The 2023 Acura TLX stands out as a premium performance sedan, offering a compelling blend of dynamic driving, sophisticated design, and advanced technology. This model year continues to impress with its range of trim levels, each catering to different preferences and performance appetites. Let’s delve into the specifications and features that define the 2023 Acura TLX lineup, from the Technology and A-Spec trims to the exhilarating Type S and exclusive PMC Edition.
Power and Performance: Engine Options of the 2023 TLX
At the heart of the 2023 Acura TLX lies a choice of two robust engines. For the standard TLX, Technology, A-Spec, and Advance trims, a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine delivers a potent 272 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 280 lb.-ft. of torque between 1,600 and 4,500 rpm. This engine incorporates a mono-scroll turbo, 16-Valve DOHC VTEC® valvetrain, and direct fuel injection for optimal performance and efficiency. It also features Idle Stop and achieves a SULEV-30 CARB emissions rating.
Stepping up to the Type S variants, including the Type S, Type S Performance Wheel & Tire, and Type SPMC Edition, the power is amplified by a turbocharged 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine. This powerhouse generates 355 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 354 lb.-ft. of torque from 1,400 to 5,000 rpm. The 3.0L V6 boasts a twin-scroll turbo, 24-Valve DOHC valvetrain, direct fuel injection, and Variable Cylinder Management™ for enhanced efficiency during cruising. Type S models achieve a ULEV70 CARB emissions rating. Both engines promise a 100k +/- miles tune-up interval, highlighting Acura’s commitment to long-term reliability.
Drivetrain and Handling: Mastering the Road in the 2023 Acura TLX
The 2023 Acura TLX offers a choice between Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and Acura’s signature Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®). FWD is standard on the base TLX and Technology trims, while SH-AWD® is available on A-Spec and standard on Advance and all Type S models. All trims are equipped with a responsive 10-Speed Automatic Transmission and Sequential SportShift Paddle Shifters for a more engaging driving experience. Type S models further enhance driver engagement with Rev-Matching Downshifts.
The gear ratios across all trims are consistent, ensuring smooth acceleration and optimal performance across the range. The chassis of the 2023 TLX is engineered for precision handling, featuring a Double-Wishbone Front Suspension and Multi-Link Rear Suspension in all models. Stabilizer bar dimensions vary slightly between FWD and SH-AWD models, and are further enhanced in Type S trims for sportier handling. Amplitude Reactive Dampers are standard on FWD models, while the Adaptive Damper System elevates the ride quality and handling dynamics of SH-AWD trims, including all Type S models. Type S models also benefit from High Performance Chassis Bracing.
Steering precision is delivered through a Belt-Driven Variable-Ratio Electric Power Steering (EPS) system across the lineup. Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) with Individual Mode allows drivers to customize their driving experience in Technology, A-Spec, and Advance trims, while Type S models expand this with an IDS that includes Individual Mode and Sport +. Agile Handling Assist® and Electro-Servo Brake (ESB) System are standard across all 2023 Acura TLX models, contributing to confident and responsive driving dynamics. Type S models distinguish themselves with a Brembo® Front 4-Piston Braking System and larger ventilated front disc brakes for superior stopping power.
Fuel Economy and Dimensions: Practicality Meets Performance in the 2023 TLX
Fuel economy for the 2023 Acura TLX varies based on drivetrain. FWD models achieve EPA fuel economy ratings of 22 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined. SH-AWD models are rated at 21 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined, with Type S models rated at 19 mpg city, 25 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined. All 2023 Acura TLX models require premium unleaded 91 octane fuel and have a fuel tank capacity of 15.85 U.S. gallons.
In terms of dimensions, the exterior of the 2023 Acura TLX is consistent across all trims, with a length of 194.6 inches, width of 75.2 inches, and height of 56.4 inches. The wheelbase measures 113.0 inches, and ground clearance is 5.3 inches unladen. Interior dimensions also remain consistent, offering a passenger volume of 93.4 cu ft. and cargo volume of 13.5 cu ft. The curb weight varies depending on drivetrain and trim, with FWD models ranging from 3,709 to 3,814 lbs and SH-AWD models ranging from 3,927 to 4,221 lbs.
