What is Acura TLX a-spec package?
The TLX A-Spec is Acura’s sport-focused trim for the TLX sedan, offering a more aggressive look and sharper handling while keeping the base engine in most configurations.
Overview
In plain terms, A-Spec is a package that dresses up the TLX with performance-inspired styling and chassis tweaks rather than turning it into a track-ready machine. It sits between the base TLX and the higher-end models in the lineup. Availability and exact features vary by model year and drivetrain.
What it includes
Below are the typical elements you’ll find with the TLX A-Spec, though features can differ by model year and trim level.
- Exterior styling: a more aggressive front fascia, distinctive grille treatment, dark-finish accents, and unique badging.
- Wheels and tires: larger alloy wheels—commonly around 19 inches—paired with performance tires for improved grip and stance.
- Exhaust and aerodynamics: revised rear fascia and, on many versions, upgraded exhaust tips and a subtle rear diffuser to emphasize sportiness.
- Suspension and handling: sport-tuned chassis setup that lowers ride height and tightens damping; some years add adaptive dampers or a more responsive steering feel.
- Interior touches: sport seats with enhanced bolstering, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and exclusive trim or contrast stitching accents.
In short, the A-Spec package brings a visible and tactile sport thrust to the TLX without mandating a higher-output engine in most configurations.
Interior and technology enhancements
In addition to exterior cues, A-Spec interiors highlight a performance-oriented cabin designed to engage the driver, with materials and finishes that distinguish it from non-A-Spec TLX models.
- Seating and trim: special upholstery options and contrast stitching; bolstered seating for more support during spirited driving.
- Steering and pedals: flat-bottom steering wheel and aluminum pedals to convey a performance feel.
- Display and controls: sport-style instrumentation and driver-focused controls; compatibility with TLX tech features varies by year and package pairing.
These interior upgrades aim to create a dedicated sport ambience without adding a separate, high-horsepower powertrain.
Performance notes and drivetrain context
Important to understand is how the A-Spec relates to engines and power figures. The A-Spec is typically available with the same engine choices as the rest of the TLX line, and it does not automatically boost horsepower. The performance peak comes from the engine options in the TLX family, and in some years a handful of handling enhancements. The high-performance TLX Type S is a distinct model that offers substantially more power and a different tuning.
For buyers prioritizing sportier handling and styling rather than outright power, the A-Spec provides a compelling balance within the TLX family.
Year-to-year variations
General features have remained consistent, but exact content can shift with mid-cycle refreshes and model-year updates. Always check the specific brochure for a given TLX A-Spec model to confirm wheels, suspension, and interior details.
How it compares to other TLX trims
Compared with the base TLX or Technology trims, the A-Spec adds exterior aero cues, larger wheels, a sport-oriented cabin, and, in some years, a sport-tuned suspension. It remains distinct from the performance-focused Type S, which adds substantially higher power and a different chassis setup.
Summary
The Acura TLX A-Spec package is a sport-inspired upgrade that enhances the TLX’s appearance and handling without a factory horsepower boost in most configurations. It positions the TLX as a more engaging daily driver with a distinct, aggressive look—while leaving the ultimate performance to the Type S variant in the lineup. Availability depends on model year and trim, so prospective buyers should verify exact features for the year they’re considering.
What does Acura TLX a-spec package include?
A-Spec ®
- Gloss Black Decklid Spoiler.
- ELS STUDIO 3D® Premium Audio.
- Ultrasuede®-Trimmed Interior.
- Wireless Charging Pad.
What does a-spec mean in an Acura TLX?
The Acura TLX A-Spec is a sporty trim level of the TLX sedan that adds performance-inspired styling and features to the standard model, including unique exterior and interior elements like a sportier grille, A-Spec badging, special wheels, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and sport seats. It focuses on a more dynamic and athletic appearance while featuring many of the same core performance components as the standard TLX, such as the 2.0L turbocharged engine and 10-speed automatic transmission.
Exterior and styling
- Sport Appearance: The A-Spec package features a sport appearance that includes a gloss black decklid spoiler, unique front and rear bumper trim, and high-gloss black accents.
- Wheels: It comes with 19-inch Shark Gray interwoven wheels.
- Lighting: It includes LED fog lights in addition to the standard Jewel Eye LED headlights.
- Badging: A-Spec badges are placed on the front fenders and trunk.
Interior and technology
- Seats: The interior includes enhanced sport seats with Ultrasuede® and premium Milano leather trim, and they are often heated and ventilated.
- Steering wheel: It features a race-inspired, flat-bottom sport steering wheel.
- Pedals: Aluminum sport pedals and door sill plates are included.
- Audio: The A-Spec trim often includes the premium ELS STUDIO 3D® audio system.
- Wireless charging: Wireless charging is also a standard feature in this package.
Performance and handling
- Engine: The A-Spec is equipped with the same 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine as other TLX models, producing 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, with power sent through a 10-speed automatic transmission.
- Handling: It offers a connected and sporty driving feel with well-weighted steering and a double wishbone front suspension that provides good handling without sacrificing comfort.
- Drivetrain: The A-Spec is available with Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD®) system, which enhances traction and handling performance.
What is the difference between Acura A-spec and technology package?
The main difference is that A-Spec is an exterior styling package that adds a sportier look, while the Technology package adds interior tech and comfort features. On many Acura models, you can get the Technology package combined with the A-Spec styling for a vehicle that includes both features, often labeled as "A-Spec with Technology" or "A-Spec Advance".
This video explains the difference between A-Spec and Technology package on 2025 Acura Integra: 1mVagabond BuildsYouTube · Apr 6, 2025
Acura A-Spec package
- Focus: Exterior appearance and sporty accents.
- Features:
- Larger, sportier wheels.
- Blacked-out trim pieces.
- Distinctive emblems.
- Fog lights (on some models).
- Sportier interior touches like unique stitching, a sport steering wheel, and metal pedals.
Technology package
- Focus: Advanced technology, comfort, and convenience features.
- Features:
- Premium audio: An ELS Studio 3D premium audio system.
- Navigation: Integrated navigation system with traffic information.
- Connectivity: Wireless charging pad and additional USB ports.
- Driver aids: Front and rear parking sensors.
- Comfort: Memory seats and a power passenger seat.
- Convenience: Remote start (on some models) and rain-sensing wipers.
- Display: Head-Up Display (HUD).
Choosing between them
- For sporty looks: Choose the A-Spec package if you prioritize a more aggressive, athletic appearance.
- For comfort and tech: Choose the Technology package if you want premium audio, navigation, and other advanced convenience features.
- Best of both worlds: The A-Spec with Technology package offers both the sporty styling and the premium tech features, making it a popular choice that combines the benefits of both.
You can watch this video to see a side-by-side comparison of Acura Integra A-Spec and A-Spec TECH: 1mVagabond BuildsYouTube · Jun 23, 2023
What is the difference between Acura TLX A-spec and normal?
The ALL NEW Acura TLX is ready to set the bar higher for a sport sedan. Under the hood of the A-Spec is a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 that is producing 272HP & is mated a 10-speed automatic transmission. The new TLX is longer, lower and wider. The A-spec features unique wheels and trim on the outside. On the inside.
