2017 Acura TLX with Powerful Engines, Advanced Features, and Exceptional Value

Base TLX models come with a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine making 206 hp. Power is sent to the front wheels via an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, which features a torque converter to smooth out any jerkiness in the drivetrain during low speed operation. The optional engine is a 3.5L V6 making 290 hp. Power is sent to either the front, or with Acura's SH-AWD system, all-four wheels via a 9-speed automatic transmission.

The TLX has a tricky niche to fill, being both a luxury car and a sports sedan at the same time. Acura have addressed this with the addition of a revised 4-wheel steering system, allowing the TLX to be both nimble and stable when carving up a twisty road.

The Acura TLX returns unchanged for 2017.

With a base price starting at around $32,000, TLX represents an excellent value. Competitors include the Lexus ES350, the Mercedes-Benz CLS, the Audi A4 and the BMW 3-series. The TLX, with its strong feature set and low price of entry, undercuts many of its rivals, while still offering plenty of space, sophisticated drivetrains and a modern chassis.

Acura lists seven different trim levels for the TLX. A choice of 4-cylinder or V6 engines and front-wheel or SH-AWD all-wheel drive, each of which can each be ordered with a Technology Package or Advanced Package.

Good balance between luxury and sportiness; available all-wheel drive; good fuel economy; advanced transmission options

Basic levels of equipment are excellent. The base TLX comes equipped with LED headlights, Bluetooth connectivity, SiriusXM satellite radio, a rearview camera, keyless access, a multi-function display, Siri eyes free functionality and USB and iPod connectivity.

Buyers who opt for the Technology Package get a navigation system with real-time traffic updates, a premium audio system with HD radio, a colored display screen, a perforated leather trimmed interior, rain sensing wipers, lane assist and lane departure warning systems as well as blind spot and forward collision warning systems.

The V6-powered TLX comes in both front and all-wheel drive configurations, though all-wheel drive versions always come equipped with either the Technology or the Advanced Package.

2016 Acura TLX Prices

TRIM

Starting MSRP

2016 Acura TLX Front Wheel Drive

$32,000

2016 Acura TLX Front Wheel Drive V6

$35,450

2016 Acura TLX Front Wheel Drive w/Technology Package

$36,050

2016 Acura TLX Front Wheel Drive V6 w/Technology Package

$39,500

2016 Acura TLX Super Handling-All Wheel Drive V6 w/Technology Package

$41,700

2016 Acura TLX Front Wheel Drive V6 w/Advance Package

$42,700

2016 Acura TLX Super Handling-All Wheel Drive V6 w/Advance Package

$44,900

The Advanced Package includes everything in the Technology Package but adds even more safety and technology. Items in the Advanced Package include an adaptive cruise control system, a forward collision mitigation system and a lane departure mitigation system, front and rear parking sensors, auto dimming rearview mirrors, LED fog and puddle lights and a remote engine start system.

Safety systems across the TLX line include anti-lock brakes, traction control and stability control. Front, side, side curtain and driver's knee airbags are all standard