Car News

2018 Acura TLX Gets Face Lift, New Infotainment, New A-Spec Sport Trim

Acura has restyled their midsize TLX sedan. The car gets a new nose, an A-spec performance trim, and introduces Acura's newest infotainment system.

Unlike some mid-cycle refreshes, the biggest change to the TLX's exterior is easy to spot. Gone is Acura's controversial beak nose, in favour of the Superman logo grille with mesh insert that arrived with the 2017 Acura MDX. The hood and front fenders have been reshaped as well. Canadian cars get exposed dual exhaust tips on all models.

New to the TLX is a revised dual-screen infotainment system that Acura says has a more intuitive menu and command structure. It also has a 7.0-inch capacitive touchscreen that Acura says has a 30 percent faster response time. The system now supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The TLX continues with a choice of two engines. The entry engine is a 2.4L four-cylinder producing 206 hp, and a 290 hp, 3.5L V6 is available with Acura's super-handling all-wheel drive.

The A-Spec package is intended to make the TLX a better driver's car. It starts with a matte-black grille with dark chrome trim, as well as special 19-inch wheels. Inside, A-Spec cars get more aggressive seat bolsters with contrast stitching,  and red highlights around the interior. If you're looking to drive it though, the important changes are stiffer springs and a rear sway-bar. Acura has also retuned the steering and dampers. The steering now has a quicker ratio for increased response.

The A-Spec package is available on SH-AWD models, but, exclusively to Canada, is also available on some 2.4L models. The TLX starts at $35,990 and goes on sale tomorrow (June 1st).

2018 Acura TLX pricing:
Base (4-cyl) $35,990
SH-AWD (V6) $40,990
A-Spec (4-cyl) $42,190