2018 Acura TLX: Refined Luxury Sedan with Enhanced Performance

Positioning in the Luxury Sedan Market

The 2018 Acura TLX occupies a strategic position in the competitive mid-size luxury sedan segment, offering premium features at a more accessible price point than European rivals. While facing increasing competition from luxury SUVs like Acura's own MDX and RDX, the TLX continues to attract buyers seeking sporty sedan dynamics with Japanese reliability.

Key competitors include:

• Buick Regal - More affordable but less refined
• Cadillac CTS - Sharper handling but higher maintenance costs
• Lincoln MKZ - Softer ride but less engaging to drive
• Mercedes-Benz C-Class - More prestigious badge but significantly more expensive

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Exterior Design Updates

Acura implemented thoughtful styling revisions for the 2018 TLX that enhance its premium appearance without radical changes:

Front-End Redesign

The most noticeable change is the redesigned grille, replacing the previous shield design with a more sophisticated diamond pentagon pattern inspired by Acura's Precision Concept. The new grille features three-dimensional elements that create dynamic light reflection patterns.

Lighting Enhancements

LED technology extends throughout the lighting system, including:

• Redesigned LED headlights with improved illumination
• Amber LED daytime running lights (DRLs)
• LED turn signals integrated into the DRLs
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A-Spec Package Styling

The new A-Spec performance package adds aggressive styling cues:

• Sportier front bumper with round foglights
• Dark-finish 19-inch alloy wheels
• Black rear spoiler and trim elements
• Dual round exhaust tips (vs. square on standard V6)

Interior Refinements and Technology

While maintaining Acura's signature dual-screen layout, the 2018 TLX receives meaningful technology upgrades that address previous criticisms:

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Powertrain and Performance Options

The 2018 TLX continues with two proven engine choices, both paired with advanced automatic transmissions:

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2.4L Four-Cylinder (Base Model)

• Output: 206 horsepower @ 6800 rpm
• Torque: 182 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
• Transmission: 8-speed dual-clutch automatic
• Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive only
• Fuel Economy: 24 mpg city / 34 mpg highway

3.5L V6 (Performance Option)

• Output: 290 horsepower @ 6200 rpm
• Torque: 267 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
• Transmission: 9-speed automatic with paddle shifters
• Drivetrain: FWD or SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive)
• Fuel Economy: 20 mpg city / 29 mpg highway (FWD)

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A-Spec Performance Package Details

New for 2018, the A-Spec package transforms the TLX into a more engaging sports sedan:

Chassis and Suspension

• Sport-tuned suspension with stiffer dampers
• Thicker rear stabilizer bar for reduced body roll
• Performance tires on 19-inch wheels (235/40R19)

Interior Enhancements

• Sport seats with enhanced bolstering and Alcantara inserts
• Brushed aluminum interior trim
• Thick-rimmed sport steering wheel
• Unique red ambient lighting

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Safety and Driver Assistance

In a significant move, Acura made its AcuraWatch safety suite standard across all 2018 TLX models, including the base four-cylinder version:

Standard AcuraWatch Features

• Collision Mitigation Braking: Detects impending collisions and can automatically apply brakes
• Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains set following distance, even in stop-and-go traffic
• Lane Keeping Assist: Gently corrects steering to maintain lane position
• Road Departure Mitigation: Helps prevent unintentional lane departure

Available Advanced Features

• 360-Degree Camera: Provides bird's-eye view for parking maneuvers
• Blind Spot Monitoring: Alerts to vehicles in adjacent lanes
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert: Warns of approaching vehicles when reversing

Driving Dynamics and Comfort

The 2018 TLX strikes a balance between sporty handling and luxury comfort:

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Ride Quality

Even with the sportier A-Spec suspension, the TLX maintains commendable ride compliance. The amplitude-reactive dampers automatically adjust to road conditions, providing a smooth highway ride while firming up during aggressive cornering.

Steering Feel

Acura's precision steering offers:

• Well-weighted feedback at all speeds
• Quick 11.6:1 ratio for responsive turn-in
• Variable effort that increases with speed

Noise Isolation

Extensive sound-deadening measures result in:

• Active noise cancellation (V6 models)
• Acoustic glass windshield and side windows
• Thicker floor pan insulation

Technology and Connectivity

The 2018 updates brought the TLX's tech features up to class standards:

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Dual-Screen Infotainment

The upper 8" display handles navigation and critical information, while the lower 7" touchscreen controls audio, climate, and smartphone integration. The system now responds more quickly to inputs.

Audio Systems

• Standard: 7-speaker system with 8-channel amplifier
• ELS Studio Premium: 10-speaker system designed with Elliot Scheiner (Technology Package)
• ELS Studio Surround: 12-speaker system with 5.1 surround sound (Advance Package)

Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2018 TLX was available in several well-equipped configurations:

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Ownership Experience

The 2018 TLX offers several advantages for long-term owners:

Reliability and Maintenance

• Acura's reputation for above-average reliability
• Complimentary maintenance for first 2 years/24,000 miles
• 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty
• 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty

Resale Value

Acura vehicles typically retain their value better than average, with the TLX projected to hold approximately:

• 50% of value after 3 years
• 40% of value after 5 years

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Final Verdict

The 2018 Acura TLX represents a thoughtful update to Acura's mid-size luxury sedan, addressing key technology shortcomings while enhancing its visual appeal. The addition of the A-Spec package creates a more compelling option for driving enthusiasts, while making AcuraWatch standard across the lineup significantly boosts its safety credentials.

For buyers seeking:

• Value: More features per dollar than German rivals
• Reliability: Honda's engineering excellence
• Performance: Engaging dynamics with V6/SH-AWD
• Technology: Now competitive with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto

The TLX makes a compelling case against more expensive European competitors while offering a more premium experience than domestic luxury sedans. While the mid-size luxury sedan segment faces pressure from SUVs, the 2018 TLX remains one of the strongest choices for buyers prioritizing driving enjoyment and value in a luxury package.