2018 Acura TLX 3.5L AWD A Spec - SPICY Enough?

[@GoofieNewfie]

I own a 15' TLX SHAWD Elite here in Canada. I agree with your "missed opportunity" comments". 30+ HP could have changed this car massively. Fair review. It's a good looking car but they failed on the interior with limited leather options too. You can only get the A-Spec in black Alcantara material which will be a nightmare to maintain, or go with red leather which is polarizing to some. Simple black or their gorgeous Expresso interior would have been nice options. With discounts this is a nice to car to grab. At MSRP I'd start looking elsewhere. Actually I was. I started to look at Q50's and quickly realized that the grass isn't always greener. My Acura has heated and ventilated seats - the Q50 does not. I have heated windshield - Q50 does not. Power folding mirrors - Q50 does not. Heated rear seats - Q50 does not. LED interior lighting everywhere - Q50 does not. Premium TLX has headlight washers.....guess what? Q50 does not. The 3.0T in the Q50 has so far been a nightmare in reliability and the 300 HP version was no faster in my Test drive. The V6 TLX is a proven engine, bulletproof. The Red Sport however is in a different class entirely with it's 4.5 sec to 60 and has crazy acceleration but it's tranny is a mess and missing a few gears for better fuel economy (Needs the ZF8) and it misses all of the features I listed above and more plus it's significantly more $$$ and much smaller trunk, and comes with run flats that suck. Neither the Red Sport or normal 3.0T can match the TLX in fuel economy in real life either. So what I've learnt in my quest to replace my TLX is either I go to a much more $$$ Audi, BMW, MB, or poorly equipped Infiniti. Or I can forget some options, go for a Red Sport, get quite a performance boost, but it might be in the shop a lot and has drive by Wire. Then there's Lexus...pricey, boring, reliable, different looking for sure, but again to get similar options, it's very $$$. The TLX is a compromise. It is a upscale Accord with AWD. The SHAWD is among the best AWD system I have ever driven in the winter in my 25 years of Canadian winters. I've owned a lot of Honda's, there is an obvious similarity between these two cars, but don't fool yourself, the TLX is more upscale, more quiet, better handling by far. The 2018 Accord closes the gap if you can stand it's looks. But if you want an AWD sedan, the TLX is a very good option. If all you need is a FWD car, then maybe Accord. If you want Rear wheel drive sports sedan looks elsewhere. If you got 65k-75k to spend, go German but do not complain about reliability because .... well...there's enough info out there that you should be aware of what you are getting.

[@AutoAcademics]

We appreciate your comments and thanks for watching, Steve!

[@tommiller8k928]

Thanks Steve. How does the TLX handle bumpy roads? I know, I could take one for a test drive, but I’m not completely ready to buy a car.

[@AmirTheStrong]

One of the best comments on KZbin. You should make your own channel to review autos. I’d subscribe! 👍

[@treyvon4444]

Exactly thsts why I never wanted a infinity years ago when I first heard about way last features. I had 5 TL's not i got the Tlx and I love it. The only thing it need is that extra hp and it would b damn near a 10

[@treyvon4444]

@@tommiller8k928 ill give it a 8 and a half on bumpy roads. Have the exact one for bout 2 months now.

[@jeremymoore145]

I saw this car at night racing by me and I almost broke my neck. Hot car! 🔥 Beautiful design with good reliable performance.

[@tabs1517]

I own one and I love it.

[@vivalageegee]

Great vid. I just bought the ‘15 TLX and I have to say I absolutely love it. I bought it after test driving the 2018 TLX. While the diamond front and the lights are beautiful, other than that, I don’t see any big differences. Im honestly feeling like I bought the same car for $20,000 less. Happy about it.

[@AutoAcademics]

Congrats on your new car, VivaLa GeeGee. We appreciate your comments and thanks for watching!

[@trjones463]

Yes did the same thing!

[@AutoAcademics]

Thanks for sharing, TR Jones. And congrats on your new car. We appreciate you watching!

