Acura TLX Type S Named in U.S. Patent Application

Acura is trying to get its act together by placing a stronger emphasis on performance in the years ahead. We’ve seen the physical manifestation of that strategy in the Type S Concept. While not intended for production, it foreshadows the next-generation TLX — which is presumed to offer improved powertrain options (as well as returning all-wheel drive) and a sporting variant bearing formerly defunct Type-S badging.

While Acura hasn’t exactly been secretive about its plans regarding performance models, the company has avoided confirming anything for production. But we’re getting closer to that moment. An application filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office for the name “TLX Type S” on March 25th indicates Honda is readying its luxury division for something special.

First shared via the Genesis GV80 Forum before making its way to Acura-centric pages, the document shows the title for use on “automobiles and structural parts.” Meanwhile, rumors have been circulating that the model debut Acura had to scrub after the cancellation of the 2020 New York Auto Show was the new TLX.

With a design that’s supposed to be highly reminiscent of the Type S Concept (pictured), Acura’s next TLX is expected to debut digitally sometime this year. Base models are said to come with the same turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine found in the Honda Accord, Civic Type R, and Acura’s own RDX. That puts its output somewhere between 250 and 300 horsepower.

While it may not make it into the 2021 model year, the base unit is assumed to have a hi-po sibling carrying a twin-turbo V6. Acura has already promised to give the Type-S treatment to multiple models and the TLX seems a likely candidate to start with — especially now that we have the USPTO papers to back it up. Estimated at 3.0 liters, the new mill will replace the 3.5-liter (290-hp) V6 that’s available in the current-generation sedan. Designed specifically for Acura, it’s estimated to trump the old unit’s peak output by a wide margin. We just hope its priced correctly by the manufacturer.

There are a number of entry-luxury-sedan class that offer quite a bit of performance for the right kind of money. If Acura comes in low enough and manages to inject some legitimate Type-S dynamics, it’s bound to steal customers away from the German brands that dominate the segment. If not, we’re sure it’ll make a fine addition to Rare Rides after its discontinuation.

[Images: Acura]