2015 Acura TLX
Out with the old, in with the new… and so goes it in the automotive world. And one of the latest to do so is Acura with the 2015 TLX.
Partially an exercise in consolidation, the TLX enters the Acura lineup as both the TL and TSX depart. Wheelbase measures the same as the TL-just over 109 inches—though the chassis is different with four-wheel steering on most models.
While the bodywork is still conservative, there are cues that lend aggression: short front and rear overhangs, sweeping profile with a teardrop like greenhouse, and optional larger wheels. Acura’s jeweled LED headlights make an appearance here, as well.
But to us it is the interior that really shines. The TLX rivals some of the best for comfort, with great seats and materials. Technology is always an Acura focus and there is quite a lot of it inside. The dual screen center stack is an evolution of the Honda trademark setup. Again true to Acura form, the overall looks is certainly premium but not over the top.
Power is by way of a 206 horsepower 2.4 liter inline 4 with an in house designed 8-speed dual clutch automatic, or a 290 horsepower 3.5 liter V6 with a 9-speed ZF box that includes push button gear selection. Front wheel drive is standard with all-wheel drive an option for the V6.
Neither engine felt particularly sporty, but the IDS drive mode selector can spice things up.
So with plenty that’s new for Acura this year, the TLX is on sale now, starting at around $32,000.
Specifications
- Engine: 2.4 liter/ 3.5 liter
- Horsepower: 206/ 290
- Price: starting around $32,000
2025 Honda Civic Hybrid
Just in time for the resurging interest in hybrid motoring, the Honda Civic Hybrid is back. Absent for a decade, the 2025 Civic Hybrid joins the lineup amidst an 11th-gen mid-cycle refresh.
To be fair, the overall Civic refresh is pretty mild with updated lighting and a revised front fascia. The big changes to this front-driver are all under the hood. Last year’s 1.5-liter turbo is no more. All non-hybrid sedans and hatchbacks, that means LX and Sport trims, are now powered by a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter I4 rated at 150 horsepower, paired up with a CVT.
The new hybrid powertrain is standard in the aptly named Sport Hybrid and Sport Touring Hybrid grades. Two electric motors work with an eCVT for a total output of 200 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque. Even more impressive is the Honda-estimated 50-city, 47-highway and 49-combined mpg rating. So, you’ll save some fuel and have some fun gripping the wheel, as we did in Montreal, Canada.
“The powertrain in this hybrid is so good. The additional power, the additional torque makes this so much nicer to drive on the daily.Everything comes together so well in this vehicle from the suspension, because in this Sport Touring Hybrid, it’s really soft and incredibly comfortable for a vehicle at this price point, which is just over $30,000. So really impressive there.”
The non-hybrid 2025 Honda Civic has a starting price of about $25,000. Built in Honda’s plant in Alliston, Ontario, and arriving at dealers now, the revised Honda Civic lineup continues to offer solid solutions for value and fuel conscious consumers.
We’ll have a full Road Test and more Quick Spins… soon!