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2018 Acura TLX review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
6 photos

Acura TLX highlights

Customer rating

RepairPal reliability rating

Pros

  • Interior is quiet and features quality materials
  • Many driver aids are standard
  • Back seat is large enough for adults

Cons

  • Driving experience can be bland
  • Base engine is underpowered
  • Touchscreen interface is complicated

Mileage (EPA estimate)

20 city, 29 highway, 23 combined

Pricing for current inventory

From $24,998*

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2018 Acura TLX offers value, performance

The Acura TLX received a front-end facelift for the 2018 model year in addition to most driver aids becoming standard equipment. Those updates help the TLX straddle the line between luxury and mainstream sedans. Acura isn't trying to compete toe-to-toe with rivals like Mercedes-Benz or BMW on performance or luxury, but the TLX does offer a value-based comparison for those seeking a peppier sedan.

The TLX may not be the most exciting car in its category, but it also offers few downsides. Its interior is roomy without feeling too large; the suspension delivers a smooth ride even on bumpy roads; and it's generally pleasant to drive, whether opting for the six-cylinder engine or sticking with the base 4-cylinder.

Its updated two-screen infotainment system can be complicated to use as it mixes touchscreen controls with buttons to mixed success. The air conditioning system is also merely satisfactory; it can take a long time for the cabin to be cooled.

All Acura TLX years

Not sure what year to select? Learn about each Acura TLX generation from 2015 to 2025

What is new for the 2018 Acura TLX?

  • The TLX is available in a variety of new trims, including the A-Spec and SH-AWD A-Spec.
  • TLX trims have been upgraded with Rear Seat Heaters, Heated Steering Wheel, Rear Spoiler, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto as standard equipment this year.
  • Leather & Suede Seats and Head Up Display features are now available as options on select trims.

2018 Acura TLX trims

Curious how Acura TLX trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

Base:

  • 290-hp, 267-lb-ft of torque 3.5L
  • 206-hp, 182-lb-ft of torque 2.4L
  • Cruise Control
  • Sunroofs
  • Rear Defroster
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Power Seats
  • Memory Seats
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Power Mirrors
  • View our Acura TLX inventory

SH-AWD A-Spec:

A-Spec:

Acura TLX photos

What We Like

Comfort: The TLX's suspension helps deliver a smooth ride, making the sedan a solid companion for commuting and long road trips. The driver's seat is adjustable and comfortable, while the back seat offers plenty of legroom for adult passengers.

Interior: It isn't flashy, but the functional interior of the TLX uses quality materials and makes good use of its space. There's plenty of headroom in the back seat and getting in and out of the sedan is easy.

Performance: The optional V6 engine offers more pep and power, but the standard four-cylinder engine is paired with a better transmission. Handling is where the TLX shines; steering is natural and the sedan navigates sharp turns well.

What Needs Improvement

Tech: The dual-screen infotainment system can be a bit complicated and distracting. Acura mixes physical buttons and a single knob with a touchscreen with limited success. It offers Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, which can help avoid some of the TLX's pitfalls.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

4.6 out of 5

8 customer reviews
Based on customer reviews, the 2018 Acura TLX is a great car with all the bells and whistles and is very fast. Customers also like the modern technology and luxury for a fair price.

RepairPal reliability rating

4
1
2
Excellent

RepairPal gave the Acura TLX an overall reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Excellent. This rating ranks Acura TLX 1st out of 68 among Luxury Midsize Cars.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Acura TLX

Acura TLX features and specs

Curious how Acura TLX trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

Base 2WD 4D Sedan

Standard Features

  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Android Auto
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • CD Audio
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Heated Mirrors
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Leatherette Seats
  • Memory Seat(s)
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear View Camera
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Side Airbags
  • Smart Key
  • Sunroof(s)
  • Traction Control

Optional Features

  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Parking Sensors

Drive Wheels

Front Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

2.4L

Horsepower

206

Torque (ft-lbs)

182

Engine type

Gas

Fuel capacity

17.2

Wheelbase

109.3"

Overall length

191.7"

Width

73"

Height

57"

Leg room

F 42.6"/R 34.5"

Head room

F 37.2"/R 36.7"

Front tires

P225/55HR17

Rear tires

P225/55HR17

Seating capacity

5

Transmission

Automatic

2018 Acura TLX FAQ

Acura TLX articles

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Acura TLX inventory

Check out our Acura TLX inventory

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