Acura TLX Technology, A-Spec, Type S & More

Last updated August 4, 2026

Acura TLX

The Acura TLX starts with the 2 and 2.4 base cars, the simplest way into the sport sedan. The broad middle includes 2.0 SH-AWD, 3.5, and Technology Package models, which add more traction, power, or cabin equipment depending on the year and badge. A-Spec models are the style-led branch, while Advance models focus more on seating comfort, cameras, and ride control. PMC Edition models are limited-run, hand-finished versions with unique details. Type S sits at the performance end with a turbo V6, Acura’s SH-AWD all-wheel drive, adaptive dampers, and Brembo front brakes. Its PMC and wheel-and-tire versions add rarity or lighter wheels rather than more engine power.

What each trim is known for

Acura TLX Base Model

Base Model

22.4

The Base Model trim level includes 2 and 2.4 and is the simplest TLX, with the core low-slung sport-sedan character but none of the upper styling, comfort, or performance packages.

Best for: Shoppers who want the essential TLX experience and everyday comfort without added packages.


Highlights

  • Standard driver-assistance suite
  • Heated power-adjustable front sport seats
  • Jewel Eye LED headlights
  • Clean, no-package TLX styling
18 in stock
Acura TLX Tech Features

Tech Features

2.0 SH-AWD2.0 SH-AWD w/Technology Pkg2.0 w/Technology Pkg2.4 w/Technology Pkg3.5Base w/Technology Pkg

The Tech Features trim level covers 2.0 SH-AWD, 2.0 SH-AWD w/Technology Pkg, 2.0 w/Technology Pkg, 2.4 w/Technology Pkg, 3.5, and Base w/Technology Pkg and serves as the broad everyday-upgrade branch, with exact equipment varying by badge and year.

Best for: Daily drivers who value useful cabin technology, richer materials, or a traction and power upgrade without a strong styling theme.


Highlights

  • Navigation and premium audio on Technology Package versions
  • Leather-trimmed seating on Technology Package versions
  • Blind-spot monitoring and parking sensors on better-equipped versions
  • SH-AWD all-wheel drive on SH-AWD member trims

Adds a more upscale equipment path through leather, navigation, premium audio, and added parking aids; SH-AWD and older V6 badges also mark traction or power upgrades.

24 in stock
Acura TLX Sport Styling

Sport Styling

2.0 SH-AWD w/A-SPEC Pkg2.0 w/A-SPEC Pkg2.4 w/Technology Pkg & A-SPEC Pkg

The Sport Styling trim level includes 2.0 SH-AWD w/A-SPEC Pkg, 2.0 w/A-SPEC Pkg, and 2.4 w/Technology Pkg & A-SPEC Pkg and is the A-Spec branch, defined by a darker look and a more athletic cabin rather than extra engine output.

Best for: Drivers who want the TLX to look and feel sportier without moving to Type S performance hardware.


Highlights

  • Dark A-Spec exterior treatment with spoiler and rear diffuser
  • Heated and ventilated front sport seats
  • Upgraded premium audio
  • Wireless phone charging

Adds A-Spec body details, a sportier cabin, ventilated front seats, and upgraded audio over the more understated Technology-focused trims.

6 in stock
Acura TLX Premium Comfort

Premium Comfort

2.0 SH-AWD w/Advance Pkg2.0 w/Advance Pkg3.5 w/Advance Pkg3.5 w/Technology Pkg3.5 w/Technology Pkg & A-SPEC PkgSH-AWD w/A-Spec Pkg

The Premium Comfort trim level covers 2.0 SH-AWD w/Advance Pkg, 2.0 w/Advance Pkg, 3.5 w/Advance Pkg, 3.5 w/Technology Pkg, 3.5 w/Technology Pkg & A-SPEC Pkg, and SH-AWD w/A-Spec Pkg and brings together the richer upper-package TLX versions.

Best for: Shoppers who want a more fully equipped TLX and prefer added seating comfort, visibility aids, or all-weather confidence.


Highlights

  • Leather-focused sport seating and premium audio
  • Adaptive dampers, a head-up display, and a surround-view camera on Advance versions
  • Heated and ventilated front seats on Advance and A-Spec versions
  • A-Spec styling or added Advance comfort, depending on the member trim

Broadens the focus beyond sport styling: Advance members add richer seat adjustment, adaptive ride control, a head-up display, and a surround-view camera, while other members blend premium equipment with V6 power or SH-AWD.

