The Compact Flagship? | 2021 Acura TLX

[@19DevilDawg86]

Great review! I just bought a 2021 TLX with the Tech package and couldn’t be any happier. I compared it to the Lexus ES 350, IS 300t and the Genesis G70 2.0t and just fell in love with the TLX. It literally checked all the boxes for me. Love the interior design and the ride comfort is amazing. When I need to “get on it” the TLX is more than willing to get me there in quick fashion. Additionally, not only is the TLX the more affordable option, but it will definitely be a car with far less high dollar maintenance requirements than the European offerings.

[@Icarusvampire]

How does it compare to the Lexus ES or Genesis? U said the Acura is better?

[@RetroKingOG]

@@Icarusvampirecompared to the Genesis, The TLX will outlast it in the long run; given Hyundai’s reliability issues since 2013. Compared to the lexus it’s a tough battle, however, Toyota does generally markup maintenance costs for Lexus, compared to Honda they do not! In terms of Fuel, The lexus requires Premium gasoline, Acura does not, which would save you few hundred a year!

[@danielc3321]

This dude is X-Raying parts now to determine the materials. That’s a whole ‘nother level!

[@ChoPi-Eww]

I was like, what did he just say? Xray spectroscopy device?

[@xinpan1676]

That's amazing

[@TheBreakfastLover]

The two KZbinr's I trust the most for car reviews are Alex-on-Autos and SavageGeese, both of whom gave positive reviews for the TLX. This bodes quite well for the upcoming Type S!

[@davidjourney5808]

Could not agree more. If there is a car they both approve, it works for me. unbias, good technical info, clear and precise. For those looking for reviews, these are the best

[@davidli6899]

same, my favorate two reviewers

[@leroy5202]

Just wish the Type S had all the advance features.

[@cytrynowy_melon6604]

Yeah there is no one better than Alex and SavageGeese. Doug de Muro/Scotty Killmer are utterly shit youtubers in comparison to them.

[@paddyballgame]

Type S is gonna cost a boatload

[@ElPsiCongroo]

Never knew you own a materials engineering company, Alex! During your interior rundowns, could you comment more on what's real or imitation metal and leather?

[@itslucien]

yes please!

[@ColeMan86zz]

One of the best things about your reviews is that even on mute, I know what you're talking about and what you're saying about the car. ONE OF THE BEST, ALEX!

[@mikejaynekennedy4790]

Alex, one feature on your reviews I truly enjoy is the split screen view when you are driving the car. Rather than show one view at a time (which isn't what you have the opportunity to do if the viewer was sitting in the actual passenger seat) you have the ability to chose what view to look at. This is an excellent option which I wish all car reviewers would copy (imitation is the most sincere form of flattery after all).

[@tomeng9520]

One of the TLX's “highlights” is the 24-color ambient lighting system. With the ability to set the cabin to an array of colors, the TLX leans into its status as a second-generation model. Another improvement over the RDX is Android Auto, which the 2021 TLX boasts along with Apple CarPlay.

[@justins8895]

Alex, you're absolutely the best in the business. Unbelievable knowledge!

[@tmwei396]

Reliability as well as maintenance/repair costs are important also and should be factored in when choosing between the competition if cost is a factor... which it apparently is. When you consider cost it is not just purchase cost but also cost of ownership.

[@simonrichards5430]

As always, an informative, well-prepared, unbiased evaluation! Well done, Alex!!

[@LongIslandMopars]

I have a TSX SportWagon and could only wonder what a TLX version would be like. Thanks to Alex and SG for their coverage of this vehicle.

[@SirCuckoldThe3rd]

Rear space has always hindered me from considering this car. Looks nice though

[@f181234]

None of these cars in this segment like the 3 series, C class, A4, G70, IS etc are known for their back seats there all relatively cramped. If your main priority is leg room I wouldn’t be shopping in the compact luxury class

[@SirCuckoldThe3rd]

@@f181234 you're right. Midsize is where im drifting too. Im just talking about when considering Acura products. I like sedans more but with the RLX cut from the lineup, TLX is the next best thing

[@SirCuckoldThe3rd]

@Der Schwindel it's a shame I don't like SUVs. Nice styling but a single guy like me prefers sedans

[@Spiritcr1jsher]

@@f181234 this isn't a compact car . The ilx is....

[@markmiller3279]

@Der Schwindel The ILX is a compact by the interior space standards that have been around for decades. Cars have gotten so much bigger perceptions have gotten warped.

[@aptkeyboard3173]

If they’re going to go to the trouble of making this thing have the packaging of a rear wheel drive car, why not just actually do it?

[@Trades46]

Because Honda. No really this company is almost allergic to RWD platforms. The only car that is RWD from them is the MR NSX & S2K.

[@cytrynowy_melon6604]

Maybe their platforms?

