2015 Acura TLX Detailed Review and Road Test
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- čas přidán 26. 11. 2014
- Is the Acura TLX right for you? Check out the most detailed review on CZcams to find out.
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For 2015 Acura has made an unusual move. Rather than expanding their line-up by splitting an existing model into two, they have condensed the 2014 Acura TL and 2014 Acura TSX into a single model: the 2015 Acura TLX.
Slotting between the outgoing TL and TSX in size, the TLX was designed to compete with the likes of the Buick Regal, Lincoln MKZ, and the popular Lexus ES. It also serves as the value alternative to the BMW 3-Series, Mercedes C300, Volvo S60 and Audi A4 by delivering more features and a larger car for less.
Join me as I take a close look at the latest mid-sized Acura in detail, take it out on the road and talk pricing and comparisons.
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I decided to buy the 2.4 TLX with the Tech package two months ago. Fun to drive, quiet, comfortable, a little sporty, and the tech assist and safety is the best I have ever experienced. Maybe it's not as fast as the six-cylinder version, but I don't care. I would rather have the better fuel mileage and pocket the $10,000 savings. Another great review. Thanks, Alex!
T. Bolt can you let me know if this car have Lane Keep Assist?
Aaftab Bhiwani Depends on your model. I drive a ‘16 TLX and it does not come with the car. Now my mom on the other hand has a ‘19 MDX which has the lane assist. Not as much a fan of the newer model though due to the gear shifter being buttons and not your normal gear shift knob. Other than that, absolutely love the ‘16 TLX and the ‘19 MDX. Can’t go wrong with Honda/Acura 😁🤟🏼
@@tlx. I have a v6 15 tlx jist got it a few days ago. Gotta say, I actually thoroughly enjoy the buttons over a traditional knob. The car parks itself as long as you’re stopped and open the driver door, and it has a lot of other cool features built in.
I’ve been looking at this 2015 Acura TLX should I do it should I do it ?!
Thats why you buy it used instead of brand new.
Finally the first true detailed review of this car.
Alex, your reviews are HANDS DOWN the best on CZcams! Fantastically thorough, very well thought out, and beautifully executed! I love the real world nature of them instead of just sliding around, screaming crazy stuff, and other less efficient styles out there. Those are fun sometimes to watch, but they are not(!) showing you the car in depth so you know what you're getting into before you even hit the showroom. I hope you keep em coming, and best of luck to you.
Kei
with the quality of reviews Alex produces he should have 1M subscriptions!
Always one of the best reviews and I always learn something from watching. Keep up the good work. Thanks.
Boy where are you? Look at that lake and mountain ⛰ in the back with the hot sun ☀️ shining all in one
I just bought the 2015 Tlx V6 3.5. I got it with only 20k miles on it. That was the main decider because I of course looked around for a bit and, the low mileage, great looking luxury sport car for a descent price won me over even compared to a year older Infinity Q50 I could have bought for around the same price, (payment take over, 60k miles on it). Let me tell you; I am very happy with my choice! This Acura is awesome. I got it in a sick graphite luster metallic with beautiful light grey leather. It drives like an absolute dream and, everyone who sees the thing loves it; ( ESPECIALLY the chicks) 😉. In my opinion for the price; this car is amazing. I recommend it and, as you can tell, I am certainly happy with my purchase.
How's your MPG?
Your video reviews are flat-out the best. I'm actually interested in a TLX and found this review very helpful. I'd also like to thank you for extending us a courtesy by being appropriately clothed in your videos. Many popular reviewers are so underdressed that they look like bums or clowns, therefore hard to take seriously.
Thanks Robert. Trust me, nobody wants to see me in shorts...
Alex on Autos I agree. Alex is thoroughly professional, inside and out. You do look a tad shaggy compared to your past "buzz-cut" hair style. The colder weather perhaps?
cadsux
Mostly laziness. I just buzzed, so next week will be shaggier and then the Jetta will be back to normal. I really need to schedule hair cuts a little better.
