Spied on the Street! 2018 Acura TLX (MMC)
#481
A friend of mine is a sales manager at one of the local Acura dealers here in town. I ran into him just the other day, while picking up some parts at the dealership. I pulled him aside and asked if the Type S is coming. He said "yeah, it's coming..." and then I got all excited. But he didn't finish. He went on to say "I think it'll come for 2019, for the last two years of production, like they did with the 3G TL".
To me, that means that no one really has any insight whatsoever regarding a Type S. The 3G TL got a Type S in the last two years of production, because that's just how the MMC worked out. Acura is releasing the MMC one year earlier for the TLX, so there's no reason it shouldn't come now. It seems weird to release a new engine/drivetrain after an MMC.
I doubt the Type S would show up for 2020... that would be the last production year of the TLX. Seems a little late. Even 2022 doesn't seem to make much sense either, unless Acura was planning to have a MMC for the 2G TLX into only its second year of production.
Unfortunately, I think we just have to sit this out and see what happens. I'm still optimistic though.
To me, that means that no one really has any insight whatsoever regarding a Type S. The 3G TL got a Type S in the last two years of production, because that's just how the MMC worked out. Acura is releasing the MMC one year earlier for the TLX, so there's no reason it shouldn't come now. It seems weird to release a new engine/drivetrain after an MMC.
I doubt the Type S would show up for 2020... that would be the last production year of the TLX. Seems a little late. Even 2022 doesn't seem to make much sense either, unless Acura was planning to have a MMC for the 2G TLX into only its second year of production.
Unfortunately, I think we just have to sit this out and see what happens. I'm still optimistic though.
#483
^Agreed. All the dealers are telling different stories. FWIW, I can see a 2019 Type S happening. I can also see a Sport Hybrid, or both. Q50 has a sport hybrid and it was the fastest one (365hp) before the Red Sport TT model. Even though the RLX Sport Hybrid can't sell, it's still a successful design that is carrying over to the MDX. I still bet we see one or the other or both by 2019 for the TLX.
#484
Acura is releasing the MMC one year earlier for the TLX, so there's no reason it shouldn't come now. It seems weird to release a new engine/drivetrain after an MMC.
I doubt the Type S would show up for 2020... that would be the last production year of the TLX. Seems a little late. Even 2022 doesn't seem to make much sense either, unless Acura was planning to have a MMC for the 2G TLX into only its second year of production.
Unfortunately, I think we just have to sit this out and see what happens. I'm still optimistic though.
I doubt the Type S would show up for 2020... that would be the last production year of the TLX. Seems a little late. Even 2022 doesn't seem to make much sense either, unless Acura was planning to have a MMC for the 2G TLX into only its second year of production.
Unfortunately, I think we just have to sit this out and see what happens. I'm still optimistic though.
TL
1st Gen: '96, '97, '98 (3 yr cycle)
2nd Gen: '99, '00, '01, MMC '02 (introduced early), '03 (5 yr cycle)
3rd Gen: '04, '05, '06, MMC '07, '08 (5 yr cycle)
4th Gen: '09, '10, '11, MMC '12 (introduced early) '13, '14 which only ran 1/2 year (5 1/2 yr cycle)
#485
Yeah, you're right. I was thinking 2020 would be the 5th year. Apparently I can't do simple math.
though honda/Acura aren't held to those five year cycles. They likely seem to work best for them though. Cars such as the RL didn't change for like 9 years though.
though honda/Acura aren't held to those five year cycles. They likely seem to work best for them though. Cars such as the RL didn't change for like 9 years though.
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a35tl (03-20-2017)
#486
I'm a bit confused. Will the TLX have a 6 year model run? I was thinking 5 years. '15, '16, '17, followed by MMC '18, '19 and then totally new model in '20.
