RWD is the worst. Anyone who lives where snow falls would much prefer a FWD or AWD car. In other words, not all of us drive a TLX around a race track. I think Acura nailed the new TLX!
these people at CR are NOT auto enthusiasts. Far from it. A foam cube with 4 run flat tires and a 40hp 2 cyl engine are more to their liking. it's called playing "pretend". Not sure why they even compart the TLX to a BMW... definitely out of step for the Prius huggers!
Maybe you should try reading the Acura manual about the TrueTouch trackpad...you simply touch the pad where you want to select on the screen, no having to move your fingers around to find your spot! It's much faster and accurate to select items than the Lexus.
Biggest reason why so many drive at night without turning their headlights on is because dashboards and gauges nowadays are mostly illuminated all the time, giving you the false impression your headlights are on too. In the past, the dash and gauges only lit up when you turned on your parklights or headlights.
plus the drls are all going led and are very bright at night. when you are parked. they really light up the area and make you think your lights are on.
I think the new Acura tlx fits perfect in the segment. Overall it gives you alot for it prices.. you want a faster and better handling version than wait for the type s.. i disagree with their comments completely
no, It's a decent car, but I think Acura is just being pure lazy, the bastardized push button bop it extreme shifter Needs to go, the lack of RWD is Non-competitive, but then again Audi does it too... And the interior doesn't look that much better than the last one, car is half the price have a much better interior layout
I never got the rear wheel drive lovers , in summer they can be fun but by me it snows and stuff and rwd is freaking horrible , I always loved fwd cars for bad weather , currently driving 2021 acura tlx sh-awd and had to drive through a blizzard , it drove great and guess what ? I was passing by a bunch of rwd cars , high end ones... and ppl were getting stuck, sliding all over the highway etc , so you guys can keep your rwd stuff 😂
In my opinion, the new Acura TLX does look promising compare to the previous generation. But for the price, I would rather get a fully loaded Honda Accord 2.0T instead.
I’ve owned a 2019 Accord EX-L 2.0T for a year now and have been very pleased with it; especially it’s maneuverability and acceleration. I can’t see spending nearly $10,000 more for the TLX. By the way, the 2.0 T’s push button shifter took me about 5 minutes to get used to.
Unfortunately that really isn't saying much. The new TLX just has too many poor design choices and only really caught up to models that are already a few years old. I love Acura and hate to see that they still aren't putting in full effort.
@@Whatitup How on earth does the all new 2021 TLX look a few years old to you?? Look at every latest model from Acura, how would anyone say they "aren't still putting in full effort". Great of them they don't make their cars look overcomplicated like the other brands do. Acura has the most best looking models.
My therory on the subject of headlights not being on at night is that so many cars now have their dash lights illuminated all the time. Back in the day, dash light did not come in untill the headlights were on. If a driver couln't read the speedometer, they knew they needed their lights on. I think a good safety ferature they should put in cars in a system to alert the driver that the lights are not on when it's dark out.
It took me one one day to learn how to use the touch pad it was easy to use.... the power is perfect for what the car the shawd does work better then the 2018 TLX I had .... the transmission is way better then the 9 speed on the 2018 TLX
One of the best features of both Volvos I have owned - the default setting is that the headlights are always on. Both my Audi A3 and Ford Explorer had automatic headlights, which I also liked.
There are also those that will not let the car decide whether the headlights are on or off. They like to override the system and manually control them. And..they drive in the dark with their lights off. Both the GM and FCA vehicles I've owned have done well and there is no reason to move the switch off AUTO.
Don't listen to these guys. Just got my 2021 Acura TLX A spec. 65 year old man who loves this car. And if you can't use the touch pad you've got the problem, not the car. This car is AWESOME
Three months and 2,800 miles into my new 2024 TLX Type S, I am thoroughly delighted with the car. Searched for "tlx" on this channel out of curiosity, as I generally appreciate CR's auto testing methodology. In this case, I think CR dropped the ball... particularly when it comes to the True Touchpad Interface. The learning curve is about one week, and I like the Acura's system much better the interface in our Volvo, which relies on a touchscreen for everything including HVAC and seat heating. We're all used to our phones and tablets, so perhaps we instinctively want the same interface in our cars... but that doesn't make automotive touchscreens a good idea! A touchscreen requires the driver to refocus from the road ahead to the screen a foot or two away, and then to maneuver a finger to touch a small icon; not always all that easy in a moving car. This is often followed by the need to swipe or poke along a virtual "slider" to make an adjustment. Precious seconds are spent with the driver's attention devoted to that touchscreen. It's an inherently distracting system for someone whose top priority is (or should be) to maintain situational awareness of what's happening ahead and around the vehicle. Please note that Acura uses clearly labeled good-old-fashioned buttons for all HVAC and seat heating/cooling controls. That's increasingly rare, because it's cheaper for manufacturers to throw all controls on the touchscreen... Tesla being the most extreme example. As far as Acura's touchpad system goes, once you've programmed your radio presets, adjusted the vehicle and sound settings to your liking and configured the "home" screen, you rarely need to use it while driving. Start the car, switch to Android Auto or Apple Car Play (both wireless for '24), bring up Waze for those all-important police warnings, and you're good to go. The audio and navigation systems are fully controllable from the steering wheel or by voice. With the screen positioned back toward the windshield, it's in my line of sight so I don't need to look away or refocus from the road ahead. It also supports my clean-car obsession by remaining blissfully devoid of finger-smudges. Alas, for 2025 Acura has thrown in the towel -- at least with their top-selling MDX -- bringing the screen forward and making it touch sensitive. Not sure whether the TLX will follow suit. If given a choice between two otherwise identical TLXs, I would absolutely choose the touchpad version every time.