[@f181234]

RWD cars cost way more to develop no platform to use so they’d be starting from scratch. Too expensive for a sedan nowadays especially in today’s SUV dominated market. I’d bet too that 99% of customers don’t even know the difference between RWD and FWD only enthusiasts care

[@chiemekaa]

In addition to cost, I'm sure customers will complain that it's not as spacious as before. Not that this TLX has a lot of interior or trunk space to begin.

[@jsponson]

Like Trades46 said, because Honda. This thing has *worse* packaging than the RWD BMW's. The 3-series manages to be smaller on the outside, weighs less, and has similar interior size. The 5-series has larger interior with similar weight and length (I think slightly better turning circle too). The TLX still doesn't have near 50:50 weight distribution like the Bimmer's. Honda was willing to develop a dedicated platform for the S2000 yet they wouldn't do a longitudinal platform that can be shared between the TLX and MDX? *smh*

[@swanblake]

Alex outstanding job on this. I know you love yourself some SHAWD so I wasn't sure how this review would go but you did an excellent job capturing the pros and cons of the fwd based platform. I think someone in snowy territory would really benefit from the TLX with SHAWD. I personally want rwd dynamics in my sports sedan and would go with the upcoming G70 refresh because of that and it has a touchscreen. Really like that tidbit that they moved the turbo to the front of the engine for sound reasons. Wish Acura would not make the entire dash focus on a mode button though.

[@lopezgus10]

Great review Alex! Thanks for answering so many of the questions we had in the last review. It seems that people do see the smaller back seat room as a negative. Personally, I drive a sedan and I’m in it alone most of the time. So it wouldnt bother me, & I suppose those that want the extra room can look to the RDX. Also, Im not sure how many people do cross shop this with German options? I’m not a fan of the maintenance records of the Germans and those are DEF leases for me. For those that would choose the Acura TLX, they’re not looking at an Accord. That car is WAY too common, & I understand the urge to differentiate from the rest. This is a good car, pricey, but if prices are consistent for the next 5-6 yrs, it might fall in line with inflating car prices.

[@goldeneye9381]

I always like your presentation ..very profissional & clear material

[@johnferrier2803]

Hands down Alex is the best, most informative, unbiased car reviewer in the industry.

[@TheKingkingg]

Honda/Acura finally got their mojo back...how Honda/Acura got their groove back since 2016 and continue on the momentum. Only things missing are NSX GT, Targa, and Type R... HPD package and PMC across the full lineup...new S2000.... Prelude...RSX....ZDX...new RLX

[@Ecuador006]

No

[@DaddyDan77]

So... No mention of the G70 with that long list of competitors? (OR Cadillac CT4/CT5?)

[@samuelbaird4983]

The g70 is a car class smaller than this. A better comparison would be the g80, but the g80 starts at $10000 more than this

[@demikpre]

@@samuelbaird4983 not really acura sizes the sedans oddly. Like the full size would be the rlx that don't make anymore but it's barely any bigger then the tlx. So the cts 4/5 and g70 are competition in a odd way

[@DaddyDan77]

@@samuelbaird4983 He said it's BMW 3 series sized on the inside. He compares it to the BMW 3 at the end of the video - the G70 is Genesis' 3-series competitor.

[@MonkeyPower55]

I'll take the G70.

[@canadabear72]

@@samuelbaird4983 Incorrect. Acura themselves calls this car a "compact" competitor, which the G70 certainly is.

[@nathanwright8616]

16:28 dang alex is more loaded than we thought

[@Jacobk66]

I’m looking at new 330i/C300’s as we speak to lease and did look into the new TLX. Right now it’s not even close, the TLX is about $100-200 more to lease, even when you add in the BMW and Mercedes being higher optioned models. I like Acura but they need to get their leases more in line with the competition.

[@bassandtrebleclef]

Just did a quick comparison on Acura and BMW websites. You're getting substantially more for $43k with the Acura than the BMW - leather seats, larger wheels and tires, AWD and a more powerful engine with the Acura. You're also getting a better stereo because even with the upgraded stereo in the BMW, it's not as good as ELS in Acura. So basically BMW is jacking you for the badge. I took the base models, upgraded the exterior color to red and added the upgraded stereos in each. You get more with the Acura.

[@faeinthebay]

There are a few caveats to that comparison. BMW has the badge (as dumb as that sounds), has slightly better interior quality besides the leather, has the best handling in the segment, and has better packaging.

[@johnthomas3863]

But the BMW is a POS!,, that has a motor full of plastic parts where they should b made of some kind of metal (timing chain gears). All sorts of crap breaks in bimmers or bummers!!! That’s why no one wants one that has 65k on the clock, time to toss that bag of crap in the dumper

[@slscamg]

FWD platforms are great. They are more space efficient. RWD is better weight distribution and neutral handling characteristics. Acura goes and gives you the worst of both worlds. Heavy up front and a platform that isn’t space efficient. I just don’t understand this car.