Alex has totally 'spoiled' me with his reviews. Now I have stopped watching other auto review channels in youtube.
Way to go Alex!
We just purchased a TLX SH-AWD tech pkg with V-6 and remote start.Your review is awesome and in depth.I love my wife's new car,just got done driving the TLX in the snow,WOW! After watching your review 3 times I feel even better about my purchase.Thank You Alex.
This seems to have been your most detailed review ever. Well done!
Excellent excellent review!
The amount of detailed description, and compare and contrast across different buying perspectives is awesome.
This is one of the most interesting cars to come out in my personal opinion due to the elimination of two old models, new transmissions and Acura's shawd.
As far as the hidden tail pipes goes. I like it. Keeps the lines clean.
You're just the best. Responding to comments, always rational, details to death. I'm always so excited to see you do a car I'm interested in, like this or the 200.
I don't care how you dress or how long your hair is, your reviews are by far the most detailed, and include features and comparisons that other reviewers don't. You are my 1st go to for car reviews. Please keep up the great work!
Great review as always. Thank you Alex.
I recently bought a TLX SHAWD Tech and OMG I love it. It's so fast, refined and luxurious. What I love the most about it, which I loved about my previous ILX is that it has 2 personalities. It's smooth and refined, but can be playful and downright frisky if you want it to. Love it so far! Also, I'm actually getting 35-36 mpg on the highway! Not bad for 290 hp and AWD!
Jack Mehoff
Congratulations. However, just be careful with the 9 speed ZF gearbox it is the only major part that is from Germany and is the main problem part of TLX V6.
Jay Thomas I wouldn't consider the 4 cylinder since it can't be paired with SHAWD. After almost 18 months, still a great car with no issues. Yes you feel the transmission shift, but it doesn't bother me.
@@SL_barn Any update? I'm thinking of buying one used.
@@HipHopCantSaveMe my lease is now done, but I have to say that I miss it! I had no problems during my time with it! Just make sure you get the shawd- it's great!
@@SL_barn i am thinking of getting one for 20k v6 sh-awd . Is it good to get?
This is te most comprenhensive review i´ve seen on the tlx on youtube, thanks!
I knew this was a great idea back then.... Great job on the info. I went to school for 2 and half yrs. In automotive and u got good if not great knowledge of a vehicle.... Thanks again.
Brilliant review mate. Not just the facts but also well thought out and expressed opinions.
Alex I really appreciate all the work you do to be so thorough in your reviews. I'm sure its a lot of research but you give the full scope and for me, I appreciate all your hard work. Thank you!!!
Great Review Alex. I am kind of suprised by how positive this review was for the TLX. I have heard many that are complaning either about the transmissions or styling, etc...
You make excellent car review videos! Best I've been able to find. So far I haven't decided on my next car just yet, but you're a big help.
Love your reviews, keep them coming!
Love your in-depth reviews!
From the Manufacturer read some of the reviews
Excellent and informative video. It covered every aspect of the TLX.
Excellent review Alex.
The best reviewer on CZcams ! Excellent and relevant information and no silly jokes
Awesome review, Alex!
I love the detailed explanation!
Awesome review, might opt in for the 2.4 or 3.5 SH-AWD; tech package of course. Thorough as well, definitely subscribing.
great in-depth review
Such a thorough review. Thanks!
Nice review Alex
Now that's what I call a proper review!
I just purchased a '16 Acura TLX FWD Advance V6. I'm a fan of Acura, to say the least, as this marks my 8th Acura. I just sold my '13 Acura TL Advance and replaced it with this TLX. Overall, I'm really pleased with the car. There are certain things about my TL that I prefer over my TLX but I'm certainly not disappointed with my TLX. The fuel economy in the TLX is phenomenal. It also looks a lot better than my TL, in my opinion. Driving dynamics award goes to the TL however. The way I think of it is the TL was more raw and eager. The TLX is more refined and mannerly. It will perform as well as my TL but it takes more coaxing. I like the TLX fine though and have no regrets about buying one. There are many positives about it.
