After more than a decade-long wait, the revered Type S performance badge has made its triumphant return to Acura, gracing the all-new 2021 Acura TLX Type S. This isn’t just a trim level; it’s a statement – Acura’s commitment to exhilarating performance and driving dynamics, packaged in a sophisticated and luxurious sedan. The 2021 Tlx Type S isn’t merely an upgraded TLX; it’s a meticulously engineered machine designed to deliver a driving experience that’s both thrilling and refined, making it the quickest and most dynamically capable Acura sedan ever produced.
At the heart of this performance renaissance lies an all-new, Acura-exclusive Type S Turbo V6 engine, churning out an impressive 355 horsepower and 354 lb.-ft. of torque. But the performance enhancements extend far beyond just raw power. The 2021 TLX Type S boasts a suite of upgrades meticulously crafted to elevate every aspect of the driving experience. These include a specially tuned suspension system featuring adaptive dampers, high-performance Brembo® front brakes, a dedicated Sport+ drive mode for maximum engagement, and striking 20-inch wheels shod in high-performance 255-series Pirelli P-Zero tires.
Furthermore, Acura’s renowned Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system, complete with true torque vectoring, comes standard, ensuring optimal handling and control across a spectrum of driving scenarios and weather conditions. Visually, the TLX Type S distinguishes itself with exclusive design cues, such as an open-surface Diamond Pentagon grille designed for enhanced engine cooling, distinctive quad exhaust finishers, and premium Milano leather seats with Ultrasuede® trim, proudly embossed with the Type S logo. The 2021 Acura TLX Type S is more than just a car; it’s the embodiment of Acura’s renewed performance spirit, setting a new benchmark for sport sedans in its class.
2021 TLX Type S: Performance Redefined
The 2021 Acura TLX Type S marks a pivotal moment for the brand, signaling the return of Acura’s performance-oriented Type S lineage after a long hiatus. This resurgence began with the unveiling of the Type S Concept in 2019, a clear indication of Acura’s intention to inject more emotion and excitement into its premium performance offerings. The result is the 2021 TLX Type S, a sedan that masterfully blends exhilarating performance with the everyday usability and comfort that the second-generation TLX is already celebrated for.
Compared to the standard TLX, the Type S variant delivers a significant leap in performance. It accelerates to 60 mph approximately 25-percent faster, achieving the benchmark in around 5 seconds. The top speed is also notably increased, from 130 mph to an electronically limited 155 mph. Beyond straight-line speed, braking performance is enhanced, and with the standard SH-AWD system featuring torque vectoring, coupled with 20-inch wheels and optional summer tires, the 2021 TLX Type S firmly establishes itself as the highest-performing Acura sedan to date.
The design of the 2021 TLX Type S is instantly recognizable, signaling its performance intentions. The open-surface Diamond Pentagon grille not only serves as a striking visual element but also improves engine cooling. Quad exhaust outlets, a front splitter, and a rear diffuser further accentuate its sporty character. Inside, the driver-centric cabin features an NSX-inspired flat-bottom steering wheel adorned with the Type S logo, along with 16-way adjustable Milano leather seats, complete with adjustable bolsters and Type S-embossed headrests, ensuring both comfort and support during spirited driving.
Technological sophistication is also a hallmark of the 2021 TLX Type S. It comes standard with the critically acclaimed Acura ELS STUDIO 3D® 17-speaker premium audio system, delivering an immersive auditory experience. Acura’s innovative True Touchpad Interface™, featuring “Absolute Positioning” and a high-mounted 10.2-inch HD center display, provides intuitive control over vehicle functions. Safety remains paramount, with the TLX Type S equipped with the AcuraWatch™ suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies. It also incorporates a pioneering three-chamber front passenger airbag, designed to enhance occupant protection in angled frontal collisions. Built with Acura’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, the TLX aims for top-tier safety ratings, reflecting Acura’s commitment to passenger security.
For those seeking more in-depth information on the standard 2021 Acura TLX, resources are readily available, but the Type S truly represents the pinnacle of the model line.
