Auto review: Is Acura's 2021 TLX good enough to be Legend-worthy?

The 2021 Acura TLX delivering an enthusiastic feel. Credit: TNS/JAMES HALFACRE
For too long, Acura has purveyed perfectly bland sedans with equally bland names, a far cry from when the division was selling Legends, Vigors and Integras, sports sedans that satisfied driving enthusiasts and nonenthusiasts alike. And while the automaker has recently fielded fun-to-drive crossovers, its sedan lineup lacks the spark that was a hallmark of the brand.
With the arrival of the redesigned 2021 Acura TLX, that has finally changed, and not a moment too soon.
In the United States, sedan sales peaked in 1991 with a market share of 44.8 percent. Since then, that slice of the pie has dwindled to 19.2% through July 2020, the lowest share since 1987, according to IHS Markit. In the luxury vehicle segment, sedans accounted for 27% of sales last year, larger than the overall market but still far lower than in the past. Declining demand for sedans has affected Acura’s U.S. market share, which finally stabilized in 2018 after 13 years of declines and is now on the rise.
And it’s vehicles like the new TLX that are bolstering the brand’s appeal.
All-new for 2021, the TLX is the best iteration of Acura’s midsize sedan since the 2004-2008 Acura TL, a car designed by Jon Ikeda, now Acura’s vice president and brand officer.
Looking much like the gorgeous Acura Type S Concept, the new TLX thankfully inherits its good looks. Yes, it’s 2.9 inches longer, 0.6 inches lower, and 2.2 inches wider than the old TLX. Better yet, the design execution looks sporty and aggressive without feeling childish. Front-wheel drive is standard; Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (or SH-AWD) all-wheel is optional. A 10-speed automatic transmission is standard.
For most drivers, this TLX 2.0T with the A-Spec Package, one of three packages offered, will do just fine, thank you. Its turbocharged four packs a significant performance punch, delivering an enthusiastic feel that’s enhanced by the car’s well-timed shifts and adept handling. Of course, its SH-AWD system, and the A-Spec’s 19-inch wheels, provide an extra measure performance and composure, and the piece of mind of knowing all four wheels are working to deliver power and maintain grip. Its chassis tuning also makes it a delight to drive, with a pleasurable athleticism that still provides a comfortably firm ride. But, as is common with many Honda and Acura products, there’s an abundance of road and tire noise, too much for its price.
When it comes to tech, you’ll find the infotainment system, a notable weakness in Honda products, has been redesigned yet again. This one is elegantly simple in appearance, and it would be easy to use if it were a touch screen. However, it’s activated by a touch pad, which is impossible to use without taking your eyes off the road.
On the flip side, the "ELS STUDIO 3D" premium audio system furnishes better sound than many home audio systems. It’s sure to turn you into a music aficionado. Other tech goodies include a standard 7-inch full-color information display in the gauge cluster and an optional 10.5-inch full-color head-up display.
Overall, the 2021 Acura TLX is a welcome return to form for a brand that has been far too blandtastic for its own good for far too long.
Maybe they should have called it a Legend. You just might.
2021 Acura TLX A-Spec
Base price: $47,275
Engine: Turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder
Power/Torque: 272 hp., 280 pound-feet torque
EPA fuel economy estimates: 21 mpg city, 29 highway
Bottom line: Return to form
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