years. However, things changed in 2021. Fans had been missing Acura’s Type S performance badge for more than ten years, so the company decided to bring it back.
The flagship of that resurgence was the Acura TLX Type S, which demonstrated that Acura was still capable of producing a sedan that combined control, speed, and comfort.
By 2025, it’s evident that this vehicle signifies Acura’s comeback to the market rather than merely a return to form.
A Purpose Beyond Performance
The TLX Type S was designed to reinvent Acura’s brand, not merely to compete with Audis and BMWs. It delivers the elegance that modern drivers desire while preserving the brand’s racing heritage.
The engine speaks to your heart when you turn it on, not just roaring. That’s what separates a masterpiece from a machine.
2. Exterior Design: A Statement in Motion
The Acura TLX Type S leaves a lasting impression upon first sight. It’s the type of car that makes you turn around and take another look because it appears confident, poised, and muscular.
Acura’s designers weren’t content with subtlety. They created something that appears to be alive..
Key Design Features:
- Diamond Pentagon Grille: Bold and aggressive, framed by jewel-eye LED headlights.
- Quad Exhaust Tips: A signature Type S touch that screams performance.
- 19-inch Shark Gray Wheels: Wrapped in Pirelli P-Zero tires for both style and grip.
- Aerodynamic Sculpting: Every curve has a purpose, from the front splitter to the rear spoiler.
Colors That Speak Emotion
Acura offers several color options, but none more iconic than Tiger Eye Pearl — a deep, liquid gold hue that glows like sunset on polished metal. It’s a color that captures the spirit of the car — bold, confident, and unmistakable.
Dimensions and Stance
The TLX Type S sits lower and wider than many rivals, giving it a strong, planted stance. This isn’t a car that blends in — it’s one that commands attention without shouting for it.
| Specification | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Length | 194.6 inches |
| Width | 75.2 inches |
| Height | 55.5 inches |
| Wheelbase | 113.0 inches |
| Curb Weight | ~4,200 lbs |
Everything about its proportions whispers balance and athleticism — like a well-trained athlete ready to sprint at any moment.
3. Performance: Where Power Meets Precision
When you press the start button of the Acura TLX Type S, it comes alive with a deep, confident growl. The car feels eager — ready to translate every inch of throttle into pure emotion.
Engine & Transmission
A 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine, designed specifically for Type S models, powers the engine. Through a 10-speed automatic transmission, it generates 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque.
This engine is a heart made for rhythm, not just numbers. It provides a burst of energy that is both effortless and exhilarating. It is responsive, powerful, and smooth.
Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system, or SH-AWD, is the secret weapon that enables you to maneuver through corners with grace and accuracy.
| Performance Specs | Acura TLX Type S |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0L Turbo V6 |
| Horsepower | 355 hp |
| Torque | 354 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | SH-AWD (All-Wheel Drive) |
| 0-60 mph | ~4.9 seconds |
| Top Speed | ~155 mph (limited) |
Real-World Feel
The way the TLX Type S strikes a balance between power and control is what really sets it apart. Yes, it’s quick, but it’s also calm. It feels natural and connected whether you’re navigating a mountain road or cruising through urban streets.
You can feel the road beneath your fingertips because the steering has actual weight. Brembo calipers on the upgraded brakes provide immediate assurance.
In addition to getting you from point A to point B, this car gives you a sense of aliveness in the process.
4. Ride and Handling: The Dance of Comfort and Control
Every luxury sport sedan tries to balance smoothness with sportiness. Few succeed. The TLX Type S comes close to perfection.
Adaptive Dampers
Acura’s adaptive suspension constantly adjusts to your driving style and road conditions. In Comfort mode, the TLX feels refined and serene, floating over imperfections. Switch to Sport+, and it tightens up — every movement becomes sharp, precise, almost telepathic.
Drive Modes That Reflect Your Mood
The Dynamic Mode Selector lets you personalize your experience:
- Comfort – smooth and quiet cruising
- Normal – balanced for daily driving
- Sport – sharper throttle and steering
- Sport+ – full power unleashed, louder exhaust, and quicker response
And with the Individual setting, you can mix your favorite elements — maybe Sport steering with Comfort suspension. It’s like tuning your own performance symphony.
5. Interior: Crafted for the Heart, Not Just the Hands
Step inside the Acura TLX Type S, and it’s like entering a cockpit designed for both comfort and emotion. Every detail feels deliberate — every material chosen to create harmony between luxury and sport.
Design Language
Luxurious Milano leather and Ultrasuede envelop the interior, combining visual drama with tactile comfort. With controls ideally positioned for convenience and reach, the dashboard flows naturally around the driver.
The Type S badges, contrast stitching, and flat-bottom steering wheel serve as a reminder that this is no ordinary TLX.
Seats That Hug You
The sport seats are soft enough for lengthy highway drives but designed to keep you in place during aggressive driving. Standard features include heated and ventilated front seats; certain packages also include massage capabilities.