Powering Performance: The Type S Turbo V6 Engine
The soul of the 2021 TLX Type S is undoubtedly the Type S Turbo V6, a brand-new, Acura-exclusive 3.0-liter turbocharged engine. This 24-valve, DOHC V6 powerhouse with direct-injection and a single twin-scroll turbocharger is the result of meticulous engineering, drawing expertise from the teams behind the Civic Type R engine and the NSX’s hybrid powertrain. This engine is not just a modification of existing Acura engines; it’s a bespoke unit engineered to deliver the performance demanded by the Type S badge.
Producing 355 horsepower and 354 lb.-ft. of torque, this engine offers a substantial increase in power compared to the standard TLX. To handle this increased output, the 10-speed automatic transmission has been強化ed with stronger internals and quicker shift times. The fourth-generation Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system, optimized for the Type S’s performance characteristics, is also standard, ensuring that power is effectively translated into exhilarating performance.
Type S Turbo V6: Detailed Engineering
The Type S Turbo V6 is a marvel of modern engine design. This all-aluminum 3.0-liter engine utilizes direct-injection and a single twin-scroll turbocharger to generate up to 15.1 psi of boost. While it shares a 60-degree V6 architecture and bore spacing with the 3.5-liter V6 found in the MDX, the 3.0-liter engine is unique in its construction. Key differences include 6-bolt sintered main caps for enhanced crankshaft rigidity and durability, and a square bore and stroke of 86 mm x 86 mm.
Engineers prioritized compact dimensions and a low profile for the new engine. The turbocharger is strategically positioned adjacent to the engine, above the transmission, and low-profile cylinder heads are employed. The fully assembled engine is actually 8 mm shorter than the naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6, maintaining the same width.
The twin-scroll turbocharger is a key component in achieving rapid response. It features independent internal paths for the front and rear cylinder banks, optimizing exhaust pressure delivery to the turbine. This design enables peak torque of 354 lb.-ft. to be available from an exceptionally low 1,400 rpm, providing robust power across the rev range.
Emissions control was also a primary focus. The turbo system’s heat management is optimized for quick catalytic converter activation. A double-pipe exhaust manifold design with external bellows and a V-band connection to the catalytic converter minimize heat mass entering the catalyst, a first for an Acura engine. An additional sub-radiator and the open-surface Diamond Pentagon grille, increasing airflow by 10 percent, contribute to effective engine temperature management.
Durability under extreme performance conditions is ensured by a robust rotating assembly. The engine incorporates a high-strength forged steel crankshaft, similar to the NSX’s twin-turbo V6, and forged steel connecting rods derived from Acura’s 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. Unique piston design, featuring a high-density Ni-resist cast iron top piston ring carrier, enhances wear characteristics and sealing, further reducing emissions.
| 2021 TLX and TLX Type S Engines |
|---|
| Engine Type |
| Turbo Type |
| Displacement (liters) |
| Horsepower @ rpm (SAE net) |
| Torque, lb.-ft. @ rpm (SAE net) |
| Valvetrain |
| Variable Cylinder Management™ |
| Compression Ratio |
| Fuel Injection |
| Throttle Control |
| Idle Stop |
| CARB Emissions Rating |
| Tune-Up Interval |
| EPA Fuel Economy Ratings: (City/Highway/Combined)1 |
Image showing the Active Vibration Control system components of the 2021 Acura TLX Type S engine.
Advanced Cylinder Head and Variable Cylinder Management (VCM)
To achieve the engine’s low profile, engineers integrated the camshaft bearing caps directly into the valve cover, eliminating separate caps and reducing overall engine height and part count.
A key feature for efficiency and emissions is Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM™). This system allows the engine to operate on three cylinders under light loads, maximizing fuel economy and reducing emissions, seamlessly transitioning to six-cylinder mode when more power is demanded. This is achieved through a newly developed, compact rocker arm and hydraulic lash adjuster design, replacing the VTEC® system used in the SOHC 3.5-liter engine for VCM implementation. In VCM mode, oil pressure is reduced, allowing a pin in the valve lifter assembly to create a gap, preventing valves from opening in the deactivated cylinders. When full power is needed, oil pressure is restored, re-engaging the valves for six-cylinder operation.
