Acura TLX specifications and photos
The 2020 Acura TLX marks the second generation of the brand's mid-size premium sedan. Introduced in May 2020, it shifts toward a more performance-focused architecture, bringing significant updates to its chassis, styling, and powertrain.
Acura TLX at a glance
Quick model context before comparing photos and trim-level specifications.
For its second generation, Acura positioned the TLX as its technological flagship, choosing to emphasize sedan dynamics even in a crossover-heavy market. The 2020 TLX grows noticeably larger than its predecessor, gaining 73 mm in length and 94 mm in the wheelbase, while sitting 14 mm lower. This gives it a wide, planted stance and significantly alters its proportions. Moving to a dedicated platform, the sedan features a 50 percent increase in torsional rigidity and shifts to a double-wishbone front suspension. To improve weight distribution, Acura utilized aluminum for the hood, front fenders, and bumper, and relocated the battery to the trunk. The result is a rigid, athletic chassis aimed at delivering sharper handling.
- Power: 276 hp
- Engine displacement: 1996 cc
- Transmissions: 10-speed automatic
- Seating: 5 seats
Acura TLX overview
Editorial context for design, cabin, performance, practicality, and buyer notes.
Design
The exterior design of the 2020 TLX emphasizes width and aggressive proportions. The stretched wheelbase and increased dash-to-axle ratio give it a classic rear-drive profile, despite its transverse-engine layout. Standard 18-inch wheels fill the arches, while the front fascia is defined by Acura's signature Jewel Eye LED headlights and a broad, angular grille. The sharper character lines and lower roofline contribute to an aerodynamic look that clearly distinguishes the second generation from the outgoing model.
Interior
Inside, the TLX cabin sees a complete structural redesign, replacing the previous dual-screen setup with a single 10.2-inch display operated via a True Touchpad interface. A rotary drive-mode dial takes center stage on the dashboard, flanked by traditional analog gauges and a 7-inch digital driver display. Available cabin materials include authentic aluminum, wood, and Milano leather. Standard features are comprehensive, including power-adjustable and heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, an acoustic windshield for reduced road noise, and a 10-speaker audio system supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Performance
Powering the standard 2020 TLX is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 276 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque. This engine is mated exclusively to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Buyers can choose between standard front-wheel drive or Acura's fourth-generation Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). The updated SH-AWD system operates faster than before, capable of sending up to 70 percent of engine torque to the rear axle, and up to 100 percent of that directly to either rear wheel. Driving dynamics are further supported by a brake-by-wire system, variable-ratio steering, and optional adaptive dampers with multiple drive modes.
Practicality
As a mid-size sedan, the TLX offers comfortable seating for five adults. The longer wheelbase improves overall cabin space compared to the previous generation. Trunk capacity measures 382 liters, which is adequate for daily errands and moderate road trips. A 60-liter fuel tank provides reasonable range, with mixed fuel economy hovering around 9.4 to 9.8 liters per 100 km depending on the chosen drivetrain.
Safety and tech
Acura equips the 2020 TLX with a strong suite of standard active safety systems. The package includes adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist, lane-keeping assist, traffic sign recognition, and pedestrian detection. The transition to the True Touchpad interface requires users to adapt to its zone-mapping controls, but the 10.2-inch central display is positioned high on the dash to minimize driver distraction. A robust electrical architecture supports both the advanced driver-assist sensors and the modern brake-by-wire setup.
Buyer notes
When comparing trims for the 2020 Acura TLX, the primary mechanical decision lies in the drivetrain. The base front-wheel-drive model provides the same 276-horsepower engine, but upgrading to the SH-AWD version significantly enhances cornering capabilities and all-weather traction. Buyers looking for varied ride characteristics should seek out models equipped with the optional adaptive dampers. Standard equipment is generous across the board, making the base models a solid value proposition, though exact features and packages can vary by regional market.
Trims and key specifications
Use this table to compare the main differences between available configurations.
| Trim / modification | Engine | Power | Seats | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0 i-VTEC Turbo (276 hp) 10-speed automatic | 1996 cc | 276 hp | 5 | 10-speed automatic |
| 2.0 i-VTEC Turbo (276 hp) 10-speed automatic 4x4 | 1996 cc | 276 hp | 5 | 10-speed automatic |
Specifications can vary by market, model year, and equipment package. Use the trim sections below to review the full data for each configuration.