[@RichardJoashTan]

You mean Acura gives you the BEST of both worlds? I guess the new TLX is the best Acura ever.

[@lkae4]

This is a sporty daily driver. RWD is horribly unsafe in daily driving in cold states.

[@f181234]

99% of car buyers can’t even tell RWD from FWD so who cares?

[@ciello___8307]

I think they definitely wanted to make the styling like their precision concept- thus the packaging. But with SHAWD the car can send over 50 % of the power to the rear wheels so it essentially can function like a RWD based awd car. As for why the fwd platform- Acura probably wanted it to share the platform with the other Acura SUVs to save costs like audi

[@lkae4]

@Pauline Weinberger Last month, I drove to work and saw three wiped out RWD autos on the highway. A Mustang, an Infiniti and an old GMC truck. I would never put my wife or kid in a RWD car as a daily driver. Ever.

[@Theonestrongbusleader]

I'd like Acura cars especially this one Alex.

[@devinw6332]

Something that’s always bugged me.. when I actually go and look at a C-class interior, on any generation, I’ve NEVER gotten a sense of refinement. Especially compared to Audi or current volvos. So it always just astounds me when I’m reminded Mercedes has that reputation.

[@mze7101]

Cannot wait to see the return of type s! I wish we see similar updates for ILX. Had most fun driving hondas during integra and rsx days

[@CasualSome1]

Based on my test drive (short test drive and longer test drive) I would disagree on a few points made here... 1. Acceleration to 60mph felt to be around 6 seconds only if the car was in the SPORT mode (or Sport+) can't remember now; normal "D" mode is HORRIBLY SLOW (over 7 sec as I measured) 2. Handling is only good if you have SH-AWD added 3. Ride was not that great considering the sticker price and other competitors offerings (Germans. etc); the engine was noisy, borderline fake (there is some added fake sound via speakers) 4. Cabin noise was nothing to write home about... especially that I found engine noise to be louder than expected... by no means is this a quiet car... Another point to add is: seating position and height: I am couple of inches over 6ft tall, this car may be a short commuter option for some, but long drives, forget about it... Overall 48k+TTL for this car is a complete FAIL in my eyes... What else to consider: Honestly you can get 2020 RLX SH-AWD Advance with near Type S TLX performance (377hp, 349lb torque, 7spd Dual Clutch trans, 5.0sec to 60-mph, 28-29mpg economy, and all of the above ratings destroyed by how better RLX is... completely different class... yes, you will see dealers list these new for 62k MSRP, but Acura is giving 12k off to sell all during 2020-and early 2021... dealer offered me 49.5k for a brand new RLX with 40 miles on the clock in our 5-minute conversation after the test drive... give it a try if you'd like to stay in Acura family offerings... if not, I would recommend more test drives, a more open-minded approach with different brands of course depending on what your wish list is that car has to have...

[@MSZsama]

The RLX is beyond ugly. There is a reason why no one wanted one of these despite how roomy inside and excellent powertrain.

[@kevinbailey3239]

The depreciation on the RLX sport hybrid is legendary. Currently looking at 2018s already in the low $30s with around 30k miles on them. I agree with you.

[@markmiller3279]

You're out of line with almost all reviewers on sound. It's also a measurable property, and that's partly what Alex's rating is based on. I dislike the fake engine sounds, but many makes are doing that. Seats, well, that depends on your size and shape. Most Japanese seats aren't great for tall American men. There are always deals to be had on unpopular cars, and the RLX was exceptionally unpopular. It meets your needs and you paid a low price. I'm glad you found a car that suits you, but there aren't that many still sitting on dealer lots, and those won't be liked by many.

[@OckdaGod1]

Inside got smaller. Inside like you said is like a 3 series but the outside is almost as big as a 5 series. I had the tlx 2020 & I loved how spacious it was. My 2020 got demolished so I’m looking into a 21 but all I see is a better sound system & slightly better interior w some lighting. I don’t think it’s worth about 10’000 more than the 20. Lmk your thoughts pls.

[@3rdGUMObro]

Manual steering wheel adjustment is a real bummer. Now that I've got power memory in our MDX (me 6'2", wife 5'1") I am spoiled and would be super annoyed at frequent manual adjustments.

[@GoofieNewfie]

yes, it's time for them to finally offer little things like this. Honda and Acura are 10 years behind others for features

[@altershape]

The Type S will be an interesting addition to the market. But is there a reason that Acura and other Japanese makers are being pigheaded about interacting with infotainment? Its like they are still trying to copy an idea from the 2000's that the others have left behind? Some (VW etc) are going too far with touch, but a touch pad that works differently in the native info vs Android Auto etc. Add to that no spare tire and it's off my list. Also, is there a reason that the G70 was left out of the comparison? I really like the comparison part of the reviews and hearing Alex's thoughts.