Safety and Technology: AcuraWatch™ and Driver Assistance Features
The 2023 Acura TLX prioritizes safety with AcuraWatch™ Advanced Safety Technology, standard across all trims. This suite includes Forward Collision Warning (FCW) System, Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) System, Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) System, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow, Traffic Sign Recognition, and Traffic Jam Assist.
Blind Spot Information (BSI) System and Rear Cross Traffic Monitor are standard from the Technology trim upwards, along with Parking Sensors (Front and Rear). Advance and Type S trims further enhance safety with a Surround-View Camera System and Head-Up Warning (HUW) in the Advance trim. Standard safety and driver-assistive technologies across the 2023 TLX range include Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) Body Structure, multiple airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with Traction Control, 4-Wheel Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL), Multi-View Rear Camera with Dynamic Guidelines, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and Theft-Deterrent System.
Interior Comfort and Connectivity: Premium Features of the 2023 TLX
The interior of the 2023 Acura TLX is designed for comfort and connectivity. All trims feature a True Touchpad Interface™, 10.2-Inch HD Dual-Content Center Display, 7-Inch Color Multi-Information Display (MID), Mobile Hotspot Capability, AcuraLink® Connected Services, Natural Language Voice Recognition, Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™ Compatibility, Siri® Eyes Free, SMS, MMS Text Message and Email Capability, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® Wireless Telephone Interface, Bluetooth® Streaming Audio, HD Radio®, SiriusXM®, USB Audio Interface, and Speed-Sensitive Volume Compensation (SVC). The audio system varies by trim, starting with a Premium Audio System with 10 Speakers in the base TLX, upgrading to an ELS Studio® Premium Audio System with 13 Speakers in Technology and A-Spec trims, and culminating in an ELS Studio® 3D Premium Audio System with 17 Speakers in Advance and Type S models.
Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control, Keyless Access System with Acura Personalized Settings, Pushbutton Ignition, Electronic Gear Selector, Power Windows, and Tilt and Telescopic Steering Column are standard. Seat upholstery and adjustability vary across trims, with Sport Seats in various materials and power adjustments. Heated Front Seats are standard across the range, with Ventilated Front Seats and Heated Rear Seats added in higher trims.
Exterior Design and Trim-Specific Features
The exterior of the 2023 Acura TLX is marked by Jewel Eye® LED Headlights, Chicane™ LED Daytime Running Lights, and Chicane™ LED Taillights across all trims. Features like LED Fog Lights, LED Puddle Lights, Gloss Black Decklid Lip Spoiler, Body Color Decklid Lip Spoiler, Carbon Fiber Decklid Lip Spoiler, Open Surface Diamond Pentagon Grille, Gloss Black Front Splitter and Rear Diffuser, Carbon Fiber Rear Diffuser, Power-Folding Side Mirrors, Gloss Black Roof Panel, Gloss Black Antenna, Gloss Black Door Handles, and Gloss Black Badging are trim-specific, enhancing the visual distinction between models like the A-Spec and Type S. Wheel designs and sizes also vary, with Type S models featuring unique 20-inch wheels.
Colors and Trims: Personalizing Your 2023 Acura TLX
The 2023 Acura TLX offers a range of exterior and interior colors, along with interior trim options, allowing for personalization. Standard exterior colors include Lunar Silver Metallic and Modern Steel Metallic, while premium colors like Majestic Black Pearl, Platinum White Pearl, and Performance Red Pearl are also available. Type S models introduce exclusive colors like Apex Blue Pearl, Tiger Eye Pearl, Curva Red, 130R White, and Long Beach Blue. Interior color and trim choices vary by exterior color and trim level, offering combinations like Ebony, Parchment, Graystone, Espresso, Red, and Orchid interiors with Silver Brushed Aluminum, Bronze Brushed Aluminum, Geometric Patterned Brushed Aluminum, Light Authentic Open-Pore Wood, Dark Authentic Open-Pore Wood, or Carbon Fiber trim.
The 2023 Acura TLX presents a compelling package of performance, luxury, and technology across its trim levels. Whether opting for the spirited 2.0L turbo or the exhilarating 3.0L V6 Type S, the TLX delivers a rewarding driving experience with Acura’s signature refinement and innovation.
