Detroit: Behold, the Strangely Familiar 2015 Acura TLX

2015 acura tlx concept video detroit

Smaller than the Acura RLX, yet larger than the Civic-like Acura ILX, the 2015 Acura TLX replaces the Acura TL. The “prototype” on display at the 2014 NAIAS is a more shapely interpretation of what the 2015 Acura TLX will be. Take the spotlight off the lovely wheels, water down the bright-work, raise the ride height and you’ll basically have a production version of the 2015 Acura TLX.

Acura is in the process of shaking up its fleet with fresh, new designs that may speak to the consumers who felt the old style lacked charisma. Despite the mellowing of the new MDX and the sober design of the RLX, this replacement for the Acura TL looks stunning by comparison. Acura needs the 2015 TLX to have the same spirit, the same poise as the prototype we just saw at the 2014 NAIAS.

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The 2015 Acura TLX is 3.8 inches shorter than the current Acura TL and it will be lighter too. Acura will have a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine as the base power-plant. This will be a VTEC DI engine with variable valve timing and lift. Acura is mum on output, but expect the 2.4-liter to put out more than 200 horsepower. Acura will bolt an all-new eight-speed dual-clutch transmission to the base engine.  No word on a manual, but it’s doubtful.

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Acura’s 3.5-liter V6 will make an appearance too. It’s likely to have more than 280 hp. A new nine-speed automatic transmission will be mated to the 2015 Acura TLX’s V6. Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system (SH-AWD) will be available. Acura’s PAWS (Precision All-Wheel Steer) system will be offered as well. There is an Integrated Dynamics System that offers drivers a choice of four driving modes, Econ, Normal, Sport and Sport +.

Hopefully Honda/Acura will get us in one soon.

Check out this video of the 2015 Acura TLX from the 2014 Detroit Auto Show!