THATS ONE OF THE BEST REVIEWS.. you got size , specs mentioned.. even Cnet doesnt do longer detailed review. Subscribed
Well, that's called an in-depth review. Very satisfied.
Nice job Alex! great review Thanks!
Another awesome review :) Do you think you could review the chevy spark?
I give this review 10/10, great job!!
This is the best detailed and inform review ever for the TLX! You also explained the ZF transmission and how it works. I also just leased this let's see how it is.
thanks you!
i had the v6 tech shawd, returned the lease cause it had the e-brake recall and the zf tranny sucked. i went and got a 2014 TL shawd ADV. much better car IMO
How do you like the TL now?
Very detailed review. Thanks.
This probably the most comprehensive and unbiased review on CZcams, thanks Alex.
Question though, I am considering TLX V6 SH-AWD either Tech or Advance vs the Lexus IS350 (ES a bit dated/not dynamic enough). Do you think the Acura is a better deal or the Lexus AWD 350 F Sport? The price difference is around $4000 from the Advance, however the Lexus you can negotiate a lot more below MSRP. The TLX also has a new 9 speed while the Lexus has a dated 6 speed and the mileage is not nearly as good. Any advice would be appreciated, thanks!
Hello Alex,
I love watching your reviews. I am considering either Acura TLX or Lexus ES 350. Can you please shed some light which one will be better option to go for?
Great reviews. I love your videos Alex. Could you please review Honda Odyssey if you have any chance? Thank you!
I hope to have it in the coming few weeks.
Man!! Excellent review👍
Great review thanks.
Nice review. Thank you.
I recently bought a blue T.L.X. four door...My last car was an Acura C.L and I liked it a lot !!!
These two cars are different from each other but still have the Acura traits...So far my
marriage with the T.L.X is going well...It is fast, smooth, very safe, fun to drive, stylish,
roomy and appealing to look at ................................................................................................
Thank you for this review Alex I've been waiting for it. It's hard to overlook how much the TLX offers for the money. And given Acura's reputation for reliability I believe this will be my next car. I had been comparing the IS and C400 with the TLX. Building either of those cars online with similar equipment to the TLX I saw a 12-15 thousand dollar price increase with the C400, and the IS not having any of the active driver assistants but still more expensive. Admittedly the C400 is more substantial in feel(typical of any MB) and the IS350 F Sport was surprisingly more fun to drive. However, the TLX is a relative bargain in its segment without feeling any less of a luxury car. I also appreciate Acura not "nickel and diming" its customers for things like led headlights, sunroof, heated seats, Bluetooth or a backup camera like the Germans do all of which are standard equipment on TLX.
Exactly the reasons I'm sticking with Acura after seriously considering the new IS. Acura has always owned in value and reliability over the competitors.
The IS has been outdated for a while now
thank you for the review! I've had my eyes on the base 2.4L for some time now and I was really hoping to see your take on it before making the purchase. I was literally planning on heading out for one today.
Hey Alex I would love to hear your take on the 2.4L tranny's jerkiness people are complaining about in Acura forums. DCT + torque converter could be a video segment no?
Martin Lim
Personally it didn't bother me. It's not going ever be as smooth as a traditional automatic transmission, that's just a factor of the design. However I think it is worth the improved efficiency.
Ven a Polanco... ACURA POLANCO lo pone en tu casa...
I just purchased mine 2 weeks ago and I love it. The gas mileage is great and I love everything about the car. Good luck with your purchase :)
"Lady Gaga shoulders" bahahaha
OMGitsme, I would probably take the IS350 unless you needed the room in the back. The IS has an excellent driving dynamic. If you're worried about fuel economy, get the RWD IS350 F-Sport.
IS really disadvantage is it's chair need to be fit, with little fat you will not be able to set comfortable.
This is one of the hardest cars to review because the performance differences are vast between the 2.4 Engine 4 Cylinder and the 3.5 Engine 6 Cylinder. I know the reviewer (who did a great job comparing this to other vehicle brand names) preferred the 6 cylinder mainly due to the acceleration time from 0-60 mph; however, others whole-heartedly preferred the 4 cylinder for better overall performance not to mention less maintenance costs due to lacking the faulty transmission of the 6 cylinder that has actually resulted in recalls.
