The 2016 Acura TLX 4-Cylinder

Last year, we drove the impressively powerful Acura TLX V6 and that keep up with heavy-weight champions like Astons and Porsches. But not everyone wants the raw power of a V6, some enjoy an economical and sporty 4-cylinder and the 2016 Acura TLX Tech 4-cylinder is just the car for to fill the need.

The 2016 Acura TLX is powered by a peppy 2.4L direct injection 4-cylinder pumping out a whopping 206 horsepower and connected to a blazing fast 8-speed dual clutch transmission.

Readers already know the gauge of fun and smile-filled need of mine upon pressing the gas pedal and the 2016 Acura TLX 4-cylinder passed on both accounts. Pop the Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) into Sport or Sport+ (yes, still my favorite mode), take the gear shifting into hand via paddle shifters and enjoy the drive.

The 2016 Acura TLX is quick, both off the line and when needing to pass. And one passes stylishly.

Our test model was painted in Silver Slate Metallic and featured stylish Jewel Eye LED headlights flanking a wide chromed front end emblazoned with the Acura logo. The chromed accent strip is topped and bottomed by black grille pieces while the lower front fascia sports black trim pieces and air vents for better brake ventilation.

Standard 17×7.5-inch alloy wheels are covered in 225/55 R17 all-seasons and a standard power moonroof graces the top of the 2016 Acura TLX.

On the inside, Acura has given the 2016 TLX soft-touch materials, a 10-way power driver’s seat that I didn’t want to get out of, and a 4-way power passenger seat. Perforated leather-trimmed, heated front seats mean there’s always get a warm ride and automatic dual-zone climate control gives ensured I could have it cold and he could have it warm. Rear-seat access was easy and space back there was ample for knees and people.

Getting in with keyless entry and starting the engine with the push-start ignition, both standard and handy.

The test mule also came equipped with the Tech package, a standard feature on our model and included the Acura Navigation system with AcuraLink real-time traffic including highways and byways conditions. This system was able to navigate the Seattle area with ease, not something easily done with many navigation systems.

The sound system came with 10 speakers and ELS Studio premium audio, HD radio for AM and FM stations (when available), SiriusXM radio, and more. Accessing my phone via voice command was easy and the Bluetooth integration was a snap.

Safety features not only include the standard slew of airbags, stability and traction controls, brake assist and other common systems but also includes driver assistive technologies too.

Acura’s Tech Package comes with blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist, rear cross-traffic alerts, rain sensing wipers, and forward collision warning.

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The 2016 Acura TLX 2.4L model costs $35,750 ($36,670 as tested) but has proven itself to be a fun, plush, and tech-packed mid-size sedan (and is also around $10,000 less than the 2015 Acura TLX V6 we test drove a year ago).

If you’d like to test out the 2016 Acura TLX’s performance, comfort and styling, visit www.Acura.com to learn more about this great mid-size sedan!