2018 Acura TLX debuts at New York with new design and A-Spec trim
Acura revealed the facelifted 2018 TLX at the 2017 New York Auto Show, introducing its new design language and a sportier A-Spec trim with chassis and styling changes.
Acura used the 2017 New York Auto Show to unveil the refreshed 2018 TLX, marking the saloon’s first major update since its launch. The new TLX adopts the brand’s “Precision Crafted Performance” design language, most visibly with a diamond pentagon grille that replaces the previous model’s controversial front styling. The 2018 TLX is the second Acura, after the MDX, to receive the new corporate face. Alongside the revised grille, the car features a reshaped front bumper, new LED lighting signatures and a reworked bonnet. The changes are intended to give the TLX a more assertive presence and move away from the outgoing model’s polarising “beak” design.
2018 Acura TLX Debuts at the 2017 New York Auto Show
A-Spec Trim: Sportier Design and Chassis Tweaks
- Exclusive 19-inch wheels
- Round LED fog lights
- Unique side sills
- Gloss black rear spoiler
- Rear diffuser with round dual-exhaust tips
- Sport-tuned suspension
- Available with front-wheel drive or Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD)
- A-Spec interior styling enhancements
A new A-Spec trim joins the TLX range for 2018, aimed at buyers seeking a more dynamic appearance and feel. The A-Spec package is available only with a V6 engine, though Acura has not yet confirmed whether this is an updated version of the existing 3.5-litre unit or a new 3.0-litre V6. Chassis updates for the A-Spec include a sport-tuned suspension, with buyers able to choose between front-wheel drive and Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system.
Interior and Technology Updates
| Feature | Availability |
|---|---|
| Apple CarPlay | Standard |
| Android Auto | Standard |
| AcuraWatch safety suite | Standard |
| Dual-screen infotainment | Standard |
| 7-inch central touchscreen (30% faster) | Standard |
All TLX models now come with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and the AcuraWatch safety suite as standard. The infotainment system features a dual-screen layout, with the central seven-inch touchscreen claimed to be around 30 percent faster than before. These updates aim to keep the TLX competitive in the premium saloon segment, where tech features have become a key differentiator.
Engine Options
- 2.4-litre i-VTEC four-cylinder engine (carryover, entry-level)
- V6 engine for higher trims and A-Spec (details pending)
The TLX retains its 2.4-litre i-VTEC four-cylinder engine as the entry-level option, with the V6 reserved for higher trims and the new A-Spec. Full technical specifications for the revised V6 were not disclosed at the show.
