The Acura TLX chassis incorporates the latest versions of two pinnacle Acura handling technologies — Precision All-Wheel Steer™ (P-AWS) standard on the front-wheel drive TLX models, and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) on the V6 powered all-wheel-drive models. Both systems are engineered to deliver intuitive and precise dynamic capabilities in a vehicle that responds directly and accurately to the will of the driver.
These technologies are anchored by the TLX’s rigid unit-body structure and its MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension with Amplitude Reactive Dampers (ARD). Stable and responsive vehicle dynamic behavior is further aided by Acura’s Agile Handling Assist (AHA) technology and, in more severe maneuvers, by Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®).
These chassis features define the most advanced Acura TLX to date from a dynamic standpoint, a vehicle that supports the needs of the driver in almost any condition: quick and responsive in sporty driving environments; stable and sure-footed in emergency maneuvers; calm and quiet during long-distance cruising.
The TLX also allows a substantial degree of customization through its Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) with four modes — ECON, Normal, Sport and Sport+ settings — that take the TLX from relaxing to racy all at the touch of a button.
Unique A-Spec Features
Components that help the new TLX A-Spec surpass all previous TLX models in steering and handling are low-profile 245/40R 19-inch tires and sport-tuned suspension, including dampers and revised electric power steering (EPS); springs and rear stabilizer bar on SH-AWD models; and Precision All-Wheel Steer™ (P-AWS) algorithms on front-wheel drive models. These changes markedly improve steering response, handling, feedback and grip with minimal compromise in ride comfort. This furthers the updated 2018 TLX’s appeal as a sport sedan, while still maintaining the ride quality and low noise levels expected of a luxury sedan.
The A-Spec’s revised electric power steering (EPS) results in greater responsiveness at vehicle speeds above 42 mph, compared to other 2018 TLX models. The specially tuned A-Spec steering system also contributes to greater on-center steering feel.
In addition, wider wheels (8.0 inches instead of 7.5 inches as on other TLX models) and low-profile 245/40R19 Michelin Primacy MXM4 tires, which provide 20 mm greater width and a stiffer sidewall, help improve steering response and overall grip.
Key Chassis Features
TLX and TLX with Technology Package
- NEW: 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels
- 225/55R17 high-performance all-season tires
- MacPherson strut front suspension
- Multi-link rear suspension
- Amplitude Reactive Dampers
- Front Cast-Aluminum and Steel Subframe
- Rear steel subframe
- Motion-Adaptive Electric Power Steering (MA-EPS)
- Agile Handling Assist (AHA)
- Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®)
- Integrated Dynamic System (IDS)
- Motion-Adaptive Electric Power Steering (MA-EPS)
- Precision All-Wheel Steer™ (P-AWS)
- 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS
- Premium Bosch 6-piston brake modulator
- Electronic Brake Distribution with Brake Assist
- Electric Parking Brake and Hill Start Assist
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Fill Assist
- Tire repair kit
- Capless fueling system
- 17.2-gallon fuel capacity
TLX V6 adds:
- NEW: Available 18-inch 15-spoke aluminum alloy wheels (Advance Package)
- 18-inch split 5-spoke aluminum alloy wheels
- 225/50R18 high-performance all-season tires
- Available Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®)
TLX V6 A-Spec adds:
- NEW: 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels
- NEW: 245/40R19 high-performance all-season tires
- Revised EPS, P-AWS and ASC settings
- Revised damper rates
- Revised springs and rear stabilizer bar (SH-AWD® only)
Front Cast-Aluminum and Steel Subframe
The TLX employs a cast-aluminum and steel “hybrid” front subframe to reduce road surface vibration and shock inputs for a smooth, quiet ride. The subframe supports the engine, transmission, front suspension and steering system. The front section of the subframe is steel, and the rear section is cast aluminum. The sections are joined with a friction-stir-welding process to form a single high-strength, lightweight unit that provides ideal ride and handling properties. Altogether, the front subframe, along with a lower arm hydro-bushing, reduces vertical and fore/aft forces felt at the front seats.
