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
2024 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance
There are two schools of thought when it comes to hybrids: efficiency and performance. This 2024 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance, as you might guess, focuses on the latter, and to mind-blowing effect.
This self-described four-door coupe uses a new plug-in hybrid system, complementing the handcrafted 4.0-liter biturbo V8. A rear-mounted 150-kilowatt electric motor brings total system output to 831 horsepower and 1,032 lb-ft of torque. The 6.1-kilowatt-hour battery enables some emissions-free driving, though even Mercedes themselves will tell you this electric setup prioritizes performance over range.
And the Mercedes-AMG dichotomy presented by the GT 63 continues from there. The seats, for example, while Mercedes plush, are AMG sporty with supportive bolstering for spirited driving. The 12.3-inch touchscreen and matching instrument cluster provide digital opulence and vital performance info. And although Comfort mode is just a dial-switch away, so is Race mode.
The Mercedes part was obvious throughout our testing, but the AMG side, well, that experience required a trip to none other than Mason Dixon Dragway. Weather prevented full quarter-mile times, but there was plenty of dry track for 0-60 passes.
ALEXANDER KELLUM: “Holy mother! Oh man, 0-60 in 3.21 seconds… Oh, yeah. That’s the AMG side I was looking forward to!”
That explosion off the was only our first try. It got better from there with our best pass a scant 3 seconds to 60. While still a tad short of the Mercedes-AMG claim of 2.8 seconds, we know in perfect conditions it’ll do it.
You may question Mercedes’ use of the word “Coupe” to describe it, but there’s no denying the pure thrills this four-door delivers. Rightfully so, considering a starting price north of $190,000.
And we’ll have more Quick Spins… soon!