The 2025 Acura TLX: 7 Reasons Why This Luxury Sedan Will Surprise You

The 2025 Acura TLX is Acura’s latest take on the luxury sedan market, and it’s got a lot of car enthusiasts talking. Sleek design? Check. Advanced technology? Check. But the TLX is much more than just a pretty face with a few tech toys. With impressive performance and a well-rounded feature set, this car brings its A-game. And while it’s got its quirks (we’ll get to those), there’s a lot here to love. Let's dive into the 2025 Acura TLX and see why this luxury sedan might just steal the spotlight from its competitors.

First Impressions: Style Meets Substance

The 2025 Acura TLX is a head-turner, no doubt about it. Acura's gone all-in with its bold design, sharp lines, and aggressive stance. It's clear that Acura wants to be taken seriously in the luxury segment, and the TLX’s design speaks volumes about that ambition. From its Diamond Pentagon grille to its sculpted LED headlights, the exterior shows attention to detail without being too flashy.

Attention to Detail: A Designer’s Touch

• “The TLX’s design is on point this year. Acura’s designers really nailed the balance between sporty and sophisticated,” said Alex Collantes, an automotive enthusiast and regular TLX driver. "It's like they were thinking of people who want a bit of spice in their commute."*

When you look at the TLX, you can't help but appreciate the way Acura has crafted its exterior. It doesn’t just look sporty; it feels like it. That’s because the TLX sits on a lower, wider platform than most sedans in its class. You get a sportier stance and improved aerodynamics which—spoiler alert—helps with the driving dynamics.

Interior: Tech-Filled Luxury Cabin

Step inside the 2025 TLX and you’re immediately greeted by a mix of premium materials and cutting-edge tech. The cabin is a comfortable place to be whether you’re the driver or a passenger. Acura’s really leaned into making sure that both the tech-savvy and traditional luxury car buyers are catered to.

• 10.2-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Acura’s ELS Studio 3D sound system (which is worth the upgrade)
• Wireless charging station conveniently located in the center console
• Premium leather upholstery with optional open-pore wood trim

However, while the tech is impressive, it’s the seating that steals the show. Acura’s Milano leather seats are both soft and supportive, ideal for long drives or, let’s be honest, sitting in traffic. Rear passengers get their share of the comfort too with ample legroom and supportive rear seats.

What’s the Catch?

Ok so here’s where things get a little interesting. While the TLX’s interior tech is great Acura’s touchpad interface for the infotainment system is...well let's just say it's not everyone’s favorite. It’s not as intuitive as we’d hope especially when you’re trying to make adjustments on the go. Some may even find it a bit fiddly compared to more straightforward systems like those from BMW or Mercedes.

Alex Collantes joked "It's like playing a video game where the controller's just a little too sensitive." We couldn’t have put it better ourselves. It’s not a dealbreaker but it takes some getting used to.

Power and Performance: It’s All About the Drive

Of course the 2025 Acura TLX wouldn’t be much to talk about if it didn’t deliver on performance—and this is where it shines. The TLX comes with two engine options a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 with 272 horsepower or a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 in the performance-oriented TLX Type S model that puts out a hefty 355 horsepower. Both engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly and quickly.

Handling and Ride Quality

The 2025 TLX doesn’t just go fast in a straight line; it handles corners with precision too. Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) is available and it makes a noticeable difference when pushing the car through turns. SH-AWD can distribute power between the front and rear wheels and even side-to-side on the rear axle to improve grip and handling. This tech keeps the car balanced and gives the driver confidence especially when the roads get twisty.

While the ride is generally smooth the suspension is a bit on the firm side especially with the Type S model. Alex Collantes joked "It’s like the TLX wants to remind you that you're not in a Rolls-Royce but hey a little stiffness isn’t a bad thing if you like feeling connected to the road." He’s right—enthusiasts will appreciate the sportier ride though it might be a bit much for those just looking for comfort.

