2015 Acura TLX Rolls into New York in Production Format

Designed as what the automaker describes as a "red carpet athlete," the new 2015 Acura TLX aims to provide sports sedan athleticism combined with a premium luxury interior. The 2015 TLX replaces the TSX and the TL in Acura's lineup, and the automaker says it heralds the start of a new era for the brand.

Smaller and lighter than the outgoing TL yet equipped with the same wheelbase and passenger seating distance between the front and rear seats, the 2015 Acura TLX is built on an all-new platform incorporating the automaker's latest Advanced Compatibility Engineering structure. Three versions go on sale later this year: TLX, TLX V-6, and TLX V-6 SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive).

The standard 2015 Acura TLX has a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine generating 206 horsepower and 182 lb.-ft. of torque, paired with an 8-speed Dual Clutch Transmission that delivers rev-matching downshifts when the car is driven vigorously. A 3.5-liter V-6 engine is standard for the TLX V-6, equipped with fuel-saving Variable Cylinder Management and rated to make 290 horsepower and 267 lb.-ft. of torque. A new 9-speed automatic transmission with a novel push-button gear selector is standard, and the driver can also use the paddle shifters on the steering wheel.

The 2015 Acura TLX V-6 SH-AWD sits atop the lineup, equipped with a new, lightweight version of Acura's torque-vectoring (SH-AWD) system. A fuel-conserving idle-stop system is standard, and Active Control engine mounts reduce vibration when the 290-horsepower engine re-starts. Acura expects the TLX to return between 25 mpg and 28 mpg in combined driving, depending on the version.