Like melody and rhythm, comfort and performance complement each other in the TLX Type S.
Infotainment and Connectivity
A 10.2-inch HD display serves as the focal point of Acura’s infotainment system, which is operated by a True Touchpad Interface on the center console. It might take some time to get used to, but eventually it becomes instinctive.
You get all the features you would anticipate in a contemporary luxury vehicle, including Wi-Fi hotspot, Alexa built in, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay.
ELS Studio 3D Audio: A Concert on Wheels
Grammy-winning producer Elliot Scheiner’s 17-speaker ELS Studio 3D sound system is also worthy of praise. With its rich bass, clear highs, and immersive clarity, it turns your cabin into a live performance space.
Music envelops you rather than merely playing. The soundstage feels alive and intimate, whether you’re listening to jazz, rock, or the soft rhythm of your own thoughts.
Interior Dimensions
| Category | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Passenger Volume | 93.4 cu ft |
| Front Legroom | 42.3 in |
| Rear Legroom | 34.9 in |
| Cargo Capacity | 13.5 cu ft |
It’s not the roomiest sedan in its class, but the TLX Type S prioritizes driving position and engagement over sheer volume. It feels tailored — like a fine Italian suit that fits perfectly.
6. Emotional Core: The Spirit Behind the Machine
The Acura TLX Type S is about the feeling of driving, not just about numbers or technology.
A car that successfully blends performance, beauty, and soul has a very personal quality.
The years of engineering, the pride of Japanese craftsmanship, and the love of motion are all felt when you push the accelerator.
The TLX Type S serves as a reminder that sound and sensation are still important in an electric-silent world.
That soft rumble at idle is it. That sharp reaction when you shift gears. That moment when you park and turn around to take in the view again.
It’s more than just a car; that’s the TLX Type S experience. A memory is just waiting to be created.
A Symphony of Comfort and Confidence
One of the biggest highlights in this Acura TLX Type S review is the way it balances comfort and confidence. Unlike many performance sedans that sacrifice ride quality for sharper handling, the TLX Type S knows how to make you feel at ease — even when you’re not chasing lap times.
Slip into the leather-trimmed seats, and you’ll notice how meticulously they’re sculpted. They’re neither too firm nor too soft — just the right amount of support that cradles you through every curve while keeping you relaxed during long highway drives. Acura’s designers have found that sweet spot where luxury meets athleticism.
Acura has also equipped the TLX Type S with adaptive dampers that adjust to your mood. Choose Comfort mode, and it glides over potholes and uneven roads like a calm river. Switch to Sport+, and suddenly, it feels like a completely different beast — firm, responsive, and eager to dance through corners.
The steering feels light but direct, giving you the sense of control that luxury car enthusiasts crave. It’s that kind of driving confidence that makes even everyday commutes feel engaging and special.
Infotainment and Technology — A High-Tech Cocoon
Technology is where this Acura TLX Type S review gets even more exciting. Acura’s True Touchpad Interface might feel different at first, but give it a few minutes, and you’ll see how intuitively it works. Instead of dragging or swiping, you simply touch the corresponding area of the pad that matches the screen’s layout — it’s surprisingly precise once you get used to it.
The 10.2-inch HD display is crisp, with clean graphics and a layout that’s both elegant and functional. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, and they work wirelessly — no more fumbling with cables when you’re rushing out the door.
If you’re a music lover, prepare to fall in love with the ELS Studio 3D premium sound system. This 17-speaker masterpiece was tuned by Grammy-winning sound engineer Elliot Scheiner. Whether it’s the soft strum of an acoustic guitar or the thunderous beat of a live concert, the clarity and depth of sound will make you close your eyes and just feel.
Even small details shine — like ambient lighting that changes with drive modes, a panoramic sunroof that bathes the cabin in natural light, and a digital instrument cluster that blends sportiness with elegance.
Luxury Meets Functionality
Luxury is about how a car makes you feel, not just how it looks. Furthermore, it’s hard to overlook how well-thought-out every component is in this Acura TLX Type S review.
From a large door pocket to a deep center console, storage areas are thoughtfully positioned. There is ample space in the trunk for grocery shopping, weekend trips, and even a few golf bags. The TLX Type S feels functional rather than pretentious in every way.
Additionally, the materials combine durability and luxury. Open-pore wood, soft-touch leather, and real aluminum accents combine to create a luxurious atmosphere that can easily compete with European rivals. However, what makes Acura unique is the Japanese craftsmanship and the feeling that this vehicle is made for practical, everyday use rather than just show.
Safety and Driver Assistance — Peace of Mind on Every Drive
A key part of any Acura TLX Type S review is how safe and smart it is. Acura has equipped this sedan with the full AcuraWatch suite, which includes:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS)
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
- Road Departure Mitigation (RDM)
- Traffic Sign Recognition
Without being obtrusive, these systems operate smoothly in the background, offering timely alerts and mild corrections. An additional degree of security is provided by the rear cross-traffic alert and blind-spot monitoring, which are ideal for congested intersections or small city parking lots.
