Best Car Reviews - 2021 Acura TLX FWD A-SPEC

Introduction

The 2021 Acura TLX FWD A-SPEC is a standout model in the compact luxury sedan segment. Released in 2021, this vehicle targets those who appreciate sporty aesthetics combined with luxury comfort. What makes the TLX FWD A-SPEC distinct is its sleek design, powerful engine, and a plethora of luxury features, all at an attractive price point for a luxury sedan.

Design and Exterior Features

The 2021 Acura TLX FWD A-SPEC boasts a striking exterior that sets it apart from its predecessors. The car is characterized by its aggressive stance and sculpted body, giving it an athletic appearance. Notable exterior features include:

Diamond Pentagon Grille flanked by Jewel Eye LED headlights.
19-inch Shark Gray Wheels which enhance its sporty look.
A-SPEC body kit noticeable in the front and rear bumpers and side moldings.
Dual chrome exhaust outlets that add a touch of sophistication.

Overall, the TLX A-SPEC combines luxury with a sporty design that is sure to turn heads.

Interior and Comfort

Inside, the TLX FWD A-SPEC offers a cabin that feels both upscale and comfortable. The use of high-quality materials such as leather-trimmed seats and metal accents creates a luxurious atmosphere. Key interior features include:

Perforated Milano Leather with Ultrasuede inserts on seats.
Heated and ventilated front seats to maintain comfort in varying weather conditions.
60/40 split-folding rear seats to expand cargo space when needed.
Ambient LED interior lighting that enhances the cabin's ambience.

Overall, the interior is designed to offer maximum comfort and a premium experience for both driver and passengers.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the TLX FWD A-SPEC features a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine delivering a powerful thrust. The SIDI (Spark Ignition Direct Injection) engine is coupled with an Automatic S10 transmission, offering seamless gear shifts. The car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 6.5 seconds, providing a thrilling driving experience. In city and highway scenarios, this Acura impresses with:

Responsive steering and sharp handling.
Smooth cruising on highways with minimal noise intrusion.
Dynamic driving modes like Sport and Sport+ for an enhanced driving experience.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the TLX has a consumption rate of 11.9 l/100 km, which is competitive for its class.

Technology and Connectivity

The 2021 TLX A-SPEC is packed with advanced technology and connectivity features. The infotainment system is intuitive and user-friendly, keeping occupants entertained and informed. Key tech features include:

10.2-inch HD Dual-Content Center Display for seamless navigation and infotainment access.
Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless connectivity.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
ELS Studio Premium Audio System for superior sound quality.

These features ensure that drivers and passengers remain connected and entertained on the road.

Safety Features

Acura prioritizes safety with the TLX FWD A-SPEC, equipping it with a range of standard and advanced safety features to protect occupants. Key safety elements include:

Collision Mitigation Braking System and Adaptive Cruise Control.
Lane Keeping Assist and Road Departure Mitigation.
Multi-View Rear Camera with dynamic guidelines.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) five-star safety rating.

These features provide peace of mind whether navigating city traffic or undertaking long road trips.

Pricing and Variants

The 2021 Acura TLX FWD A-SPEC has a base price of approximately $44,000 USD. It sits competitively in the compact luxury segment. When compared to rivals such as the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4, the TLX offers a unique blend of performance and luxury at a more accessible price point.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Sporty and Attractive Design that stands out.
Luxurious Interior with premium materials.
Engaging Driving Dynamics with different driving modes.
Comprehensive Tech Features and connectivity.
Competitive Pricing in the luxury segment.

Cons

Fuel Efficiency could be improved.
Limited rear headroom due to sloping roof design.
Complex touchpad controls might take getting used to.
No all-wheel-drive option for A-SPEC trim.
Limited trunk space compared to some competitors.

Maintenance and Common Issues

The annual maintenance cost for the TLX FWD A-SPEC is reasonable among luxury sedans, estimated around $600-$800 USD. Some common issues reported by users include:

Transmission hesitancy during quick acceleration.
Infotainment system glitches like occasional lag or freezing.
Minor cabin noise at high speeds.
Wear on brake pads earlier than expected.
Intermittent sensor alerts for safety features.

Rating

Overall, the 2021 Acura TLX FWD A-SPEC scores highly on several fronts:

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

Overall Rating: 8.6/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"The TLX A-SPEC offers a perfect blend of luxury and sportiness. Very satisfied with its performance."
"It's an eye-catching design, but I wish fuel efficiency was better."
"Tech features are great, but the learning curve for the touchpad control is steep."
"The cabin feels premium; however, trunk space is a bit tight for long trips."
"Safety features are excellent, providing confidence in all driving conditions."

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2021 Lexus IS
2021 Volvo S60

Summary

The 2021 Acura TLX FWD A-SPEC is ideal for drivers seeking a sporty luxury sedan that does not compromise on style, comfort, or tech features. It offers substantial value-for-money with its competitive pricing relative to luxury competitors. While fuel efficiency and trunk space might be concerns for some, the overall driving experience, safety, and technology offerings make it a compelling choice in the compact luxury segment.