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 Toyota Land Cruiser
Old-School is New Again
Whether it’s over the top fashion trends, mullets, or zombies, just when you think they’re dead, they come roaring back to life. Of course, we’re much happier to see the resurrection of this 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser than any of those things, as it has returned to the U.S. market better than ever, and we’re even happier to have just gotten some Southern California drive time.
And it did need a reset, as while it never lost its off-road credibility, prices had gotten out of control; and with so many other Toyota products copying its rugged-luxury vibe, it had become a bit redundant in the lineup.
Enter the J250, with full-time 4-wheel-drive powered by the Tacoma’s i-FORCE MAX turbo 2.4-liter with 326-horsepower and a massive 465 lb-ft. of torque.
As with the latest Tacoma, the new Land Cruiser is built on the Tundra pickup’s full-size steel frame. And, with standard locking center and rear diffs, front stabilizer bar disconnect, and a host of off-road specific driving aids, it’s built to conquer off road terrain as well if not better than any Land Cruiser to this point.
“I’ve done plenty of off-roading in Land Cruisers over the years, and while they’ve always been incredibly capable, more recent gens have relied heavily on electronics and basically relegated you to just being along for the ride. This one feels a little more old-school, with almost some FJ Cruiser vibes. In other words, I’m diggin’ it.”
They’re even offering a stripped-down trail rig called the 1958; but there’s also a First Edition version with plenty of comfort and a crazy amount of luxury features too, and in between is one simply called the Land Cruiser, though you can add a Premium package onto that. But the best news is that pricing has come down to a reasonable $56K to start.
Being Toyota’s original SUV, it’s good to see it back in the U.S. lineup and looking better than ever, slimmed down, boxy, and purposeful, like an off-roader should look.
The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser will be arriving later this spring, but we’ll have much more on it before then… right here on MotorWeek.