Which is faster, ILX or TLX?
The TLX is faster than the ILX in the vast majority of performance metrics, and the TLX Type S is significantly quicker still.
This article compares current-generation Acura ILX and TLX models (as of 2024–2025) to explain where speed differences come from, covering horsepower, torque, drivetrain options, and acceleration figures across base trims and the high-performance variant.
Performance at a glance
Before diving into the details, here is a concise side-by-side look at base-trim speeds to illustrate the general gap between ILX and TLX.
- ILX (latest generation): about 201 horsepower and roughly 192 lb-ft of torque, typically front-wheel drive, with 0–60 mph in the mid-to-high 6-second range depending on transmission and conditions.
- TLX (base): about 272 horsepower and roughly 280 lb-ft of torque, available with SH-AWD, with 0–60 mph typically in the mid-5-second to low-6-second range depending on drivetrain configuration.
In base form, the TLX clearly accelerates faster off the line and offers more grip than the ILX, thanks to more power and, in many trims, all-wheel-drive availability.
TLX Type S vs ILX and TLX base
For enthusiasts who want a clear performance comparison, the TLX Type S represents a substantial leap beyond both the ILX and the TLX base model.
- TLX Type S: about 355 horsepower and roughly 354 lb-ft of torque from a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6, exclusively paired with SH-AWD, with 0–60 mph typically in the mid-4-second range.
- ILX (for reference): around 201 horsepower with the older or current turbo setups, delivering a much lighter pace than the TLX lineup and especially far behind the Type S in speed and acceleration.
Overall, the TLX Type S offers a dramatic performance advantage over the ILX and even over the TLX base, delivering a sportier driving experience with quicker straight-line speed and sharper handling.
Why the speed gap exists
Powertrain and chassis
The TLX lineup benefits from more powerful engines and a chassis tuned for performance, including stronger brakes and more aggressive suspension calibration. The ILX, by contrast, prioritizes daily usability, refinement, and efficiency, which naturally limits its top-speed and acceleration potential.
Drivetrain options
Most ILX models rely on front-wheel drive, whereas the TLX offers all-wheel drive (SH-AWD) on more trims. All-wheel drive provides better traction during launch and through corners, contributing to faster acceleration and improved on-road performance in a variety of conditions.
Summary
Across current offerings, the TLX outperforms the ILX in both base and higher-performance variants. The base TLX accelerates faster than the ILX, and the TLX Type S delivers a substantial speed advantage that places it well ahead of both the ILX and the base TLX in acceleration, braking, and overall performance.
Bottom line
When speed is the deciding factor, the TLX is the faster choice, with the Type S representing the pinnacle of Acura performance in this pairing. The ILX remains a refined, smaller alternative for daily driving, but it does not match the TLX in raw speed or sportier dynamic capability.
In summary, TLX wins on speed, and the Type S leads the charge within the TLX family. If speed matters most, choose the TLX or TLX Type S; if you prefer a smaller, lighter sedan with comfortable daily usability, the ILX remains a solid option.
