Best Car Reviews - 2017 Acura TLX FWD

Introduction

The 2017 Acura TLX FWD is a standout entry in the compact car segment, combining luxury with practical performance. Released in the model year 2017, the TLX is aimed at professionals and small families who desire a stylish vehicle with excellent driving dynamics and comfort. Known for its precision engineering and premium design, the Acura TLX distinguishes itself from competitors through its balance of sportiness and efficiency.

Design and Exterior Features

The 2017 Acura TLX showcases a sleek and sophisticated design, characteristic of the Acura brand. Its aerodynamic shape and distinctive front grille give it a commanding presence on the road. The vehicle's proportions are well-balanced, hinting at both its agility and comfort.

Jewel Eye® LED Headlights for powerful illumination.
Defined body lines that enhance aerodynamics.
A range of wheel choices, including sporty 18-inch alloy wheels.

Interior and Comfort

Inside the TLX, Acura has crafted a cabin that blends luxury with innovation. The interior layout is focused on driver comfort and intuitive accessibility. High-quality materials, such as leather and soft-touch plastics, enhance the vehicle's upscale feel.

Key Comfort Features Include:

Heated front seats for added comfort in colder climates.
Dual-zone automatic climate control for personalized temperature settings.
A spacious cabin that comfortably accommodates passengers with ample legroom.

Performance and Handling

Powered by a 3.5-liter V6 SIDI engine, the 2017 Acura TLX FWD delivers robust performance. This engine generates a satisfying surge of power, ensuring a dynamic driving experience. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 6.4 seconds, making it swift for a compact car.

The ride in the city is smooth and responsive, with the front-wheel-drive system ensuring stable and confident handling. On the highway, the TLX cruises effortlessly, absorbing minor road imperfections with ease.

Performance Highlights Include:

Fuel efficiency of approximately 11.9 L/100 km.
Precision All-Wheel Steer™ (P-AWS®) for enhanced cornering stability.
A 9-speed automatic transmission that delivers seamless gear shifts.

Technology and Connectivity

The TLX is equipped with a comprehensive suite of technology and connectivity options designed to enhance the driving experience. The dual-screen infotainment system includes a 7-inch touchscreen and an 8-inch display, supporting seamless navigation and entertainment access.

Available Technology Features:

Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calls and audio streaming.
An 8-speaker audio system delivering crisp sound quality.
An available navigation system with real-time traffic updates.

Safety Features

Safety is a strong point for the 2017 Acura TLX, with numerous standard and advanced safety technologies.

AcuraWatch™, which includes lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control.
Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) to minimize accident impact.
5-star crash test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Pricing and Variants

The base model of the 2017 Acura TLX FWD starts at around $32,000 USD. Compared to rivals like the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the TLX offers a competitive pricing advantage while maintaining upscale features.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Luxurious interior with high-quality materials.
Smooth and dynamic handling.
Impressive list of standard safety features.
Competitive pricing in the luxury compact segment.
Advanced technology integration.

Cons

Fuel efficiency could be improved.
Rear-seat space is slightly limited compared to some competitors.
Dual-screen infotainment system can be confusing.
No option for all-wheel drive in the base model.
The exterior design may not appeal to those preferring bold styling.

Maintenance and Common Issues

The maintenance costs for the 2017 Acura TLX FWD average around $900 - $1,200 USD per year.

Common Issues:

Transmission may feel jerky under hard acceleration.
Some owners report issues with the infotainment system freezing.
Oil consumption can be relatively high.
Premature brake wear under aggressive driving conditions.
Electrical system glitches, occasionally affecting power windows.

Rating

Overall Rating: 8.2/10
Design: 8.5/10
Comfort: 8.3/10
Performance: 8.0/10
Technology: 7.9/10
Safety: 8.5/10

User Reviews and Feedback

John D.: "The TLX has been nothing but a pleasure to own—smooth and quiet ride. However, I wish the fuel efficiency was a bit better."

Samantha P.: "I love the luxurious feel of the interior. The interface took a bit to get used to, but it’s worth it for the features."

Marcus R.: "Great value for the money. Solid performance, though I encountered transmission hiccups occasionally."

Laura T.: "The safety features gave me peace of mind. My only regret is not opting for the all-wheel drive."

Ethan K.: "Sleek design and reliable. The dual-screen system can be a bit confusing but offers plenty of functionality."

Best Cars in This Category

2017 BMW 3 Series
2017 Audi A4
2017 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
2017 Lexus IS
2017 Infiniti Q50

Summary

The 2017 Acura TLX FWD stands out as a refined choice for those seeking a balance of luxury, performance, and technology in a compact car. It suits professionals and small families seeking a dependable and stylish vehicle. While there are minor drawbacks, such as fuel efficiency and rear seating space, the TLX compensates with an array of features and safety technologies. Offering value for its price, the TLX competes well against premium brands, making it a compelling option for many drivers.