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It’s not just a matter of practicality, but I think for most people the lack of a digital gauge cluster is yet again a reminder that the TLX is built to a price point, and that price point is lower than the Germans. To some it’s a subtle yet constant reminder that they
bought the TLX not because it’s the best, but because it offers the best bang for the buck.
I think the gauge cluster is a stupid thing to judge a cars value by but point taken. German cars make sacrifices to meet price points as well, Audi S4 for example you can get the digital cluster at $54,545 but not the Bang and Olufsen stereo which requires the Prestige package at just a hair under $60,000, you'll get well above $60,000 even near mid $60's to fully comparably equip one with cooled seats, the adaptive dampers, dynamic steering if you want it, etc. Are you really going to stare at the gauge cluster and feel like you're missing out when you get all the other more meaningful bells and whistles for ten grand less? I guess some will, but seems silly.
I think the gauge cluster is a stupid thing to judge a cars value by but point taken. German cars make sacrifices to meet price points as well, Audi S4 for example you can get the digital cluster at $54,545 but not the Bang and Olufsen stereo which requires the Prestige package at just a hair under $60,000, you'll get well above $60,000 even near mid $60's to fully comparably equip one with cooled seats, the adaptive dampers, dynamic steering if you want it, etc. Are you really going to stare at the gauge cluster and feel like you're missing out when you get all the other more meaningful bells and whistles for ten grand less? I guess some will, but seems silly.
The point is that you can get all those things if you so choose. Again, it’s a matter of being able to get everything you want as long as you are willing to pay. On Acura’s, you don’t even have that opportunity.
I think it's bizarre people are jealous of the Civics basic digital instrumentation just because it's digital. Since when are analog tach/spedo this huge curse on a car? I see it in comments of every car review that has an analog setup even when the MID screen in between or supplementing the analog is like 7-9 inches already with all the information you can possibly want. It's like the kids that were handed iPads when they were 5 have all grown up now and demand that every single thing in their life be a screen or its somehow inferior.
Because it's old technology. I am not against analog gauges and actually enjoy them but it's odd that the MDX, the Civic and the Accord (half of the cluster) are digital and yet the flagship sedan does not have this. Also, digital are customizable to a level analog are just not and there's so many neat things that can be done with them and I think that this would be a cool thing for the Type-S to have.
I test drove a Type S on Friday....it was OK. I decided on a 2021 TLX Aspec yesterday with the red interior! I just couldn't justify an extra $20,000 for the Type S.
Last edited by Steven Bell; 07-05-2021 at 08:30 PM.
The point is that you can get all those things if you so choose. Again, it’s a matter of being able to get everything you want as long as you are willing to pay. On Acura’s, you don’t even have that opportunity.
Something tells me that the most popular AZ topic these coming months will be Type S "buyer's regret." LOL!
I really feel bad for those that ordered them without drives, I hope their expectations were properly in check. I think it's a fine car, Type S is even priced fairly well at MSRP for what is IMO, but you absolutely must have your expectations properly planted on earth. You buy this because you already like the TLX, you already like Honda/Acura products, you like the stereo, you want AWD, you like the styling, etc and you just want the most fun version of this car you already like, if you buy it for any other reason expecting the Type S badge to drastically change the experience you're setting yourself up for disappointment. It does change the experience, it IS more fun, it's just not going to blow your mind.
I really feel bad for those that ordered them without drives, I hope their expectations were properly in check. I think it's a fine car, Type S is even priced fairly well at MSRP for what is IMO, but you absolutely must have your expectations properly planted on earth. You buy this because you already like the TLX, you already like Honda/Acura products, you like the stereo, you want AWD, you like the styling, etc and you just want the most fun version of this car you already like, if you buy it for any other reason expecting the Type S badge to drastically change the experience you're setting yourself up for disappointment. It does change the experience, it IS more fun, it's just not going to blow your mind.
Not sure what beats Type S at $52K, certainly not S4... If you are paying ADM, well it's your $$$. Why do you care what people do with it. Some spend it on cars some blow it in a casino.
Not sure what beats Type S at $52K, certainly not S4... If you are paying ADM, well it's your $$$. Why do you care what people do with it. Some spend it on cars some blow it in a casino.
Don't misunderstand me, I don't care what people do with their money, I'm leaning towards the TLX-S myself but have one more car on my list to check out to be sure I just hope nobody has to go through that buyers remorse feeling because they didn't bother to drive it first or because they set their expectations too high is all I'm saying.