MacPherson Strut Front Suspension
MacPherson strut front suspension with Amplitude Reactive Dampers provides precise and engaging handling performance, a responsive feel for the driver, and luxurious ride quality. Specially tuned hydro-compliance bushings improve resistance to shimmy and also reduce the potential for brake judder, further boosting the TLX’s refinement and driving character. SH-AWD models have an increased spring rate compared to front-wheel drive models.
Rear Steel Subframe
Constructed of high-tensile steel, the rear subframe uses hydraulic mounts, along with high fitting-point stiffness, to reduce road surface vibration and shock inputs for a smooth ride and low noise. The rear subframe reduces vertical and fore/aft forces felt at front seats. In addition, on TLX models with Super-Handling All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), the rear subframe features a 4-point differential mounting system. Its bushing rates are specially calibrated to reduce the transmission of driveline noise and vibration into the vehicle body, while also helping to maintain ride quality.
Multi-Link Rear Suspension
Multi-link rear suspension with Amplitude Reactive Dampers provides optimal handling agility, driver confidence and ride sophistication. Geometry, including rear toe control, is optimized for handling competence, stability and a sophisticated ride in a variety of urban, highway and open-road driving scenarios. The system includes multi-link control arms, control-arm bushings that are optimized for the best blend of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) isolation and handling precision, and Amplitude Reactive Dampers.
TLX SH-AWD models have an increased spring rate as compared to front-wheel drive TLX models. Both the 4-cylinder TLX and V6 SH-AWD models have a 24.7-mm diameter rear stabilizer bar, while the front-wheel drive V6 has a 25.4-mm diameter rear stabilizer bar. The TLX A-Spec SH-AWD has a larger 25.4 mm rear stabilizer bar that further enhances turn-in and reduced body roll during cornering.
Amplitude Reactive Dampers (ARD)
Acura’s Amplitude Reactive Dampers provide both superior ride comfort and sporty handling, helping the TLX provide a truly engaging driving experience in all driving situations. Two separate damping mechanisms are utilized, with one tuned for maximum efficiency on smoother roads with small inputs and the other tuned to handle large inputs such as rough roads, potholes, and sudden steering and braking action. Front triple-path damper mounts further improve ride comfort without sacrificing handling. The result is a vehicle that remains composed and comfortable in a wide range of conditions.
Amplitude Reactive Dampers have two separate damping pistons. To improve overall ride comfort, when smaller inputs occur during normal driving conditions, only the main piston works to provide the ideal damping characteristics. To improve the TLX’s ride and handling during more severe conditions, a second piston operates to provide additional damping force.
Amplitude Reactive Dampers operate on a purely mechanical/hydraulic basis and do not require electronic controls.
Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®)
The TLX’s Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) works in conjunction with the Drive-by-Wire throttle system and ABS to enhance vehicle stability when cornering: If vehicle understeer or oversteer is detected, the system selectively reduces power and/or applies braking force to individual wheels to help correct the condition and stabilize the vehicle.
VSA also supports the operation of available driver-assistive technologies such as Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow, Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS) and Road Departure Mitigation (RDM). The advantages of the TLX’s VSA system include quick response with smooth activation, highly accurate control and brake-pedal feel, and low operating noise, vibration and harshness (NVH).
In addition, VSA monitors wheel slippage, such as when starting on slick surfaces or patches of ice. If slippage is detected, VSA activates one or more brake calipers and reduces engine torque to slow the spinning wheel(s) so traction can be regained. VSA is included on all front-wheel drive and SH-AWD models.
Integrated Dynamic System (IDS)
ECON, Normal, Sport and Sport+ modes allow the driver to customize their driving experience. The modes are driver-selectable via a console-mounted button (labeled “Dynamic Mode”) and are displayed on the Multi-Information Display located between the tachometer and speedometer. ECON, Normal and Sport are selectable as default, or last-used modes, while Sport + defaults to Sport at ignition off, and must be reselected after a restart. ECON mode favors high fuel efficiency, while Normal mode is for everyday driving. Sport mode enhances throttle, EPS and P-AWS response or SH-AWD rear-wheel torque-vectoring control to sharpen vehicle dynamics, while Sport+ mode enhances transmission shift mapping, maximizing performance.
