Best Car Reviews - 2018 Acura TLX FWD

Introduction

The 2018 Acura TLX FWD is a standout model that seamlessly blends performance, design, and innovative technology. Released in 2018, this compact luxury sedan targets those who appreciate precision engineering and sophisticated styling without breaking the bank. The TLX is known for its sleek design and cutting-edge features, making it a strong contender in the luxury compact car market. Its combination of a 6-cylinder engine, front-wheel drive, and premium gasoline sets it apart as a potentially appealing choice for urban dwellers and performance enthusiasts alike.

Design and Exterior Features

The 2018 Acura TLX FWD boasts a sleek and aerodynamic silhouette that commands attention. Its refined exterior showcases a blend of elegance and sportiness, highlighted by clean lines and a confident stance. Acura has taken a modern approach to design with this model, incorporating several key elements that make it visually appealing:

Jewel Eye LED headlights that provide a crisp, intense beam for enhanced visibility.
A distinctive diamond pentagon grille that emphasizes the brand's signature look.
18-inch alloy wheels that add a touch of style and stability.
Subtle yet striking character lines that run along the sides for a streamlined appearance.

Interior and Comfort

The interior of the 2018 TLX FWD exudes luxury and comfort, employing high-quality materials and a thoughtful layout to create a serene driving environment. Acura has ensured that every detail within the cabin contributes to an enhanced driving experience:

Premium leather-trimmed seats, providing both comfort and luxury.
Heated front seats for added warmth during colder months.
An ergonomically designed dashboard that is both intuitive and visually appealing.
Dual-zone automatic climate control to ensure a comfortable cabin temperature for all occupants.

Performance and Handling

Powered by a 3.5-liter V6 SID engine, the 2018 Acura TLX FWD delivers remarkable performance capabilities. This engine, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission (S9), provides smooth and responsive handling that makes driving both enjoyable and straightforward.

0-100 km/h acceleration: Approximately 5.7 seconds.
Fuel consumption: A commendable 8.7l/100km, making it relatively efficient for its class.

In city driving, the TLX is agile and easy to maneuver, while its highway performance is characterized by stability and a quiet ride. The precise steering provides confidence when taking turns, ensuring a balanced and controlled driving experience.

Technology and Connectivity

Acura equips the 2018 TLX FWD with a plethora of advanced technology features designed to keep drivers connected and entertained. The infotainment system is intuitive and offers a range of connectivity options:

An intuitive 7-inch touchscreen display.
Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration for seamless smartphone usage.
ELS Studio Premium Audio System for exceptional sound quality.

Safety Features

Safety is a priority for Acura, and the 2018 TLX FWD is no exception, equipped with a range of standard and advanced safety features to protect the driver and passengers:

AcuraWatch suite of safety technologies, including adaptive cruise control and collision mitigation braking system.
Lane keeping assist and road departure mitigation to enhance road safety.
Blind spot monitoring for increased awareness of surrounding vehicles.
5-star safety rating from major safety institutions.

Pricing and Variants

The 2018 TLX FWD comes in various trims, each offering an array of features to cater to different preferences. The base model is priced at approximately $33,000 USD, making it competitively priced in the luxury compact sedan segment. When compared to key competitors like the BMW 3 Series and the Audi A4, the TLX offers a more affordable luxury experience without compromising on features.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Sleek and modern design.
High-quality, luxurious interior materials.
Excellent safety features and ratings.
Competitive pricing for a luxury vehicle.
Smooth and responsive driving experience.

Cons

Infotainment system may require adaptation.
Limited rear legroom compared to rivals.
Premium gasoline requirement increases fuel cost.
Front-wheel drive may not appeal to driving purists.
Some may find exterior styling too conservative.

Maintenance and Common Issues

Annual maintenance costs for the TLX are reasonable for a luxury vehicle, averaging around $500 to $700. However, like any car, specific issues may arise:

Transmission delay in shifting gears.
Occasional electrical system malfunctions.
Issues with the infotainment system responsiveness.
Brake pad wear more rapid than expected.
Paint chipping under certain conditions.

Rating

Overall Rating: 8/10

Design: 9/10
Comfort: 8/10
Performance: 8/10
Technology: 7/10
Safety: 9/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"The TLX is a joy to drive; smooth handling and luxury feel are top-notch."
"The interior quality surpasses many cars I've owned before, very comfortable."
"I love the safety features; they make me feel secure every time I drive."
"Infotainment system can be a bit clunky; wish it was more intuitive."
"Fuel efficiency is decent, but the front-wheel drive limits sporty potential."

Best cars in this category

2018 BMW 3 Series
2018 Audi A4
2018 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
2018 Lexus IS
2018 Cadillac ATS

Summary

The 2018 Acura TLX FWD is ideally suited for those seeking a blend of luxury, safety, and performance in a compact sedan. It offers an appealing package of features at an attractive price point compared to many of its rivals. While it may not appeal to those looking for rear-wheel drive dynamics, it makes up for it with remarkable safety features and a plush interior. Overall, the TLX stands as a strong contender in its segment, delivering a compelling mix of style, comfort, and innovative features.