2021 Acura TLX Type S Picks Up the Pace this Weekend

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TLX Type S

The 2021 Acura TLX Type S will pace the field at the Acura Sports Car Challenge at Mid-Ohio in Lexington, Ohio this weekend. The TLX Type S’ debut is one we reported previously, with more details available now than Acura had previously released.

TLX Type S

For one, the TLX Type S has a new direct-injected, single twin-scroll supercharged, dual overhead cam (DOHC) 3.0 liter V6. The turbo V6 produces 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque.

Acura noted that experienced powertrain engineers developed the engine, many of who worked on the NSX’s twin-turbo V6, and their motorsports teams. I’d be relieved that interns weren’t given that responsibility if I was in the market for a TLX Type S.

Coupled with a 10-speed automatic and saying nothing of manual gearbox availability, there’s also Acura’s Super-Handling all-wheel drive (SH-AWD). Acura’s SH-AWD system is always active, measuring vehicle speed, wheel speed, steering angle, yaw rate, and lateral G forces to automatically add torque. The TLX Type S’ double-wishbone front suspension, Brembo front brakes, and Sport+ driving mode are what you get besides the S badging.

I get that Acura is calling attention to the TLX Type S-exclusive Tiger Eye Pearl color that happens to be on the pace car. Why the descriptives around a grille design that supposedly increases airflow? Diamond pentagonals? Are they channeling their inner Mötley Crüe?

TLX Type S

There’s also a front splitter, rear diffuser, quad exhaust outlets, and not one but two wheel designs. That’s what’s on the Type S pace car, so pay attention on May 16th at 2:30 – 5:30 p.m. ET on NBCSN. You wouldn’t want to confuse one for the other.

TLX Type S

The TLX Type S interior appointments include a flat-bottomed steering wheel for easy ingress or egress. It also helps you know if your wheels are straight. Included are Acura’s ELS Studio 3D 17-speaker premium audio system, along with ultrasuede-trimmed, 16-way power seats. Does a synthetic leather substitute invented in Japan in the ’70s by Dr. Miyoshi Okamoto seem upscale to you?

TLX Type S

Are there Japanese domestic market parts for the Type S to make it faster? Maybe that won’t happen unless you’re the second or third owner.

[Images: Acura]





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