The Official Announcement: Why Acura Pulled the Plug
In a move that reflects broader industry trends, Acura confirmed production of the TLX sports sedan will cease this month. The company's statement emphasized strategic realignment:
"Acura will conclude production of the TLX performance sedan to better align with the evolving needs of our customers and the changing landscape of the automotive industry."
By the Numbers: The TLX's Market Decline
- Peak Sales (2015): 47,080 units
- 2023 Sales: 16,731 units
- 2024 Sales (Final Year): 7,478 units
- Total Production Run: 2014-2024 (10 model years)
Understanding the Sedan Market Collapse
The TLX's discontinuation follows an industry-wide pattern where sedans now represent just 21% of U.S. light-vehicle sales (down from 50% in 2009). Key factors driving this shift:
- SUV/Crossover Dominance: These vehicles now command 54.5% market share
- Changing Consumer Preferences: Buyers favor higher seating positions and versatile cargo space
- Profit Margins: Automakers earn 15-20% higher margins on SUVs versus comparable sedans
- Electric Vehicle Transition: Most EV development focuses on SUV/truck platforms
Other casualties in the performance sedan segment include the discontinued Chevrolet SS (2017), Ford Taurus SHO (2019), and BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo (2020).
The TLX's Legacy: From Acura's Flagship to Footnote
Introduced in 2014 as a replacement for both the TSX and TL models, the TLX represented Acura's attempt to compete with German sport sedans like the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4. Its evolution tells the story of changing tastes:
Key Generations
- First Gen (2015-2020): Offered both 4-cylinder and V6 options with precision all-wheel steer
- Second Gen (2021-2024): Complete redesign with Type S performance variant (355hp turbo V6)
What Made It Special
- Last Acura model with available manual transmission (until 2020)
- Type S variant reintroduced Acura's performance sub-brand
- Featured innovative SH-AWD torque vectoring system
Acura's SUV-Centric Future
With the TLX gone, Acura's sedan lineup shrinks to just the Integra (a rebadged Civic cousin). The brand's roadmap reveals a clear direction:
Upcoming Models
- 2025 Acura ADX: Subcompact SUV slotting below RDX
- 2026 Acura RSX: All-electric SUV based on Honda's e:Architecture
- MDX Refresh: Updated three-row flagship due 2025
Electrification Strategy
Acura plans for 60% of sales to be electrified (hybrid or EV) by 2030. The ZDX, Acura's first EV, arrives later this year using GM's Ultium platform.
What This Means for Luxury Sedan Buyers
While the TLX disappears, alternatives remain for performance sedan enthusiasts:
Surviving Competitors
- Acura Integra Type S: 320hp hot hatch with manual option
- Genesis G70: RWD-based luxury sport sedan
- Lexus IS 500: Naturally aspirated V8 holdout
Used Market Considerations
Analysts predict 2021-2024 TLX models (especially Type S) may appreciate due to:
- Final model year status
- Limited production numbers
- Strong enthusiast following