[@sploit777]

One of the best car review channels on KZbin, deserve more subs man

[@AutoAcademics]

Thank you very much, Splitty. We truly appreciate the kind words. As long as subscribers like you (you are a subscriber, right? LOL) continue to pass on the positive word about our channel, we'll eventually get there. Thanks again for your support!

[@Cynical496]

I love the taillights on Acura which nobody seems to mention ..

[@AutoAcademics]

The taillights do look cool, Undead Skill. Thanks for watching!

[@thedell2515]

Great review! Great car! A lot of “haters” who are typical ACURA attackers. The truth is that ACURA is focused on performance, future TLX versions will be an improvement as this one was, and anyone who hears from leadership at ACURA will know that they are already planning for the TLX TYPE-S.

[@AutoAcademics]

Thanks for watching, Tony Hector!

[@abovemadness]

I pray!!! Because I will be putting that along side my 4th Gen TL

[@madkabal]

Hector im no hater but I think they should do better. If Acura is supposed to be the performance arm of Honda why is it the TLX 4 banger turbo makes 197 while the honda Accord's makes 257? Makes zero sense to me. the TLX 4 banger should make at least that much power and the v6 should be approaching 350.

[@jeremymoore145]

And it is here now. Well said.

[@chairrules2007]

I thought the reviewer here was overly critical, but at least he admitted it. The hater comments here are funny. If you dont like the car, then you dont like the car; thats fine. Saying this car is all show and no go is ridiculous. This car has plenty of go. Also has the best awd system of any cars in this class. Probably also has the best long term reliability. The 10 more hp on paper comment was just silly. If a V6 295hp engine isnt enough power for you, then you just want too much just for the sake of wanting. Anyone who compares an Acura (TLX) to a Honda (Accord) has probably never driven both. There is a noticeable difference. If you dont think so, then great; enjoy your new accord.

[@zeke937]

Long term reliability will go to the Lexus ES & GS. Acura has had issues with the 9 speed ZF transmissions on this gen TL. I considered getting one but that transmission issue makes it a no go for me.

[@XTVPRESENTZ]

I don’t think he tested the sport and sport plus that’s why he was disappointed, he probably drove it in eco

[@jeremymoore145]

Well said.

[@cosmicbluevox1001]

Remember guys, its not a Type S. I think they are going to be coming up with a type s for next gen with a turbo.

[@pacotaco4859]

Love the tlx and this channel

[@AutoAcademics]

We appreciate you, PaCO TACo Mellina!

[@mccraejoey82]

I love this car I want the one with the red seats

[@proveyoself]

I'm SOLD. Thanks for posting.

[@AutoAcademics]

You're welcome, proveyoself. And thank you for watching!

[@mdawgmdawg5580]

2019 platinum pearl white for this car wow beutiful.

[@fabriceny.1579]

Second like.. nice car by the way... Love the design

[@AutoAcademics]

Thanks, Fabrice NY!

[@MrsPortiaG]

I don’t like the TLX! I have the 3rd and 4th generation TL. My 4th gen is AWD. I love both cars! I love Acura’s longevity. My old TL has 232k miles and still kicking. Say what you want about Acura 🤷🏽‍♀️

[@daver1161]

I like it Portia, and so do the hot young ladies walking down the Blvd. while I'm playing some crunk with that deep bass.

[@JD-kf2ki]

The rear looks so pleased to the eyes.

[@everythingautomotiveeta5839]

Agree with your sentiments. Great honest review

[@AutoAcademics]

Thank you for watching, EveryThingAutomotive ETA!

[@everythingautomotiveeta5839]

AutoAcademics every vid!

[@JAYCEEBRATH]

You can get that 30+ more horsepower with a few minor bolt ons the car is phenomenal. I have the same one in black.

[@EricG311]

I don’t own a previous gen TLX, but a bolt on that would be recommended would be the functionwerk catback exhaust. Pair that along with a downpipe, and a good intake and you’ll see some decent gains.

