The Acura TLX is refreshed for 2018 with sportier styling and the addition of an A-Spec model. (Manufacturer photo)

The Acura TLX is refreshed for 2018 with sportier styling and the addition of an A-Spec model. (Manufacturer photo)

Acura adds A-Spec model to superb handling TLX in 2018

In an already comfortable and refined interior for all TLX models, the A-Spec embellishes all of it.

Acura’s TLX performance luxury midsize sedan sees some styling alterations for 2018, and introduces an A-Spec version for V6-powered models. New premium features have been added, including AcuraWatch, the company’s advanced package of safety and driver assistance features, now standard on all models.

My tester was the TLX A-Spec with all-wheel drive. The A-Spec is available in front-drive configuration for a $2,000 smaller dent in the personal finances, but not a lot of savings on fuel economy. EPA city/highway/combined ratings are 20/30/23 mpg with front-wheel drive, and 20/29/23 mpg with all-wheel drive. I’d go for AWD.

My Acura TLX AWD A-Spec got a great workout for a week in varying degrees of daily rain. With a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine powering the car with 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, the AWD delivered a godsend of extra stability during tight turns and my enjoyable jackrabbit starts and pullouts. This isn’t just any AWD system. It is Acura’s Super-Handling All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), roundly regarded by those in the know as one of the best in the business.

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Wider wheels (8 inches rather than the 7.5 inches of other TLX models) and unique Michelin tires also contribute to the A-Spec’s road grip.

The V6 has a perfect partner in the TLX’s flawless nine-speed automatic transmission.

Sodden conditions during the test week also brought to attention the TLX’s remarkable ability to channel rainwater properly. When I had to lift the trunklid after an enthusiastic squall, water cascaded all around but not a drop fell into the trunk.

Styling elements exclusive to the TLX A-Spec include a matte-black diamond pentagon grille with dark chrome surround, an aggressive lower front fascia with broad center air opening flanked by round LED fog lights, and a dark appearance for the LED headlights.

Nineteen-inch dark alloy wheels are another exclusive.

At the rear, the A-Spec is identified by a gloss-black decklid spoiler, smoked LED taillights and a unique fascia with a lower diffuser accented by 4-inch round dual exhaust tips. And then there’s the A-Spec badging, also seen on the front fenders.

Unseen by observers but notable to an A-Spec driver is the car’s sport-tuned suspension and specially-tuned electric power steering system designed to enhance on-center steering feel.

In an already comfortable and refined interior for all TLX models, the A-Spec embellishes with more dramatically bolstered sport seats, red LED ambient light piping, simulated brushed aluminum trim, and a wireless phone charging pad in the center console.

Gobs of upscale features, nearly everything a reasonable person could want, are included as standard equipment on the Acura TLX AWD A-Spec. The only item increasing the base price is the destination charge, which isn’t really an option since no one I know can buy a car without paying a destination charge.

2018 ACURA TLX AWD A-SPEC

Base price, including destination charge: $45,750

Price as driven: $45,750

Mary Lowry is an independent automotive writer who lives in Snohomish County. She is a member of the Motor Press Guild, and a member and past president of the Northwest Automotive Press Association. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturers as a one-week loan for review purposes only. In no way do the manufacturers control the content of the reviews.

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