2025 Acura TLX: Complete Luxury Sedan Review

Introduction

The 2025 Acura TLX represents the perfect balance of luxury, performance, and value in the competitive midsize luxury sedan segment. As Acura's flagship sedan, the TLX combines Honda's legendary reliability with premium materials, advanced technology, and engaging driving dynamics that appeal to buyers seeking a more accessible alternative to European luxury brands. This comprehensive review examines every aspect of the TLX to help you understand why it's considered one of the best values in the luxury sedan market.

Built on Acura's Precision Crafted Performance philosophy, the TLX delivers a driving experience that's both refined and engaging. The sedan is available in multiple configurations, from the efficient base model to the high-performance Type S variant, ensuring there's a model to suit different priorities and budgets. Whether you're looking for comfortable daily commuting or spirited weekend driving, the TLX delivers in spades.

What sets the TLX apart from its competitors is its combination of Japanese reliability, American value, and European-inspired driving dynamics. The result is a vehicle that offers the luxury and performance expected from a premium sedan while maintaining the practicality and dependability that Acura is known for.

Exterior Design

The 2025 Acura TLX features a bold, athletic design that clearly communicates its performance intentions while maintaining the sophistication expected from a luxury sedan. The front end is dominated by Acura's signature Diamond Pentagon grille, which is flanked by sharp, angular headlights that give the TLX a distinctive and aggressive appearance. The overall design language is cohesive and modern, with clean lines and purposeful details throughout.

The TLX's profile is sleek and aerodynamic, with a low, wide stance that emphasizes its performance potential. The roofline flows smoothly from the front to the rear, creating a coupe-like silhouette that's both elegant and sporty. The sedan's design prioritizes both aesthetics and function, with careful attention to aerodynamic details that help improve fuel efficiency and reduce wind noise.

Build quality is exceptional throughout, with precise panel gaps, high-quality materials, and attention to detail that's expected from a luxury brand. The TLX feels solid and well-constructed, with a sense of permanence that suggests it will age gracefully. The available A-Spec and Type S packages add more aggressive styling elements, including larger wheels, sportier bumpers, and unique trim pieces that enhance the TLX's athletic appearance.

Lighting is a particular highlight, with Acura's Jewel Eye LED headlights providing excellent visibility and a distinctive appearance. The adaptive LED headlights automatically adjust their beam pattern based on driving conditions, while the taillights feature a unique design that's instantly recognizable as Acura. The overall exterior design successfully balances aggression and sophistication, creating a vehicle that looks both sporty and luxurious.

Interior Quality and Comfort

The 2025 Acura TLX's interior represents a significant step forward in terms of luxury and technology integration, with materials and craftsmanship that justify its premium positioning. The cabin is dominated by Acura's latest infotainment system, which features a dual-screen setup that provides intuitive access to various functions while maintaining the clean, uncluttered aesthetic that Acura is known for.

Seating comfort is exceptional, with supportive front seats that provide excellent comfort for long drives while maintaining the lateral support needed for spirited driving. The seats are available in multiple configurations, including sport seats with enhanced bolstering and luxury seats with additional comfort features. The rear seats offer good space for adults, though the sloping roofline does limit headroom for taller passengers.

Interior materials are of high quality, with premium leather, aluminum trim, and soft-touch surfaces throughout the cabin. The attention to detail is impressive, with carefully crafted stitching, precise fit and finish, and thoughtful design elements that enhance the overall experience. The TLX's interior feels like a proper luxury vehicle, with a level of refinement that matches or exceeds its competitors.

Noise levels are impressively low, with Acura implementing active noise cancellation and acoustic glass to create a quiet cabin environment. The result is a serene driving experience that allows you to enjoy the premium audio system or simply appreciate the quiet operation of the powertrain. The overall interior experience is comfortable and luxurious, with a level of sophistication that belies the TLX's accessible pricing.

Performance and Powertrain

The 2025 Acura TLX is available in multiple powertrain configurations, each offering different performance characteristics and efficiency levels. The base model features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides excellent performance with a 0-60 mph time of 6.6 seconds and an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 22 mpg city and 31 mpg highway.