[@The_Notorious_CRG]

Hey Chris - about the spice on the Acura are we talking a little bit of paprika or are we talking some pepper sauce? Would you take this or the GS 350 AWD F Sport?

[@AutoAcademics]

Both cars are very similar, so it probably comes down to personal preference, Carlo Garcia, but I think I like the TLX better, overall. Much better tech in the Acura and I like its looks. That's just my opinion, though. Both cars are very similar. Hope this helps and thanks for watching!

[@Pinoystylz]

I mean 296 HP is descent enough it’s not like your taking this out on the tracks. If you want more power then get an Evo or STI. This car is more for sports luxury not for racing. And it’s on the driver how you handle this car. No matter how much power you have if you can’t properly handle itthen what’s the point.

[@natasharamen8620]

Just gave u a like 👍🏽 to made it to 1,000 likes. Great video bro

[@AutoAcademics]

I appreciate that, Natasha Ramen. Thanks for watching!

[@matthew_k47]

A-Spec package is just an apearence package what you would be looking for would be a Type-S Model which Acura says each car in their lineup will be getting sometime sooner rather than later

[@theeGAME360]

I definitely agree with your point about the power. 290 hp 267 torque is not very appealing. The aggressive looks on the car doesn't match amount of power it can put out. Very disappointing.

[@AutoAcademics]

Thank you for your comments, theeGAME360. We appreciate them. And don't get us wrong. We like the car -- even as it is. But we do think it was a missed opportunity. Thanks for watching!

[@jeremymoore145]

@Steve Vento well said.

[@howardadamsky2417]

Hey, nice to find you here. GREAT vid.

[@AutoAcademics]

We're happy you found us, Howard Adamsky. Stay tuned and thanks for watching!

[@ChristianC-gy1ym]

GOOD review. Subbed. Wishing your channel to grow. Keep it up.

[@cormegastarks8815]

My thoughts exactly bro..I hv the 2010 sh and same color and I’m doing 305 with the hrspwr..this aspec should hv no less than 330.

[@darnellrogers8884]

I think the 290 is a lil weak but sufficient in conjunction with the sh-awd..... it will be interesting to see what the Type-S will do in the future...

[@805NAVE]

Gorgeous, just gorgeous. I definitely agree with you

[@trevorc8198]

White color just pops. I’m getting the base V6

[@AutoAcademics]

It really does, Trevor C. Even more so in person. Thanks for watching!

[@trevorc8198]

AutoAcademics I’m sure it’s even a head turner at night with those jewel headlights. Thanks for the review

[@goldie260]

That's why I kept my 2013 tl 3.7 Awd supercharged in pearl white,,, 307hp tech package

[@palebeachbum]

It's a lackluster luxury car with an appearance package. Not even a good one at that (fake exhaust tips). Don't get me wrong, it's a nice car, but there's a reason why Acura is always in the background of the luxury car market. The TLX just makes me think "fancy Honda Accord". With the new 2018 Accord coming out now though, it seems even less impressive. I'm much more intrigued by the upcoming Genesis G70. Can't wait to see your review of that car!

[@marwantarabay7106]

palebeachbum yes man ur right , it so bad for acura it was one of the greatest car in japan and we cant forget the legend and the old nsx To bad for acura no performance old interior no pano roof but the quality is great We need a new acura sport coupe with 400hp

[@palebeachbum]

NSX was an incredible car and they're generally great quality vehicles, I'll give you that.

[@ldm6310]

Genesis sucks compared to the 2028 TLX 😂

[@ldm6310]

2018 that is

[@patrickmichaellangan576]

This TLX A-Spec (with the new grille that's not full of chromey glare) is the only new Acura I really like.

[@jeffwertz2953]

Great job on the review and photography! I've subcribed! I like this car and you can get some great pricing on it here in the DFW area, but as you mentioned, it's just not an exciting drivers car. This car's forte is highway cruising and it does it really well. And I'm sure it will be reliable. But after test driving several cars in this class, including the MB C300 and Infinity Q50... I chose the Alfa Romeo Giulia.

