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Does the Acura TLX have a turbo?

Yes — but it depends on the model year. The early TLX models (2015–2020) were not turbocharged, while the current generation (2022–present) offers turbocharged engines, including a 2.0-liter turbo and a high-performance 3.0-liter turbo V6 in the Type S.

First-generation TLX (2015–2020): Naturally aspirated powertrains

In its初-generation, the TLX sold with two non-turbo engines. Buyers could choose between a compact four-cylinder and a larger V6, both naturally aspirated. Here are the two choice motors from this era:

2.4-liter inline-4: about 206 horsepower and 182 lb-ft of torque.

3.5-liter V6: about 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque.

Neither engine used forced induction, and performance-focused options relied on tuning and chassis setup rather than turbocharging. The TLX paired these engines with automatic transmissions and offered front- or all-wheel drive depending on the trim.

Second-generation TLX (2022–present): Turbocharged options

With a complete redesign, the TLX shifted to turbocharged powertrains. This generation introduced a smaller, efficient turbo for everyday performance and a more powerful option for enthusiasts. The primary turbocharged choices are:

2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4: around 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque; available with all-wheel drive and a modern automatic transmission.

3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 (Type S): about 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque; focused on high performance with enhanced suspension and handling, and primarily paired with an automatic transmission.

Note that the 2.0T is the everyday turbo option, while the 3.0T V6 in the Type S is the performance flagship. Manual transmissions are not offered with the current turbocharged TLX lineup, and all turbo variants use modern automatic hardware.

Which TLX should you choose if you want turbo power?

If you’re after everyday turbocharged acceleration and all-weather capability, the 2.0-liter TLX is a solid balance of power and efficiency. If you crave track-capable performance and a broader power band, the TLX Type S with its 3.0-liter turbo V6 is the high-end choice. Your decision may also hinge on features, price, and whether you value SH-AWD (available with the 2.0T) or the enhanced suspension tuning of the Type S.

Summary

Across its history, the Acura TLX has transitioned from naturally aspirated powertrains in its first generation to turbocharged options in the current generation. For buyers evaluating turbocharged performance, the TLX offers a 2.0-liter turbo as the mainstream option and a 3.0-liter twin-turbo on the Type S for peak performance. Always check the model year and trim to confirm the exact engine and available drivetrains.

Which Acura TLX has a turbo?

TLX Type S
355-HP Turbo V6
A new level of performance entirely, the TLX Type S puts a high-output 355-HP * Turbo V6 at your disposal for a heart-pounding driving experience.

Is the TLX type S twin turbo?

No, the TLX Type S does not have a twin-turbo setup; it is powered by a single, twin-scroll turbocharger. The 3.0-liter V6 engine produces 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque.
This video explains the development of the engine and highlights its performance features: 1mKondorCarsYouTube · Jun 22, 2021

Engine: 3.0-liter V6
Turbocharger: Single, twin-scroll turbocharger
Horsepower: 355 hp
Torque: 354 lb-ft

You can watch this video for a review of the TLX Type S, including its acceleration and performance: 1mVehicle VirginsYouTube · Sep 12, 2024

What engine is in an Acura TLX?

The Acura TLX has two engine options: a standard 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine (272 horsepower) and, in the high-performance Type S model, a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine (355 horsepower). The standard engine comes with a 10-speed automatic transmission, while the V6 is paired with a 10-speed automatic and a rear-biased Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system.

Standard engine

Type: 2.0-liter VTEC® turbocharged 4-cylinder
Horsepower: 272 hp
Torque: 280 lb-ft
Transmission: 10-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift®

Type S engine

Type: 3.0-liter V6, direct-injected, twin-turbocharged
Horsepower: 355 hp
Torque: 354 lb-ft
Transmission: 10-speed automatic
Drivetrain: Rear-biased Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®)

Is the TLX turbo charged?

Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The regular TLX features a 272-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder lashed to a 10-speed automatic transmission.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.