Rating the performance, feel, braking, and controls between both transmission models cannot be done unless he drives & rates both individually. So despite being very thorough, Alex on Autos makes the same mistake many other reviewers made ASSUMING performance ratings for the 4 Cylinder would be a direct reflection of only reviewing the 6 cylinder version, which is not at all the case.
Was thinking to trade my Accord sport for this but the 0-60 is too slow for the SH-AWD v6 of tlx. Sadly, I cannot spend 45K for a car that Passats and v6 camrys from 10 years ago can beat.
Yeah if you read my comments, the V6 is trash. The V6 has had many recalls and repair visits with the button based transmission. If you're ok with a slower 0-60, the 4 cylinder 2.4 engine is a much better car with superior performance levels.
I wanted the SH-AWD because I test drove the RDX and MDX with it and they were amazing. I've never owned a v6 and I need some entry level luxury car. None of the lists so far interest me much.
Give the 3-series a try or the A4. Both have pretty good AWD systems and are about as quick 0-60 as the V6 TLX if not a little faster.
I would if they were reasonably priced for their base models. In 2016, without a back up camera and basic necessities not coming as standard is a deal breaker for me. It is so 2014/2015 to have them as standard! I am saving 11K CAD if I get the Acura! The 3series and A4 are 10x better in driving dynamics than TLX though.
Another excellent review, thank you for your hard work!
I have to say I'm surprised to see the TLX accelerates in this video, it really does seem like it can do 0~60mph in under 6 sec., which is faster than I expected. I don't see why anyone in the market for a sports sedan would want to spend more than this loaded TLX.
This dude knows how to review cars!
30 MINUTES WORTH OF INFORMATIONS.
MAD RESPECTS!
even though I usually digs for information on cars that I only interested in.
this channel has become something of a goldmine.
I still remember when your channels only has 10k+ subs, and thinking how much recognition your channel is lacking. Now that you're 40k+ and continue in making such informative video review. I see only, but a great future for this channel.
ps: I hardly ever comment, because I dont want to make the content creator feel like they have the needs to reply, it such a bother for bothside.lol But I have consume much of your contents, and I hope you continue being the man that you are, rather then making a 3 minute puns & jokes that gives little to no relevant info about the car.
Great review. How do you compare the TLX with Infiniti's Q50 Premium?
Wow car sounds outstanding
need this car so much !!
Alex, great review as usual! I'm in the market for a new midsize sedan (coming from a E90 3 Series M sport so needing something a little bigger and more comfy). The TLX is high on my list, especially the 4 cylinder with DCT and tech pkg, and although cheaper and not really a competitor I'm also open to the 2016 Mazda 6 GT. Your take between those two (I know unusual) options? Any other recommendations besides the MKZ?
Thanks!
Anoop Mathew The Mazda6 feels less premium than the TLX although handling in the front wheel drive models is surprisingly similar. The Mazda feels lighter and more nimble but actual road holding is similar. The TLX in general feels more premium inside. The TLX and MKZ are the hottest entries in that segment to be honest. I'd give the Kia Cadenza a look but that'd be about it.
Alex, excellent review and in depth look on the TLX! What is your opinion on TLX vs the Q50? Both cars have attributes that I like and dislike. I really want to hear your take on it.
The Q50 is a very different vehicle being a RWD based car. The Q50 handles better but in many ways the steer-by-wire system makes the car feel artificial. Despite this the Q50 is the better performing car compared to the TSX but the Acura is the better value overall.
I *love* the look of the instrument panel, particularly at night. Not the most exciting car to drive, but, very comfortable - very nice car. Takes a while to get used to the shifting, but, I think once you've used it for a few weeks it won't be a negative?
