In a market saturated with crossovers and luxury SUVs, the 2025 Acura TLX Type S is a welcome reminder that performance sedans still matter. Since its reintroduction in 2021, the Type S moniker has signaled Acura’s renewed commitment to driving excitement—something the brand had been missing since the golden era of the TL and Integra Type R. The 2025 TLX Type S continues that mission with subtle refinements, a tech-forward cabin, and a blend of athleticism and luxury that puts it in the conversation with European stalwarts like the BMW M340i and Audi S4.
While the TLX as a whole gets a mild mid-cycle refresh for 2025, the Type S variant remains the high-performance flagship, representing the most advanced expression of Acura’s Precision Crafted Performance ethos.
Exterior: Aggression Meets Precision
The 2025 TLX Type S doesn’t stray far from the sculpted, wide-track aesthetic that debuted with the second-generation TLX. It still looks like a proper sport sedan—long, low, and assertive—with only modest visual tweaks this year to refine its presence. Acura’s signature Diamond Pentagon grille remains, now flanked by slimmer Jewel Eye LED headlights and reshaped air intakes to give the front fascia a more purposeful look.
New wheel designs and a few fresh paint options (such as Apex Blue Pearl and Tiger Eye Pearl) help the Type S stand out further, while quad exhaust outlets and a gloss black rear diffuser hint at its performance intent.
The proportions are excellent—long hood, short overhangs, and a roofline that tapers into a fastback-style rear. Compared to competitors, the TLX has one of the widest tracks in its class, giving it a planted stance that enhances both its road presence and cornering stability.
Interior: Driver-Centric, High-Tech, and Comfortable
Step inside the 2025 TLX Type S and you’re greeted by a cabin that balances luxury, tech, and sportiness with precision. Acura has continued to refine the interior materials with soft-touch surfaces, real aluminum accents, and available Milano leather with Ultrasuede inserts—standard on the Type S.
Seating remains a highlight. The Type S sports seats offer enhanced bolstering without becoming punishing, and they’re both heated and ventilated. The driving position is low and commanding, and Acura’s attention to ergonomics is evident—the steering wheel feels great in hand, and paddle shifters are satisfyingly responsive.
Rear seat space is adequate, though not class-leading. Six-footers will fit, but it’s clear this cabin was designed with the driver in mind. Trunk space remains practical at around 13.5 cubic feet, and the 60/40-split rear seats can fold down for more versatility.
Tech-wise, the big change for 2025 is the upgraded infotainment system. Acura has finally addressed the much-maligned True Touchpad Interface by either refining it significantly or offering an alternative touchscreen system (depending on the exact final design evolution). The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a new high-resolution center display anchor the dashboard, while wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration come standard.
The 17-speaker ELS Studio 3D audio system remains one of the best in the segment, with crisp clarity and immersive depth.
Powertrain and Performance: Balanced Brawn
Under the hood, the 2025 TLX Type S retains its potent 3.0-liter turbocharged V6, delivering 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. Power is routed through a 10-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels via Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system.
Performance is both linear and engaging. The turbo V6 has a meaty torque curve, offering strong midrange pull that makes merging and passing effortless. The 10-speed transmission is smooth and responsive, with quicker downshifts in Sport+ mode and rev-matching capabilities that enhance its dynamic character.
0–60 mph happens in the low 5-second range—not class-leading, but respectable given the car’s size and luxury appointments. More importantly, the TLX Type S shines in the corners. The chassis is taut and composed, and SH-AWD actively distributes torque to the outside rear wheel during aggressive cornering, giving the car a neutral, planted feel rarely found in this segment.
Steering is accurate, if not overly communicative, and the adaptive dampers provide real differentiation between Comfort and Sport modes. Braking is strong and confidence-inspiring thanks to Brembo front calipers and large rotors.
The TLX Type S doesn’t try to be a raw, track-focused machine—it’s more of a refined, all-weather grand tourer with serious performance credentials.
Technology and Features
In addition to its performance hardware, the 2025 TLX Type S is loaded with features:
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- 12.3-inch HD infotainment display
- Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
- Qi wireless charging pad
- Head-up display (HUD)
- ELS Studio 3D premium audio
- Remote start and vehicle monitoring via AcuraLink app
- Alexa Built-In
While some may still wish for a simpler interface, Acura has clearly worked to improve usability across the board, particularly with voice commands and a more intuitive layout.
Safety and Driver Assistance
As expected from Acura, safety is a top priority. The TLX Type S comes standard with the AcuraWatch suite, which includes:
- Adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow
- Lane keeping assist and road departure mitigation
- Blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
- Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking
- Traffic sign recognition
The suite is well-tuned—not overly intrusive—and the Type S adds parking sensors, a surround-view camera, and a rear pedestrian alert system. The car is expected to maintain top crash test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, making it as safe as it is stylish.