Active Vibration Control and Exhaust for Refinement and Sound
To maintain smooth operation during VCM activation, the 2021 TLX Type S utilizes new engine mounts and Active Vibration Control (AVC). This system uses sensors to detect and counteract engine vibrations, extending its function to chassis vibration cancellation for the first time, making VCM operation virtually imperceptible. AVC tuning is also adjusted based on the selected Integrated Dynamic System mode to modulate engine sound.
The Active Exhaust system, derived from the NSX, further enhances the auditory experience. Butterfly valves in each muffler open to amplify the V6 engine’s natural sound within the cabin. When fully opened, the exhaust note becomes 5-7 decibels louder. The valve system also manages exhaust flow to mitigate booming and enhance gear-shift sounds. Active Exhaust operation is linked to the Integrated Dynamics System modes, with valve behavior varying from closed at startup and low RPMs in Comfort mode to always open in Sport+ mode, providing a customizable auditory dimension to the driving experience.
| Active Exhaust System Operation |
|---|
| IDS Mode |
| Idle RPM |
| Start Up Mode |
| Idle Mode |
| Driving Mode |
Noise Cancellation and Enhanced Transmission
Active Noise Cancellation™ (ANC) further refines the cabin environment by reducing unwanted sounds, particularly during VCM operation. The ANC system integrates Active Sound Control (ASC), which uses the vehicle’s speakers to enhance desirable engine, intake, and exhaust sounds within the cabin.
The Type S Turbo V6 is paired exclusively with a high-performance 10-speed automatic transmission, 강화ed to manage the engine’s increased torque and power. Upgrades include a new torque converter, stronger gears, improved clutches, and a Type S-exclusive transmission cooler, ensuring consistent performance even at the vehicle’s top speed. Drivers can choose automatic operation or manual shifting via steering wheel paddles. Paddle shift response is optimized for Type S, with 40-percent quicker downshifts. In Sport+ mode, upshifts are also 30 percent faster, achieved through fuel cut during gear changes. Internal transmission enhancements include stronger materials and fine-particle peening for increased surface hardness and wear resistance on key components, carbon nitriding on the two-way clutch hub, and a paproslide solid lubricant coating on the P2 sun gear. A new high torque-compliant damper in the torque converter and modifications to the valve body further accommodate the engine’s high torque output.
Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®): Mastering Traction and Handling
The Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system in the 2021 Acura TLX Type S, showcasing torque vectoring capabilities.
A significant feature of the 2021 TLX Type S is the standard fourth-generation Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system, marking the first time SH-AWD is offered on a Type S model. This system not only distributes torque between the front and rear axles but also vector torque between the left and right rear wheels, providing superior handling and control across diverse road conditions.
Enhanced for the Type S Turbo V6, this SH-AWD® system, initially introduced in the 2019 RDX, boasts a 40 percent increase in maximum rear axle torque capacity and a 30 percent faster rear wheel torque transfer in normal driving conditions compared to the previous generation. Up to 70 percent of the engine’s torque can be directed to the rear axle, with the ability to then distribute 100 percent of that rear torque to either the left or right wheel as needed. This is achieved through a shorter hydraulic circuit and a higher-torque electric motor driving the rear differential’s hydraulic pumps, optimizing response time and consistency between rear wheels.
In Sport+ mode, the system’s side-to-side torque bias is increased by 40 percent compared to Sport mode, delivering an even more rear-wheel-drive-like feel. During cornering, SH-AWD® actively distributes more torque to the outside rear wheel, creating a yaw moment that aids in turning, enhancing cornering precision, reducing understeer, and improving overall controllability. The system also overdrives the rear axle by 2.9 percent, amplifying the yaw effect of rear-wheel torque vectoring during cornering.