Motion-Adaptive Electric Power Steering (MA-EPS)
The TLX’s Motion-Adaptive Electric Power Steering offers precise direct feel, high energy-efficiency, tunable response and robust active safety. MA-EPS responds instantly to steering input and automatically changes the amount of power assist appropriate to the vehicle’s speed. Its idealized steering effort and linearity, excellent on-center feel, minimal torque steer and maximum parking ease provides a satisfying driving experience under all conditions.
Additional features and benefits include:
- Quick steering ratio helps provide a sharp, sporty dynamic response.
- High-stiffness bushings improve steering precision and feel.
- Next-generation control logic provides smoother feel on rough roads.
MA-EPS Specifications
Motion-Adaptive Function
The Motion-Adaptive EPS system consists of a rack-and-pinion steering gear with an electric motor installed concentrically around the steering rack. To control the level of assist the Powertrain Control Module receives signals from a speed sensor and, coupled with a steering sensor for torque and rotation, then calculates the optimal amount of assist and sends a signal to the electric motor.
When compared to the operation of a conventional hydraulic pump power steering system, the simpler MA-EPS increases efficiency because it does not draw a continuous amount of power directly from the engine. Other advantages of electric power-assisted steering include simplicity, and compactness.
Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) Integration
MA-EPS and Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) work together as one sophisticated system to significantly enhance active safety. The stability technology initiates steering inputs that prompt the driver to steer in the correct direction when the limits of traction are approached.
Using vehicle speed and steering angle data, MA-EPS works with VSA to detect instability in low traction conditions (both during cornering and under braking) and automatically initiates steering inputs aimed at prompting the driver to steer in the correct direction. This advanced technology supports the driver’s action in operating the vehicle more safely and comfortably.
Below are three examples of how MA-EPS works as part of VSA.
- Mitigates Understeer — Helps correct steering inputs to mitigate understeer and help the driver trace the curve of the road.
- Mitigates Oversteer — Helps correct steering inputs to mitigate oversteer and help the driver trace the curve of the road.
- Stabilizes Braking — Helps correct steering input to reduce vehicle instability when braking hard on road surfaces with varying friction coefficients (such as pavement that is only partially covered with dirt or snow).
Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) Integration
MA-EPS also integrates with the TLX’s standard Integrated Dynamics System (IDS). At the driver’s discretion, the steering response can be switched between two distinct steering settings (Normal: when in Normal or ECON, and Sport: when in Sport or Sport+). (See below for more information.)
Precision All-Wheel Steer™ (P-AWS)
Standard on all front-wheel drive TLX models, Precision All-Wheel Steer™ (P-AWS) helps the TLX driver smoothly and easily trace the desired line with smaller steering-wheel inputs. The result is outstanding dynamic performance at all speeds, providing the TLX driver with the most engaging driving experience possible.
P-AWS provides independent electronic control of rear-wheel toe angles. Benefits of the system include:
- Minimized turning radius with neater execution of sharp low-speed turns
- Improved response for quick steering maneuvers such as lane changes
- Enhanced agility and nimbleness in tight, urban conditions
- More confidence and control on curved highway on- and off-ramps
- Greater agility on winding roads
- Quicker and more effective emergency steering response
- Increased straight-line highway stability
- Confident braking stability
- Improved high speed response and stability in winter driving and when Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) is activated
TLX Precision All-Wheel Steer™ Detail
P-AWS Operation
Key components of P-AWS include independent electrically assisted left/right toe-control actuators, special control arms and suspension uprights and an electronic control unit that is linked via a dedicated Control Area Network (CAN) to the Electric Power Steering (EPS), Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®), braking and engine control systems.
In operation, P-AWS continuously monitors and calculates the correct amount of rear-toe angle input necessary for the conditions, analyzing steering input, engine and road speed, transmission, throttle position, brake pressure, yaw rate, lateral acceleration and other factors. The maximum amount of rear-wheel toe angle adjustment is 1.8 degrees in either direction (positive or negative) for a total range of 3.6 degrees.