The Type S represents the high-performance variant, featuring a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine that produces 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. With all-wheel drive and a 10-speed automatic transmission, the Type S can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 5.0 seconds, making it one of the quickest sedans in its class. The Type S also features enhanced suspension tuning and larger brakes for improved handling and stopping power.

Both configurations feature Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, which provides excellent traction and handling in all weather conditions. The system can send up to 70% of the engine's power to the rear wheels and can distribute that power between the left and right rear wheels for improved cornering performance. This makes the TLX particularly capable in challenging driving conditions.

Driving dynamics are exceptional, with the TLX maintaining Acura's reputation for engaging handling and precise steering. The suspension is tuned for a balance of comfort and sportiness, providing excellent ride quality while maintaining the responsiveness needed for spirited driving. The TLX feels planted and confident in corners, with excellent body control and predictable handling characteristics.

Fuel Economy and Efficiency

Fuel economy is a crucial consideration for any luxury sedan, and the 2025 Acura TLX delivers competitive numbers that should satisfy most drivers' needs. The base 2.0-liter turbocharged engine provides an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 22 mpg city and 31 mpg highway, which is excellent for a luxury sedan with this level of performance. The Type S with its 3.0-liter V6 provides 19 mpg city and 25 mpg highway, which is still respectable given its performance capabilities.

Real-world fuel economy will vary based on driving style, weather, and other factors, but most owners report achieving numbers close to the EPA estimates. The TLX's efficient powertrain and aerodynamic design help maximize fuel economy, while the available drive modes allow drivers to optimize performance or efficiency based on their needs.

The TLX's fuel economy is particularly impressive when compared to its competitors, many of which offer similar performance but with higher fuel consumption. The combination of good fuel economy and strong performance makes the TLX an excellent choice for buyers who want both efficiency and excitement in their luxury sedan.

For buyers who prioritize maximum efficiency, the base 2.0-liter engine provides the best fuel economy while still delivering excellent performance. The Type S sacrifices some efficiency for significantly more power, but it's still competitive with other high-performance luxury sedans in terms of fuel consumption.

Technology and Infotainment

The 2025 Acura TLX features Acura's latest infotainment system, which represents a significant improvement over previous generations in terms of technology and user experience. The system is centered around a dual-screen setup that provides intuitive access to various functions while maintaining the clean, uncluttered aesthetic that Acura is known for. The upper screen displays navigation and audio information, while the lower screen provides access to climate controls and other vehicle functions.

The infotainment system includes a 10.2-inch upper display and a 7-inch lower display, both of which are responsive and intuitive to use. The system supports both touch and voice control, as well as the traditional Acura controller for those who prefer it. The interface is clean and modern, with clear menus and logical organization that makes it easy to find and access various functions.

Smartphone integration is excellent, with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto providing seamless access to your phone's apps and features. The system also includes Acura's Connected Services, which provide real-time traffic information, remote vehicle functions, and over-the-air updates. The TLX can also function as a Wi-Fi hotspot, providing internet connectivity for passengers.

Audio quality is exceptional, with the available ELS Studio 3D premium audio system providing rich, detailed sound reproduction. The system includes 17 speakers and a 710-watt amplifier, creating an immersive audio experience that's perfect for music enthusiasts. The system also includes advanced features like gesture control and wireless charging for compatible devices.

Safety Features and Ratings

The 2025 Acura TLX comes standard with Acura's comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These systems work together to help prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision. The TLX has received excellent safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, providing peace of mind for safety-conscious buyers.

Additional safety features available on higher trims include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high beams. These features enhance situational awareness and help prevent common types of accidents. The TLX's advanced driver assistance systems are among the best in the industry, providing a high level of automation while maintaining driver engagement and control.

In the event of a collision, the TLX's structure is designed to protect occupants effectively, with advanced airbag systems and crumple zones that help absorb impact energy. Acura has a strong reputation for safety, and the TLX benefits from this expertise with comprehensive safety systems and robust construction.

Child safety features include LATCH anchors for car seats and rear door child locks. The TLX's rear doors open wide, making it easy to install and remove child seats. The compact size also makes it easier to keep an eye on children in the back seat, which is important for parents.