Don't misunderstand me, I don't care what people do with their money, I'm leaning towards the TLX-S myself but have one more car on my list to check out to be sure I just hope nobody has to go through that buyers remorse feeling because they didn't bother to drive it first or because they set their expectations too high is all I'm saying.
I don't know why anyone would buy a type S without a test drive. Even the two TLX's I bought I drove for 20 mins each and still went home to think on it (which was probably a sign to pass on it). My main issue with my 18 tlx v6 awd aspec was the near 300hp felt like 250hp. Maybe it was the trans or weight but it seemed underpowered. I would want to make sure the type S 355 actually felt like 355.
I think the gauge cluster is a stupid thing to judge a cars value by but point taken. German cars make sacrifices to meet price points as well, Audi S4 for example you can get the digital cluster at $54,545 but not the Bang and Olufsen stereo which requires the Prestige package at just a hair under $60,000, you'll get well above $60,000 even near mid $60's to fully comparably equip one with cooled seats, the adaptive dampers, dynamic steering if you want it, etc. Are you really going to stare at the gauge cluster and feel like you're missing out when you get all the other more meaningful bells and whistles for ten grand less? I guess some will, but seems silly.
The other point besides being able to choose what you want is people buying the Audi are not really concerned about the $10,000 spread. They could probably get in for - $15,000 if they bought an Accord.
Audi has a different customer base than Acura and they will pay more for what the think is a luxury. Acura buyers might shop Audi & decide its too expensive but not many Audi buyers are shopping Acura.
The other point besides being able to choose what you want is people buying the Audi are not really concerned about the $10,000 spread. They could probably get in for - $15,000 if they bought an Accord.
Audi has a different customer base than Acura and they will pay more for what the think is a luxury. Acura buyers might shop Audi & decide its too expensive but not many Audi buyers are shopping Acura.
I have to agree with this. But I did drive a friend's Q5 recently and was impressed with the fit and finish and solid thump of the doors closing, etc., so for me it's not like the price is completely out of left field.
The other point besides being able to choose what you want is people buying the Audi are not really concerned about the $10,000 spread. They could probably get in for - $15,000 if they bought an Accord.
Audi has a different customer base than Acura and they will pay more for what the think is a luxury. Acura buyers might shop Audi & decide its too expensive but not many Audi buyers are shopping Acura.
Not surprising in the least, almost everything German luxury is a segment above the Japanese brands. The TLX-S fits between a 330i and 340i and is effectively a lateral movement from the S4/S5(sorta) so if you're already in a German brand chances are you're either in a segment above the Japanese already or it'd be a lateral move at best. Happy to see the Japanese brands intruding a little bit on the entry level German options at least, competition is a good thing.
You missed the point. You can add anything to any car. This is their highest trim on a highest priced sedan. There's nothing past this. Yet, it doesn't have stuff that Accord has...
It’s not their highest priced because it’s their most luxurious or feature-loaded car, it’s the highest priced trim because it’s a sport-geared luxury car. You’re paying for the engine and performance aspect. Your comparison is like complaining a Ram TRX doesn’t have all the features of a Ram Limited Trim because it’s their most expensive truck.
It’s not their highest priced because it’s their most luxurious or feature-loaded car, it’s the highest priced trim because it’s a sport-geared luxury car. You’re paying for the engine and performance aspect. Your comparison is like complaining a Ram TRX doesn’t have all the features of a Ram Limited Trim because it’s their most expensive truck.
Um... you realize that you're picking the scab off of a post that's over one year old?
now that this zombie thread has been resurrected, I will say thank God Acura included the 360 cam for the Canadian Type S. I pretty much use it everyday, the turning radius is so big that every inch counts and parking in the city would be impossible without the 360 view. I can't see myself driving a TLX without one.
now that this zombie thread has been resurrected, I will say thank God Acura included the 360 cam for the Canadian Type S. I pretty much use it everyday, the turning radius is so big that every inch counts and parking in the city would be impossible without the 360 view. I can't see myself driving a TLX without one.
Sad to think about how some base/much cheaper models from many manufacturers have features that the US A-Spec and Type-S do not.
I'd expect by the MMC that there will be a TLX Type S Advanced model, much like what the MDX already has. Of course, the value prop from a performance perspective is going to be pretty bad, but by then all the folks fixated mostly on the performance angle will have already bought the car, and I suspect there will still be some folks who will opt for what would truly be a fully loaded top-spec TLX.
