Does Acura TLX require premium gas?
Yes. For the current TLX lineup, premium gasoline is generally required: 91 octane or higher for the 2.0-liter turbo models, and 93 octane for the high-performance Type S.
The TLX’s fuel guidelines vary by engine and market, but Acura’s manuals typically specify higher-octane fuel to preserve performance and engine safety. This article explains the latest guidance and what it means for everyday driving.
Engine-specific octane requirements
Before diving into the specifics, note that octane requirements depend on the engine you have. The following reflects the current guidance for recent TLX versions in common markets.
- 2.0-liter turbo (non-Type S): Premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 or higher is recommended for optimum performance and engine protection. Regular 87 may be tolerated in a pinch, but it can reduce power and efficiency, and prolonged use is discouraged.
- Type S (3.0-liter turbo V6): Premium gasoline with 93 octane or higher is required to maintain peak performance and protect the forced-induction system.
In practice, Acura aligns fuel grade with the engine’s performance potential. Using the recommended octane helps prevent knock, preserves timing, and sustains boost efficiency.
What happens if you use lower-octane fuel?
Using fuel with an octane rating below the recommended level can trigger engine knock, cause the knock sensor to retard timing, and reduce horsepower and throttle response. The car will run, but performance won’t be optimal, and long-term wear could increase. Always refuel with the recommended octane as soon as possible.
Regional variations and how to verify
Octane ratings and fuel availability vary by market. Some regions label octane differently (for example, (R+M)/2 vs. Research). Premium fuels can be 91 or 93 octane depending on country. Check the fuel-filler door placard and your owner's manual for the exact specification by model year and region.
Summary and practical takeaways
Bottom line: for the latest TLX models, premium gasoline is the recommended fuel, with 91 octane or higher for the 2.0T variants and 93 octane for the Type S. Following the official octane specification helps maintain performance, efficiency, and engine longevity. Always verify the exact requirement for your model year and region in the owner’s manual or on the fuel-filler door placard.
Summary
The Acura TLX uses turbocharged engines that demand higher-octane fuel to deliver its advertised performance. In the current generation, expect 91+ octane for the 2.0T and 93 octane for the Type S, with regional variations possible. Always follow the exact specification for your vehicle.
