Best Car Reviews - 2018 Acura TLX AWD A-SPEC

Introduction

The 2018 Acura TLX AWD A-SPEC brings together the best elements of performance and luxury in a compact car package. Released as a part of Acura's campaign to attract driving enthusiasts who crave both power and comfort, the TLX AWD A-SPEC stands out with its refined engineering and sporty aesthetics. This model is crafted for those who desire a driving experience that seamlessly blends agility with luxurious accommodations.

Design and Exterior Features

The Acura TLX AWD A-SPEC is a bold statement on wheels. With a sleek and aerodynamic shape, it features a muscular stance that is both aggressive and elegant. The attention to detail in its design echoes through every curve and contour, providing an aesthetic appeal that's hard to ignore.

Aggressive front grille with jewel-eye LED headlights
Sporty 19-inch alloy wheels that accentuate the car's stance
Sleek, aerodynamic lines designed to reduce wind resistance
Distinct rear spoiler and dual exhaust finishers for a sporty look
Available in a range of eye-catching colors that highlight its bold design

Interior and Comfort

Step inside the 2018 TLX AWD A-SPEC, and you will find a cabin that has been crafted with both comfort and style in mind. The interior layout is intuitive, allowing drivers to focus on the road while enjoying all the luxury this vehicle has to offer.

Premium leather seating with contrast stitching
Heated front and rear seats for ultimate comfort
Dual-zone automatic climate control to maintain perfect cabin temperature
Power-adjustable driver's seat with memory settings
Ambient interior lighting to enhance the driving experience

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the TLX AWD A-SPEC is powered by a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine equipped with SIDI (Spark Ignition Direct Injection) technology. This engine generates impressive horsepower, providing a thrilling performance that excites at every turn.

Acceleration: It takes approximately 6.0 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h, showcasing its powerful prowess on the road.

Driving Experience:

City: Maneuvers through traffic with ease, offering a balanced ride that absorbs bumps and road imperfections.
Highway: Displays stability and confidence, effortlessly cruising at high speeds.
Corners and Turns: The all-wheel-drive system enhances grip and handling, making tight corners a joy to navigate.

Fuel Efficiency: Approximately 12.9L/100 km, which is respectable for a performance-oriented vehicle in its class.

V6 engine for optimal power and efficiency
Precision all-wheel drive for enhanced control
Sport-tuned suspension for agile handling

Technology and Connectivity

The 2018 Acura TLX AWD A-SPEC comes packed with technological advancements to keep you connected and informed. Its infotainment system is easy to use and responsive, ensuring a seamless driving experience.

Dual-screen infotainment system with intuitive controls
Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming
Premium sound system providing high-quality audio
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration for smartphone connectivity
9-speaker surround-sound system for crystal clear audio

Safety Features

Acura takes safety seriously, and the TLX AWD A-SPEC is no exception. Equipped with a suite of safety features, it aims to protect its occupants and enhance driving confidence.

AcuraWatch™ suite of advanced safety technologies
Blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alerts
Lane-keeping assist to maintain your lane
Adaptive cruise control for highway driving ease
Five-star safety rating from leading crash test agencies

Pricing and Variants

The 2018 TLX AWD A-SPEC is competitively priced with a starting base price of approximately $44,000 USD. It offers excellent value for the luxury and performance packed in.

Base price: $44,000 USD
Competitors include models from BMW and Mercedes in the same category
Offers a balance of luxury and affordability

Pros and Cons

Pros

Strong V6 engine with impressive power output
Luxurious and comfortable interior
Advanced safety features and comprehensive driver aids
Stylish exterior design with athletic aesthetics
Smooth handling and superior all-wheel drive control

Cons

Fuel economy could be improved
Limited rear seating space for taller passengers
Infotainment system navigation can be complex
Might be priced higher compared to non-premium competitors
Some competitors offer superior interior materials

Maintenance and Common Issues

Owning a TLX AWD A-SPEC involves regular maintenance, which is typical for luxury vehicles. Yearly maintenance costs can average around $1,200 USD.

Transmission issues reported by some users
Infotainment system glitches requiring updates
Brake wear and tear needing periodic checks
Suspension noise on rougher roads
Battery performance in cold climates

Rating

Overall rating: 8.5/10

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

User Reviews and Feedback

"The performance and style of the A-SPEC are unmatched in its class."
"I love the luxurious feel but wish the backseat was more spacious."
"The technology is great, but can be a bit tricky to navigate at first."
"Fuel efficiency is not the best, but the driving experience makes up for it."
"Safety features are top-notch, giving me confidence on the road."

Best Cars in This Category

2018 BMW 3 Series
2018 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
2018 Audi A4
2018 Lexus IS
2018 Infiniti Q50

Summary

The 2018 Acura TLX AWD A-SPEC is ideal for those seeking a balance between sporty performance and luxury comforts. Its sleek design, powerful engine, and advanced technology make it a compelling choice in the compact luxury segment. While there are areas for improvement, like fuel efficiency and rear seating space, the TLX offers a complete package for a discerning driver. Overall, it provides an attractive value proposition with its unique blend of performance and luxury features.