TL
1st Gen: '96, '97, '98 (3 yr cycle)
2nd Gen: '99, '00, '01, MMC '02 (introduced early), '03 (5 yr cycle)
3rd Gen: '04, '05, '06, MMC '07, '08 (5 yr cycle)
4th Gen: '09, '10, '11, MMC '12 (introduced early) '13, '14 which only ran 1/2 year (5 1/2 yr cycle)
TL
1st Gen: '96, '97, '98 (3 yr cycle)
2nd Gen: '99, '00, '01, MMC '02 (introduced early), '03 (5 yr cycle)
3rd Gen: '04, '05, '06, MMC '07, '08 (5 yr cycle)
4th Gen: '09, '10, '11, MMC '12 (introduced early) '13, '14 which only ran 1/2 year (5 1/2 yr cycle)
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boe_d (03-22-2017)
#488
Maybe that would make Acura re-evaluate what they're doing. The TLX is the only thing in Acura sedans that remotely works. Although, the ILX makes a ton of "Worst of" lists.
#489
Was gonna wait for the '18 TLX, but got that new car itch this past weekend and pulled the trigger on a 2017 IS350 F Sport, basically the new version of my precious car. Love the performance, smoothness and reliability of the 2GR-FSE motor of the IS350, the 2017 refreshed model come with updated front and rear bumpers, exhaust tips and widescreen navigation screen.
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#490
Was gonna wait for the '18 TLX, but got that new car itch this past weekend and pulled the trigger on a 2017 IS350 F Sport, basically the new version of my precious car. Love the performance, smoothness and reliability of the 2GR-FSE motor of the IS350, the 2017 refreshed model come with updated front and rear bumpers, exhaust tips and widescreen navigation screen.
#491
Looking at the historical trend and how it is increasing. It would make sense that there was a 6 year cycle for the TLX. I get the impression that Honda R&D is tapped out with new Honda models and Acura is on the back burner right now. However, models like the MDX, RDX, and RLX seem to be on current track for the 6 year cycle.
Also - the elephant in the room is the ZF 9AT. The whispers of rumors are that Acura is contractually obligated to have that transmission around through 2017. I'd much much much rather they wait to do all their major work until they don't have to use that transmission anymore. If the TLX keeps it that will be a shame but they had no choice but to update the model for this year.
Especially with the 2.0T...the Chinese Avancier has a 2.0T...but it also has the 9AT.
I'd much rather they wait to FMC the RDX and ILX until they don't have to use the 9AT.
#492
Also - the 9AT contractural issues give some credence to the MY2019 TLX Type-S rumors. I will bet a lot of money that Acura doesn't want to put the 9AT in the Type-S. But if they are contractually obligated to use it through calendar year 2017 then waiting until Calendar year 2018/MY2019 to release it...with the new 10AT (which can also be configured as an 8AT BTW...)...then that makes a TON of sense.
#494
Also - the 9AT contractural issues give some credence to the MY2019 TLX Type-S rumors. I will bet a lot of money that Acura doesn't want to put the 9AT in the Type-S. But if they are contractually obligated to use it through calendar year 2017 then waiting until Calendar year 2018/MY2019 to release it...with the new 10AT (which can also be configured as an 8AT BTW...)...then that makes a TON of sense.
So to better explain what I am trying to say, I beleive Honda is trying to either use up a certain number of ZF boxes or for a certain time line. With that new 10 speed out, I don't see why it can't go to the TLX. Or why Honda can make a DCT for Hybrids capable of habdling a crap ton of power but not one for gasoline engines.
Lastly, the RDX is on a 6 year cycle and mules have already been spotted numerous times. There was never any implication of needing to end that model cycle fast because it is selling more than double the 1G sales iirc. The 2019 RDX is the expected FMC and it is in line. The only issue I can forsee (if you can call it that because Honda thought it would be a good idea to unveil a 10 speed on a minivan) is that the RDX is supposed to get things after the MDX does, but the MDX FMC is not due till 2020. The 2013 RDX came before the 2014 MDX did and the MDX got the jewel eyes first. So if anything, the RDX is stuck till 2020.
#496
Prove that the TLX is a slam dunk for Acura, that transmission has only bad news and gas economy associated to it. Why is it that none of the performance luxury brands are using it then...Why is there over 40 pages of problems then. Get over yourself, relax
Last edited by pyrodan007; 03-21-2017 at 05:56 PM.
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#497
*Answer; big fat ZERO*. The current ZF9 is a great transmission and just fine.
Last edited by Saintor; 03-21-2017 at 06:06 PM.
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BEAR-AvHistory (03-21-2017)
#500
http://www.motortrend.com/cars/honda...view-update-5/
Originally Posted by Mototrend
Although he did not hear any of the whirs and clicks that pre-empted the warranty claim (before any actual mechanical trouble was experienced), KOTH decreed the transmission far from perfect.