13 in stock
Acura TLX Special Editions

Special Editions

3.5 PMC Edition

The Special Editions trim level consists of the 3.5 PMC Edition, a limited-run 2020 TLX that combines Advance comfort, A-Spec styling, and hand-finished PMC details.

Best for: Shoppers drawn to rarity, distinctive factory details, and a numbered limited-production Acura.


Highlights

  • Hand-finished Performance Manufacturing Center build
  • Individually numbered serial plaque
  • PMC-specific exterior and interior details
  • Heated and ventilated front seats plus heated rear outboard seats

Adds limited-run PMC assembly, numbered identification, and exclusive trim details to the comfort and sport equipment found in upper-package TLX models.

0 in stock
Acura TLX High Performance

High Performance

Type SType S PMC EditionType S w/High Performance Wheel & Tire Pkg

The High Performance trim level includes Type S, Type S PMC Edition, and Type S w/High Performance Wheel & Tire Pkg and is the performance branch, built around a turbo V6, SH-AWD, adaptive suspension, stronger brakes, and more aggressive bodywork.

Best for: Drivers who prioritize stronger acceleration, sharper responses, and performance-focused hardware while keeping a well-equipped cabin.


Highlights

  • 355-hp turbocharged V6
  • SH-AWD all-wheel drive with adaptive dampers
  • Brembo front brakes
  • Type S bodywork with quad exhaust outlets

Moves from special-edition luxury to performance-first hardware with a turbo V6, adaptive dampers, and Brembo brakes; the Type S PMC Edition adds hand-finished rarity, while the wheel-and-tire version adds lightweight wheels.

3 in stock

Trim comparison

FeatureBase ModelSport StylingTech FeaturesPremium ComfortHigh PerformanceSpecial Editions
Includes
2.0 SH-AWD w/A-SPEC Pkg, 2.0 w/A-SPEC Pkg, 2.4 w/Technology Pkg & A-SPEC Pkg6 in stock
2.0 SH-AWD, 2.0 SH-AWD w/Technology Pkg, 2.0 w/Technology Pkg, 2.4 w/Technology Pkg, 3.5, Base w/Technology Pkg24 in stock
2.0 SH-AWD w/Advance Pkg, 2.0 w/Advance Pkg, 3.5 w/Advance Pkg, 3.5 w/Technology Pkg, 3.5 w/Technology Pkg & A-SPEC Pkg, SH-AWD w/A-Spec Pkg13 in stock
Type S, Type S PMC Edition, Type S w/High Performance Wheel & Tire Pkg3 in stock
3.5 PMC Edition0 in stock
Main identityEntry TLXA-Spec styleEveryday equipment upgradeUpper-package comfortType S performanceHand-finished PMC edition
Engine characterFour-cylinder; varies by eraFour-cylinderNewer turbo four; older members varyTurbo four or older V6355-hp turbo V6V6
All-wheel driveNot part of the base identityOn SH-AWD A-SpecOn SH-AWD member trimsVaries by member trimStandard SH-AWDStandard SH-AWD
Seat focusHeated power front sport seatsHeated and ventilated sport seatsLeather on Technology Package versionsLeather with package-based comfort upgradesHeated and ventilated performance seatsVentilated front and heated rear seats
Exterior treatmentClean standard stylingDark A-Spec detailsUnderstated TLX lookAdvance or A-Spec theme by memberType S bodywork and quad exhaustPMC-exclusive A-Spec details
Cabin and visibility upgradesCore safety and comfort equipmentPremium audio and wireless chargingNavigation, premium audio, and parking aids on Technology versionsHead-up display and surround-view camera on Advance versionsHead-up display and surround-view cameraSurround-view camera and wireless charging
Chassis and brake focusCore TLX setup; older 2.4 adds rear-wheel steeringSport-tuned feel; SH-AWD on named versionsSH-AWD on named all-wheel-drive versionsAdaptive dampers on Advance versionsAdaptive dampers and Brembo front brakesV6 with SH-AWD
Limited-run treatmentRegular-production focusRegular-production focusRegular-production focusRegular-production focusHand-finished and numbered on Type S PMCHand-finished and numbered

Frequently asked questions

What is the Technology Package on an Acura TLX?