Safety Features: Acura’s Got You Covered

Acura hasn’t skimped on safety either. The 2025 TLX comes standard with AcuraWatch, a suite of advanced safety features that includes:

• Collision Mitigation Braking System
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Lane Keeping Assist
• Traffic Jam Assist

These systems work well in practice and provide an added sense of security when driving in busy traffic or on the highway. The Traffic Jam Assist is especially handy and works like a dream when you’re stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic. You might even forget you're in the middle of a traffic jam—until someone honks at you anyway.

Drawbacks in Safety Features?

Well here’s a fun one: while Acura’s Collision Mitigation System is a life-saver in emergencies it can also be a little overzealous at times. One TLX owner described it as the car being “paranoid”—braking suddenly when it thinks there's an imminent collision but there really isn't. It’s not a huge issue but could make for some awkward moments at traffic lights.

Fuel Economy: Not Too Shabby for a Turbo

Considering its performance the TLX’s fuel economy is respectable. The 2.0-liter engine gets around 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. Not bad for a luxury sedan with a turbocharged engine under the hood. The Type S naturally takes a hit in this department but that’s expected when you’ve got a 3.0-liter V6 at your disposal.

If you’re hoping to save a few bucks at the pump maybe stick to the base model or just accept that driving the Type S comes with a bit of a fuel penalty. But let’s be honest—if you’re opting for the Type S fuel economy probably isn’t your top priority.

Alex Collantes Opinion on Fuel Efficiency

"Honestly it's better than I expected. I drive the Type S and I’m not constantly at the gas station, so that’s a win in my book" Alex pointed out.

Pricing: Is It Worth the Tag?

Alright let’s talk money. The 2025 Acura TLX starts at around $41,000 for the base model with the 2.0-liter engine and front-wheel drive. Opting for SH-AWD brings the price up a bit. The Type S which is Acura's performance variant comes in at about $57,000 when fully loaded.

Compared to rivals like the BMW 3 Series and the Mercedes C-Class, the TLX is priced competitively. And considering all the features you get plus Acura’s reputation for reliability the TLX offers solid value.

Is It Worth It?

Absolutely—for the price point you're getting a lot of car. But if you’re looking for sheer luxury or status you might want to spring for something like a BMW or Audi. However Alex Collantes summed it up nicely: "You get more bang for your buck with the TLX. It’s not all about the badge on the hood it's about what you get inside."

TLX Type S: The Fun Factor

Let’s spend a minute on the TLX Type S. This is where Acura goes from luxury to legit performance. That 3.0-liter turbo V6 has some serious grunt and the exhaust note isn’t half bad either. Throw it in Sport+ mode and the car really comes alive—it’s eager to accelerate and the SH-AWD system makes sure all that power gets to the road without fuss.

Drawback: It’s Not a Track Car

While the Type S is a blast to drive it’s not a full-blown sports sedan like a BMW M3 or an Audi RS5. The Type S is fast but it’s not razor-sharp in its handling. Don’t get me wrong—it’s fun but if you’re expecting a purebred sports car experience you might want to look elsewhere. As Alex Collantes said with a laugh "It’s like going to a steakhouse and ordering chicken—it’s still good just not what you came for."

Conclusion: Should You Buy the 2025 Acura TLX?

In a market flooded with luxury sedans the 2025 Acura TLX stands out as a solid contender. It’s not perfect (that touchpad interface still bugs me) but it gets a lot of things right. The design is fresh the tech is modern and the performance is downright fun—especially in the Type S.

If you're looking for a luxury sedan that won’t break the bank and still offers a thrilling driving experience you should definitely consider the 2025 Acura TLX. Sure there are some quirks but no car is perfect right?

Alex Collantes summed it up perfectly: “I don’t regret my decision. The TLX has everything I need—a bit of luxury a lot of fun and it doesn’t feel like I’m driving something my dad would pick.”

So if you want something stylish and sporty but with a touch of luxury the 2025 TLX might be just the car you’ve been waiting for.