“Our Pilot is smooth, cushy, and powerful, but the tranny continues to suffer at low speeds,” he proclaimed. “Indecisive gear hunting along with getting caught in the wrong gear is its biggest problem. I subsequently confirmed these findings in shorter jaunts around town. Most of time, the Pilot’s transmission is in the proper gear and shifts almost imperceptibly as long as you keep throttle applications light and smooth. But sudden inputs seem to confuse it; for instance, imagine you’re approaching a red light, and have just released the throttle and are about to move your foot to the brake when the light goes green. Go immediately back to the throttle, and you’ll likely find yourself jerked into a different gear, which is annoying.
“Our Pilot is smooth, cushy, and powerful, but the tranny continues to suffer at low speeds,” he proclaimed. “Indecisive gear hunting along with getting caught in the wrong gear is its biggest problem. I subsequently confirmed these findings in shorter jaunts around town. Most of time, the Pilot’s transmission is in the proper gear and shifts almost imperceptibly as long as you keep throttle applications light and smooth. But sudden inputs seem to confuse it; for instance, imagine you’re approaching a red light, and have just released the throttle and are about to move your foot to the brake when the light goes green. Go immediately back to the throttle, and you’ll likely find yourself jerked into a different gear, which is annoying.
Last edited by pyrodan007; 03-21-2017 at 06:14 PM.
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#501
<br /><br />Well that was very early models and most 2016 Pilot and recent MDX/TLX are satisfied.... we are in 2017 now.; quit whining.
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#505
Anyway my wish list would be as follows:
New Transmission
Bring the gear shift lever back and axe the buttons
Improve the infotainment system (add carplay/android auto already in low level hondas and probably comming with the 18 model update)
Some more "premium" look to the interior and get rid of the wood inlays or at least have another option
and
Type S model which would probably address the first two above or more and hopefully have the kind of differences that made the 3rd generation type S such an upgrade over the base tl.
I think its a few years off for much of this stuff.
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quantum7 (03-22-2017)
#506
Was gonna wait for the '18 TLX, but got that new car itch this past weekend and pulled the trigger on a 2017 IS350 F Sport, basically the new version of my precious car. Love the performance, smoothness and reliability of the 2GR-FSE motor of the IS350, the 2017 refreshed model come with updated front and rear bumpers, exhaust tips and widescreen navigation screen.
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TacoBello (03-22-2017)
#507
See I do beleive that there is absolutely something contractual going on between Honda and ZF. Why else would they maintain the ZF9 when it hurt their image so much. However I beleive there are loop holes in the contract (a.k.a it is for number of units, not per model basis) hence the use of 8DCT in TLX and 6 speed in pilot/ridgeline.
So to better explain what I am trying to say, I beleive Honda is trying to either use up a certain number of ZF boxes or for a certain time line. With that new 10 speed out, I don't see why it can't go to the TLX. Or why Honda can make a DCT for Hybrids capable of habdling a crap ton of power but not one for gasoline engines.
Lastly, the RDX is on a 6 year cycle and mules have already been spotted numerous times. There was never any implication of needing to end that model cycle fast because it is selling more than double the 1G sales iirc. The 2019 RDX is the expected FMC and it is in line. The only issue I can forsee (if you can call it that because Honda thought it would be a good idea to unveil a 10 speed on a minivan) is that the RDX is supposed to get things after the MDX does, but the MDX FMC is not due till 2020. The 2013 RDX came before the 2014 MDX did and the MDX got the jewel eyes first. So if anything, the RDX is stuck till 2020.
So to better explain what I am trying to say, I beleive Honda is trying to either use up a certain number of ZF boxes or for a certain time line. With that new 10 speed out, I don't see why it can't go to the TLX. Or why Honda can make a DCT for Hybrids capable of habdling a crap ton of power but not one for gasoline engines.
Lastly, the RDX is on a 6 year cycle and mules have already been spotted numerous times. There was never any implication of needing to end that model cycle fast because it is selling more than double the 1G sales iirc. The 2019 RDX is the expected FMC and it is in line. The only issue I can forsee (if you can call it that because Honda thought it would be a good idea to unveil a 10 speed on a minivan) is that the RDX is supposed to get things after the MDX does, but the MDX FMC is not due till 2020. The 2013 RDX came before the 2014 MDX did and the MDX got the jewel eyes first. So if anything, the RDX is stuck till 2020.
