2021- Acura TLX SH-AWD A Spec

2021 Acura TLX SH-AWD A-SPEC - $37,500 - $48,300.

By Ella Patterson

With the all-new 2021 TLX, Acura recaptures some of its old sedan charm. And with slick looks, a healthy dose of tech and -- most importantly -- better on-road manners, the new TLX is nicely situated to do just that. Acura has been raising their standards and recently announced more than one new addition to their lineup. This is an auto brand that’s moving upward. I love the 2021 Acura TLX A-Spec and as the sports sedan goes, they’ve hit the target right smack in the middle with this one. Coupled with the arrival of the much-anticipated MDX SUV early in 2021, Acura is planning a real market shakeup.

2021 Acura TLX SH-AWD A SPEC

Price: $37,500 - $48,300. Engine: 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo

Power/Torque: 272hp/280 lb-ft Transmission: 10-speed automatic, Drivetrain: FWD, optional SH-AWD

Exterior Design: It’s So Satisfying! This TLX did not get a simple or minimal facelift. This is an all-new Acura TLX model rebuilt from the ground up. As the company builds up its brand and selection, it's reimagining its signature models and reforming them for a new era of business. Overall, it’s about 2.9 inches longer than previous models, as well as wider and lower with a far sportier look. This model makes the 2019 model look boxy and even frumpy by comparison. The hints of athleticism are everywhere you look, the angular lines, slight droop at the front of the hood, the lower roofline, and the wide rectangular dual exhausts. It’s all there for the taking, and we were thrilled with the look. There’s no way that competition at BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz aren’t looking at this kind of competition and becoming a little concerned. The new TLX can give any of them a run for their money in looks, but also in performance.

PHOTO CREDIT: ACURA.COM

Super Handling All-Wheel Drive and a Top-Notch Chassis

- Two of the biggest highlights in the TLX are the SH-AWD system, and the redesigned and excellently tuned chassis. The potent combination creates a great feeling of control and agility, as well as a comfortable, fun ride. The SH-AWD system moves power between the wheels so flawlessly that you feel you never lose even a smidgen of traction. Acura is once again proving that they do know what they’re doing with the sports sedan class.

Brand-new Interior - Where others are shifting to an all-modern and all-digital look for the interior, Acura is preserving some of the more charming old-school features and blending them with a modern-day look. The instrument cluster features stylish analog gauges, but there’s also a nice 10.5” infotainment system with touchpad control and a stylish rotary drive mode selector in the middle of the central stack. I really enjoyed using it and could not get enough of the relaxed and accommodating front seats; they are the perfect balance of plush and supportive. This is a cockpit and driver view that you can adjust to your specific preference.

I even like the cozy rear cabin, but I believe Acura’s explanation is pretty reasonable. Essentially, yes, the rear seating is cozy and compact, but the fact is that those who are shopping seriously for space are already pre-destined to choose a crossover or SUV.

Your average sports sedan shopper isn’t too concerned about the smaller yet cozier back seat. They’re probably not buying it as a big family car! This new TLX won’t blow you away at the first impression, but it the vehicle that you will fall in love with as soon as you drive it. I did.