2023 Acura TLX vs 2022 Acura TLX

The 2022 Acura TLX presented itself as a luxury sedan with a wide and long stance, reminiscent of a larger class vehicle. Its dimensions exceeded those of the BMW 3 Series, with a width advantage of over 7.5 centimetres, and a longer body by more than 22 centimetres. The design featured thin headlights, a five-sided grille, and a V-shaped front bumper, contributing to its substantial appearance. The Type S variant added unique elements like the Tiger Eye Pearl paint and 20-inch Y-spoke alloy wheels, enhancing its sporty appeal. Despite its exterior size, the interior was compact, offering snug seating with impressive detailing, especially in the upper trims. The design team provided daring colour options, such as bright blue paint with red leather, setting it apart from competitors.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura TLX faced challenges due to market shifts and supply chain constraints. The redesign, based on a concept vehicle, introduced a new design language with a long, low, and lean profile. However, this styling compromised rear-seat headroom, legroom, and cargo space. Inside, the TLX featured a layered dashboard design emphasizing width, but the control layout required relearning, causing distractions. The Type S model, with its turbocharged V6 engine and SH-AWD, was the most expensive version, offering performance enhancements like adaptive dampers and Brembo brakes. Despite its sporty nature, the TLX struggled with practicality, making it less appealing for those seeking comfort and space.

The 2022 Acura TLX offered a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. In Canada, SH-AWD was standard, providing torque vectoring for improved stability and handling. The Type S variant featured a 3.0-litre turbo V6 engine with 355 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque, excelling on the track with its double-wishbone front suspension and adaptive dampers. The Type S delivered a balanced and predictable driving experience, though its exhaust note was subdued. Fuel efficiency for the Type S was moderate, with city consumption at 12.3 litres per 100 kilometres.

The 2023 Acura TLX maintained the same engine options, with the Type S offering the turbocharged 3.0-litre V6. The SH-AWD system provided mechanical torque vectoring, enhancing grip and control. The Type S included performance features like a sport automatic transmission, adaptive dampers, and Brembo brakes. It accelerated to 60 mph in five seconds and had a top speed of 250 km/h. However, the brake-by-wire system lacked a physical connection, causing a mismatch between driver inputs and braking response. Despite this, the Type S was enjoyable to drive, with excellent grip and handling. Fuel efficiency was similar to the 2022 model, with the Type S averaging 11.8 L/100 km.

The 2022 Acura TLX, despite its large exterior, offered a tight interior for four passengers. The back seat had decent headroom but limited legroom. The front seats were comfortable, with adjustable features in the Type S. The infotainment system used a touchpad interface, requiring acclimation, and the trunk space was limited to 382 litres.

In the 2023 Acura TLX, the Type S model featured premium Milano leather with artificial suede inserts. The front seats were 16-way power-adjustable, providing excellent comfort. However, the rear seat was small, with narrow doors and limited legroom. The trunk space remained at 382 litres, comparable to a compact car. The design prioritized aesthetics over practicality, affecting interior space.

The 2022 Acura TLX featured a simple infotainment interface, though some typefaces were small. The head-up display was available only on the Platinum Elite trim. The ELS Studio premium audio system with 17 speakers was included in higher trims. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a suite of driver assistance features.

The 2023 Acura TLX's True Touchpad Interface was a source of frustration, with a non-touch-sensing display. The infotainment system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 17-speaker ELS Studio 3D audio system. However, it lacked wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The TTI occupied valuable console space, making it less user-friendly.

The 2022 Acura TLX received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall score from the NHTSA. It included standard safety features like lane-keep assist, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Knee airbags and a unique passenger airbag were also standard.

The 2023 Acura TLX offered a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Type S added rain-sensing wipers and a surround-view camera. The TLX featured an ACE body structure and eight airbags. It received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.