[@weeksauce23]

Great video answers a ton of my questions. I think Honda is finally on the verge of making good looking cars again.

[@benjmiester]

I like it. Acura was just killing it in the 90s-2000s but then they just seemed to clock and take a nap. I haven't cared about anything Acura since really the RSX but the TSX was decent, then that was pretty much the end for me. Glad to see something actually compelling again.

[@Ecuador006]

Mdx aspec : hold my joint

[@davidwan247]

You get aluminum shift paddles in the A-Spec, but plastic ones in the more expensive Advance. You get adaptive suspension and HUD in the Advance, but can’t get it in the sporty looking A-Spec. You have to pay extra for an aggressive looking body kit, even if you get a sporty oriented A-Spec. So confusing.

[@GoofieNewfie]

they completely messed up their lineup and options and TLX Type S, the grand daddy of them all...won't have any of the advanced features ?!?!? except maybe the suspension. No HUD, folding mirrors, no remote start and more....

[@keithhicks204]

Alex would you rather have this newer 2021-2022 Acura TLX or the Acura RLX 2018-2020 hybrid? You have been in and out of both of them a lot and I’m about to buy one of the two. Thank you in advance!

[@Jorge_Magallon]

Really enjoy your very structured style of reviews. I will say, I almost almost always prefer different cars after driving them, but only because I have different priorities. One question: Why no “RSX” based on the Civic topping out at a Type S based on the Civic Type R?

[@ormand3000]

Because it would be a $60k fwd ricer burner

[@markmiller3279]

The RSX sold in very small numbers towards the end. The segment of the population, mostly young, that wants a small, FWD car can't afford an Acura, and is fine with the Honda brand, which has more performance cred.

[@Xemnas103]

Nice video but I do wish you included the Genesis G70 in your competitors comparison, would have loved to hear your thoughts on comparison to that car.

[@iamthedutchbro]

G70 isn't a competitor. It's a freaking Genesis.

[@Xemnas103]

@@iamthedutchbro I'm sorry but in what ways does it being a "Genesis" doesn't make it a competitors here? It has adequate power, RWD, nice materials, similar size to the 3 series, sounds competitive to me. 🤷🏿‍♂️

[@markmiller3279]

@@iamthedutchbro What does that even mean? It's built on a RWD platform unique to Genesis and shares very little with Hyundai, probably less than the TLX shares with Honda. Genesis has a very attractive model lineup.

[@SlipAngleG70]

@@iamthedutchbro It is a competitor and better too

[@MrAlexDelarge]

The radar is so disappointing. They managed to integrate it into a larger Acura emblem on the previous generation, and they should have done so again. It's way too noticeable and spoils an otherwise great looking car.

[@dfhhtyu3434]

Look more like after market mod😂

[@ms3173]

The Acura emblem doesn’t need to be bigger than that!

[@Reefdevil]

The radar looks like the friggin' Genesis (which was the sole factor on why I did not buy it). Looks like an afterthought.

[@davidrpriest]

The only major flaw is the interface for the infotainment. Why not do a touch screen? The touch screen on the current Accord works just fine! Great car but the touchpad takes a lot of adjustment.

[@Thebuscommunityleader]

I think of buying a used 21' Acura TLX sedan.

[@kristians2704]

Personally I don't know why anyone would buy this over a 3 series or the new G70 or even the Model 3.

[@Wasabi9111]

Exactly! Why would anyone buy one for $48k when you could get a faster model 3 for $45k?

[@kristians2704]

@so amazing who cares about that when buying a brand new luxury car? All cars are reliable for the first 3-5 years and how many people are actually keeping their new cars for longer than that?

[@naveenthemachine]

@so amazing if you want reliability get a Lexus or Toyota. Honda and Acura reliability is no longer in the same parity as Toyota or lexus

[@MSZsama]

Acura and Lexus buyers often keep their cars for more than five years. That's why there is still a market for these so-called Japanese luxury brands.

[@kristians2704]

@Raschaud Farmer the interior isn’t all that good and it’s FWD based. Why not just make a RWD platform that doesn’t share anything with Honda, just like how Genesis did it.

[@kevinbarry71]

Finally; a Japanese car that has the same number of adjustments for both front seats. Do not understand why they seem to be against that most of the time

[@cmvegalaw]

Reliability is always a must for me. On that Japan is on top. That’s why I prefer Acura over Euro competition

[@assenTINIO]

The ES is getting a AWD plug in Hybrid with 291 hp. It will be sweet.

[@gianniclaud]

Source? This sounds like fake news

[@asianmanrules6]

@@gianniclaud Lexus themselves. They just release a video somewhat showcasing their electric future

[@ciello___8307]

They released their direct 4 tech but they never said its coming to the ES soon. If anything, its like what Acura already has with the sport hybrids or their SHAWD systems

[@danielc3321]

But will the SEATS FOLD?! Sorry that’s the hill I’m gonna die on.