Sad to think about how some base/much cheaper models from many manufacturers have features that the US A-Spec and Type-S do not.
and the crazy part is that the Canadian TLX Type S is made in the same factory as the US one. Doesn't seem that hard to add the 360 cam and other goodies us Canadians get.
I'd expect by the MMC that there will be a TLX Type S Advanced model, much like what the MDX already has. Of course, the value prop from a performance perspective is going to be pretty bad, but by then all the folks fixated mostly on the performance angle will have already bought the car, and I suspect there will still be some folks who will opt for what would truly be a fully loaded top-spec TLX.
I don't think there will be an MMC and I think the TLX is dead after this run.
I don't think there will be an MMC and I think the TLX is dead after this run.
The death of the TLX will be heavily influenced by the push for all electric. They could very well continue on with their current lineup but change from gas to electric. Personally I love my TLX Type S but I can see trading it for an RDX if the new model is as attractive as the current generation because my girl and I are looking to have kids soon.
But that’s just my thought process now. I do love my TLX. 🥰
Fog lights are missing due to the vents having actual functionality, they would've had to go in a completely different place from the other trims and so I can see why they aren't there.
Originally Posted by leomio2.0
As another stated, they were removed because those vents were needed for cooling.
Originally Posted by ELIN
There's nothing the A-Spec has that the Type S doesn't have except for the fog lights, which we've already established is not possible due to the active air ducts.
Looking closely at the side grilles on the Type-S, it seems only the outer portions are actually ventilated, presumably for the brakes. Would keeping the fogs in the lower 1/3 of this section (which is also only a third of the overall grille) truly impact braking performance? I highly suspect they were removed more for marketing and cost reasons, given that there isn't much else that visually distinguishes the S, not to mention all the other features that were dropped to meet a specific price point.
Originally Posted by F23A4
I would love it if a member of their product planning team would speak to these points. It's as though even Honda Corporate isnt going all in on the Acura brand.
In the recent Integra AMA, Jon Rivers (Acura product planner) mentioned he was also in charge of the TLX-S. Maybe he'd be willing to do an AMA for that model here, but given that it's been out for a year now the chances are likely slim. Then again, even if it did happen, I honestly doubt we'd learn anything truly insightful given all the "safe" responses he provided in that discussion.
What was done in the past probably won't apply anymore, though:
Strict MPG requirements on the horizon.
Acura moving to EV - I believe that they will be reinventing the brand.
Continued decline in the sedan segment.
Integra release - I think that this is going to cut into a chunk of the TLX sales, especially if gas prices stay high.
Supplies shortage - resources will continue to be allocated in an either/or fashion.
Originally Posted by KrylonBlue
The death of the TLX will be heavily influenced by the push for all electric. They could very well continue on with their current lineup but change from gas to electric.
Possibly, but I think it will be more of a reinvention.
For the reasons you listed, I think that's actually going to make an MMC even more likely. They'll need a cheap way to refresh the car as it becomes stale.
Originally Posted by ESHBG
What was done in the past probably won't apply anymore, though:
Strict MPG requirements on the horizon. MMC doesn't usually include a powertrain change so this doesn't matter
Acura moving to EV - I believe that they will be reinventing the brand. Acura won't be relevant in the EV space for a long time, so they need to continue selling ICE cars in the interim.
Continued decline in the sedan segment. When has that ever stopped Acura? They just launched two new sedans
Integra release - I think that this is going to cut into a chunk of the TLX sales, especially if gas prices stay high. Exactly, which is why they need an MMC to juice sales. MMCs are relatively cheap since it's mostly cosmetic and the addition of a few new features
Supplies shortage - resources will continue to be allocated in an either/or fashion. I doubt the changes from a MMC would materially increase or change the need for parts that are constrained.
Possibly, but I think it will be more of a reinvention.
According to the TLX Specifications and Features the Type-S lacks some features found on the Advanced and/or A-Spec TLX.
Heated steering wheel
Heated rear seats
Fog lights
Heads up display.!!!!
The heated wheel is an accessory, but I'm really unhappy if there's no HUD. Even Accords have one.
I'd also miss the fog lights. I use them often on my TL Type-S.
It also does not have 360 camera, that and HUD is the biggest ommissions for me. The nice rims need 360 camera to prevent curb rash. Before release there was a lot more features that the advance have that was missing, but they appeared to make a last minute change to the feature content.