Excellent review. I choose the 2.4 for the handling. 0 to 60 is irrelevant in Chicago as the on ramps are plenty long enough to get up to speed. I actually get 40 MPG on highway in econo mode. My 30 mile drive to work to downtown Chicago as averaged 29 MPG and this is usually done in sport mode. Given the drop in gas price, I am paying less per month on gas than I can remember in a very long time and the ride is better than my TL.
Fantastic review. I drive the last gen TL; this car seems better in all regards.
I think that Acura buyers are getting their car for reliability and durability in a slightly sporty and slightly luxurious package.
I'm not really a car person and don't really need anything more than this kind of vehicle; have actually never used the paddle shifters nor the sunroof.
My TL accelerates and handles generally quite nicely; this one looks even better!
Alex, would u mind commenting on:
1) The feeling of the exterior door handles when opening the doors (I noticed a large differences, some cars feel hollow and cheap, some well damped and sturdy)
2) sound doors make when closing....big differences here between cars.
Thanks Alex!
I have a 17 TLX, and the handles feel premium, and the door sound is amazing
Alex, which do you think is faster 0 to 60 the TLX or the Lincoln MKZ with the twin turbos, some of the videos i saw the Lincoln was 6.2 seconds, and i no your the man who can answer
Hi Alex, I would like to thank you for great job on the car reviews that you do. Myself with my dad are watching all your reviews because you are very direct and unbiased in your research. Personally I am in the market for a reliable car that would be a cushy and fat AWD sedan. I wished that the Avalon or ES would be AWD but they are not and I keep coming back to the TLX. I owned 2 Acuras in my past and wish to try something else. Would you have another alternative for me? I owned a 335xdive before and I find the BMW is to harsh and not reliable, the IS is to small, my mother drives the E Class which is almost perfect but it does have the low profile run flats that a hate. I wish the new maxsima would be AWD but again its not offered grrrrr. It looks like the only solution would be a GS350 but that is some much more $$$ for 4 wheel drive.
Alex, at 20:55 mark, you probably mean Audi's LOGITUDINAL setups in the text, not transverse, right? Great review!
Excellent review.
The 2015 TLX looks like a really nice car at a pretty good price but I'm not sure about the 9 speed auto that uses dogclutches at some gears, that seems a bit complex..... how reliable is this transmission going to be over the long term?
My transmission blew up at 130000 km. I decided to replace it for 5000$ rather than chase a new car for 50000$. ZF 9 was ok until it blow up, transmission not autodestructing is all I ask for.
Could you please review the Golf/GTI next?
Great review as usual. Thanks! Quick note you call it a RLX at 1:19 :)
I noticed that in editing. I called it the TSX a few times as well but was able to edit those out but this one line wasn't repeated anywhere else so it had to stay. Too many --X vehicles out there.
way to go Alex
I love the acceleration with Infiniti's v8 trucks and vehicles. I own a 2004 fx45 fully loaded. can u do a review on a q50/60 red sport 400 or the gtr. I own a 2016 tlx shawd and u really explained this vehicle too the T... I love Infiniti's power a lil better tho. Tell me what u think Alex?
One more thing for the Acura haters , (whom usually have the "base" Mercedes or Beamer just because of the "badge") this car is absolutely nothing like a Honda! Lol. Seriously
Solid review, good car! :)
Another great review Alex. I only found it strange that you did not include the Infiniti Q50 as a direct competitor. Would it not be the mostly likely 'cross-shop' with the TLX?
Master Shoe Well, it's hard to say. The Q50 being RWD is more of a 3-Series, C300 competitor than a TLX/MKZ/S60 competitor in my mind.
Master Shoe when my mom was looking for a car she cross shopped the tlx and q50 and she chose the tlx a spec. It seemed to handle nearly as well and was a better deal overall and personally she liked the styling better. She thought the rear end looked a bit like a sonata lol
Alex, in the tlx, mdx, etc, does it get an aluminum trim instead of wood trim?
Love this review Alex, I've really been looking forward to this alot. My father is interested in the TLX. He has 2009 Honda Accord I4 with 189,000 miles and Front Wheel Drive and he gets around fine driving to South Bend, even in the winter. However, im sure he'd love all-wheel drive for added confidence and ease of mind. My question is, is the difference in fuel economy between the V6 AWD and the I4 FWD significant enough to avoid the V6? Or is it so negligible that it might be better to spring for the V6 AWD?