[@gianniclaud]

@@danielc3321 It has a passthrough. There's still hope for you

[@stevemclain2691]

Hi, I really enjoy your reviews. I have a quick question. Based on interior volume, power and how the power is put down, the TLX seems to compare favorably to the MAZDA3 Turbo AWD. Of course the available amenities are not head to head but with the pricing difference, I think it COULD be a fair comparison. Your thoughts?

[@evancondron1210]

Your reviews are always the best. You need a checkmark, for real. KZbin GET ON IT!!

[@jrasero23]

Long time Honda/Acura buyer and while I think the TLX is the most improved luxury sedan of the year I juts don’t think it’s the slam dunk home run Acura needed in order to regain lost market share. I think the car is kind of a tweener, like Alex said it’s exterior is BMW 5 series but interior is more BMW 3 series. Actually the trunk at 13.5 cubic feet is almost compact sedan territory and is almost 1 cubic ft smaller than the outgoing 2020 model. Also like Alex said the car while cheaper than a similarly spec German car isn’t the great value it used to be since the base model is $39,025 with destination which is basically the same price as BMW 3 series or a Lexus ES. Additionally when somewhat loaded the car is a 4K lb car, which is very surprising to hear and when Alex said the car bottomed out in comfort mode with passengers in it is somewhat telling. I personally test drove one before just getting a left over 2020 TLX and for me while the interior is leagues ahead of the 2020 model my biggest annoyance was how loud and crappy the stock tires were. The grip and noise on a 2020 TLX is far superior and it’s a shame that Acura put such crappy tires on a near 40K car. So IMO yeah the 2021 TLX is a great car and if you are looking for good reliability and better value than a German than the TLX is a great option, but until the performance variant comes out the TLX really just is playing catchup, not gaining any ground. Personally even though I am a long time Acura buyer I probably will look at a Kia Stinger or another CUV after my lease is up unless Acura is running some amazing promo or cuts the price on the current gen TLX

[@omgitsme435]

71.5db for advance trim with acoustic glass is not impressive at all.. Competition is quieter especially A4 and C class.

[@Wasabi9111]

I agree. I think Alex’s been too lenient on his letter grades. Anything higher than 70db should not get an A, especially for a luxury sedan. I know all the other reviewers rave about the audio system. But w such a loud interior, doesn’t it drown out the audio?

[@barbecuetechtips6024]

@@Wasabi9111 The new Genesis G80 will eat this cars lunch in terms of audio performance and quietness for a similar price! Savagegeese posted a video already on it. Easily the quietest car you can get below $100k msrp.

[@ZealofSparta]

I wonder if he has a newer sound meter that is weighted differently or if he leverages more of the perceived quietness into his score but just not going into detail about it? I know modern cars are getting better every year with tuning out specific noises but from personal experience the dB level itself can be exhausting on longer trips so I would love for Alex to go into more detail again about the acoustics.

[@Wasabi9111]

@@ZealofSparta we had a 2014 bmw 328 and that car was so loud on the highway. It was very tiring on long hwy rides. I usually avoided that car if we had to drive on the hwy.

[@BradHawk]

This is one area where I’d like to see Alex describe a little more. What’s the noise like? Road noise? Wind noise? Just the tires? Resonance? I love his details everywhere else, I think he could go a little deeper here, given NVH is important to many buyers.

[@project.dfilms423]

Acura is back

[@CARRY9MM]

does the rear headrest fold in ? Can they be removed? How is the visibility with the Acura advance?

[@Trades46]

The problem I have with the TLX is that it tries to straddle the line between the IS & ES, and frankly I don't think it does the sport sedan thing better than the "old" IS nor is the Acura more comfortable than the ES. I like what Acura tried with this car, but considering it is a new platform underneath, why is this thing nearly 4000lbs despite a small-ish 2.0T engine? This doesn't bode well for the Type S which despite its increased firepower from a 3.0L V6 turbo would have far more girth to carry with upgraded components.

[@trent7080]

Because the platform is not entirely new. It shares components from existing Honda platforms.

[@trent7080]

@Raschaud Farmer Acura said that about the RDX and CRV, but when you look at a body structure diagram, they clearly share components. Especially in the rear.

[@leonheart41]

9:30 newbie here. Can anyone explain what 9/10 and 10/10 mean?

[@Max_Thunder]

I guess you would have to buy one of the trim pieces to any further elemental analysis other than top down EDS or surface analysis. Do you have the capabilities to make a lamella and get TEM EDS or cross-sectionial EDS from a dual beam SEM/FIB?

[@alexblablabla5632]

I’m honestly surprised there’s no comparison against Genesis G70. In my opinion it’s a pretty natural matchup for the mini-class of “sub 3 series luxury compact car with at least some sporting intentions”😝

[@faeinthebay]

Me too, but I guess there's a lot of comparisons to cram in, and luxury buyers aren't taking Genesis seriously yet. I hope the crest grill starts to change that.