Additionally, a 360° view of your surroundings is provided by the Surround-View Camera System. It makes parking and maneuvering a breeze, much like having your own personal guardian angel.
Performance in Real Life — Everyday Supercar Feel
The TLX Type S’s real-world performance is what really sets it apart. Delivering joy, balance, and emotional connection each time you get behind the wheel is more important than reaching insane top speeds.
The throttle response has been perfected by Acura. The 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 has a lively, responsive, and well-balanced feel. There is instantaneous, seamless power instead of annoying lag. What about that exhaust note? When you push it, it has the perfect growl and is both elegant and exhilarating.
You can feel the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) distributing torque between the wheels when you drive aggressively. It allows the TLX Type S to grasp corners almost telepathically. It maintains its composure even in slick or rainy conditions, arousing confidence instead of fear.
The paddle shifters provide quick gear changes for control-hungry enthusiasts, and the transmission feels smart, adjusting to your driving style. Both the weekend thrill-seeker and the serene commuter will benefit from this type of vehicle.
How It Compares — A Challenger to European Elites
In this Acura TLX Type S review, one question naturally arises: Can it compete with the Germans?
The short answer — absolutely.
| Feature | Acura TLX Type S | BMW M340i | Audi S4 | Mercedes-AMG C43 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0L Turbo V6 | 3.0L Turbo I6 | 3.0L Turbo V6 | 2.0L Turbo I4 |
| Horsepower | 355 hp | 382 hp | 349 hp | 402 hp |
| Drivetrain | SH-AWD | xDrive | Quattro | 4MATIC |
| 0–60 mph | 4.9 sec | 4.2 sec | 4.4 sec | 4.5 sec |
| Starting Price | ~$58,000 | ~$58,500 | ~$52,000 | ~$61,000 |
While the TLX Type S may not have the fastest 0–60 time, it offers superior comfort, unique personality, and exceptional handling at a price that’s refreshingly reasonable. It’s not just competing — it’s challenging the status quo.
Fuel Efficiency and Practicality
Performance vehicles frequently have higher gas prices, but Acura keeps costs reasonable. For a performance sedan of this size, the TLX Type S’s fuel economy of about 19 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway is reasonable.
With an efficient turbocharger and a start-stop system that helps save energy during traffic stops, Acura’s engineering makes sure the vehicle doesn’t use fuel excessively. It strikes a careful balance between pragmatism and passion.
Long-Term Ownership — More Than Just a Drive
Owner satisfaction is yet another excellent feature of this Acura TLX Type S review. Unlike some of its European competitors, which can be costly to maintain, Acura has established a reputation for long-term dependability and affordable maintenance costs.
You’re investing in peace of mind, not just a car. The following are covered under Acura’s warranty:
- 4 years / 50,000 miles basic warranty
- 6 years / 70,000 miles powertrain warranty
Add to that Acura’s outstanding customer service and dealer support, and you get a package that’s both thrilling and reassuring.
Emotional Connection — More Than Metal and Power
Vehicles such as the TLX Type S serve as a reminder of the reasons we initially fell in love with driving. It’s not just about getting where you’re going; it’s also about how you feel about it.
You sense a pulse when you turn on the engine; it’s a rhythm that ties you to the road. The Acura TLX Type S is a vehicle that expresses who you are in addition to being a means of transportation. Bold, stylish, and powerful, it is also modest in a way that only a genuine driver’s car can be.
Driving a car that was designed to move you, not just move you, evokes strong emotions. It conveys a tale of passion and accuracy in every detail, line, and roar.
Final Verdict — The Spirit of Performance and Grace
One conclusion can be drawn from this review of the Acura TLX Type S: this sedan is a masterwork of balance. It is athletic yet opulent, strong yet calm, sentimental yet pragmatic.
The TLX Type S should be at the top of your list if you’ve ever desired a vehicle that embodies your passion for performance without compromising style.
It proudly coexists with the finest in Europe while maintaining a unique identity that combines Japanese craftsmanship, American fervor, and international performance excellence.
The Acura TLX Type S demonstrates that you don’t have to shell out six figures to enjoy genuine automotive artistry in the world of performance sedans, where engineering and emotion meet.
Key Highlights at a Glance
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0L Turbocharged V6 producing 355 hp |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic with paddle shifters |
| Drivetrain | Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) |
| Interior | Milano leather seats, ELS 3D Sound, digital cluster |
| 0–60 mph | Around 4.9 seconds |
| MSRP | Starting around $58,000 |
| Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles (basic), 6 years / 70,000 miles (powertrain) |
Final Words
The Acura TLX Type S is a statement rather than just a vehicle. An affirmation that performance and luxury can coexist harmoniously.
This sedan is for you if you love cars and want something that keeps your life comfortable while making your heart race. It’s more than just a nameplate; it’s a motivating experience that stokes passion, fosters relationships, and brings happiness every day.
To put it briefly, the Acura TLX Type S is felt as much as driven.