[@AutoAcademics]

Thank you very much for your support, Jeff Wertz. We truly appreciate it!

[@RegencyVapes]

I agree with everything you’re saying but man that a spec design looks incredible. It’s looks might over power all the negative things you mentioned for me.

[@V4YGR3]

i am impressed to see a review that doesnt put **** on Honda/Acura.. at first i was like why would you be dissapointed!? but i have to look at a diffirent perspective, you guys have the TLX and this is a package on top of it. In Europe we dont have any of this sadly.. even if we recieve em, we wouldnt be able to afford them. anyway, good honest review. a thumbs up worth indeed. wished to see more nice reviews like this instead of boasting how much an audi is better then this. keep it up.

[@AutoAcademics]

We appreciate your comments, V4YGR3. If you haven't done so already, please consider subscribing to our channel. There are plenty more reviews like this one on there with more to come. :) Thanks for watching!

[@V4YGR3]

AutoAcademics cool to see ya also reply! Deff worth a sub as well. Gonna watch more vids soon! Already liked the trackhawk vid as well.

[@AutoAcademics]

V4YGR3 Thank you, V4YGR3. We appreciate you!

[@coook6408]

Great review... like you said more horse power would have been beneficial.

[@jackwhite9395]

It's still just a spiced up commuter car so what do you expect?

[@JD-kf2ki]

The rear is so nice that the new BMW 3 series got inspired from.

[@lordschild673]

My next vehicle just saving a little more to put a bigger down payment and I can’t wait…

[@AutoAcademics]

Smart move, Lord's Child. Save on that interest then try to pay it off early. 💵 Thanks for watching!

[@lordschild673]

@@AutoAcademics thanks man and great video…

[@mccraejoey82]

No heated steering wheel are ventilated seats?

[@abovemadness]

I agree with you on this. I want more power it drives well but I still prefer the 3.7 4th Gen.

[@AcuraPerformance]

Kickdicted 88 Beautiful car full options! I'd still pick my 2010 TL S-AWD 6 spd. Manual. As for the exhaust sound, changing air intake to a Takeda or a cheaper AF Dynamic dry air filter from E-Bay should do it. I tried both and AF Dynamic was performed the same for half the price.

[@abovemadness]

Kidkulafu1 Pacman most def I want to supercharge this so bad and I will! It's been done successfully

[@abovemadness]

Kidkulafu1 Pacman supposedly the TYPE R is coming let's see would love that

[@AcuraPerformance]

Kickdicted 88 any Type takes it to a different level! Yeah I'd want that too lol.

[@manowar5516]

They need an R-Spec ASAP. Great review though, it's a nice sedan.

[@AutoAcademics]

Thank you, Man O War. We appreciate you watching!

[@jesuschristislord77733]

Love these Acuras but can't stand that zf9 transmission in all their new cars. They need a proper transmission in there.

[@cecilotto504]

I agree ,it needs more POWER,

[@joosunkmybattleship]

Like the review but this is the A Spec, it's always been a cosmetic trim, similar to the f sport of Lexus. The type S is in the works, that's when they go balls deep and we'll see a turbo charged engine with near 350 hp

[@masonbuerstetta9442]

Do you have to put in premium fuel?

[@AutoAcademics]

If we remember correctly, premium fuel is required, Mayo. Hope this helps and thanks for watching!

[@robertsanchez7185]

Chris you mean I should keep my ‘18 Accord Sport over this?

[@AutoAcademics]

Hard to say, ROBERT SANCHEZ. We think the TLX is a beautiful car, but any additional performance would be minimal, at best. So you'd have to decide what important to you and what's worth any additional price premium. Thanks for watching!

[@deatralocklear3281]

Dude the the new Honda body style is hideous.

[@matthewsahr5205]

great car

[@brandonbanner8488]

I agree with the tlx being a great car, but honestly I don’t think it needs a super loud exhaust, it’s not that kind of car

[@cesar68033]

That’s what the type s does aspec is only a body and interior upgrade

[@masol_8444]

it needs more power. 290 Hp is not enough compared with rivals in the segment.

