The 2025 Acura TLX Type S stands out in a luxury car market dominated by trends and increasingly complex technology. It’s a sedan that delivers both performance and dependability, a rare combination in its class—especially as the market shifts away from sedans altogether.
Bridging Two Worlds
Acura has carved a unique niche by offering a vehicle that doesn’t overpromise or rely on gimmicks. The TLX Type S provides enough power for confident driving without feeling ostentatious, underpinned by Honda’s engineering discipline and Acura’s reputation for reliability. This is crucial because luxury performance cars often trade long-term dependability for short-term thrills. The TLX Type S doesn’t; it aims to feel strong and reliable even years after purchase.
Power and Performance
The car features a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine producing 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. This isn’t about chasing top-end numbers, but about delivering usable power across the RPM range for everyday driving. It’s paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly in normal mode and firmly in sport mode, providing a balanced experience.
The TLX Type S reaches 0-60 mph in approximately 4.7 seconds. While not a dedicated sports car, it feels lively and composed, offering spirited acceleration without being overly aggressive. Fuel economy is rated at 19 mpg city and 25 mpg highway—reasonable for a powerful, AWD V6 sedan.
Chassis and Handling
Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) enhances traction and stability, rivaling European competitors. The adaptive dampers and precision suspension geometry ensure controlled weight transfer and composed cornering without feeling artificial. This is thanks to engineers prioritizing how the car feels to drive over purely chasing performance metrics.
Practicality and Comfort
The interior offers luxury without unnecessary complexity. Acura’s digital instrument cluster and centrally mounted display provide clear, relevant information without overwhelming the driver. The front seats offer ample adjustability, while the rear seats provide sufficient space for adults. Cargo capacity is standard for a mid-size luxury sedan at 13.5 cubic feet.
The infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and intuitive climate controls, prioritizing usability over flashy design. Standard safety features like lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking add further practicality.
Reliability and Cost of Ownership
Acura benefits from Honda’s reputation for building durable cars. RepairPal rates the 2025 TLX family highly for reliability, with a 4.5/5 rating. The brand favors simple, robust mechanicals and proven calibrations, minimizing the need for frequent dealer visits.
Recent recalls have addressed a fuel injection control module software issue, but the fix was proactive and transparent. Five-year ownership costs total $68,128, placing the TLX Type S in the middle of the entry-luxury segment—not too high, not too low, suggesting a fair trade between performance and reliability.
The Last of its Kind
Ironically, Acura announced the end of TLX production in 2025 as the automotive industry increasingly favors SUVs. This makes the Type S one of the final performance sedans from Acura. For buyers who prioritize driving enjoyment over current trends, the TLX Type S offers a compelling alternative to more expensive, less reliable competitors.
The TLX Type S’s strength lies in its balanced approach: exciting performance, intuitive AWD, real-world usability, and the dependability that comes from decades of Honda engineering. It may not top every spec sheet, but it delivers a consistent, satisfying driving experience day after day.
