The Type S moniker will be making a
comeback for the 2021 model year as it will be attached to a hot version of the
new Acura TLX. The sports sedan, which will challenge the likes of the Audi S4,
Mercedes-AMG C43 and BMW M340i, will feature a new turbocharged V6,
Car&Driver reports. The displacement is unknown, but it could be 3.0
liters, bringing significantly more power than the old TL Type S’ naturally
aspirated 3.5-liter V6 rated at 290 HP and 361 Nm of torque.
The lump will channel the power to the
new-gen Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, likely through a
dual-clutch automatic transmission. Underpinning the regular and
sports-oriented TLX and TLX Type S will be a new platform that has been
specifically designed for it. The car will get improved handling courtesy of a
control-arm front suspension replacing the usual struts.
The regular TLX is expected with the
2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, sourced from the current Honda
Accord and matched to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive will
be standard, but an all-wheel drive system will make its way to the options
list.
Previewed by the stunning 2019 Type S
Concept, the new generation TLX should be one of the prettiest cars in the
segment, with fat rear fenders, dynamic roofline and an aggressive front end.
The range-topping TLX Type S might kick things up a notch by offering a quad-tailpipe
exhaust system, as well as a sporty body kit and big wheels.
Acura is understood to premiere the
regular TLX this summer, launching it shortly after with an MSRP of around US$ 35,000. The TLX Type S could follow in early 2021, as long as the coronavirus
pandemic doesn’t interfere with the plan.