P-AWS automatically and continually adjusts the toe angle of each rear wheel to match driving situations such as turning at an intersection, driving on windy roads, merging or exiting a highway, high-speed maneuvers or snowy conditions. The P-AWS system provides confidence-building cornering capability through improved responsiveness and vehicle control. Examples include:
- Secure Highway Cruising — When the driver initiates a lane-change maneuver requiring that the TLX neatly move into the next lane, the P-AWS system adjusts the rear wheel toe angles in phase (the same direction) with the front wheels enabling quick, clean and stable maneuvering.
- City Agility and Easy Parking — For sharp low-speed turns, such as on city streets or in parking lots, the P-AWS system adjusts the rear wheel toe angles out of phase (the opposite direction) with the front wheels. This results in a tighter turning radius and reduces driver effort.
- Fun to Drive on Winding Roads — When tracing the lines of a twisty road (or helping the TLX track confidently in snowy conditions) the P-AWS system counteracts understeer by helping introduce yaw — the necessary rotational effect — through the corner.
P-AWS Modes
P-AWS can provide rear-wheel toe-in, in-phase steering or out-of-phase steering, depending on the dynamic requirements as dictated by the system ECU. Specific key rear-wheel toe angle adjustments include:
Agile Handling Assist (AHA)
Agile Handling Assist (AHA) extends the P-AWS function by using the brakes in cornering to create yaw, or turning motion, helping the driver smoothly and easily trace the desired line with smaller steering-wheel inputs. AHA stabilizes the car earlier than conventional vehicle stability assist systems, resulting in more agile and engaging dynamic performance in everyday driving conditions.
Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®)
The TLX SH-AWD features a hydraulically-controlled iteration of Acura’s acclaimed Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), which progressively distributes optimum torque not only between the front and rear axles, but also between the left and right rear wheels. Like its P-AWS counterpart, the TLX SH-AWD system is complemented by the brake torque effect of Agile Handling Assist.
2018 TLX V6 A-Spec with Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD)
The benefits of the SH-AWD system are superior all-weather handling and neutral, accurate steering under power. By rotating the outside rear wheel faster than the front axle while cornering, SH-AWD uses torque vectoring to create a yaw moment to help turn the vehicle through the corner — reducing understeer and improving controllability. With cornering forces more evenly distributed between front and rear tires, overall cornering power is increased — on wet or dry roads. (See Powertrain section for additional detail).
4-Wheel Disc Brakes with ABS and Brake Assist
The TLX is equipped with 4-wheel disc brakes with a 4-channel anti-lock braking system (ABS). The pedal feel is smooth and easy to modulate in light braking, and linear and pleasantly low-effort during medium and hard braking. The result is short, confident stops — with excellent pedal feel — under all conditions.
The front discs measure 12.6 inches in diameter, while the rear discs measure 12.2 inches in diameter. Optimizing the mass of the rotors and calipers helps improve ride quality, handling capability and fuel efficiency, while also delivering outstanding braking performance.
6-Piston Brake Modulator
The TLX employs a 6-piston brake modulator that provides the ultra-quick braking response required for Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®), Active Handling Assist (AHA), low-speed follow operation, Road Departure Mitigation (RDM), and Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS). The brake modulator utilizes six pistons to build braking pressure almost instantaneously, delivering quick braking response.
Electric Parking Brake (EPB) and Automatic Brake Hold
The combination of Electric Parking Brake (EPB) and Automatic Brake Hold meaningfully reduce the effort of driving the vehicle, thereby raising overall enjoyment and comfort for the driver.
Electric Parking Brake
The Electric Parking Brake (EPB) on the TLX makes using the parking brake easier and more comfortable, requiring only a pull on a button on the center console to activate. To release the parking brake, the driver simply presses on the accelerator pedal (while the seatbelt is buckled) or pushes on the parking brake switch. In addition to being simpler, more convenient and more comfortable to use than a traditional parking brake, the Electric Parking Brake makes hill starts easier when the TLX is parked on a grade.
