I drove Acura’s $62,000 TLX to see if it could compete with Cadillac and BMW

The most noticeable differences are the deletions of the black frame around the TLX’s diamond pentagon grille and the rectangular plexiglass panel protecting the Acura logo on the grille. Although minor, the revisions make for a cleaner and classier-looking front end.

The Type S gets a special front splitter for improved downforce.

Despite having the internal dimensions of a compact sedan, the TLX, at 194.6 inches long, is the same length as a midsize Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

The Acura TLX Type S is powered by a 3.0-liter V6 engine equipped with a single twin-scroll turbocharger, producing 355 horsepower and 354 lb.-ft. of torque. Its mated to a 10-speed, automatic transmission.

Although its output is lower than the powerplants found in some of its rivals, the TLX’s V6 is more than potent enough for the job.

It’s smooth, and its twin-scroll turbo helps it generate that power consistently and predictably.

My Type S test car boasted EPA fuel economy figures of 19 mpg city, 25 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined.

For 2024, Acura sharpened up the throttle response for the Sport+ mode, which is used for maximum acceleration.

The TLX’s cabin is a true standout.

The biggest update to the interior is the new 12.3-inch screen, which comes standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The seats are exceptionally comfortable, and the bright red leather upholstery is a not-so-subtle reminder that this isn’t any ordinary luxury sedan.

Cabin ergonomics, along with material and build quality, are generally excellent.

Despite being heavy on buttons, the front dash is logically organized, so everything you need is easy to find.

The TLX’s cabin is also quieter than before. Acura improved and increased cabin noise insulation while also upgrading its ambient noise cancellation system.

Instead of being a touchscreen, Acura requires you to use a touchpad to navigate its infotainment system. The entire experience was unwieldy and especially difficult to manage while driving.

The 17-speaker system, available on the A-Spec and Type S, delivered a rich, powerful, bass-heavy sound.

The rear seats fold down for additional cargo-carrying ability, but there is bracing that crisis crosses the opening, severely limiting the ability to accommodate longer items.

Despite the lightweight wheels, sticky Pirelli rubber, Brembo brakes, and large quad exhausts, the Acura TLX Type S was never designed to excel on the track.

If track day fun is your cup of tea, there are other options in this price range, like the Cadillac CT5-V, that are far better suited to the usage case.

But for everyday life, the TLX Type S is simply outstanding.

It looks great, the seats are comfortable, and it’s loaded with tech. At the same time, the turbocharged V6 engine partners with Acura’s brilliant Super-Handling All-Wheel-Drive system to inject an extra dose of fun into your commute.

In fact, if I had to pick, the Acura TLX Type S might just be my daily driver of choice.