Acura continues to refine its formula of blending athletic performance with upscale comfort, and the 2025 TLX embodies that duality better than ever. Though not an all-new generation, this year’s TLX brings thoughtful updates in design, technology, and safety—building on an already capable and stylish platform.
For buyers considering a premium midsize sedan without venturing into the stratospheric price tags of German rivals, the TLX offers an attractive proposition. Let’s explore everything that makes the 2025 Acura TLX stand out—from its powertrain and handling to interior features, pricing, and beyond.
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What’s New in the 2025 Acura TLX?
The TLX hasn’t undergone a full redesign for 2025, but it benefits from subtle yet meaningful upgrades. Acura’s designers have massaged the exterior for a sharper look, and engineers have improved its tech suite across the lineup.
Notable updates include:
- A redesigned front fascia with a more aggressive grille and new LED lighting signature
- Fresh wheel designs that inject a modern flair to each trim
- A significantly updated infotainment system featuring a larger, crisper display and better voice command functionality
- AcuraWatch 360+ safety tech now standard on all models
- Enhanced interior materials, particularly in A-Spec and Type S variants
These changes help the TLX remain competitive in a luxury sedan market where tech, performance, and safety are top priorities.
Engine Options and Performance Specs
One of the TLX’s strongest traits is its powertrain versatility. Acura provides two distinct engine options that cater to both comfort-oriented drivers and those seeking a more spirited experience.
Base TLX (2.0T)
- Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4
- Horsepower: 272 hp
- Torque: 280 lb-ft
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive standard, SH-AWD optional
- 0–100 km/h: ~6.1 seconds
- Top Speed: ~210 km/h
TLX Type S
- Engine: 3.0-liter turbocharged V6
- Horsepower: 355 hp
- Torque: 354 lb-ft
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Standard Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD)
- 0–100 km/h: ~4.9 seconds
- Top Speed: ~250 km/h
While the base engine delivers strong day-to-day usability, the Type S dials up the excitement significantly. Its turbocharged V6 offers thrilling acceleration, a racy exhaust tone, and enhanced cornering confidence with its advanced AWD system.
Ride Quality and Driving Experience
The 2025 TLX continues to impress with a composed, rewarding driving character. Acura fits all trims with a double-wishbone front suspension—a nod to its performance roots—and it pays off on both back roads and highway cruising.
Base trims feel refined and planted, striking a confident balance between comfort and engagement. The A-Spec variant spices things up with sportier tuning, while the Type S introduces serious upgrades like adaptive dampers, stiffer stabilizer bars, and Brembo brakes. These changes give it a noticeably sharper edge over rivals.
Steering is precise and weighted just right, and road noise is minimal. It’s a great all-rounder whether you’re commuting or carving up mountain roads.
Tech & Interior Features: A High-Tech Haven
Step inside the 2025 TLX and you’ll find a cabin that’s elegant, intuitive, and loaded with tech. Acura has focused on improving usability and tactile quality, particularly in the upper trims.
Every TLX now comes with:
- A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with configurable views
- A 12.3-inch center display with improved UI and faster performance
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Amazon Alexa Built-In
- Available 17-speaker ELS Studio 3D premium audio
- Wireless phone charging
- Dual-zone climate control
- Heated and ventilated power front seats with memory settings
Interior quality is significantly improved, especially in the A-Spec and Type S, where Ultrasuede, brushed metal, and contrast stitching create a sport-lux vibe. Rear seating is decent, though not quite as roomy as rivals like the BMW 5 Series or Audi A6.
Safety and AcuraWatch 360+: Confidence Comes Standard
Safety continues to be a major strength of the TLX. For 2025, every model includes AcuraWatch 360+, a comprehensive suite of active driver aids. Features include:
- Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality
- Lane keeping assist and road departure mitigation
- Blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
- Traffic jam assist
- Collision mitigation braking system
With a solid reputation from the IIHS and NHTSA in prior years, the 2025 TLX is poised to retain top safety ratings, making it a dependable pick for families and commuters alike.
Fuel Economy: Balanced for Performance
Considering its turbocharged powertrains and performance tuning, the TLX returns competitive—though not standout—fuel economy figures.
- 2.0T FWD: ~24 mpg city / 33 mpg highway
- 2.0T SH-AWD: ~22 mpg city / 30 mpg highway
- Type S: ~19 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
These numbers are reasonable within the sport sedan class but fall short of hybrid competitors. If maximum fuel savings are a top concern, you may want to explore options in our 2025 Tesla Model X Plaid review.
2025 TLX Trim Levels and Pricing Breakdown
Acura offers the TLX in four main trims, each tailored to different priorities:
- TLX Base (FWD): ~$45,000 USD
- TLX Technology Package: ~$47,500 USD
- TLX A-Spec (SH-AWD standard): ~$50,000 USD
- TLX Type S: ~$58,000 USD
These trims cover a wide range of luxury, performance, and tech upgrades. Acura has done a good job ensuring each variant feels well-equipped, with strong value compared to more expensive European alternatives.
Pros and Cons of the 2025 TLX
Pros: The TLX blends style, performance, and luxury into a sleek sedan that’s fun to drive. The Type S is a legitimate sports sedan, and even base trims feel premium. Standard safety and tech features across all trims boost its value proposition.
Cons: The True Touchpad Interface, while improved, still lacks the intuitiveness of a touchscreen. Rear legroom is slightly limited, and the fuel economy can’t match hybrid options.
Alternatives: How Does It Compare?
The TLX competes with some of the most refined sedans in the segment. Here’s how it measures up:
- BMW 3 Series: Sharper driving dynamics but a higher starting price and fewer standard features.
- Audi A4: Luxurious and high-tech, though less sporty than the TLX Type S.
- Genesis G70: A strong value pick with an opulent cabin but tighter interior space.
- Lexus IS 350: Reliable and smooth, but aging infotainment and cramped rear seats hold it back.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About the 2025 Acura TLX
What’s the top speed of the 2025 TLX?
Type S models reach about 250 km/h; standard 2.0T trims peak around 210 km/h.
How fast is 0–100 km/h?
Roughly 6.1 seconds for the 2.0T; the Type S does it in around 4.9 seconds.
What engine or motor does it have?
A 2.0L turbo inline-4 or a 3.0L turbocharged V6, depending on the trim.
What’s the horsepower and torque?
272 hp / 280 lb-ft (2.0T) and 355 hp / 354 lb-ft (Type S).
How much does it weigh?
Between 3,700 and 4,200 lbs depending on configuration.
What’s the fuel economy or electric range?
No electric version. Fuel economy ranges from 19 to 33 mpg.
How safe is it?
Very safe. AcuraWatch 360+ is standard, and it’s expected to earn top crash-test scores.
What’s the price and availability?
Starts at about $45,000 and available from mid-2024.
What are its trim levels?
Base, Technology Package, A-Spec, and Type S.
How does it compare to the 2025 Acura NSX?
The NSX is a hybrid supercar. Learn more in our 2025 Acura NSX review.
Final Verdict: Is the 2025 TLX Worth Buying?
The 2025 Acura TLX doesn’t redefine its class, but it doesn’t need to. It’s a well-rounded sport sedan with updated styling, smart tech improvements, and an optional high-output Type S variant that genuinely thrills. Factor in a strong safety package and attainable pricing, and it’s clear the TLX holds serious appeal.
If you want a luxury sedan that delivers both excitement and refinement—without the inflated cost of European badges—the TLX should be high on your list.
Also worth exploring: Discover our performance EV favorites in 2025 Tesla Model X Plaid review.