Driving Experience

The 2025 Acura TLX provides an exceptional driving experience that successfully combines luxury comfort with engaging performance. The powertrain delivers smooth, linear power delivery that makes the TLX feel responsive and eager, particularly in the Type S configuration where the V6 engine provides abundant power and torque. The transmission shifts smoothly and responsively, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Ride quality is excellent, with the suspension effectively absorbing bumps and road imperfections while maintaining the firm, controlled feel that Acura enthusiasts expect. The TLX feels stable and secure on the highway, with excellent high-speed stability and minimal wind noise. The Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system enhances confidence in all weather conditions.

Handling is precise and engaging, with the TLX maintaining Acura's reputation for sporty driving dynamics. The steering is well-weighted and provides good feedback, making it easy to place the car exactly where you want it. The TLX feels planted and confident in corners, with excellent body control and predictable handling characteristics.

Overall, the TLX excels at providing an engaging, enjoyable driving experience that maintains Acura's core values while offering the luxury and refinement expected from a premium sedan. It's not just a good luxury car; it's a good car that happens to be luxurious, with the driving dynamics and performance that Acura is known for.

Reliability and Ownership Costs

The 2025 Acura TLX benefits from Acura's strong reputation for reliability and dependability, with a proven track record of long-term durability. The powertrain is well-engineered and has been tested extensively, with few reported issues or problems. This reliability translates to lower maintenance costs and greater peace of mind for owners.

Routine maintenance is straightforward and follows Acura's recommended service intervals. The TLX's powertrain is designed for longevity, with components that are built to last and easy to service. The Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system is also reliable and requires minimal maintenance, making it a practical choice for long-term ownership.

Resale value is generally good for the TLX, as Acura vehicles tend to hold their value well over time. The combination of reliability, performance, and luxury makes the TLX an attractive choice for used car buyers, which helps maintain its resale value. The Type S variant typically holds its value even better due to its performance credentials.

Insurance costs are generally reasonable for the TLX, as it's not considered a high-risk vehicle and has good safety ratings. However, insurance costs can vary significantly based on location, driving history, and other factors, so it's important to get quotes from multiple insurers to find the best rate.

Pricing and Value

The 2025 Acura TLX's pricing makes it one of the best values in the luxury sedan segment, with a starting MSRP of $38,500 for the base model and $52,300 for the Type S. These prices put the TLX in competition with mainstream luxury sedans while offering performance and features that rival more expensive European competitors.

When compared to its direct competitors, the TLX offers excellent value for money, with similar performance and features at a lower price point. The base model provides luxury and performance that rivals sedans costing $10,000-$15,000 more, while the Type S offers performance that competes with much more expensive sports sedans.

Total cost of ownership is generally favorable for the TLX, with good fuel economy, low maintenance costs, and strong resale value helping to offset the initial purchase price. The combination of reliability and performance makes the TLX an excellent long-term investment for buyers who want both luxury and value.

For buyers who prioritize value without sacrificing performance or luxury, the TLX represents an excellent choice that offers the best of both worlds. It's not the cheapest sedan on the market, but it's one of the best values in the luxury segment, offering performance and features that justify its price point.

Competitors Comparison

The 2025 Acura TLX competes in a crowded segment of luxury sedans, including the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, and Lexus IS. Each of these vehicles offers different strengths and weaknesses, making the choice largely dependent on individual priorities and preferences.

The BMW 3 Series offers similar performance and handling but features more advanced technology and a more prestigious brand image. However, the 3 Series is more expensive than the TLX, and the TLX offers better value for money and lower maintenance costs. The TLX also provides a more comfortable ride and better reliability.

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class offers similar luxury and technology but features a more refined interior and more advanced autonomous driving capabilities. However, the C-Class is more expensive than the TLX, and the TLX offers better performance and more engaging driving dynamics. The TLX also provides better value for money and lower ownership costs.

The Audi A4 offers similar technology and all-wheel drive but features a more conservative design and less engaging performance. However, the A4 is more expensive than the TLX, and the TLX offers better value for money and more distinctive styling. The TLX also provides better performance and more engaging driving dynamics.

Overall, the TLX's combination of performance, luxury, and value makes it a strong choice in the luxury sedan segment, offering a compelling alternative to more expensive European competitors while maintaining Acura's core values of reliability and performance.