The Technology Package is the TLX’s main everyday-luxury upgrade. Equipment varies by era, but it commonly adds leather-trimmed seats, built-in navigation, upgraded audio, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors.

What does the Technology Package add over the base TLX?

On second-generation models before the base trim was dropped, Technology adds Milano leather-trimmed seats, 13-speaker premium audio, navigation, ambient cabin lighting, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and front and rear parking sensors.

What is the difference between the TLX Technology and A-Spec trims?

In recent second-generation lineups, A-Spec builds on Technology with darker exterior trim, a rear spoiler and diffuser, ventilated leather-and-Ultrasuede front seats, a flat-bottom steering wheel, wireless charging, and a 17-speaker audio system. Both use the 272-hp turbo four-cylinder.

Does the Acura TLX A-Spec have more power?

No. In the second-generation TLX, A-Spec keeps the regular model’s 272-hp turbo four-cylinder. Its upgrades focus on sportier styling, richer seats, stronger audio, and, depending on year, suspension tuning or standard SH-AWD.

What is the difference between front-wheel-drive and SH-AWD A-Spec trims?

The main difference is traction and handling. Earlier second-generation A-Spec models appeared with front-wheel drive or SH-AWD, while the SH-AWD version sends power to all four wheels and actively shifts power side to side in corners. From the 2024 refresh, A-Spec is SH-AWD-only.

What is the difference between the TLX A-Spec and Advance?

On pre-refresh second-generation models, A-Spec emphasizes dark styling, sport seats, and a more aggressive cabin. Advance focuses on comfort with adaptive dampers, 16-way front seats, a head-up display, heated rear seats and steering wheel, and a surround-view camera.

Should I pick a TLX A-Spec or Advance?

Pick A-Spec if sporty styling and a more dramatic cabin are the priorities. Pick Advance on earlier second-generation cars if seat comfort, camera coverage, adaptive suspension, and cold-weather features matter more. Both keep the 272-hp turbo four-cylinder.

What does the TLX Type S add over the A-Spec?

The Type S is a true performance step up. It adds a 355-hp turbo V6, standard SH-AWD, adaptive dampers, stronger Brembo front brakes, quad exhaust outlets, 16-way front sport seats, and additional driver-focused displays and camera features on newer models.

Is the TLX Type S worth considering for everyday driving?

Yes, if you want stronger performance without giving up premium cabin features. The Type S combines its 355-hp V6, SH-AWD, adaptive suspension, and stronger brakes with heated and ventilated front seats and 17-speaker audio. Its focus is sharper than a regular TLX.

What is the Type S High Performance Wheel and Tire Package?

It is a sharper factory version of the second-generation Type S. The engine, SH-AWD, adaptive suspension, brakes, and Sport+ mode stay the same; the defining addition is a set of lightweight 20-inch Y-spoke wheels.

How is the Type S PMC Edition different from a regular Type S?

The Type S PMC Edition keeps the regular Type S’s 355-hp turbo V6 and SH-AWD. Its distinction is hand-finished assembly, carbon-fiber exterior and interior pieces, copper-finish 20-inch wheels, special identification, and an individually numbered plaque.

What is the difference between the first-generation TLX 2.4 and 3.5 trims?

The 2.4 uses a 206-hp four-cylinder, an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic, and front-wheel drive with rear-wheel steering. The 3.5 steps up to a 290-hp V6 and 9-speed automatic; many V6 versions also pair with SH-AWD.

How do Technology and Advance differ on first-generation TLX models?

Technology adds the main connectivity and cabin upgrades, including navigation, premium audio, leather seating, and blind-spot monitoring. Advance goes further with comfort and convenience items such as ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and a surround-view camera on later examples.

What is the first-generation TLX PMC Edition?

The first-generation PMC Edition is a limited-production, hand-finished V6 SH-AWD trim. It combines Advance comfort equipment with A-Spec styling, then adds exclusive exterior and cabin details plus an individually numbered plaque.

Which Acura TLX trim makes the most sense for all-weather driving?

Look for an SH-AWD trim. A Technology SH-AWD model keeps the focus on useful luxury features, an A-Spec SH-AWD adds sportier styling and seats, and the Type S combines SH-AWD with the 355-hp V6 and performance hardware.