2021 Acura TLX Type S Picks Up the Pace This Weekend

The 2021 Acura TLX Type S will pace the field at the Acura Sports Car Challenge at Mid-Ohio in Lexington, Ohio this weekend. The TLX Type S’ debut is one we reported previously, with more details available now than Acura had previously released.

For one, the TLX Type S has a new direct-injected, single twin-scroll turbocharged, dual-overhead cam (DOHC) 3.0 liter V6. The turbo V6 produces 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque.

Acura noted that experienced powertrain engineers developed the engine, many of who worked on the NSX’s twin-turbo V6, and their motorsports teams. I’d be relieved that interns weren’t given that responsibility if I was in the market for a TLX Type S.

Coupled with a 10-speed automatic and saying nothing of manual gearbox availability, there’s also Acura’s Super-Handling all-wheel drive (SH-AWD). Acura’s SH-AWD system is always active, measuring vehicle speed, wheel speed, steering angle, yaw rate, and lateral G forces to automatically add torque. The TLX Type S’ double-wishbone front suspension, Brembo front brakes, and Sport+ driving mode are what you get besides the S badging.

I get that Acura is calling attention to the TLX Type S-exclusive Tiger Eye Pearl color that happens to be on the pace car. Why the descriptives around a grille design that supposedly increases airflow? Diamond pentagonals? Are they channeling their inner Mötley Crüe?

There’s also a front splitter, rear diffuser, quad exhaust outlets, and not one but two wheel designs. That’s what’s on the Type S pace car, so pay attention on May 16th at 2:30 – 5:30 p.m. ET on NBCSN. You wouldn’t want to confuse one for the other.

The TLX Type S interior appointments include a flat-bottomed steering wheel for easy ingress or egress. It also helps you know if your wheels are straight. Included are Acura’s ELS Studio 3D 17-speaker premium audio system, along with ultrasuede-trimmed, 16-way power seats. Does a synthetic leather substitute invented in Japan in the ’70s by Dr. Miyoshi Okamoto seem upscale to you?

Are there Japanese domestic market parts for the Type S to make it faster? Maybe that won’t happen unless you’re the second or third owner.

[Images: Acura]