[@otsmalls1580]

G70 is 60grand + i think. Diff price point

[@faeinthebay]

@@otsmalls1580 what? Base price is $35.5k

[@faeinthebay]

To elaborate on the pricing: the 2021 TLX starts at $38k, the tech package is $4k, and the advance package is ~$5k. SH-AWD is $2k on top of any oackage. The 2.0t makes 272hp and the Type S's 3.0t makes 355hp but that doesn't have pricing yet. For ease of comparison I'll ignore the A-Spec which is essentially a half-package between the Technology and Advance for ~$3k. We also don't have pricing for the 2022 G70 but it's a facelift so we can use the old 2021 pricing. The G70 starts at $36k for its 252hp 2.0t, the Elite package is $4k, and the Prestige package is $8k. AWD is $2k on top of any package. The G70 also has a 365hp 3.3t for $10k more. In other words, the TLX and G70 are very close in pricing. They have exclusive features in most of their trims. The base TLX has a moonroof, heated seats, auto high beams, and a power passenger seat while the G70 has blind spot monitoring. The first package in the TLX gives it accent lighting with the G70 gets dimming side mirrors, a power steering wheel, and approach lights. The top package gives the TLX even better audio and adaptive dampers while the G70 gets no exclusive features.

[@lordhave4420]

Hyundai's are trash thats why

[@chengyoujiang6076]

Few years ago I prefer Lexus IS over this thing, but now I prefer TLX way more than IS.

[@awschmitt93]

Size-wise I feel like this could go against a Cadillac CT5 but I have yet to see anyone make this comparison.

[@DeeeBeee123]

Someone did. Type it in.

[@roberthart9886]

If you're going to report on vehciles do the trunk opens too as the mouth size is very important, unless the other vehicle is a SUV/CUV

[@erikwilson32]

im gonna wait for some years to see maybe if they make the stereo situation easier to use with a trackpad or just overall improvements

[@sak1339]

I bought an Acura Legend Coupe in 1987, the first year it was sold in the USA, quite enthusiastically as a beautiful design and a reliable alternative to the BMW 3 series. I kept it for twelve years. Loved it. But over the years Acura departed (in my opinion) from its original intent to my disappointment. That disappointment has continued over years -- the last Acura car I liked was the Integra (lightweight, excellent handling car in its time). Since then I moved on to BMW, and for 3 years, Lexus. Now I'm trying Tesla. It seems to me Acura has drifted into making mediocre cars and is focusing on SUVs where its market seems to be. Based on this review, maybe Acura is trying again to live up to the Legend.

[@techieaddict]

Please review the new base model Audi A4! Curious how the mild hybrid changes the new base model and if it's enough power for the added all wheel drive. Thank you for your great videos!

[@keithhogan7836]

I would take the luxury sedan not mentioned. G70 prestige for that money.

[@keithhogan7836]

@Raschaud Farmer the g70 interior is right there. Has a better warranty and free maintenance. Also the lexicon is a good system

[@a32tl]

I want a new TLX Type S so bad! The '21 TLX is such a handsome car to me. I will likely buy a Type S sometime in '22.

[@GoofieNewfie]

just be prepared to not have a lot of the features the Advanced has because they already announced that the Type S is a stripped down version based on the less loaded A-Spec model not the advanced. Which in my opinion is a massive mistake

[@a32tl]

@@GoofieNewfie I am aware of that and quite disappointed by that fact as well. I have given it thought though and I am pretty sure I would prefer the performance over the features. There are a few missing features that I could get as dealer add-ons, like heated steering wheel and puddle lights. Would love to have all of the Advance features but if it's super fun to drive, I can live without some of the features. I believe in time, Acura will come to their senses and offer the Type S with all the Advance features, like they did in the '20 TLX model with the PMC edition. Hopefully, it won't take them long to get that ridiculous blunder rectified.

[@jasanmiguel]

Alex, was the last A Spec TLX that you tested equipped with a V6? Is that what you're comparing to this model's turbo 4?

[@OlJackBurton]

You didn't compare the TLX to the Genesis G70, either the current model or the upcoming refreshed model. Or a base Genesis G80 which starts slightly less than an TLX Advanced with SH-AWD, but still has a lot of standard features. I might have also included the long in the tooth Infiniti Q50, but that's even less competitive than the Lexus IS...

[@mohamedsulemana.a.3028]

Does the TLX AWD handle better in snow compared to the mentioned competition? thanks

[@TearBlood]

Great Vid Alex👏👏👏. I think i would pick the Lexus Es over the Tlx

[@bikingmoments]

They’ll probably update with a touch screen next year! So many makers have eaten their words of ‘NO touch screen’ lol

[@Demargj2]

Hey Alex... don't forget about the Cadillac in your comparisons. CT4 and CT5 ...where do they fit in???