Also, has Honda improved the Adaptive Cruise Control for the Acura brand vs for the Honda Accord Touring? I remember you told me that the Honda's ACC was too slow to re-engage after traffic pulls ahead and tends to slam on the brakes when someone cuts in front. Has the TLX rectified this deficiency? And finally, as always, how are the headlights at night compared to halogens especially for high beams? It's very very dark on the roads around our home and my dad's Accord is only so-so on low beams but has really good high beams.
Thanks again!
Regarding fuel economy most likely AWD would be 12% lower mpg to the V4 (using EPA). Let's say you drive 20K miles at $4 per gallon to be conservative: that's $ 343 extra in gas per year. So not huge difference considering higher purchase price.
Honda ACC doesn't work under 20 mph (latest Accord). This system should work still work including making full stop. But never tried it myself. Would be interesting to see a video on this how well it works (though not sure I'd ever fully trust it in stop & go traffic).
The latest Honda also has LED lights in touring model and definitely lot better.
As Lucien said it's not a huge difference in fuel economy unless you are doing a great deal of city driving which would drive up the difference
The adaptive cruise control is still not as polished as the Volvo or Mercedes systems, I would also rank it slightly below the Lincoln system as far as interacting with traffic. It is improved over the Accord however.
Compared to halogens, the LEDs are much, much better. I think the MKZ's headlamps were slightly superior and the headlamps in certain Volvo and Mercedes models topped these as well but the TLX's lamps are among the best.
PROGRAMEN SUS PRUEBAS DE MANEJO, SE LO LLEVO A DOMICILIO: ILX Y TLX INCLUSIVE RDX O MDX 2015
What are your thoughts on long term use with the 9speed? I've been looking and reviews talk about it being very unreliable....vibration on hwy, jerky changes, lots of consumer repair complaints, recalls, etc. Is it just the dog clutch or what?
Thank you so bro it’s work on my civic mk10
Great Review ! I was wondering how this would compare to the Honda Accord Hybrid ? 2015
Thanks
Joe
TechExplorer Tricky question. The Accord Hybrid would probably be my pick for fuel economy. The TLX of course feels much more engaging, it handles better, is faster, etc. The Accord is also larger with a bigger back seat.
Alex on Autos I'm curious about how different, if any, are infotainment systems (and, especially, navigation systems) in Accord Hybrid Touring and TLX w/Tech Package. Have you noticed any differences and what's your general impression about quality of implementation in that area between those models. Thank you, Alex!
Aleksandr Blekh They are very similar but not identical. I think I prefer the Acura system a little better. Honestly both can come across as slightly half baked at times because of teh way the two screens interact with one another. It is not as polished as uConnect or even MyFord Touch, however it is rock solid in reliability. It never froze and never crashed.
Alex on Autos Thank you, Alex. Your comment clarifies a lot. I still would be interested to see an actual list of differences (mostly, navigation) feature-wise, but it seems that Honda doesn't publish that info. Or maybe I don't know where to look...
The protruding backup sensors are surprising, I would expect them to be recessed like the majority of cars today, especially for a lux brand.
you keep on saying "RLX" lmao
Nice input on the tlx.dct is not dog clutch though.
Great review as always. Alex: will you also review the BMW 4 Gran Coupe? Could see that as alternative. More cargo space and more efficient (according to EPA) turbo engine 320i XDrive compared to V6 AWD.
Some little details missed that might be interesting to note:
- The 4 cyl. does not offer height adjustable passenger seats (just like Accord).
- The center air vents cannot be closed and have limited range (just like Accord)
- No AWD and Advance package (CMBS, LKS) for V4 available
- 60/40 split opening is not that wide but better than before. Would be good to show. Too bad they didn't go for a center split (for ski's or other long items)
- Navigation system is identical pretty much to Accord. But entering full address by voice has been added. And additional shortcuts menu
I'll see what I can get, I had the 428i Gran Coupe on schedule but it was removed for reasons I don't quite understand, I'll have to contact BMW to get to the bottom of things.