[@Cynical496]

Marisol Castillo it’s a more conservative vechile and for people that want a reliable cheap car to fix if you’re in the states.

[@jesuschristislord77733]

More power would be nice but useless with the current zf9 transmission designed for boomers on the autobahn.

[@JulezWinnfield]

I see Acura is still "back to the future" with that 2012 era infotainment system. They really should have adapted the 2018 Honda Accord's upgraded infotainment system. I agree with Chris that it's a good but not great near-premium sports sedan. Definitely behind the Germans (Audi, BMW, Mercedes) and not better than the Infiniti Q50 Red Sport or Lexus GS F-Sport or even the Genesis G80 Sport.

[@jalinfuller4653]

J High next year when all there cars are redesigned it will be just as good

[@longhand335]

Still needs an optional 6 speed!

[@rontrellboone5139]

I really want one of these but he is right its lame. If it would have had 350hp this would be a winner.

[@mrtdr617]

Aspec dosent need power, the type s ... now that NEEDS the power. Hopefully Acura dosent dissapoint with the new type, cause ill be forced to stay with my 3rd gen TL

[@tommydo961]

extorior looks great, interiror is outdated, not much difference from my 2014 mdx

[@penguinworldorder3545]

My 2009 sh awd has 305 hp

[@fredericksmith9154]

I love it but I hate that Acura only made the dark interior on the Aspect models. Plus I have the 2011 TL SHAWD with 305 HP, I feel like its a downgrade to 290..ugh. Acura what are you doing!!!!

[@efthimios]

I sat in one at dealer today while our mrz was serviced - gorgeous car awesome interior and finish - too bad Acura is afraid to give it a turbo to compete with q50 and 340 in a straight line -but trade off y have a super reliable nice handling sports sedan loaded with tech at a great prices looks so pretty

[@AutoAcademics]

Very true, Herakles. Thanks for watching!

[@sushh1]

Acura just doesn't have that luxury brand name out there, unlike Toyota's Lexus.

[@adrian3747_]

THAT'S WHAT I THOUGHT TOO. I JUST STRATED APPRECIATING CARS AND I DIDN'T KNOW ACURA IS LUXUYRY AT FIRST LMAO

[@alexc7864]

@Steve Vento You're a piece of shit, hope you know that.

[@Dance1617]

This car desperately needs a supercharger

[@Warrior11117]

Better suited in 300C with 22inch rims

[@dontelindsey5846]

What do you mean?

[@b16crxt]

Love the aesthetics. The engine is boring. my 2005 RL has a 300hp version of this engine...time to update it Acura!

[@abovemadness]

Chris K agreed I still prefer my 3.7 4th Gen TL.

[@Branhawk]

I doubt you guys have even driven this car. I have an 08 mdx with the same 3.7 and love the hell out of it. Not sure why they got rid of the 3.7 but with a dual clutch like this and 8 gears It’s going to get to the power quicker and stay there.

[@madkabal]

I agree, this is so backwards. Its like the Acura engineers dont talk to ANYONE in that company. They dont talk to Honda or thier marketing team.

[@benbaker8751]

I have a 2017, lot it.

[@fookum_]

Had a pear white... then a dumb csr had to roll onto of it... sobibhad to get a greyvone after :( everyone taking all the white ones hahaha

[@johnabatto1088]

I think I’ll keep my 2019 Accord for awhile

[@lofiguy8136]

Honda really need to ditch the luxury version of acura lineup ASAP before going bankrupt. I'll buy Honda before buying Acura anytime of day for me. Failed

[@jeremymoore145]

Lol it’s the same company idiot. Honda is very successful in reliability, performance and precision. That’s why Acura exist.

[@mqmoreno2368]

this car should've came with a vtec

[@fgeiger41]

So hard to believe they can't get an attractive design together. That's horrible. The 2nd Gen RL was the last decent looking design they've done

[@atlg8or6137]

freeman Geiger what makes you an authority on good design?