SH-AWD® seamlessly integrates with Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) and Agile Handling Assist® systems to optimize torque distribution for superior handling and traction. The system uses data from engine RPM, airflow, transmission gear selection, wheel speed, steering angle, lateral G-forces, vehicle yaw rate, and clutch engagement to calculate and distribute torque appropriately. Three distinct SH-AWD® maps are linked to the Integrated Dynamics System modes: Normal and Comfort modes prioritize all-around driving, Sport mode offers more aggressive performance-oriented programming, and Sport+ provides the most aggressive torque management for maximizing cornering agility and handling performance.
The TLX Type S SH-AWD® system is a full-time all-wheel-drive system, featuring a torque-transfer unit directly mounted to the front transaxle. This unit transfers torque to the propeller shaft, which then powers the rear differential. The lightweight rear differential utilizes an electric motor to power hydraulic pumps for each clutch pack, with linear solenoids controlled by the ECU to selectively apply pressure to the clutches, managing power distribution to each rear wheel for optimized cornering grip and handling.
| 2021 TLX and TLX Type S Transmission and SH-AWD® |
|---|
| Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) |
| 10-Speed Automatic Transmission |
| Sequential SportShift Paddle Shifters |
| Rev-Matching Downshifts |
Chassis and Body: Engineered for Dynamic Excellence
The second-generation TLX chassis was already recognized for its stiffness, being the most rigid sedan chassis Acura had ever produced. For the 2021 TLX Type S, this foundation has been further refined to enhance strength, responsiveness, and overall driving dynamics. Key upgrades include additional body structure reinforcements, fine-tuned double-wishbone front and multilink rear suspension, optimized steering and adaptive dampers, more powerful brakes, and standard 20-inch wheels and tires.
Enhanced Structural Rigidity
Structural enhancements to the 2021 Acura TLX Type S chassis, highlighting increased rigidity for improved handling.
To meet the demands of Type S performance, the TLX body has been significantly reinforced, resulting in a 13-percent increase in chassis rigidity. This enhanced stiffness directly contributes to improved handling and chassis responsiveness, giving the 2021 TLX Type S sharper reflexes and a more connected feel for the driver.
Reinforcements are strategically placed throughout the body structure. In the front, additional braces link the shock towers and triangulate to the firewall, creating a more rigid “box” structure for the engine and transmission mounting. In the rear, steel reinforcements behind the rear seats form an “A-Brace,” stiffening the rear bulkhead and improving rear tire contact patch, particularly during aggressive cornering. Further structural enhancements include an additional mid-floor crossmember and stiffer rear wheel arches. Despite these reinforcements, the curb weight of the TLX Type S remains relatively controlled at 4,221 pounds, or 4,200 pounds with the optional lightweight wheels.
Suspension and Steering Fine-Tuning
The TLX utilizes a double-wishbone front suspension, a superior design compared to the more common MacPherson strut setup found in many competitors, including the BMW M340i. Double-wishbone suspension offers more precise control over wheel camber, caster, and toe angles, maximizing tire contact with the road for exceptional handling and cornering grip. This suspension type is also found in the second-generation NSX and was a hallmark of past Acura performance models.
For the 2021 TLX Type S, the front double-wishbone and rear multilink suspension systems have been specifically tuned to complement the reinforced chassis. Front spring rates are increased by 40 percent, and the front stabilizer bar is slightly thicker and 9-percent stiffer. Rear spring rates remain unchanged to maintain ride comfort, while the rear stabilizer bar is significantly thicker, increasing roll stiffness by 31 percent.
The Adaptive Damper System in the 2021 TLX Type S continuously adjusts damping force based on sensor inputs and is integrated with the Integrated Dynamics System. Type S models feature exclusive damper valve rates, with increased damping capability in both front and rear, providing a sportier feel and enhanced feedback in all driving modes. Thicker gussets connecting the side frame and damper housings further support the dampers under increased cornering loads from the performance tires.
The belt-driven Electric Power Steering (EPS) system in the 2021 TLX Type S features a unique variable gear ratio, tuned for a more responsive feel, especially in initial steering response. This contributes to the TLX Type S’s agile handling characteristics at low and medium speeds.
