Best Car Reviews - 2018 Acura TLX FWD

Introduction

The 2018 Acura TLX FWD is a stylish addition to the compact car segment that was introduced to cater to the needs of drivers seeking both luxury and performance. Acura has successfully positioned the TLX FWD as a premium sedan that combines elegant design with advanced technology, making it a compelling choice for those who prioritize comfort and class. This model stands out due to its refined exterior, premium interior finishes, and impressive driving dynamics—all underpinned by Acura's reputation for reliability and innovation.

Design and Exterior Features

The 2018 Acura TLX FWD captures attention with its sleek and sophisticated design. The car's aesthetic appeal is characterized by a bold front grille that bears Acura’s signature diamond-pentagon design, accented by Jewel Eye LED headlights. The 2018 model introduces subtle enhancements over previous iterations, focusing on a sportier silhouette and improved aerodynamics.

Sleek, flowing lines that enhance the sporting profile.
Jewel Eye LED headlights and taillights for improved visibility and style.
18-inch alloy wheels that balance aesthetics with performance.
Sculpted side panels to improve aerodynamics and create a dynamic stance.

Interior and Comfort

The interior of the 2018 TLX FWD is a harmonious blend of luxurious materials and thoughtful design elements. Acura has used high-quality materials throughout the cabin, ensuring a premium feel and providing comfort for both the driver and passengers.

Spacious seating with premium leather upholstery.
Dual-zone climate control for personalized comfort settings.
Heated front seats to enhance winter comfort.
Advanced noise insulation materials for a quieter cabin.
10-way power-adjustable driver's seat for optimal driving posture.

Performance and Handling

Beneath the hood, the 2018 Acura TLX FWD is powered by a 2.4-liter inline-4 engine with SIDI that delivers a smooth yet spirited performance. The car boasts a responsive automatic transmission (AM-S8) that ensures seamless gear transitions, contributing to its agile handling.

Engine Specifications: 206 horsepower and 182 lb-ft of torque.
Acceleration: Reaches 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 7.5 seconds.
Fuel Efficiency: Offers a competitive fuel consumption of 11.0 l/100 km.
Smooth acceleration and precise steering for urban driving.
Stable and controlled ride on highways with excellent road grip.

Technology and Connectivity

The 2018 Acura TLX FWD is equipped with cutting-edge technology, catering to modern connectivity and infotainment needs. The intuitive infotainment system ensures that drivers stay connected and entertained with ease.

8-inch On-Demand Multi-Use Display (ODMD).
AcuraLink Connected Services for remote access and emergency services.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Bluetooth 5.0 for seamless smartphone integration.
Premium Audio System with 7 speakers for immersive sound.

Safety Features

Acura prioritizes safety, and the TLX FWD is a testament to this commitment with a robust suite of safety features. The car has been recognized for its high safety standards, providing peace of mind for occupants.

AcuraWatch Suite: Includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist, and Collision Mitigation Braking.
Blind Spot Information System to monitor unseen areas.
Rear Cross Traffic Monitor for added parking safety.
Advanced airbag system and reinforced body structure.
High safety ratings from major testing agencies.

Pricing and Variants

The base price of the 2018 Acura TLX FWD starts at approximately $33,000 USD, positioning it competitively within the compact luxury sedan market. This pricing makes it an attractive choice when compared to similar models.

Available in various trims with additional features.
Offers excellent value for money in its class.
Competitive pricing compared to sedans like the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Elegant design and aerodynamics.
Luxurious interior with quality materials.
Advanced safety features.
Responsive handling and drive.
Competitive pricing for a luxury sedan.

Cons

Limited rear-seat legroom.
Complex infotainment setup.
Higher fuel consumption compared to some rivals.
Fewer customization options than competitors.
No all-wheel drive option in this model.

Maintenance and Common Issues

Owning a 2018 Acura TLX FWD involves an annual maintenance cost that reflects its luxury stature, averaging around $700 USD. While Acura’s reliability is notable, owners have reported several common issues:

Transmission lag in automatic gear shifts.
Infotainment system glitches.
Noise in the suspension system.
Paint quality concerns with chipping reported.
Brake pad wear faster than expected.

Rating

Overall Rating: 8.5/10

Design: 9/10
Comfort: 8/10
Performance: 8.5/10
Technology: 8/10
Safety: 9/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"Love the styling and luxury feel of my TLX, but the infotainment takes time to get used to."
"Great car for city driving, though I wish it were more fuel-efficient."
"Solid safety features. I feel secure driving the TLX."
"Handling is smooth and responsive, especially on the open road."
"I expected better rear passenger space, but overall satisfied with the features."

Best Cars in this Category

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

Summary

The 2018 Acura TLX FWD is best suited for individuals or small families seeking a blend of luxury, performance, and advanced technology without breaking the bank. Its elegant design and robust safety features make it a worthy competitor in the compact luxury sedan market. While some minor drawbacks persist, the overall value and appeal of this car are undeniable, providing a pleasurable driving experience for those seeking comfort and style.