Acura TLX photo gallery
20 images are collected here with the main specifications and trim data for this model.
Photo Acura TLX
Specifications by trim
Choose a configuration below to open full technical data grouped by category.
2.0 i-VTEC Turbo (276 hp) 10-speed automatic 35 specifications
Specifications
Performance and consumption
| Fuel consumption city, L/100 km | 10.7 |
|---|---|
| Fuel consumption highway, L/100 km | 7.6 |
| Fuel consumption combined, L/100 km | 9.4 |
Engine
| Engine | 2.0 i-VTEC Turbo |
|---|---|
| Engine code | K20C6 |
| Engine type | Internal combustion engine |
| Fuel type | Gasoline |
| Engine displacement, cc | 1996 |
| Cylinder layout | Inline |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Valves | 16 |
| Turbocharger | + |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Power, hp | 276 |
| RPM at max power | 6500 |
| Torque, Nm | 380 |
| RPM at max torque | 1600–4500 |
Dimensions
| Seats | 5 |
|---|---|
| Length, mm | 4943 |
| Height, mm | 1433 |
| Wheelbase, mm | 2870 |
| Front track, mm | 1626 |
| Rear track, mm | 1641 |
| Kerb weight, kg | 1682 |
| Fuel tank capacity, L | 60 |
| Turning circle, m | 12.2 |
| Width without mirrors, mm | 1910 |
| Trunk capacity, L | 382 |
Transmission and drive
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic |
|---|---|
| Transmission type | automatic |
| Drive | Front-wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 10 |
| Transmission manufacturer | Honda |
| Automatic transmission | + |
| Transmission country | Japan |
2.0 i-VTEC Turbo (276 hp) 10-speed automatic 4x4 35 specifications
Specifications
Performance and consumption
| Fuel consumption city, L/100 km | 11.2 |
|---|---|
| Fuel consumption highway, L/100 km | 8.1 |
| Fuel consumption combined, L/100 km | 9.8 |
Engine
| Engine | 2.0 i-VTEC Turbo |
|---|---|
| Engine code | K20C6 |
| Engine type | Internal combustion engine |
| Fuel type | Gasoline |
| Engine displacement, cc | 1996 |
| Cylinder layout | Inline |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Valves | 16 |
| Turbocharger | + |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Power, hp | 276 |
| RPM at max power | 6500 |
| Torque, Nm | 380 |
| RPM at max torque | 1600–4500 |
Dimensions
| Seats | 5 |
|---|---|
| Length, mm | 4943 |
| Height, mm | 1433 |
| Wheelbase, mm | 2870 |
| Front track, mm | 1626 |
| Rear track, mm | 1641 |
| Kerb weight, kg | 1682 |
| Fuel tank capacity, L | 60 |
| Turning circle, m | 12.2 |
| Width without mirrors, mm | 1910 |
| Trunk capacity, L | 382 |
Transmission and drive
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic |
|---|---|
| Transmission type | automatic |
| Drive | All-wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 10 |
| Transmission manufacturer | Honda |
| Automatic transmission | + |
| Transmission country | Japan |
Acura TLX questions
Short answers based on the specifications and photos available in this catalog.
What engines are available in the 2020 Acura TLX?
The standard engine is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 276 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Is the Acura TLX front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive?
The 2020 TLX comes standard with front-wheel drive, but Acura's advanced SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive) is available as an option for improved handling.
What is the cargo capacity of the 2020 TLX?
The TLX offers a trunk volume of 382 liters, which is enough space to accommodate standard luggage and groceries for typical daily use.
Did the suspension change for the second generation?
Yes, the 2020 TLX replaced the previous front MacPherson struts with a new double-wishbone front suspension and a multi-link rear setup for improved handling dynamics.
Does the TLX have a touchscreen?
No, the 10.2-inch central display is not a touchscreen. It is controlled using Acura's True Touchpad interface located on the center console.
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