Alex on Autos Oh yes meant rather 428i. I hope BMW can provide you one especially since almost no reviews on that model and I know you'll do a great job showing all aspects:-). I hope to do a test drive in 1-2 weeks.
Another good review, help me to know more about the TLX. But I still can't get over the feeling that Acura is just another nicer Honda. Perhaps they need to do something about with their PR. Car is good but the brand name does need some work. Just like Volvo.
It’s 2020 during the coronavirus, i saw this model at a mazda dealership selling as preowned certified, it has about 70-90k miles on it and the price is 15k-18k Canadian. I personally think it’s a fair deal, what do you think? Low mileage does it mean it’s has a mechanical problem?
Alex, it would be a pleasure if you will review the Škoda Fabia 2015.
Is there any reason for that?
Great job and sit super funny guy..
I just had a 2015 Acura TLX V6 as a loaner car and I noticed during moderate acceleration the shifts from 1-2 gear and 2-3 gear had a "jerk" type of feeling. Is this normal because of the "dog clutch phenomenon" you mentioned? Did your test TLX exhibit that behavior?
Another question, which is more quieter this TLX or the RLX u drove before?
The RLX is quieter and no, the jerk doesn't have anything to do with the clutch because it is not involved in 1-2 or 2-3 shifts, that has more to do with the rapid speed of the shifts.
Just leased the TLX 3.5 V6 in white. Love it so far. Only thing that caught me off guard was how wide the turning radius is, especially when making a U-turn. I expected a tighter radius. Other than that, I found nothing I didn't like.
LIVEFRMNYC In general, vehicles with transverse engines like this will have large turning circles.
Alex on Autos Thanks for the quick response. My Passat 06 was also transverse, it pulled much tighter turns and is not that much smaller than the TLX. But I guess judging size by looking at it, is not a great indicator.
Not a big deal though. Just glad I finally got rid of that POS Passat. Your review helped my choice.
Great review Alex. Your reviews are the best by FAR!
Question(s) for you.....I've narrowed my choices down to the Acura TLX AWD (advance or Tech package) or the Volvo S60 T5 AWD, similarly loaded. Since you gave both great reviews, which do you think is a better choice, and why? At this point in the year do you think its worth waiting for the 2016 models? Any idea when 2016 will come out?
Anthoy C My pragmatic side would get the Acura TLX because it is likely to be more reliable and handles a little better. I think left to my own devices and a willing budget, I'd get the S60. I like City Safety a great deal, the low-speed auto brake is more important to me than the highway autobrake the Acura has and I think the cramped back seat is worth that.
Alex on Autos Thanks Alex. What do you mean "willing budget"? Are you referring to the R-Design? Otherwise, they seem to be comparably priced. What you still consider the Volvo with the T5-AWD?
How different is Acura's Collision Mitigation System from Volvo's City Safety? Does Acura's not autobrake under a certain speed?
Should I be concerned about the transmission recall? Wouldn't the car I buy already have the "fix"?
Anthoy C Comparably priced the S60 will be more expensive. The AWD V6 TLX is comparable to the S60 T6 AWD while the T5 is more comparable to the TLX 2.4L. City Safety works from just above zero to about 31 MPH while Acura CMBS works above 15MPH to ~100 MPH. The goal is different. CMBS is designed to mitigate, but not prevent, accidents on highways, city streets at average travel speeds, etc. Volvo's system is designed to *prevent* if possible, accidents in a wider variety of situations at city traffic like speeds. VMBS won't detect cyclists or pedestrians at any speed, Volvo's will. Personally I wouldn't worry about the recall. The transmission has likely been fixed on all cars on the lot but you can ask to verify that before you buy.
Alex on AutosThanks again Alex. What are your thoughts on the Infiniti Q50 vs the Acura TLX, (both AWD)?
