The 2023 Acura Tlx Type S stands out as the high-performance variant of the Acura TLX lineup, blending luxury with exhilarating driving dynamics. This model is engineered for driving enthusiasts who demand both sophistication and power in their sedan. Let’s delve into the specifications and features that make the 2023 Acura TLX Type S a compelling choice in the performance sedan market.
Under the hood, the heart of the 2023 Acura TLX Type S is a robust Turbo Aluminum-alloy 6-Cylinder engine. This powerhouse delivers an impressive 355 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 354 lb.-ft. of torque between 1,400 and 5,000 rpm. The twin-scroll turbocharger ensures responsive power delivery across a wide rev range, making for thrilling acceleration and overtaking capabilities. The engine features a 24-Valve, DOHC valvetrain and Variable Cylinder Management, optimizing both performance and efficiency. It uses direct fuel injection and a Drive-by-Wire Throttle System for precise control and immediate response. Like other models in the TLX range, the Type S benefits from a 100k +/- Miles No Scheduled Tune-Ups interval, reducing maintenance concerns. It also features Idle Stop for enhanced fuel economy in city driving conditions.
Power is channeled through Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system, ensuring exceptional grip and handling in diverse driving conditions. The 10-Speed Automatic Transmission, equipped with Sequential SportShift Paddle Shifters and Rev-Matching Downshifts, provides quick and engaging gear changes. The gear ratios are finely tuned, from a 5.25 first gear for strong off-the-line performance to a 0.52 tenth gear for efficient highway cruising. The final drive ratio is 3.59, contributing to the vehicle’s overall responsiveness.
In terms of fuel economy, the 2023 Acura TLX Type S with SH-AWD achieves EPA ratings of 19 mpg in the city, 25 mpg on the highway, and 21 mpg combined. It requires premium unleaded 91 Octane fuel and has a fuel tank capacity of 15.85 U.S. gallons.
The chassis of the 2023 Acura TLX Type S is designed for high performance. It features a Double-Wishbone Front Suspension and Multi-Link Rear Suspension, complemented by a 30.0 mm front and 22.5 mm rear Stabilizer Bar. The Adaptive Damper System further enhances handling and ride comfort, adjusting to road conditions and driving style. High Performance Chassis Bracing adds rigidity, improving cornering precision. The steering system is a Belt-Driven Variable-Ratio Electric Power Steering (EPS), specifically tuned for the Type S with a ratio of 12.1:1 – 12.6:1, offering sharp and direct steering feedback. The Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) includes an Individual mode and Sport + mode, allowing drivers to customize the driving experience. Agile Handling Assist® and Electro-Servo Brake (ESB) System are standard, enhancing vehicle dynamics and braking performance. Notably, the Type S is equipped with a Brembo® Front 4-Piston Braking System with ventilated 14.3-inch front discs and solid 13-inch rear discs, providing superior stopping power. It rides on 20 x 9.0J Shark Gray Multi-Spoke Aluminum-Alloy Wheels, with available Light Weight Y-Spoke design, and is fitted with 255/35 R20 97Y Pirelli Cinturato P7 all-season tires or optional Pirelli P Zero Summer tires for even greater grip. The turning diameter curb to curb is 40.2 ft.
Dimensionally, the 2023 Acura TLX Type S mirrors the standard TLX in exterior size, with a length of 194.6 inches, width of 75.2 inches, and height of 56.4 inches. The wheelbase is 113.0 inches, and ground clearance is 5.3 inches. Interior dimensions provide ample space, with front/rear headroom at 37.2/36.3 inches and legroom at 42.5/34.9 inches. Shoulder room is 58.2/55 inches (front/rear), and hiproom is 55.8/54.6 inches (front/rear). The EPA passenger volume is 93.4 cu ft., and cargo volume is 13.5 cu ft. The curb weight for the SH-AWD Type S is 4,221 lbs, with a weight distribution of 59/41 (front/rear) percent.
The 2023 Acura TLX Type S comes standard with AcuraWatch™ Advanced Safety Technology, including 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, and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow. It also features Traffic Sign Recognition, Traffic Jam Assist, Blind Spot Information (BSI) System, and Rear Cross Traffic Monitor, enhancing safety and driver assistance. For audio and connectivity, the Type S boasts the ELS Studio® 3D Premium Audio System with 17 speakers, True Touchpad Interface™, 10.2-Inch HD Dual-Content Center Display, and wireless charging pad. Interior comforts include Sport Seats with Perforated Milano Premium Leather and Ultrasuede®, heated and ventilated front seats, and Iconic Drive™ Ambient LED Cabin Lighting. Exterior features include Jewel Eye® LED Headlights, Chicane™ LED Daytime Running Lights and Taillights, and a Moonroof with Tilt and Slide Function. Unique to the Type S are the Open Surface Diamond Pentagon Grille, Gloss Black Front Splitter and Rear Diffuser, and Quad Exhaust Finishers, underscoring its performance-oriented nature.
In conclusion, the 2023 Acura TLX Type S delivers a compelling package of performance, luxury, and advanced technology. It’s designed to offer an engaging driving experience without sacrificing the refinement expected from a luxury sedan, making it a standout option for discerning drivers.
