Acura Showcases a New Breed of Performance-Luxury Sedan with the 2014 TLX Concept
Revealed earlier today, the 2015 Acura TLX Prototype offers a glimpse into the future of Acura's sedan lineup, demonstrating the brand's innovative design direction and performance capabilities. The TLX, with its "Red Carpet Athlete" motif, seeks to marry luxury refinement with the thrilling athleticism characteristic of a sports sedan. From first impressions, it appears the 2015 Acura TLX will deliver a dynamic drive underpinned by Acura's latest powertrain and handling technologies.
Exterior Design and Styling
The TLX Prototype, painted in an eye-catching Acura Athletic Red Pearl, exemplifies a sleek and lithe exterior, boasting a low and wide stance along with sports-sedan proportions. Notable elements include the shortened front and rear overhangs and dynamically sculpted fender arches. The application of Acura's signature Jewel Eye™ LED headlights provides a modern and inviting appearance, also improving road illumination. Equipped with unique five-spoke 20-inch alloy wheels and low-profile tires, the TLX commands an athletic presence on the road.
Interior Spaciousness and Comfort
In terms of size, the TLX Prototype suggests a more compact vehicle, about 3.8 inches shorter in overall length than the current TL, yet maintaining the same 109.3-inch wheelbase. Despite the exterior reduction, Acura is aiming to offer an interior that competes with the most spacious offerings in the midsize luxury sedan class. The model promises comfortable seating for five adults, along with a capacious cargo area, and an open, airy greenhouse effect for improved visibility.
Performance Aspects
When it comes to performance, Acura indicates that the TLX will not disappoint. A combination of a lightweight yet robust body structure and responsive chassis brings a promise of refined ride and precise handling in various driving scenarios. Also, to be noted is the offering of two high-performance, fuel-efficient new engines, both coupled with new advanced transmissions, aiming to deliver smooth and efficient power delivery.
Innovative Powertrain
Two new powertrain options will be offered on the TLX. The first is an all-new 2.4-liter 16-valve inline 4-cylinder engine, featuring direct injection and Acura's i-VTEC® valvetrain, paired with an all-new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). For those seeking more power, Acura offers a 3.5-liter SOHC V-6 with direct injection, VTEC variable valve control and cam timing, and Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM™) technology for enhanced fuel efficiency. This more powerful engine is mated to a new 9-speed automatic transmission.
Driving Dynamics and Technologies
The TLX brings in an array of advanced driving technologies, including the next generation Acura Super-Handling All Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™) and Precision All-Wheel Steer™ (P-AWS) for an enhanced driving experience. Acura’s Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) provides customization options allowing for a more personalized driving experience. Four driving modes – ECON, Normal, Sport, and Sport+ – are available, each modifying various vehicle parameters to fit the driver's preference.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Technologies
The 2015 Acura TLX Prototype comes equipped with a range of safety and driver-assistance technologies. From the expected Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), to Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow and Blind Spot Indicator (BSI), Acura seems to leave no stone unturned in this department. The new TLX aims to achieve the highest safety ratings, expecting a five-star Overall Vehicle Score from NHTSA and a TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating from IIHS.
Wrapping Up Thoughts
With the 2014 Acura TLX Concept, Acura gives a preview into a sedan that seems ready to blend luxury and sportiness with a host of impressive technologies. While the prototype offers a good deal of insight into what we might expect from the production model, the final judgment will be reserved for when the TLX officially hits the showrooms later this year.
-Ed
2014 Acura TLX Concept