Anthoy C I like the Q50 and the driving dynamics are better in some respects but the steer-by-wire system is honestly rather odd feeling. I would probably buy the Acura as it is a better value. Infiniti is supposed to be launching a version without that system soon.
I drove them both, I still can't help but feel that the 9 speed felt sluggish and shifted like a slow auto. It had a annoying delay when I would use the shift paddles as well. The 8 speed felt much much better and more crisp but the down on power 4-cyl was noticeable with the near 3500lb weight of this thing. Considering there can be something fun sometimes about an under powered car, I would rather have the more snappy transmissions and the 4cyl.
Any time you cross between gears 4-5 and 7-8, either up or down, the shift speed will feel very different than any other automatic transmission out there.
The "fun with underpowered cars" only applies when the price tag is also cheap! Not the case for the 4 banger TLX..
oldtwins na
It's the cheapest in it's class and the price is supposed to be in the rest of the car. The cars you are thinking of are cheapo plastic hatchbacks. Here you can get the fun of an under powered car with a snappy transmission and reliability/economy with out the feeling of sitting in something made on a budget.
HybridEnergy Actually I'm thinking about an Accord Sport. 10K cheaper, slightly faster even with the CVT and quite a bit faster and definitely a lot more fun with the manual transmission version. If you want a FWD non-turbo 4 banger, save your money.
oldtwins na
and get what? not much N/A 4s out there that are as fun as Honda Vtec ones. CVT is a snore fest boring as hell transmission, I would rather stab myself in the face. There is no denying though that the manual Accord is going to be tons of fun though. However, I built a comparison and it sure as hell wasn't a 10k difference. More like 3-4 when I equally equipped the Accord as the TLX.
I test drove both the Acura TLX V6 SH-AWD and the Lexus IS 300 AWD, felt TLX was better - was quieter, faster in acceleration and felt sharper around the corners, but did not get the chance to compare with the IS 350. What is your opinion comparing it with the IS300? BTW any chance of you reviewing the IS 300 and 350?
did you end up purchasing the TLX? I'm surprised because many say the IS300 feels better in terms of driving dynamics.
curseknight5 - I ended up getting the BMW 328xdrive. I was worried about the transmission of the TLX.
This is what the outside of the 2009 TL should have looked like. Inside would be the 3.7L engine and 6-speed manual. Round it off with quad exhaust tips.
+ThingsDemystified
I want the twin turbo V6 used in the TLX GT.
I'm sure you meant to say tlx when you mentioned the car maintaining fog lights.
nice car, want one
Hey Alex, I noticed how you mentioned the new ILX has less headroom than you like in the driver's seat. According to Acura's website, this TLX has I believe. .8in less headroom than the 2016 ILX. Do you feel like this TLX is more confining?
narmizzle Yes, it has to do with the seating position mainly.
Alex, heard lot of people talking about jerkiness at lower speeds especially till gear 4, any feedback?
The ZF 9-speed has had some mixed reviews. The Chrysler 200, Jeep Cherokee, Jeep Renegade, RAM ProMaster City, Range Rover Evoque and the TLX all use the same basic transmission. The transmission is notable for having a very, very low first gear at 4.7:1 the next gear is 2.87:1 which is a moderate jump. Some have complained that first gear is too aggressive which is why in some applications first is not used unless you are in sport mode. Acura uses all 9 all the time. The shifts are also very firm compared to some of the transverse transaxles in this segment before, especially Honda/Acura which have had shifts that were slightly soft and somewhat slow due to the transmission's design. Personally I don't find anything wrong with the way the ZF 9HP shifts, I think it is an acceptable trade for the performance and fuel economy benefits it brings. That said however, I do agree that the Aisin 8-speed transaxle that Volvo is now using does feel a little more composed. It won't give you the high speed fuel economy benefit however.
I applaud you for having the stones to mention the Lincoln and Buick offerings. Most auto journos simply dismiss those two makes, and I think it does the shopping public a real disservice.
+Kip Amore Are you older than 50?
I'm 45, but I act 72.
*****
lol, is that on purpose?