I am currently driving a 2022 RDX ASPEC Advanced which has heads up display while my TLX Type S is at the dealer. I can’t say I really like it to be honest. I turned it off after 10 minutes as it’s a bit distracting and basically visually sits even with the front of the hood.
Never had a car with a heated steering wheel. I'm sure it's nice in the dead of winter, but I've never driven a car where my hands were so cold it was uncomfortable gripping the steering wheel.
Rear seats? We don't need no stinkin' heated rear seats! The only people you're fitting back there comfortably are pubescent teens and younger. Being cold back there builds character. When I was growing up, we were thankful getting some wafts of warm air in my dad's 2dr Delta 88.
Fog lights ... meh. All fog lights do is make whatever you're about to hit more luminescent. Seriously tho, I've used them plenty of times in fog and I really don't think they make a massive difference. As another stated, they were removed because those vents were needed for cooling.
HUD. Sure, not bad to have, but with the complaints of rattles coming from people that have them in the RDX, be thankful. Interior build quality of my 2020 RDX leaves a lot to be desired. So, I'd be thankful they didn't put it in there if that's a peeve of yours (also be thankful they didn't put a pano sunroof).
Having a heated steering wheel is a nice feature, is it necessary? no, but it does feel nice.
I am currently driving a 2022 RDX ASPEC Advanced which has heads up display while my TLX Type S is at the dealer. I can’t say I really like it to be honest. I turned it off after 10 minutes as it’s a bit distracting and basically visually sits even with the front of the hood.
I've put 1,300 miles on my new sedan with HUD and 360 camera and will never have another car without them.
The HUD is a great safety feature, since I can see my speed, upcoming turns when using NAV and other items without ever taking my eyes off the road or the vehicle in front of me.
The HUD image in the RDX can probably be moved to get it in a better position for you.
I've put 1,300 miles on my new sedan with HUD and 360 camera and will never have another car without them.
The HUD is a great safety feature, since I can see my speed, upcoming turns when using NAV and other items without ever taking my eyes off the road or the vehicle in front of me.
The HUD image in the RDX can probably be moved to get it in a better position for you.
I had it in the best position for me. I wasn’t feeling well yesterday so it was bothering me I guess. I used it again today and actually liked it this time.
I have my Type S back now though so I will be going without heads up again. Which is okay — I love the feel of my Type S over a base model TLX/RDX.
Good thread, guys! I got the Aspec after driving the Type S and was underwhelmed with the Type S.
I added the heated steering wheel - I've never had one before.
I liked the Aspec fog lights, which is one of the reasons I went Aspec instead of Type S.
My Corvette has a Heads-Up Display and I love it. It's freaking stupid that Acura only has that on the Advanced model.
Aspec seemed a sporty and stylish as the Aspec for about $8,000 to $10,000 less.
Oh, and I loved the red/black interior. In the Type S, you can only get that in a white car or a blue car....again, that makes NO SENSE at all. But Aspec has it.
Whoever said Acura didn't pass Marketing 101 is right!
I am currently driving a 2022 RDX ASPEC Advanced which has heads up display while my TLX Type S is at the dealer. I can’t say I really like it to be honest. I turned it off after 10 minutes as it’s a bit distracting and basically visually sits even with the front of the hood.
I had HUD on a previous car (2015 Chevy SS). It was a novelty at first but after a while honestly I paid little attention to it.
Good thread, guys! I got the Aspec after driving the Type S and was underwhelmed with the Type S.
I added the heated steering wheel - I've never had one before.
I liked the Aspec fog lights, which is one of the reasons I went Aspec instead of Type S.
My Corvette has a Heads-Up Display and I love it. It's freaking stupid that Acura only has that on the Advanced model.
Aspec seemed a sporty and stylish as the Aspec for about $8,000 to $10,000 less.
Oh, and I loved the red/black interior. In the Type S, you can only get that in a white car or a blue car....again, that makes NO SENSE at all. But Aspec has it.
Whoever said Acura didn't pass Marketing 101 is right!
I had looked at the RDX before and noticed you can’t get Apex Blue w/ red interior. Thankfully with the TLX Type S I was able to spec with red interior because it’s so sharp looking.
I do miss fog lamps. However, where we differ is after driving the Type S I find the ASPEC very lackluster and underpowered. But I also don’t have a Corvette for my performance driven desires so I have to compromise, lol.
06-27-2021, 06:42 PM