[@iamthedutchbro]

Cadillac? Who on earth would still buy a Cadillac?

[@markmiller3279]

Near the bottom, is my guess. They aren't embarrassingly awful, but it's still hard to find any area in which they excel.

[@sdo7875]

I don't know if I would pick this up over the Accord 2.0T. It's just as quick and although not a luxury car, its luxurious enough. If I wanted a luxury car I wouldn't chose this over a german or a Lexus. And I'm a big fan of Acura but something about this TLX just isn't appealing enough, the price difference is too much to just get SHAWD

[@naveenthemachine]

Even though it’s a hare slower than the accord I’d choose a top end v6 Camry XSE. I suspect it’ll be more reliable than the accord or tlx long term. But that’s just me

[@volcalstone]

@@naveenthemachine the V6 Camry XSE is more expensive then the Accord if you option it out.

[@naveenthemachine]

@@volcalstone that’s MSRP. I got mine down 5K off MSRP for a fully optioned one

[@twystedhumour]

@@naveenthemachine so, .1 sec is a "hare," then .01 sec must be a "hair." :D

[@naveenthemachine]

@@twystedhumour ok so my vocabulary really needs work... 😆

[@urafudgehead]

Was hoping for you to mention Genesis G80.

[@LeoTheShortGuy]

I love Acura.

[@naveenthemachine]

This vs a CamCord or Charger V8?

[@thegoodman3810]

Can you review the Lexus IS 350 F sport with RWD and the dynamic package

[@naveenthemachine]

He already did the 2021 IS 300 w the turbo. He came away disappointed

[@thegoodman3810]

@@naveenthemachine it will might drive better because of the 8 speed auto rwd and dynamic package

[@naveenthemachine]

@@thegoodman3810 not because of handling. The acceleration really disappointed Alex

[@thegoodman3810]

@@naveenthemachine i know but lexus still wants to say on top in terms of reliability

[@trent7080]

@@thegoodman3810 Reliability doesn't excuse the shortcomings of the IS.

[@joed5419]

What's up with the credit card they glued on the front of it with the logo?

[@GoofieNewfie]

lack of good engineering. Cover for Radar.

[@jtomtl]

front wheel drive can NEVER beat rear wheel drive cars. BUT, the TLX does looks better than the Lexus IS

[@pt6134]

If it had a touch screen it would be my next car. Have had a 3rd gen and 4th gen TL. Looks like they finally struck the balance!

[@Wasabi9111]

Totally agree. I use CarPlay 95% of the time and it’s designed to work best w a touchscreen. I had a long test drive of the rdx and I just couldn’t safely use the touchpad and drive as the same time.

[@alpappalardi7044]

In the market currently. I actually passed on this car. Is it nice ,yes. I was able to find the very last of the Lexus GS f sport Blacklines. I got number 80 of the 210 made. Pound for pound I find it to be a much better built car. Outdated in technology, yes. But I don’t do apple play . So it worked for me. Best of luck in your search

[@ShahnewazYT]

How do the back seat space compare with the competition?

[@chrisknickerbocker6878]

What about the Genesis G70 comparison?

[@joskjj3625]

The new tlx is an excellent vehicle in my opinion

[@macmuchmore1]

How does it compare to the latest Honda Accord Touring 2.0? Basically, from what I can tell, the only big difference spec-wise is the SH-AWD.

[@faeinthebay]

Alex addressed that in the suspension part of the video. Did you not watch that part?

[@macmuchmore1]

@@faeinthebay Not until after I posted my comment. However, I’d still like to know what he thinks about the two - is it worth the jump I’m price to go for the TLX, or is the Accord a better value - that kind of thing.

[@anoopmathew82]

I'm a little confused by Acura's pricing model on this vehicle. The top end advance pack SH-awd is within a few hundred dollars of the top end A4 45 (better motor) Quattro Prestige... and for that money I'm sure ppl will go to Audi for branding prestige (and honestly interior quality and rear seat space is superior in the A4 also). The S60 is definitely winning in the style department even if it's lagging in driving dynamics. As always, great review Alex!

[@tjs114]

Does the Acura use regular grade, or premium grade gas? I bet the European models all require premium so even if they get slightly better mileage, does it offset the increase in price per gallon?

[@GoofieNewfie]

premium recommended

[@757flyer]

Very helpful video. Thank you.

[@YasssStitch]

1. 5-series on the inside, 3-series on the inside - FAIL. 2. Price tag - FAIL. 3. Big hood to make it appear RWD - FAIL. 4. Promo video with modified vehicle (non production) to make it drift to make it appear RWD - FAIL, FAIL, FAIL. 5. Did I mention price tag? Yeah.. F A I L.

