Best Car Reviews - 2017 Acura TLX AWD

Introduction

The 2017 Acura TLX AWD elegantly bridges the gap between luxury and performance, offering a compelling blend for the discerning driver. Released as a part of Acura's lineup catering primarily to professionals and families alike, the TLX AWD aims to deliver a premium driving experience. Its all-wheel-drive capabilities alongside a robust package make it stand out in the compact luxury sedan market.

Design and Exterior Features

The 2017 Acura TLX AWD flaunts a sleek and sophisticated look that effortlessly catches the eye. Its design language emphasizes elegance and aerodynamics, ensuring it not only looks good but performs well on the road. Key design elements include:

Sharp, angular headlights with Jewel Eye LED design.
An imposing chrome-accented grille that captures attention.
Sculpted side lines for a dynamic appearance.
18-inch alloy wheels offering a stylish stance.

Interior and Comfort

Step inside the TLX AWD, and you're enveloped in an ambiance of luxury. The cabin reflects Acura's commitment to premium materials and meticulous craftsmanship. Comfort and convenience are front and center:

Perforated leather seats that adjust effortlessly for driver and passenger comfort.
Dual-zone climate control ensures individualized comfort for all occupants.
High-quality soft-touch materials throughout the cabin.
Ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers.

Performance and Handling

Powering the TLX AWD is a 3.5-liter, V6 engine paired with Acura’s automatic 9-speed (S9) transmission. It produces a robust power output that guarantees thrilling drives. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is achieved in just over 6 seconds, offering brisk, responsive performance. The TLX feels at home in both urban environments and on the highway, providing a stable and engaging driving experience.

City Drive: Agile with precise steering making it easy to navigate traffic.
Highway Drive: Feels smooth and powerful, maintaining steady speeds effortlessly.
Fuel Efficiency: Averages at 11.9 l/100 km, appropriate given its powerful V6 engine.

Technology and Connectivity

The TLX AWD is fitted with a range of cutting-edge technologies that enhance both connectivity and driver convenience. The infotainment system is intuitive and multifunctional:

Bluetooth 5.0 for seamless connectivity.
User-friendly 8-inch infotainment display.
ELS Studio Premium Audio System for an immersive sound experience.
Advanced navigation system with real-time traffic updates.

Safety Features

Safety is a core component of the TLX AWD, ensuring peace of mind for every journey. It achieves high marks in safety ratings and comes equipped with both standard and advanced safety features:

Adaptive Cruise Control for maintaining safe following distances.
Lane Keeping Assist System to prevent unintentional drift.
Collision Mitigation Braking System for added frontal collision protection.
Blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
Achieved top ratings in various crash safety tests.

Pricing and Variants

The starting price for the 2017 Acura TLX AWD is approximately $42,500 USD. It competes robustly amongst other vehicles in its segment, balancing performance and luxury at this price point. Compared to competitors like the BMW 3 Series or Audi A4, the TLX offers better all-wheel drive capabilities for the price.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Sophisticated and bold design aesthetics.
All-wheel drive provides excellent traction and stability.
Luxurious interior materials that offer superior comfort.
Engine performance is best in class.
Comprehensive safety features.

Cons

Fuel consumption could be more efficient.
Infotainment system may feel slightly outdated.
Limited customization options compared to rivals.
Ride comfort can be overly firm on rougher roads.
The trunk space is somewhat limited compared to competitors.

Maintenance and Common Issues

Yearly maintenance costs for the TLX are standard for a luxury vehicle, though certain areas could see issues if not regularly checked:

Transmission issues around rough gear changes.
Electrical system malfunctions, especially in the infotainment area.
Potential brake system wear and tear.
Suspension issues leading to a rougher ride over time.
Tire wear from the all-wheel-drive system requiring frequent checks.

Rating

Overall: 8.5/10

Design: 9/10
Comfort: 8/10
Performance: 9/10
Technology: 7.5/10
Safety: 9/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"The handling on this car is unbeatable—solid and confidence-inspiring."
"Fuel efficiency could definitely be better, especially for city driving."
"Absolutely love the luxurious interior; it feels like a step above."
"Tech is a bit dated compared to newer models, but it gets the job done."
"Reliable and sturdy, only minor issues over the years."

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 AWD is best suited for individuals seeking a balance of performance and luxury without the premium pricing of some European rivals. It’s a highly appealing option for families and professionals who value a vehicle that offers a compelling mix of safety, style, and comfort. Its well-rounded nature and all-wheel-drive capability make it a captivating choice in the compact luxury sedan market.