The one-touch operation also promotes the use of the parking brake. As with a traditional manually activated parking brake, EPB functions on the rear wheels only. As an additional benefit, EPB weighs 9.7 pounds less than a traditional mechanical parking brake, helping to improve the TLX’s overall performance and fuel economy.
Automatic Brake Hold
The EPB also features Automatic Brake Hold, which retains brake pressure when the vehicle is stopped, simplifying driving in heavy traffic or hills. This frees the driver from continually pressing the brake pedal to maintain the vehicle in a stopped position, a significant improvement in driving enjoyment in difficult conditions.
Operating the system requires two simple actions from the driver:
- Activating/deactivating the system via a switch on the center console
- Pressing on the brake pedal when the vehicle comes to a stop
Aluminum Alloy Wheels
The 2018 TLX 4-cylinder features an all-new thin 10-spoke aluminum alloy 17×7.5J wheels with a Pewter paint and machined finish. Standard on V6 equipped models is a sporty split 5-spoke aluminum alloy 18×7.5J wheels with a Shark Gray paint and machined finish. Included with the V6 Advance Package are luxurious 15-spoke, 18×7.5J aluminum-alloy wheels. Finally, the new TLX A-Spec gains additional performance appeal with 19×8.0J wheels sporting a split 5-spoke design and finished in Shark Gray paint. In addition, 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels are available as an accessory for all TLX grades.
The 2018 Acura TLX wheels at a glance:
The wheel bearings are engineered with special low-drag seals that contribute to a 4.4 percent decrease in rolling resistance compared to traditional wheel bearing seals.
High-Performance All-Season Tires
All TLX models feature high-performance all-season tires that help deliver an ideal balance of ride and handling, high fuel efficiency, and low noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). Four-cylinder TLX models have 225/55R17 97H high-performance all-season tires, while the TLX V6 has lower-profile 245/50R18 95H high-performance all-season tires for enhanced driving performance. The new TLX A-Spec has 245/40R19 94V M+S tires for further performance gains. All tires offer precise steering feel, high levels of grip in all-season driving conditions, and low rolling resistance for greater fuel efficiency.
In the TLX A-Spec, the wide and lower profile 19-inch performance tires, together with the revised suspension tuning, offer significant performance benefits with only a slight compromise in mid-frequency road noise. And impressively, high-frequency cabin noise levels are reduced from previous TLX models.
The 2018 Acura TLX tires at a glance:
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
A standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) helps the driver maintain proper air pressure to improve driving safety and fuel efficiency, as well as reduce wear and tear on the vehicle’s tires. Located in the Multi Information Display (MID), the TPMS graphic indicates the pressure in all four tires on a real-time basis. A TPMS icon illuminates to alert the driver whenever any of the tires has a significantly low-pressure reading that requires the driver’s attention.
Fill Assist
All TLX models include Fill Assist, a feature that helps the driver inflate tire pressures to the correct level without using a pressure gauge. Instead, during inflation, Fill Assist sounds an audible alert when the tire reaches the required pressure.
Tire Repair Kit
The TLX features an easy-to-use tire repair kit in lieu of a spare tire. This reduces weight and increases trunk volume, and simplifies temporary repairs in the event of a flat tire. Acura Roadside Assistance supports tire repairs. In addition, a temporary spare wheel and tire are available as a Genuine Acura Accessory.
Capless Fueling System
The TLX’s capless fueling eliminates the fuel cap, meaning that fueling the vehicle simply requires opening the fuel lid, refueling, and then closing the lid. This smart and easy-to-use design eliminates the need to touch a dirty fuel cap, reduces the possibility of damaging the vehicle’s paint with the fuel cap or tether, or forgetting the fuel cap at the gas station. It also eliminates the possibility of activating an emissions warning by failing to properly re-install the fuel cap. And finally, the capless fueling system allows the use of a smaller fuel-cap door, which cleans up the lines of the vehicle.
17.2-Gallon Fuel Capacity
The TLX’s plastic fuel tank capacity of 17.2 gallons gives the TLX ample cruising range. The fuel tank is made of high-impact plastic for weight reduction and durability. The fuel tank is located in a protected area in front of the rear suspension.
Key Chassis Features