The Electro Servo Braking System, initially developed for the NSX, allows for precise tuning of brake pedal feel and electronically controls brake pressure to optimize performance driving characteristics, providing a brake feel similar to the NSX.
Braking Power: Brembo® System
High-performance Brembo® front brakes on the 2021 Acura TLX Type S, providing enhanced stopping power.
Braking performance is significantly upgraded in the 2021 TLX Type S with the addition of larger, more powerful Brembo® front brakes. These include four-piston calipers gripping 14.3-inch diameter rotors, which are 1.3 inches larger than standard and 1.2 inches thick, resulting in an 11-percent increase in thermal mass for improved fade resistance during demanding driving. These brakes contribute to a 13 percent improvement in 60-0 mph stopping distance. The rear brake calipers are finished in the same red color as the front Brembo® calipers, and both front and rear rotors are treated with Ferritic Nitrocarburizing (FNC) coating for enhanced corrosion resistance.
Integrated Dynamics System: Sport+ Mode
The Integrated Dynamics System in the 2021 TLX Type S offers an expanded range of driving modes, allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle’s dynamics to their preferences. In addition to Normal, Comfort, Sport, and Individual modes, the Type S introduces an exclusive Sport+ mode.
Sport+ mode, activated by holding the Dynamic Mode dial to the right for one second, further sharpens throttle response, quickens transmission upshifts by 30 percent, and engages an even more aggressive SH-AWD® profile, while retaining the sporty damper settings and increased steering effort from Sport mode. In Sport+ mode, the SH-AWD® system’s side-to-side torque bias is increased by 40 percent compared to Sport mode, further enhancing the rear-wheel-drive-like handling feel for maximum driving engagement.
The Integrated Dynamics System dial in the 2021 Acura TLX Type S, highlighting the exclusive Sport+ mode selection.
Wheels and Tires: Performance Contact
The 2021 TLX Type S offers a choice of two wheel and tire configurations. Standard are 20×9.0 shark-gray finished multi-spoke wheels, reminiscent of the Type S Concept wheels, paired with 255/35R20 Pirelli Cinturano P7 all-season performance tires.
Optional factory-installed lightweight split five-spoke wheels, inspired by the Acura NSX, are also available. These wheels reduce unsprung weight by 5.78 pounds per wheel and are paired with 255/35R20 Pirelli P Zero Summer tires, which themselves weigh slightly more than the all-season tires. The total reduction in unsprung weight of approximately 21.3 pounds significantly improves agility, roadholding, and ride comfort due to reduced rotational inertia. The Pirelli P Zero Summer tires were specifically co-developed with Pirelli for the TLX Type S, optimizing performance for both road and track use.
Exterior and Interior: Type S Distinctiveness
Exclusive Design Elements
- Open-surface Diamond Pentagon grille
- Front splitter
- 20-inch wheels
- Quad exhaust outlets
- Rear diffuser
- Tiger Eye Pearl paint option
- 16-way heated and cooled seats with Ultrasuede® inserts
- Orchid Milano Leather interior option
- Embossed Type S logo on head restraints
- Type S badges on grille, trunk lid, fenders, key fob, steering wheel, sill plates
The 2021 Acura TLX Type S exterior and interior styling strongly echoes the Type S Concept, setting it apart within the TLX lineup. From its aggressive front splitter to its prominent quad-exhaust outlets and purposeful rear diffuser, the Type S design communicates its performance intentions from every angle.
Exterior Styling: Aggression and Functionality
The exterior of the 2021 TLX Type S is distinguished by several unique Type S signatures. The open-surface Diamond Pentagon grille not only provides a distinctive visual identity but also increases engine airflow by 10 percent. A front splitter, gloss black grille finish, and matte black window surrounds further enhance the sporty aesthetic. Headlights with a blackout treatment complement the overall dark theme.