#508
So what is exactly so special about the precision cockpit? I assume it won't show up in the TLX until the 2G shows up in a few years. Is it just the big LCD screen that replaces the gauges? That doesn't seem to be that ground breaking to me. If anything, it just sounds like another electronic gizmo that will eventually fail. Let's face it- for something that sees vibrations all day everyday, goes through extreme climate conditions, humidity variations, etc. Analogue seems to always outlast electronic.
Otherwise, we know the actual interiors will look nothing like the concept. They never do (and I'm not just speaking about Acura, but pretty much every brand).
Otherwise, we know the actual interiors will look nothing like the concept. They never do (and I'm not just speaking about Acura, but pretty much every brand).
#509
Was gonna wait for the '18 TLX, but got that new car itch this past weekend and pulled the trigger on a 2017 IS350 F Sport, basically the new version of my precious car. Love the performance, smoothness and reliability of the 2GR-FSE motor of the IS350, the 2017 refreshed model come with updated front and rear bumpers, exhaust tips and widescreen navigation screen.
Let haters hate, you made a great purchase, hope you enjoy it!
#510
So what is exactly so special about the precision cockpit? I assume it won't show up in the TLX until the 2G shows up in a few years. Is it just the big LCD screen that replaces the gauges? That doesn't seem to be that ground breaking to me. If anything, it just sounds like another electronic gizmo that will eventually fail. Let's face it- for something that sees vibrations all day everyday, goes through extreme climate conditions, humidity variations, etc. Analogue seems to always outlast electronic.
Otherwise, we know the actual interiors will look nothing like the concept. They never do (and I'm not just speaking about Acura, but pretty much every brand).
Otherwise, we know the actual interiors will look nothing like the concept. They never do (and I'm not just speaking about Acura, but pretty much every brand).
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#511
The big deal is that it will be completely unique from Honda and a clear step up and a clear differentiator between the two brands. Which isn't to say that everyone will like the Acura system more - nor am I saying that the tech will be perfectly implemented - but if Acura is ever going to separate itself from Honda then this is probably a necessary step. Even if the ILX and Civic share "platforms" the ILX will have more power, SHAWD, a proper transmission, AND completely different interior tech. Same with the TLX and Accord. Acura still has to execute the car - but if they do the "Honda+" people will be struggling for discussion topics.
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E90 Skye (03-22-2017)
#513
Was gonna wait for the '18 TLX, but got that new car itch this past weekend and pulled the trigger on a 2017 IS350 F Sport, basically the new version of my precious car. Love the performance, smoothness and reliability of the 2GR-FSE motor of the IS350, the 2017 refreshed model come with updated front and rear bumpers, exhaust tips and widescreen navigation screen.
#514
The big deal is that it will be completely unique from Honda and a clear step up and a clear differentiator between the two brands. Which isn't to say that everyone will like the Acura system more - nor am I saying that the tech will be perfectly implemented - but if Acura is ever going to separate itself from Honda then this is probably a necessary step. Even if the ILX and Civic share "platforms" the ILX will have more power, SHAWD, a proper transmission, AND completely different interior tech. Same with the TLX and Accord. Acura still has to execute the car - but if they do the "Honda+" people will be struggling for discussion topics.
I just don't think they need to release this super futuristic looking interior to get people to buy their cars. They have much bigger issues than that, I would argue.
From what I recall, the biggest complaints about the TLX interior are:
1. materials don't feel premium enough
2. the button gear shift annoys people (personally, I think it's kind of cool and unique. I think half like it, half don't)
3. the dual screen setup effectively does what one screen can.
I don't recall people hating the actual look of any of the Acura interiors (though it may just be evading my mind at the moment). Can you?
#515
Well Acura already was/is different, using the 2 screen system in their cars. Honda doesn't do that. The interiors don't look the same. The material quality is arguably only a little better. They can improve on that.
I just don't think they need to release this super futuristic looking interior to get people to buy their cars. They have much bigger issues than that, I would argue.
