TLX

Make
Acura
Segment
Sedan

In the world of luxury sedans, being around for six years means something like the Acura TLX is reaching its expiry date. Fortunately, a new one is destined to be unveiled as a 2021 year model, and thanks to last year's stunning Acura Type S Concept, we have our best idea yet as to what the new sedan will look like. We also know that the concept foreshadowed a revival of the Type S nameplate, which is a big deal for performance enthusiasts. Now, a report from Car and Driver has confirmed the Type S is definitely happening, and we know what will be powering the TLX and the Type S variant when we see them later on this year or early next.

Of course, the Type S won't be the only model, and the TLX, which shares a platform with the Honda Accord, will boast a fairly comprehensive lineup in terms of specification and performance. Prices will start in the mid-$30,000 range, with the base powertrain expected to be the 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine from the Honda Accord paired to a ten-speed automatic gearbox. This powertrain will already provide potent performance thanks to 252 horsepower and 273 lb-ft on tap from the Honda Civic Type-R derived four-pot and the potential to develop 306 hp and 295 lb-ft if used in the same state of tune as the hot hatch. That's already more than the current 3.5-liter V6 in the TLX.

However, it's the Type S we're most excited about, as reports suggest it will be making use of a new 3.0-liter V6 with the assistance of two turbochargers. This powerplant is expected to develop well in excess of the current 290-hp V6, with numbers upwards of 350 hp likely. This will place the Type S squarely in line with the 382-hp BMW M340i and the 385-hp Mercedes-AMG C43. While we expect to see the new TLX later on in 2020, the Type S is only expected to break cover early in 2021.