2025 Acura TLX Type S: A Bold Leap in Luxury and Performance
The 2025 Acura TLX Type S redefines the performance sedan category, striking a delicate balance between raw power, sophisticated luxury, and advanced technology. As Acura’s performance flagship, the Type S model delivers a dynamic driving experience that goes beyond numbers and specs—it connects the driver with the road, the car, and the moment.
In a market dominated by European stalwarts, the 2025 Acura TLX Type S emerges as a compelling alternative for those seeking high performance without sacrificing dependability, comfort, or style. Let’s explore this stunning machine in meticulous detail.
Design Philosophy: Where Form Meets Function
Acura has built the 2025 TLX Type S around the ethos of precision-crafted performance, blending an athletic stance with aerodynamics and elegance. The design evolves from its predecessor, taking boldness to the next level while remaining unmistakably Acura.
Exterior Details That Impress
The exterior speaks volumes about the car’s performance intent:
- Front fascia: A revamped Diamond Pentagon grille with a more open design enhances cooling efficiency for the powerful V6 engine.
- Lighting signature: The Jewel Eye™ LED headlights and Chicane™ LED daytime running lights add a futuristic touch.
- Rear styling: Quad exhaust outlets and an integrated rear diffuser not only look aggressive but also improve aerodynamics.
Aerodynamic improvements extend to the carefully sculpted side skirts, larger front air intakes, and a subtly integrated decklid spoiler. Combined, these elements reduce drag while optimizing downforce.
Colors and Customization
Acura offers a new palette of striking colors, including Tiger Eye Pearl, Phantom Violet Pearl, and Apex Blue Pearl. Exclusive to the Type S are 20-inch Shark Gray split-five-spoke wheels wrapped in summer performance tires for added grip.
Interior: Comfort Meets Command
Stepping inside the 2025 Acura TLX Type S reveals an interior designed with the driver in mind. Every detail serves both form and function, creating a space that feels luxurious and focused.
Premium Materials and Craftsmanship
- Milano leather seats, available with Ultrasuede® inserts, provide the perfect mix of softness and grip for spirited drives.
- Real aluminum and carbon fiber trim accents add a touch of motorsport-inspired elegance.
- Ambient lighting inspired by famous racetracks, like Suzuka and Spa-Francorchamps, enhances the mood for every drive.
Driver-Centric Layout
The cockpit is thoughtfully designed to keep controls within easy reach. The 10.5-inch head-up display (HUD) projects critical driving information directly onto the windshield, ensuring you never have to look away from the road.
Comfort and Space
Despite its sporty intentions, the TLX Type S offers exceptional comfort:
- Front seats: Heated, ventilated, and power-adjustable with massage functions.
- Rear seats: Generous legroom and optional heating.
- Storage: A 13.5-cubic-foot trunk and 60/40 split-folding rear seats make it surprisingly practical for a performance sedan.
Performance: A Thrill Machine on Four Wheels
The beating heart of the 2025 Acura TLX Type S is its turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, delivering jaw-dropping performance with sophistication. Every element of its engineering is optimized for balance, precision, and excitement.
Engine and Powertrain
Specification | Detail |
---|---|
Engine Type | 3.0L Turbocharged V6 |
Horsepower | 355 hp |
Torque | 354 lb-ft |
0-60 mph | 4.5 seconds (est.) |
Top Speed | 155 mph (electronically limited) |
The 10-speed automatic transmission is tuned for seamless shifts, with paddle shifters for manual control. The Sport+ mode, exclusive to the Type S, sharpens throttle response and offers an exhilarating driving experience.
Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®)
The SH-AWD system remains a key highlight, using torque vectoring to deliver power to the wheels with the most grip. This translates to exceptional stability and agility, especially during high-speed cornering.
Chassis and Suspension: Confidence in Every Corner
The TLX Type S rides on a double-wishbone front suspension, a hallmark of performance cars. Combined with an adaptive damping system, the chassis can switch between comfort and aggression at the push of a button.
The electro-servo braking system, derived from the NSX supercar, offers precision and confidence, while the Type S-specific brake pads ensure fade-free performance during spirited drives.
Technology: Smart, Connected, and Safe
The 2025 Acura TLX Type S is as intelligent as it is powerful. Acura has gone all-in on tech, offering an updated infotainment system, advanced connectivity, and a comprehensive suite of safety features.
Infotainment and Connectivity
- A 12.3-inch HD central display paired with a touchpad interface.
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration.
- The ELS Studio 3D® 17-speaker audio system, which delivers breathtaking sound quality.
Driver-Assistance Features
AcuraWatch™ comes standard, including:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Keeping Assist System
- Blind-Spot Monitoring
- Collision Mitigation Braking System™
Fuel Economy: Practical Power
For all its performance prowess, the 2025 Acura TLX Type S delivers commendable efficiency. The EPA-estimated fuel economy is:
- City: 22 mpg
- Highway: 30 mpg
- Combined: 25 mpg
This places it ahead of many competitors in its segment, making it a practical choice for daily use.
Pricing and Packages
The 2025 Acura TLX Type S starts at around $55,000, undercutting many of its European rivals. Acura also offers several optional packages to enhance your experience:
- Advance Package: Adds a surround-view camera, rear heated seats, and a heads-up display.
- Performance Package: Includes lightweight carbon-fiber components and summer tires for maximum grip.
How It Stacks Up Against the Competition
The 2025 Acura TLX Type S competes against formidable rivals like the BMW M340i, Audi S4, and Mercedes-AMG C43. What sets it apart is its value proposition. While its competitors offer similar performance, the TLX Type S combines it with Japanese reliability, a lower cost of ownership, and a standout design.
Key Advantages
- Pricing: Significantly lower starting price than its German counterparts.
- Reliability: Backed by Acura’s reputation for long-term durability.
- Distinctive Styling: A design that’s aggressive yet refined.
Final Verdict: The 2025 Acura TLX Type S Is a Game-Changer
The 2025 Acura TLX Type S isn’t just another performance sedan; it’s an experience. Acura has taken a well-rounded approach, offering thrilling dynamics, premium comfort, cutting-edge technology, and everyday usability—all in a package that’s accessible and reliable.
For anyone in the market for a luxury performance sedan, the 2025 Acura TLX Type S is a must-drive. It’s proof that you don’t need a European badge to turn heads or dominate the open road.
Experience It for Yourself
The 2025 Acura TLX Type S invites you to rediscover the joy of driving. Visit your nearest Acura dealership and prepare to be captivated. Whether it’s the thrilling acceleration, the luxurious cabin, or the sheer presence of this car, you’ll find that it delivers far beyond expectations.
The 2025 Acura TLX Type S starts at approximately $55,000, offering exceptional value compared to competitors like the BMW M340i and Audi S4.
The 2025 Acura TLX Type S stands out due to its turbocharged V6 engine, advanced SH-AWD system, luxurious interior, and cutting-edge technology—all at a competitive price point.
The 2025 Acura TLX Type S offers an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 22 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined, making it practical for daily use despite its high performance.