What is the difference between Acura TLX Type S and regular?
The TLX Type S is the high‑performance variant, powered by a 3.0‑liter turbocharged V6 with all‑wheel drive and sport-focused handling; the regular TLX uses a smaller 2.0‑liter turbo four and emphasizes daily usability with less aggressive performance tuning.
Power, Performance and Drivetrain
Here's a quick look at how the two variants differ under the hood and in how they move.
- Engine and output: Type S uses a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 producing about 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque; regular TLX deploys a 2.0-liter turbocharged four with around 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque.
- Drivetrain: Type S comes with standard SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive) and performance-oriented torque vectoring; regular TLX is primarily front‑wheel drive, with all‑wheel drive offered on certain trims or configurations in some years.
- Transmission: Both rely on a modern automatic transmission (typically 10 speeds in recent years) with paddle shifters, but Type S tuning prioritizes quicker, more aggressive shifts.
- Suspension and handling: Type S features adaptive dampers, stiffer springs and chassis tuning for a more agile, track‑capable ride; regular TLX uses a comfort-oriented suspension, with upgraded damping available on higher trims.
- Brakes and exhaust: Type S adds larger brakes and a quad-exhaust setup for a sportier soundtrack; regular TLX uses standard dual exhaust outlets and less aggressive braking hardware by comparison.
- Wheels and tires: Type S rides on larger, performance-oriented wheels and tires designed for higher grip; regular TLX prioritizes comfort with a more everyday tire/wheel package on lower trims.
In short, the Type S is built for performance virtues—power, precision, and grip—while the regular TLX aims for everyday practicality, efficiency and comfort with a milder driving character.
Interior, Comfort and Technology
Inside the cabin, the Type S adds sportier finishes and more premium materials, while the regular TLX emphasizes everyday usability and value.
- Seats and materials: Type S typically features sport front seats with enhanced bolstering, plus premium materials such as leather and optional Alcantara; regular TLX offers comfortable seating with cloth or leather upholstery depending on trim.
- Instrumentation and display: Type S includes sport‑focused instrumentation and exclusive trim accents; regular TLX provides a refined digital gauge cluster and standard infotainment setup suitable for daily driving.
- Technology and safety: Type S adds upgraded driver aids and available premium audio, along with sport‑tuned steering and performance modes; regular TLX provides a strong tech and safety package with optional upgrades on higher trims.
- Comfort and convenience: Type S adds features like heated/ventilated seats and enhanced cabin ambiance on higher trims; regular TLX focuses on comfort with practical controls and a user‑friendly interface.
Overall, the Type S cabin leans toward a sportier, more premium experience, while the regular TLX prioritizes comfort, value and everyday usability.
Styling, Features and Pricing
The look and the cost tell a clear story about which model you’re choosing.
- Exterior styling: Type S adopts a more aggressive look with unique front and rear styling cues, larger air intakes, and quad exhaust outlets; regular TLX presents a cleaner, less aggressive appearance with styling that fits a broad audience.
- Wheels and details: Type S uses larger, sport‑oriented wheels and exclusive badging/trim; regular TLX uses a more conservative wheel lineup and finishes across trims.
- Pricing and value: Type S sits at the performance flagship level and carries a notably higher price tag than the regular TLX, reflecting its V6 power, advanced drivetrain and performance hardware. The regular TLX starts well below that and remains one of Acura’s stronger value propositions for daily driving.
Choosing between them comes down to whether you crave track‑ready performance and a more premium, aggressive character (Type S) or you prioritize everyday practicality, efficiency and value (regular TLX).
Summary
The Acura TLX Type S and regular TLX share a platform and many features, but they diverge in powertrain, drivetrain philosophy, chassis tuning, and equipment. The Type S is the performance‑focused variant with a turbo V6, standard SH‑AWD, adaptive suspension, and a more aggressive style and sound. The regular TLX is the more affordable, everyday sedan offering solid performance with greater emphasis on comfort, efficiency and value. Your choice hinges on whether you want a sportier, more capable driving experience or a well‑rounded daily driver with a lower price of entry.