[@robertgraham5486]

I think you should go back and edit number 1 ,5 series on the outside 3 series on the inside I believe is correct

[@faeinthebay]

@Der Schwindel That's not a sedan.

[@simbanuba]

Does the 0-60 time change if the TLX is FWD instead of SH-AWD? Does anyone have actual numbers on the FWD version of this TLX?

[@daniel0703]

Why no comparison with Genesis G70 or the Stinger? I think the IS is still the better option between these two.

[@rightlanehog3151]

Alex, Weren't Acura/Honda once famous for the exemplary space efficiency of their interiors?

[@disco.lemonade]

Still are, among the best if not the best. This car seems an exception.

[@rightlanehog3151]

@@disco.lemonade Yes, I just wanted to offer moral support to Alex as he was 'emoting' so strongly on the subject at the start of the video.

[@markmiller3279]

The only inefficiency here is a long hood that makes people think it's competing in a larger class than it is. Ignore the hood and you're left with a car with interior space comparable to the IS, G70, and CT5.

[@GordonPotter]

You compare it to the A-Spec. What year ASpec?

[@brettgoldsmith8584]

"I happen to own a materials engineering company" - that was not a phrase I expected to hear in this video.

[@Chahta3]

Alex your on another level; you have very few if any car review rivals, great review..

[@frednance3988]

Prices are more than Infinit's or Lexus or Genesis.

[@future62]

As an accidental Honda lifer (and previous TLX SH-AWD owner) this really disappoints me. It really combines all the worst elements of various chassis designs. RWD cabin space, FWD dynamics, ubiquitous 2.0T 4 banger. SH-AWD is awesome but nowhere near enough to make up for everything else. There are a lot of better "sport" sedans for the money.

[@future62]

@Der SchwindelOr I could just go to one of Acura's competitors who sell sports sedans with more space. And Infiniti killed the Q50 2.0T years ago.

[@b1uezea1ot]

Agreed 2020 base TLX at $26k is sure more appealing than ever before.

[@Celicarz11]

Odd question maybe, but how would a KIA Stinger measure up against the TLX? Sure KIA will be below on fit and finish but it's proper RWD and less expensive than the TLX...

[@markmiller3279]

The related G70 is the more obvious comparable. The Stinger would definitely be the bargain competition, and feel like it, without being enough cheaper. That, and the Kia badge, has been its problem all along.

[@Celicarz11]

@@markmiller3279 fair enough, too bad the manual G70 is no longer available. I hope those two are not forgotten by others comparing the TLX to their competition, Alex hardly misses it but in this case I think he did.

[@pinoconte]

Parts quality in Korean brands are better than most, even high ends. They've been getting higher marks then most. Check out the J.D. scores.

[@alwaysiyi272]

I would much rather get a Lexus IS, why? Well it's RWD and you get relatively the same size inside

[@disco.lemonade]

Of course you would, lol

[@wagrj5738]

Cos it pretends to look like rwd, which wasted lots of space to be honest

[@markmiller3279]

The IS interior is poor, though. Entry-level Lexuses look obviously entry-level. The UX is just awful.

[@wagrj5738]

@@markmiller3279 the rc has much better interior and standard equipment than is although is only 2-3 thousands more than IS

[@alwaysiyi272]

@@markmiller3279 well I've been in a UX250 and it was way better than the BMW X2 that my sister was test driving, i don't know if you just don't like the brand or maybe you had a bad experience with Lexus but their entry-level cars still feel like Luxury cars

[@CARBONHAWK1]

So they got rid of the V6 only to replace with a turbo 4 that’s barely faster 0-60.

[@markmiller3279]

There will be a version with the V-6. Almost all companies have gone to turbo fours for fuel economy reasons. In this case not very successfully, but it's still probably slightly more efficient.

[@briansukhu4392]

The 3.5V6 is going to be replaced by a 3.0V6turbo

[@legambaz]

The interior is definitely an upgrade from the regular Japanese stuff. Just don't like the center console. Can't say much about the exterior as this unit it black. I simply can't make out what kind of design it has in that color.

[@GoofieNewfie]

yeah the shifter in the middle is a mistake, the large dynamic button obnoxious, and push button shifter too, it all feels and looks like a mini van or crv.

[@ociabi]

Wowww where is the leg room measurement etc. Still love you.

[@junz2445]

Been waiting on this, thanks alex.

[@ov102]

Acura cause loks beautiful in and out

[@Kevin27182]

Is alex also an engineer if so what kind? Materials engineer? Or just owns the company

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

The world may never know...

[@temur72]

Probably both He provides numbers and stats like no other KZbin car reviewer. The spectometer he mentioned is i believe a good $80 000 or more i expect

[@markmiller3279]

I'm amazed he has enough time for another job.

[@Kevin27182]

@@AAutoBuyersGuide regardless what your spec sheet says, you're an engineer in my book