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 Porsche Cayenne GTS
For 2025, Porsche has reinvited the GTS to the Cayenne party, and it’s dressed to impress. Though the improvements go way deeper than a new front fascia with larger intakes; so, it was off to Atlanta, Georgia for some First Drive seat time.
The Cayenne GTS is powered by a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8, now unleashing 493 horsepower and 487 lb-ft of torque, increases of 40 hp and 30 lb-ft compared to the previous GTS. But that isn’t even the best of it. The GTS borrows components from the incredible Cayenne Turbo GT, which we tested at this year’s Roebling Round Up.
That includes a separate water-cooling circuit for the all-wheel drive transfer case for greater endurance and the Turbo GT’s steering knuckles for more negative camber. A two-valve air suspension setup is standard, keeping things planted, responsive and comfortable. This carryover of components makes the Cayenne GTS a practical people mover for the driver at heart.
ALEXANDER KELLUM: “It may not be where all the magic happens, but to me the best ingredient in that cauldron of performance is the engine: a 4.0-liter V8. It’s super responsive, it sounds great, it’s got a good purr to it. This is a great highway cruiser, partially because of that engine; but then, out here on the backroads, yeah, all those suspension tweaks—they really do add up to something. This is a great Cayenne for those who want the luxury SUV experience, but they also just like to drive.”
Perhaps best of all, those heightened reflexes don’t cost Turbo GT dollars. The 2025 Porsche Cayenne GTS starts around $127,000, with the Coupe just over $130,000— a fair bit less than its big brother’s $200,000 price tag.
We’ll have more GTS goodness and more Quick Spins… soon!