Acura has carved a niche for itself by offering a blend of luxury and performance, and the TLX Type S stands as a testament to this philosophy. For enthusiasts and potential buyers alike, a key metric in evaluating a sport sedan is its acceleration, particularly the 0-60 mph sprint. The Acura TLX Type S doesn’t disappoint, offering a compelling performance figure that places it firmly in the conversation within its competitive segment. Let’s delve into the details of the Acura TLX Type S’s 0-60 mph time and explore what this means for the car’s overall driving experience.
The Acura TLX Type S is powered by a potent 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine, generating 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. This robust power is channeled through a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, ensuring optimal traction and power delivery in various conditions. Acura officially estimates the TLX Type S 0-60 mph time to be in the range of 4.5 to 5.0 seconds. This figure is corroborated by independent testing and real-world driving experiences, solidifying its status as a legitimately quick sport sedan.
Alt text: Acura TLX Type S speeding on a track, showcasing its dynamic performance capabilities.
While the 0-60 mph time provides a quantifiable measure of acceleration, the subjective driving experience of the Acura TLX Type S is equally noteworthy. The turbocharged V6 delivers power in a surprisingly linear fashion for a forced induction engine. Unlike some turbocharged cars that exhibit noticeable lag, the TLX Type S offers responsive and readily available power across the rev range. This linear power delivery contributes to a driving feel that is both engaging and predictable, making it enjoyable for both spirited driving and everyday commutes. The engine’s responsiveness ensures that forward progress is swift and effortless once in motion, living up to the expectations set by its impressive 0-60 mph capability.
Further enhancing the performance of the Acura TLX Type S is its sophisticated Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system. SH-AWD not only optimizes traction for quick launches, contributing to the impressive 0-60 time, but also plays a crucial role in the car’s handling dynamics. The system is rear-biased and actively distributes torque between the front and rear axles, as well as between the rear wheels. This torque vectoring capability enhances cornering agility and stability, allowing the TLX Type S to feel remarkably planted and surefooted in various driving scenarios. The combination of potent engine, quick 0-60 mph acceleration, and advanced SH-AWD system translates to a sport sedan that is not just fast in a straight line, but also dynamically capable in the corners.
Alt text: Angular front view of a 2024 Acura TLX Type S parked, highlighting its sporty and aggressive design.
However, when considering the Acura TLX Type S’s 0-60 mph performance and overall package, it’s essential to place it within the context of its competitive set. The luxury sport sedan segment is fiercely contested, with rivals like the BMW M340i and Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance offering compelling alternatives. The BMW M340i, for instance, often edges out the TLX Type S in 0-60 mph tests, boasting a time closer to the 4-second mark. Similarly, the Lexus IS 500, while featuring a naturally aspirated V8, delivers comparable acceleration figures. While the Acura TLX Type S’s 0-60 time is respectable, these competitors demonstrate that the segment benchmark is constantly being pushed.
Alt text: Acura TLX Type S in motion on a winding road, emphasizing its handling and cornering capabilities.
Despite the strong competition, the Acura TLX Type S holds its own by offering a well-rounded package that extends beyond just straight-line speed and 0-60 mph times. Its strengths lie in its balanced driving dynamics, attractive styling, and a host of standard features. While some may find the engine sound less inspiring compared to naturally aspirated V6s of Acura’s past, and the infotainment touchpad interface can be polarizing, the TLX Type S delivers a genuinely engaging driving experience. Moreover, while the 0-60 mph time is a critical performance indicator, it is just one facet of what makes a sport sedan desirable. The Acura TLX Type S offers a compelling blend of performance, luxury, and technology, making it a worthy contender for buyers in this segment.
In conclusion, the Acura TLX Type S achieves a 0-60 mph time in the 4.5 to 5.0 second range, placing it firmly within the competitive landscape of luxury sport sedans. While some rivals may offer slightly quicker acceleration, the TLX Type S distinguishes itself with its linear power delivery, sophisticated SH-AWD system, and overall balanced driving dynamics. For those seeking a sport sedan that offers a blend of speed, handling, and Acura’s signature refinement, the TLX Type S, with its impressive 0-60 mph capability, is certainly worth considering.
