A Worthy Successor: 2015 Acura TLX sedan
The 2015 Acura TLX is an all-new midsize sports sedan that is the successor to the TL, positioned between the ILX entry-luxury sedan and the RLX flagship Acura sedan. Developed under the theme of 'Red Carpet Athlete,' the all-new TLX is designed to deliver a unique and compelling blend of sports-sedan athleticism and premium (red-carpet) luxury refinement, while delivering on Acura's 'Synergy Between Man and Machine' product direction – characterized by vehicles that perform "at the will of the driver" with intuitive, exhilarating and confidence-inspiring driving dynamics.
The TLX's new chassis, powertrains and precision-handling technologies are wrapped in a lithe new exterior design with taut body surfaces, dynamically sculpted fender arches, and purposeful character lines. Its sporting character is emphasized by more compact sports-sedan proportions: Compared to the outgoing TL sedan, the 2015 TLX is shorter in overall length while maintaining the same wheelbase and tandem (front-to-rear) passenger-seating distance. The TLX's front and rear overhangs have also been shortened when compared to the outgoing TL.
For the 2015 model year, there are three distinct TLX model offerings: TLX equipped with a 2.4L i-VTEC four-cylinder engine mated to an eight-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (8DCT) with torque converter and Precision All-Wheel Steer (P-AWS); TLX outfitted with a 3.5L i-VTEC V-6 motor joined to a nine-speed automatic transmission and P-AWS; and the TLX SH-AWD with next-generation Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive, available only with the 3.5L V-6 and nine-speed automatic.
Near-limit and high speed maneuvering capabilities of both the P-AWS and SH-AWD models are further enhanced by the use of Agile Handling Assist (AHA), which utilizes the TLX's Vehicle Stability Assist and premium six-piston brake modulator to create a yaw moment (a vehicle turning force), helping the driver smoothly and easily trace the desired line with smaller steering-wheel inputs. AHA stabilizes the car earlier than conventional VSA, resulting in more agile and engaging dynamic performance in everyday driving conditions.
All TLX models also feature the latest development of Acura's Integrated Dynamics System (IDS), which allows drivers to customize their driving experience through four selectable modes – ECON, Normal, Sport and Sport+. Depending on the setting, IDS will adjust power-steering effort, throttle response, transmission shift logic, HVAC system operation, and the control logic for either the P-AWS or SH-AWD systems. The new Sport+ mode, a first for Acura, unlocks the full performance potential of the TLX with the most aggressive settings in all areas.
The TLX is built on an all-new platform (body and chassis) that features a newly designed four-wheel independent suspension system – McPherson Strut front and multi-link rear – with revised geometry and new Amplitude Reactive Dampers for improved ride comfort and handling performance. New Motion-Adaptive Electronic Power Steering delivers a high level of steering precision and responsiveness while aiding fuel efficiency. It also works cooperatively with the vehicle's Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) traction-control system to help the driver maintain vehicle control in slippery road conditions.
The TLX's unit body utilizes advanced lightweight materials, including ultra-high-strength steels, aluminum (hood, bumper beams and front subframe) and magnesium (steering hangar beam), to minimize weight while providing for a high degree of rigidity that benefits both dynamic performance and occupant safety.
Inside the passenger cabin, the TLX's spacious five-passenger interior is designed and engineered to underscore the 'Red Carpet Athlete' development theme of the new TLX, providing a high degree of refinement, luxury comfort and technological sophistication while supporting an exhilarating driving experience. High-end premium elements include a soft-touch, one-piece instrument panel upper cover, alloy and wood-grain accents, and available Milano leather seat trim.
The TLX also features a new 60/40-split folding rear seatback for greater cargo-carrying flexibility and a new trunk design featuring a wider and deeper opening, a lower lift-over height, a fully flat cargo floor, and two new optional under floor storage compartments.
Dimensions & specifications
Wheelbase: 109.3; overall length: 190.3; width: 73.0; height: 57.0
All vehicle measurements in inches.
Engine: 2.4L four-cylinder – 206 hp at 6,800 rpm and 182 lbs-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm; 3.5L V6 – 290 hp at 6,200 rpm and 267 lbs-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm.
Transmission: eight-speed DCT (dual clutch transmission); nine-speed automatic.
EPA Fuel Economy: 2.4L four-cylinder – 24 city/35 hwy.; 3.5L V6 – 21 city/34 hwy. (FWD); 21 city/31 hwy. (AWD).
Cargo capacity: 13.2 cubic feet
Safety features
Dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, dual head curtain airbags, driver’s knee airbag, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, brake assist, electronic brake distribution, vehicle stability assist with traction control and motion adaptive steering, multi-view rear camera, LED daytime running lights, theft deterrent system with electronic immobilizer, tire pressure monitoring system with tire fill assist, tire sealant and repair kit, hill start assist, automatic headlamps, Bluetooth hands free phone system, HomeLink, keyless access system, and push button ignition. TLX V-6 SH-AWD adds rain-sensing windshield wipers, forward collision warning system, lane departure warning system, lane keeping assist system, blind spot information system, rear cross traffic monitor, navigation system, and next-generation AcuraLink.
Optional safety features include collision mitigation braking system with head-up warning, adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, front/rear parking sensors, remote engine start with vehicle feedback, and LED fog lights.
Warranty
Basic: 4-year/50,000 mile
Powertrain: 6-year/70,000 mile
Corrosion: 5-year/unlimited
Roadside Assistance: 4-year/50,000 mile 24-hour
Pricing
The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2015 Acura TLX sedan starts from $31,445 for 2.4L upto $35,320 for the 3.5L. Destination charges add $920.
