Acura TLX A-Spec: Reclaiming Acura's Performance Legacy

Once known for groundbreaking models like the legendary NSX, Acura has spent recent years cultivating a reputation for reliable but somewhat conservative luxury vehicles. The 2018 TLX A-Spec represents a bold step toward recapturing the brand's sporty heritage while maintaining the refinement that has defined its more recent offerings.

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Design Evolution: From Beak to Bold

The TLX A-Spec marks a significant evolution in Acura's design language. Gone is the controversial "beak" grille that defined previous generations, replaced by the more assertive Precision grille first seen on Acura's concept vehicles. The A-Spec treatment enhances this with:

• Darkened grille surround with matte-black finish
• Three-dimensional diamond pattern that catches light dramatically
• Larger lower air intakes with black trim accents
• Distinctive round fog lights for a performance-oriented look

Profile views reveal subtle aero elements that lower the visual stance, while the rear features A-Spec specific black trim, a gloss-black spoiler, and substantial dual exhaust tips. This cohesive design approach gives the TLX A-Spec an athletic presence without resorting to the overwrought styling that plagues some competitors.

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Performance That Honors Acura's Heritage

While not positioned as a track-focused machine, the TLX A-Spec delivers engaging dynamics that recall Acura's performance roots:

The powertrain shines with buttery-smooth delivery, while chassis upgrades transform the driving experience. Engineers firmed up the steering ratio, retuned the suspension, and fitted 19-inch wheels wrapped in high-performance rubber. The available Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system ($2,000 option) has been specifically calibrated for the A-Spec, offering neutral handling characteristics that belie the car's front-drive architecture.

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Interior: Where Sport Meets Sophistication

Step inside the TLX A-Spec and you're greeted by an environment that balances sporting intent with everyday usability:

• Contoured sport seats with premium leather and Alcantara inserts
• Available striking red leather upholstery (beyond the typical black)
• Thick-rimmed steering wheel with precise thumb contours
• Metal sport pedals and A-Spec branded sill plates
• Generous rear seat room uncommon in sport sedans

While some luxury competitors use more exotic materials, the TLX A-Spec's cabin impresses with exceptional build quality and thoughtful ergonomics. The driving position is low and purposeful, with all major controls falling easily to hand.

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Technology That Finally Makes Sense

Acura's previously maligned dual-screen infotainment system receives meaningful improvements for the A-Spec:

The system divides functions intelligently—climate and audio controls occupy the lower touchscreen, while navigation and smartphone interfaces appear on the upper display. This revision doesn't just fix previous frustrations; it creates one of the more distinctive (and now functional) interfaces in the segment.

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Value Proposition: Acura's Core Strength

Perhaps the TLX A-Spec's most compelling argument comes when examining its price relative to competitors. A fully-loaded model with every available option—including the superb SH-AWD system—tops out around $45,750. Consider what that buys:

• Nearly 300 horsepower from a refined V6 engine
• Premium interior materials and extensive feature content
• Mid-size cabin space in a segment dominated by compacts
• Acura's reputation for reliability and low ownership costs

European alternatives with comparable performance and features often command $10,000-$20,000 premiums, while offering less rear seat room and potentially higher maintenance costs. The TLX A-Spec delivers about 90% of the experience at 70% of the price.

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Who Should Consider the TLX A-Spec?

This Acura makes the most sense for buyers who:

• Want sporting character without sacrificing daily comfort
• Appreciate Acura's blend of performance and reliability
• Need more rear seat space than compact sport sedans offer
• Prefer understated style over flashy design statements
• Value strong resale and reasonable maintenance costs

While enthusiasts might hold out hope for a future Type S variant with more power, the A-Spec strikes an impressive balance between sport and sensibility. It represents Acura at its best—delivering premium quality and engaging dynamics without premium brand pretension.