The Comeback of Acura's TLX Type S: 2021 Edition
After a gap of 13 long years, Acura's performance badge - Type S, has reentered the scene with the 2021 Acura TLX Type S. Resurrecting a brand name often comes with a heavy weight of expectations and the new TLX Type S seems ready to meet those. Priced in the low $50,000s and slated for a late May dealership arrival, this model marks a significant milestone in Acura’s journey.
The Power Beneath the Hood
The 2021 TLX Type S is powered by an exclusive, brand-new 3.0-liter Type S Turbo V6 engine. The engine promises 355 horsepower and 354 lb.-ft. of torque, which propels this model to the top of the list as the most powerful Type S to date. The TLX Type S makes a departure from its predecessors with the inclusion of Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system, a first for a Type S model, offering true torque vectoring. With the double-wishbone front suspension and Type S-exclusive Sport+ driving mode, this machine offers enhanced performance and driving pleasure.
Aesthetics Inside and Out
The 2021 TLX Type S presents a choice between six exterior paint finishes, matched with three interior design options. Type S exclusives include the Tiger Eye Pearl paint and Orchid leather interior, both firsts for the model. On the outside, the car carries unique signatures like an open-surface diamond pentagon grille for improved airflow, large quad exhaust outlets, and two wheel options, one of which is an NSX-inspired lightweight wheel, wrapped in a 255-series Pirelli P-Zero summer tire. Within, drivers can enjoy the luxury of Ultrasuede® trimmed 16-way power seats with adjustable side bolstering and Type S embossed headrests.
Advanced Features
A significant number of high-end features from the TLX Advance Package are standard in the Type S model. This includes the critically acclaimed and award-winning ELS STUDIO 3D® 17-speaker premium audio system. However, detailed information about the 2021 TLX Type S will only be available as we approach the on-sale date in May.
Accolades and Safety Standards
The second-generation Acura TLX has received praise for its stylish looks, driver-focused performance, and advanced technology. Among the laurels, the TLX has been awarded MotorWeek’s “Driver’s Choice” and AutoTrader's “Best New Cars for 2021”. The ELS STUDIO 3D® premium audio system bagged the “Best Sound System” in the 2021 Esquire Car Awards. The TLX also boasts of a TOP SAFETY PICK+ (TSP+) rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
The Verdict
With a 13-year-long hiatus coming to an end, the 2021 Acura TLX Type S aims to revive the charm of its badge. The company has injected a series of upgrades to not only match but also surpass the capabilities of its predecessor models. However, the full impact of these upgrades on the driving experience will only truly be seen once the vehicle hits the road. At first glance, the blend of raw power, technological enhancements, and sophisticated design cues seem to offer a promising package. As we await more details and hands-on reviews, the return of the Acura's performance nameplate is undoubtedly a significant development in the automotive world.
-Ed
2021 Acura TLX Type S