[@marufio]

Honda has better designers

[@larkthomas3371]

I Agree, I don't know who's the damn design team at Acura... but keep failing too come with it. & it's sad because .. Acura's are amazing cars..

[@a32tl]

I don't know what you're smoking because this A-Spec is gorgeous!

[@jeremymoore145]

That aspec is nice. You must be on something lol

[@ldm6310]

I own a 2018 and it's bad do the bone in every single way

[@Toyota4Life]

All Show no go... And the show isn’t all that good

[@dliv33]

Toyota4Life no go..lol I have a v6 tlx it's just pretty but slow as hell

[@Toyota4Life]

javibez I wouldn't buy a Acura at all. Get a Infiniti or even better a Lexus. People who buy Acura because it's cheap "luxury"

[@ChromeMan04]

Toyota4Life sadly I have to agree, acura is really bad these days and can't compete with Lexus or Infiniti. The 3rd gen TL is the, last great Acura. 😒😞

[@deatralocklear3281]

Seriously, Lexus interior is dated as well. If your going to pay that much more why not get the complete package. Let’s say BMW inside out is your total package.

[@YUNGUNZ7]

It's all good until a SRT charger pulls up

[@artcore9886]

and then crashes while taking a corner

[@deatralocklear3281]

Mike Bullock Or have transmission issues like what’s going on now with Chrysler reports starting around 30,000 miles. 🤔

[@atlg8or6137]

Ha! All of these reviewers want more horsepower. Ever consider that people don’t buy sports cars anymore? He’s pushing for 10 more horsepower so it. Looks better on paper~ stupid. Look at sales. Acura has made a well designed car here that performs well by all reasonable standards.

[@kushlord7256]

atlg8or6137 actually that's the problem. Acura us supposed to put the meat on the table with their performance cars but have no actual performance in them. They cater towards normie buyers and moms

[@atlg8or6137]

Because they want to sell more cars. How foolish of them.

[@kushlord7256]

atlg8or6137 that's not the point. It's bad for the consumer and bad for it's reputation. Also it's not selling as hot as you think it is. Acura sales have always been behind Lexus and German competition since the turn of the decade. Again, it attracts normal buyers, but this market is dying nonetheless

[@folland34]

compare the price of the TLX to a Lexus, dumbass. The point is affordability

[@philo2808]

45 g's and no spare tire, oh yea.

[@philo2808]

Steve Vento my new car has the full wheel fool.

[@rashidaa89]

Would rather have a spare tire but nonetheless nice car

[@war1lock]

290 HP and 276 Torque???? Garbage!!!! The Camry has a 301 HP V6......Seriously???

[@tommy13965]

war1lock according to you the Audi’ a4 a5 and Lexus IS250 and 300 and bmw 320 and 328 series are all garbage cause none of them have 301 hp like camry now I’m not talking about the higher trim levels of those cars I’m going by price and even then those lower models cost more than the tlx aspec when you add all the stuff that the tlx aspec comes with just saying man.

[@Dano-MX5]

war1lock the 301hp V6 Camry loses to the 2.0L 4cyl. 280hp Accord in the 1/4 mile and in mpg. HP means nothing if the rest of the car isn't set up right.

[@Branhawk]

King of The Castle fuck your dodge pike of junk.

[@Branhawk]

King of The Castle have a good night this debate was entertaining 🤘

[@Lemaj420]

war1lock and I'm sure this car would leave the Camry behind. That's what good with Honda engine technology. They find ways to reduce the engine size and hp to get better gas while the car is moving faster. Take the new 2.0 Accord. It has less hp than the V6 Accord and moves faster. HP isn't everything........

[@troytruong8246]

So stupid they only have 2 colors for interior! Black and red. Red does not look appealing on camera. Hate black interior. Gets filthy n dirty very easy.

[@Orange-yp9bl]

Over Price Honda Accord ....

[@siljoe84]

you get the honda accord touring it will beat the tlx on technology and power.

[@gocaferaceruk9359]

It is the Maserati Ghibli'ugly copy.m

[@ChromeMan04]

ugly car