SPORT SEDAN IS BIG, IS BAD AND IS BACK
Tweaks and upgrades make Type S bigger, better with solid power, impressive handling
Much has changed on the automotive scene since Acura first debuted a higher-performance (260-horsepower) Type S version of its mid-size TL sedan in 2002. The second-generation front-wheel-drive TL was a very popular model, as well as being one of my favourite affordable sport(y) four-door cars at the time.
Since 2014, the replacement TLX has carried the mid-size sport sedan torch for Honda's upscale brand and, at least with the A-spec package, has demonstrated enough verve with its 272-hp turbo 2.0-L four not to be an embarrassment.
For the 2021 model year, though, Acura has resurrected the Type S name after more than a decade, slapping it on the TLX and dragging a bunch of performance parts out of the warehouse to make sure it lives up to its reputation.
The TLX Type S is powered by an exclusive 355-hp turbocharged 3.0-L V6. It also gets a specially tuned double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension, Brembo front brakes, and a new Sport+ driving mode for the Integrated Dynamics System.
For those desiring a spirited ride in a more practical fourdoor format, yet don't want an SUV, this is the real deal. It has solid power, impressive handling, strong brakes, all-wheel drive, and enough tweaks and upgrades for the TLX to say, “I'm big, I'm bad, and I'm back.”
Acura says the TLX Type S is about 25 per cent quicker to 100 km/h than the standard TLX, with a zero-to-100-km/h time around five seconds and a top end bumped up to 250 km/h (electronically limited). Given a serious prod of the gas pedal, the car hooks up immediately and leaps off the line, the sound of the V6 turning to a higher-pitched howl as it nears redline.
An active exhaust system, adopted from the NSX sports car, opens a butterfly valve in each muffler to enhance the sound of the engine. In Sport mode, the valves are fully open at idle and at launch, but closed during cruising, and in Sport+ the valves are open at all times.
Working in concert is a sport-tuned, quick-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission, strengthened to handle the increased horsepower and torque (a generous 354 poundfeet from 1,400 to 5,000 rpm).
The TLX Type S weighs a solid 1,928 kilograms, which is felt during higher-speed cornering. That said, there's a ton of grip available thanks to Acura's highly regarded Super Handling Allwheel Drive (SH-AWD), a first for any Type S model.
Naturally, Sport and Sport+ modes have more aggressive SH-AWD programming that elevates handling performance. Throw in P255/35R20 Pirelli P Zero performance rubber, and the Type S excels in the fast sweepers. The car's belt-driven electric power steering uses a unique variable gear ratio for a more responsive feel than the regular TLX, giving the sport sedan a more agile feel at low- to mid-range speeds.
Braking performance is elevated with the addition of larger, more powerful Brembo front brakes, four-piston calipers gripping 14.3-inch rotors.
Acura says stopping distances from 100 km/h are improved by 13 per cent, though the brakes can be a bit grabby at lower speeds.
The Type S tester was a visual standout, thanks to its Tiger Eye Pearl paint job — a rich coppery hue. In general, the sedan distinguishes itself from the lesser TLXS with its “diamond pentagon” grille, quad exhaust outlets, a front splitter, and rear diffuser.
Inside, what is clearly a driver-focused interior features an Nsx-like flat-bottom steering wheel with the Type S logo, 16-way-adjustable Milano leather seats with adjustable bolsters, and Type S-embossed headrests. Contrast French stitching and piping on the dash top and door armrests, and aluminum trim on the doors and dash, are welcome touches.
On the infotainment front, a 17-speaker ELS Studio 3D audio system takes care of the tunes. There's a 10.2-inch screen above the centre stack, and a console-mounted touchpad handling a number of functions.
Surprisingly, considering the TLX'S length, is that rear-seat passenger accommodation is average at best, particularly legroom, which will be at a premium for those with longer dimensions.
Overall, though, with many automakers giving up on midsize sedans, it's good to see
Acura not only finds value in the segment, but also finds value once again in offering genuine performance. The Type S has the bona fides to be an unapologetic sport sedan, one that's a truly entertaining ride without a truly frightening price tag.