The 2020 Acura TLX A-Spec SH-AWD V6 is a compelling choice in the premium sedan market, blending sporty aesthetics with all-weather capability and a potent V6 engine. If you're looking for a car that offers a balance of luxury, performance, and practicality, this TLX variant deserves a closer look. Let's dive into what makes this car stand out, covering everything from its design and performance to its interior features and overall driving experience.

Exterior Design: A Sporty Statement

The A-Spec trim of the 2020 Acura TLX immediately sets itself apart with its aggressive and sporty styling cues. The most noticeable changes include a unique front fascia with larger air intakes, a gloss-black decklid spoiler, and A-Spec badging. The dark chrome accents and larger 19-inch alloy wheels further enhance its athletic stance. These visual upgrades aren't just for show; they give the TLX A-Spec a more dynamic and eye-catching presence on the road.

The front of the car features Acura's signature Jewel Eye LED headlights, which not only look distinctive but also provide excellent illumination. The sharp lines and sculpted hood contribute to an overall sense of sophistication and modernity. Moving to the rear, the dual exhaust outlets are integrated seamlessly into the lower bumper, adding to the car's sporty appeal. The A-Spec package also includes darkened taillights, which complement the other blacked-out elements.

Overall, the exterior design of the 2020 Acura TLX A-Spec successfully conveys a sense of performance and luxury. It's a car that looks good from every angle, whether you're admiring its aggressive front end or its sleek rear profile. For those who want a sedan that makes a statement, the A-Spec trim is a great choice.

Performance and Handling: V6 Power and SH-AWD Confidence

Under the hood, the 2020 Acura TLX A-Spec SH-AWD V6 boasts a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides ample power for confident acceleration and effortless highway cruising. The V6 is paired with a smooth-shifting nine-speed automatic transmission, which offers quick and precise gear changes. Paddle shifters are also included, allowing drivers to take manual control of the transmission for a more engaging driving experience.

One of the key features of this TLX variant is Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. This advanced system not only enhances traction in all weather conditions but also improves handling and cornering performance. SH-AWD can distribute torque between the front and rear axles, as well as between the left and right rear wheels, to optimize grip and stability. This makes the TLX A-Spec feel confident and composed, even when driven hard on twisty roads.

The TLX A-Spec also features a sport-tuned suspension, which provides a firmer and more controlled ride. The steering is precise and well-weighted, offering good feedback to the driver. While the ride is firmer than the standard TLX, it's still comfortable enough for daily driving. The overall driving experience is engaging and enjoyable, making the TLX A-Spec a fun car to drive.

Interior Comfort and Technology: A Driver-Focused Cabin

Inside the 2020 Acura TLX A-Spec, you'll find a well-appointed cabin that prioritizes comfort and technology. The A-Spec trim includes unique interior features such as sport seats with enhanced bolstering, red contrast stitching, and aluminum trim. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making them ideal for long drives. The red stitching adds a touch of sportiness to the interior, while the aluminum trim provides a modern and upscale feel.

The TLX A-Spec comes standard with an 8-inch infotainment display, which is controlled via a rotary dial and buttons on the center console. The system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. Other standard features include a premium audio system, navigation, and a rearview camera.

While the infotainment system is functional, some users may find it less intuitive than systems offered by competitors. However, the physical buttons and knobs for climate control and audio volume are a welcome addition, making it easy to adjust these settings while driving. Overall, the interior of the TLX A-Spec is a comfortable and well-equipped space that's designed with the driver in mind.

Safety Features: Comprehensive Protection

The 2020 Acura TLX A-Spec SH-AWD V6 comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist. These features work together to help prevent accidents and keep you safe on the road. The TLX has also earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), providing added peace of mind.

The adaptive cruise control system maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting your speed to match the flow of traffic. The forward collision warning system alerts you if it detects a potential collision, and the automatic emergency braking system can automatically apply the brakes to help mitigate or avoid a crash. The lane departure warning system alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane, and the lane keeping assist system can gently steer you back into your lane.

Overall, the 2020 Acura TLX A-Spec offers a high level of safety, thanks to its advanced safety features and strong crash test ratings. This makes it a great choice for families and anyone who prioritizes safety.

Fuel Efficiency: Reasonable for its Class

The 2020 Acura TLX A-Spec SH-AWD V6 achieves reasonable fuel economy for its class. According to the EPA, it's rated at 20 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. Real-world fuel economy may vary depending on driving conditions and habits. While it's not the most fuel-efficient sedan in its class, the TLX A-Spec offers a good balance of performance and fuel economy.

Pricing and Value: Competitive in the Premium Sedan Market

The 2020 Acura TLX A-Spec SH-AWD V6 is priced competitively in the premium sedan market. It offers a compelling value proposition, thanks to its combination of sporty styling, V6 power, all-wheel drive capability, and a long list of standard features. While it may not have the brand cachet of some of its European rivals, the TLX A-Spec offers a similar level of performance and luxury at a more affordable price point.

Pros and Cons

To summarize, here are the pros and cons of the 2020 Acura TLX A-Spec SH-AWD V6:

Pros:

• Sporty and aggressive styling
• Potent V6 engine
• Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD)
• Sport-tuned suspension
• Comfortable and well-equipped interior
• Comprehensive suite of safety features
• Competitive pricing

Cons:

• Infotainment system could be more intuitive
• Ride can be firm on rough roads

Conclusion: A Well-Rounded Premium Sedan

The 2020 Acura TLX A-Spec SH-AWD V6 is a well-rounded premium sedan that offers a compelling blend of style, performance, and practicality. Its sporty design, potent V6 engine, and all-weather capability make it a standout choice in its class. While it may not be perfect, the TLX A-Spec offers a lot to like, especially for those who value performance, handling, and a distinctive design. If you're in the market for a premium sedan, the 2020 Acura TLX A-Spec is definitely worth considering. Its combination of features and value make it a smart choice in a competitive segment.