From what I recall, the biggest complaints about the TLX interior are:
1. materials don't feel premium enough
2. the button gear shift annoys people (personally, I think it's kind of cool and unique. I think half like it, half don't)
3. the dual screen setup effectively does what one screen can.
I don't recall people hating the actual look of any of the Acura interiors (though it may just be evading my mind at the moment). Can you?
I just don't think they need to release this super futuristic looking interior to get people to buy their cars. They have much bigger issues than that, I would argue.
From what I recall, the biggest complaints about the TLX interior are:
1. materials don't feel premium enough
2. the button gear shift annoys people (personally, I think it's kind of cool and unique. I think half like it, half don't)
3. the dual screen setup effectively does what one screen can.
I don't recall people hating the actual look of any of the Acura interiors (though it may just be evading my mind at the moment). Can you?
Part 1 is the material quality, it is REALLY cheap in all but the RLX and even then it is not plush like it should be. The MDX has a little bit of soft touch materials on the top of the doors, but near the handle area and below the armrest it is cheap scratchy hard plastic (even my 1G RDX was soft across the whole top of the door).
Part 2 is the relative "coldness" of the interior. The interior just feels cold to me and too corporate and hard. I don't know if I make sense by saying that, but I guess the best way I can describe it as is uninviting and very plain. The precision dash would help this, but it will not solve the other issues.
Part 3 is the DATED UI. I get into brand new Acura products and feel like I stepped into a luxury car from 2007. Don't get me wrong, the safety prevention tech is cool, but that nav really needs an update and the UI needs MASSIVE cleanup.
Lol looking back at your list again, I just realized we almost wrote the same things.
#516
I also get the feeling the addition of a second screen on the dash isn't cheap. The screen itself, additional wire harness, etc... Those costs add up. I have a feeling the 2G will revert back to one screen again, which isn't a bad thing. It allows that money to spent elsewhere on the car.
#517
The Accord uses the same two screen system. My 2013 EXL did and I believe the current model still has it.
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#518
I also get the feeling the addition of a second screen on the dash isn't cheap. The screen itself, additional wire harness, etc... Those costs add up. I have a feeling the 2G will revert back to one screen again, which isn't a bad thing. It allows that money to spent elsewhere on the car.
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TacoBello (03-23-2017)
#519
It does seem that the "problems" are diminished in the 16/17 models but from my own impression the transmission does a disservice to the 290 rated HP of the the TLX. Sure it gets you a couple extra MPG but it comes at a cost. I would rather it have a 5 speed auto that matches better to the motor with decisive and instant response to the throttle and always hitting the right gear. I know not all would agree but a better trans in the car would go a long way for some of us. Nothing wrong with having a transmission that makes the car go like it has almost 300 hp. I would rather see the right gears and shifting rather than more gears.
Anyway my wish list would be as follows:
New Transmission
Bring the gear shift lever back and axe the buttons
Improve the infotainment system (add carplay/android auto already in low level hondas and probably comming with the 18 model update)
Some more "premium" look to the interior and get rid of the wood inlays or at least have another option
and
Type S model which would probably address the first two above or more and hopefully have the kind of differences that made the 3rd generation type S such an upgrade over the base tl.
I think its a few years off for much of this stuff.
Anyway my wish list would be as follows:
New Transmission
Bring the gear shift lever back and axe the buttons
Improve the infotainment system (add carplay/android auto already in low level hondas and probably comming with the 18 model update)
Some more "premium" look to the interior and get rid of the wood inlays or at least have another option
and
Type S model which would probably address the first two above or more and hopefully have the kind of differences that made the 3rd generation type S such an upgrade over the base tl.
I think its a few years off for much of this stuff.
#520
The big deal is that it will be completely unique from Honda and a clear step up and a clear differentiator between the two brands. Which isn't to say that everyone will like the Acura system more - nor am I saying that the tech will be perfectly implemented - but if Acura is ever going to separate itself from Honda then this is probably a necessary step. Even if the ILX and Civic share "platforms" the ILX will have more power, SHAWD, a proper transmission, AND completely different interior tech. Same with the TLX and Accord. Acura still has to execute the car - but if they do the "Honda+" people will be struggling for discussion topics.
Also think glass, after the initial development, is cheaper to make than a dash full of analog gauges.