The rear of the Type S features a more pronounced gloss-black diffuser integrated into the lower rear fascia, along with large quad-exhaust finishers that incorporate the Active Exhaust system. Type S badges are strategically placed on the grille, front fenders, and trunk lid. Both 20-inch wheel options showcase the bright red brake calipers, and the taillights also receive a dark finish, mirroring the front-end design theme. For further customization, a carbon fiber decklid lip spoiler, carbon-fiber diffuser, and lower side sills are available as dealer-installed accessories, allowing owners to more closely match the Type S Concept’s appearance. The 2021 TLX Type S is offered in six exterior colors, including the exclusive Tiger Eye Pearl, alongside Modern Steel Metallic, Majestic Black Pearl, Platinum White Pearl, Performance Red Pearl, and Apex Blue Pearl.
Interior Refinement and Sportiness
Inside the cabin, the 2021 TLX Type S features exclusive Type S appointments. 16-way power-adjustable front seats include power-adjustable bolsters, contrasting stitching and piping, and embossed Type S logos on the head restraints. Three interior color options are available: Ebony, Red, and the Type S-exclusive Orchid, all featuring Black Ultrasuede® inserts. An NSX-inspired flat-bottom steering wheel with a prominent Type S logo, authentic aluminum trim on the doors and dash, Type S door sill trim, and French stitching on the dash top and door armrests further elevate the interior ambiance.
| TLX TYPE S INTERIOR COLORS | |
|---|---|
| TLX TYPE S EXTERIOR COLORS | Ebony |
| New: Tiger Eye Pearl* | • |
| Performance Red Pearl* | • |
| Majestic Black Pearl* | • |
| Platinum White Pearl* | • |
| Apex Blue Pearl* | • |
| Modern Steel Metallic | • |
* Premium Paint offered at an additional cost
The interior also boasts the Acura ELS STUDIO 3D® 17-speaker premium audio system and the True Touchpad Interface™ with a 10.2-inch HD center display, standard on the 2021 TLX Type S.
| Major Features Comparison |
|---|
| Full-LED Exterior Lighting |
| True Touchpad Interface™ with 10.2-inch HD display |
| Acura Navigation with 3D View |
| CarPlay® / Android Auto™ Integration |
| Wireless Charging Pad |
| ELS Studio 3D® 17 Speaker, 710 watts w/ Twin Telford™ Subs |
| Integrated Dynamic System (IDS) |
| 16-way Power Front Seats |
| Heated & Ventilated Front Seats |
| Heated Rear Outboard Seats |
| Flat Bottom Sport Steering Wheel |
| Heated Steering Wheel |
| Geometric Brushed Aluminum Trim |
| IconicDrive™ Ambient LED Lighting |
| Remote Engine Start |
| Power Folding Side Mirrors |
| Rain Sensing Wipers |
| 4G LTE WiFi Hot Spot |
| Surround View Camera System |
| Head Up Display |
| AcuraWatch™ |
| Traffic Jam Assist (TJA) |
Development and Manufacturing: An American Story with Global Expertise
The 2021 Acura TLX Type S is a testament to American design and engineering prowess, with primary design and development conducted in the United States. Styling was led by Acura Design in California, and platform development was spearheaded by engineers at Honda Development & Manufacturing of America in Ohio. The new 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine’s engineering development was led by the company’s R&D center in Japan, showcasing a blend of global expertise.
Manufacturing of the 2021 TLX Type S is exclusively based at the company’s Marysville, Ohio, plant, using both domestic and globally sourced parts. The 3.0-liter turbocharged engine is exclusively produced at Acura’s Anna, Ohio, engine plant, which also serves as the global source for this engine and produces all Acura engines sold in North America, including the NSX’s twin-turbo V6. The 10-speed automatic transmission is manufactured in Tallapoosa, Georgia, and the SH-AWD® system’s components are produced in Russells Point, Ohio, highlighting a significant North American manufacturing footprint for this performance sedan.
In conclusion, the 2021 Acura TLX Type S represents a significant achievement for Acura, marking the successful return of the Type S performance brand. With its powerful new engine, advanced handling technologies, distinctive design, and refined interior, the 2021 TLX Type S delivers a compelling blend of performance and luxury, solidifying its position as a leader in the sport sedan segment.
