gthaker

Hi:

I am considering a choice between

2015 TLX 4cyl with Tech Pkg w/ 5000 miles (certified, warranty extended)
or
2016 TLX 4cyl with Tech Pkg NEW (standard warranty)

I have tried to read many threads here and I can't tell if 2016 is likely to have many of the 8-speed Transmission issues fixed. The dealer tells me that the 2015 SW has been upgraded and will have no trans issues and I will get extended warranty. But if 2016 model is known to be better choice for $3000 I would rather not get the 2015. I can't tell if anything is in the 2016 model that is not in the 2015 model.

I only want the 4cyl w/ tech package. Trans problems in TLX has made me consider Lexus ES350 or even an Accord EX-L w/ its CVT. But Lexus has only 6 speed AT and while more comfy it is about $10k more at least.

George.
----------------------
1996 RL
1993 Legend

weather

^^ Don't let the 6 speed (only) intimidate you...there is nothing wrong with 6 speed, in fact, I thing that 8 or 9 speed is getting absurd.

Now the 10k difference is a legitimate argument and only you can determine whether you can/want to afford the difference.

As far as the 2015/2016....personally, I would buy new. But that is just me....

youngTL

My dad last year bought a 2015 ES350, so I have a very direct comparison.

Here it is: The cars are nothing alike. The ES350 is a luxobarge with humongous back seat room. It does not feel sporty at all. But it is very very comfortable. Gas mileage is much better than the IS350. Power is good but steering is numb and body roll is pronounced.

The I4 TLX is going to handle substantially better, it's pretty tossable. Interior materials are not as nice. Both cars are equally quiet, but the ES350 is a bit smoother riding due to its softer suspension. The TLX has a sportier suspension. And the 8-speed DCT is a gem. Definitely test drive it.

I would *not* get the FWD V6 (in fact it got axed from Canada, but still sold in the US).

I would go with the new 2016. When it's that close, $3k isn't worth having someone else scratch the paint on your new car and fart in your seats. Haha. The 2016 will likely be better with fit & finish too, because usually the first run of a new model usually has fit and finish issues, amongst other things. Plus you get your choice of colour.


However, if you want a luxo-cruiser, you really really can't go wrong with an ES350. It's a great car. My dad is in love with his (and I love my TLX).

spoiler900

How long do you plan to own the vehicle? I would say do the 15 because youll get a 100K mile warranty since its pre-certified. Plus if you decide to sell the car in say 5-10 years the resale will be identical, like who cares if your buying an 04 tl or 05 tl, its the same thing.

My suggestions: Tell the dealer about your concern and tell them you will buy one or the other and not wasting there time, but you want to take BOTH on an extended test drive. Im talking over 1 hours, free way, low speed, as much differentiation as you can, and see if they drive the same. Spend a whole afternoon and test drive both back to back. You wont be wasting the salesman time since you will buy one or the other

mapleloaf

I have driven both 2015 8 speeds and now lease a 2016 8 speed Tech, after 16 months in the 9 speed SH-AWD Tech. Loved that car but wasn't as enamoured with the 9 speed (2016 is somewhat improved). However, I love the 8 speed and mated with the 2.4 engine and the lighter car is an excellent and sporty combo.

Take Spoiler's advice to be safe, but I have driven at least 4 2.4 TLXs and a couple of ILXs with the 8 speed and found 0 issues.

EricInMaryland

The 2015 is a patched lemon is it not. I would buy the 2016.

Think about this, the certification is a promise of nothing on a lemon....why do they even have that 2015 car with 5K?

Dealer demo? You want that?
Dealer takeback? You want that?

You should be able to buy that car for 30 to 31K +TTL if you haggle.

Go to Curry Acura online to price the extended warranty. Way cheaper. Make the dealer match.

joshuco

I have a '15 and from what I've read the '16 transmission sounds a lot better. I have brought my car in multiple times for the transmission and its never truly fixed. It does get annoying feeling like you're getting rear ended when you come to a stop. Go for the '16.