When i use to take in my new car to the dealership for oil changes. Every single time i took it in. They would turn off the auto headlights for when they took it into the shop. They never turned it back on when i received the car back. I think this is very common for a lot of consumers.
They've been putting bookmarks for every topic in the descriptions for years...but nobody bothers to actually hit "show more" and read them. Maybe they decided to just not bother with them or the new kind in the slider anymore.
Speaking of DRLs, I recently took my 2018 Focus in for its 30000 mile service. It was a rainy day and I didn't notice the mechanic had turned off my headlights. I usually have the switch set to auto, which automatically turns on my headlights at night. The reason I didn't notice the change is because setting the headlight switch to off enabled the DRLs. Which don't work at night. They also don't work when the switch is set to auto. I had driven this car for three years and didn't even know it came with DRLs. This is a pretty stupid design as far as I'm concerned and it has me wondering if it works that way with all Ford vehicles.
Everyone got their own opinion. Just go test drive the car yourself. If you like it, buy it, and if you don't don't buy it. I test drove it, and I like it and I already placed my order to buy it, because I like it and it's my money that's buying it.
What a great attitude: "I don't care if someone more knowledgeable than I am can help inform my opinion; I'm not interested in learning anything additional or new or what I might not have thought of from anyone, because I already know everything". I hope you're not a scientist.
@@Mr21scott It still comes down to his personal choice. That's why there are hundreds of models, not just one. He likes it, he bought it. Apparently his likes outweigh their dislikes.
I don't know what you people are thinking! KBB, Edmunds, and virtually every TLX review on youtube rates this car an absolute winner. Styling, technology, materials, fit and finish, features, performance and handling have all been given rave reviews. Yeah, maybe the BMW is a bit better in handling performance, but the TLX undercuts a new 540i X by $25K. Maybe you should all go back to reviewing garbage disposals?
Another reason they forgot to mention about people driving at night with DRL's is most newer cars have a lighted gauge cluster. In the olden days you could tell your headlights were not on because you could not see the gauges. Today I see people all the time with only their DRL's on at night and the bright gauge light because its on the day intensity setting.
Looking forward to the Type S, disappointed in CR's first impressions of the TLX, it seems it's just a better set of tires away from greatness based on other reviews.
I don't understand how "there's nothing that wows you when you drive a 2021 TLX" or that "its boring and nothing exiting". They literally rated this car like a Toyota Camery. Its the all new TLX, the most sportiest, best handling, and fun sedan to ever drive. I think they just haven't rated or tested this car properly.
I'm pretty sure that track pad could work with with just two changes 1.) a more instant response. 2.) adding indentations that correspond to tiles on the screen, or a texture that lets you know exactly where your finger is when you put it down. a third change that would help would be for only pieces of the trackpad to move when you press down, and not the whole thing. to my finger it has the feel of trying to flatten a large exercise ball with a 4x8 sheet of plywood by standing balancing the plywood on the exercise ball. Yes you can do it, but I wouldn't recommend doing it. like seriously, don't do that.
@@roguedogx 4.) Just admit the trackpad is stupid and make it a touchscreen. You know, like virtually every phone that every human being owns and knows how to use already.
I am not sure Aaron's question was fully answered. So if a car is only being driven 3000 miles or less a year, how much time between synthetic oil changes is acceptable?
They pretty much did. If your car is under warranty, follow the owner manual’s service intervals. As of right now, most vehicle and engine oil manufacturers recommend changing your engine oil and filter once a year, regardless how little miles you drive.
I think people who can't tell the difference between the DRLs and actual headlights should not be driving. At the very least its as common as remembering to use a switch to signal your lane change so you should be able to remember to use your switch for your headlights when it starts getting dark
there is a big difference in ambient light levels in various kinds of areas. In my mostly urban driving, I hardly notice what effect my headlights are having, for weeks and months at a time. (but yes, I think it's important to have a perfect record about remembering to turn on headlights, and yes I do as far as I know)
WOW.. these people sound wAY too old to be giving car reviews lol They obviously didn't give this car a chance. As far as the track pad, it's pretty easy to operate and to get used to. And it's no where NEAR the not so good one on the Lexus.Also, there's no need for Acura to do the same as other manufacturers are doing as far as making the car RWD instead of the FWD and AWD offered. It's like what the hell are you talking about (eyes rolling)
You can actually personalized your comfort settings instead of choosing one of theirs it’s in the menu. Also you say you don’t like predial settings on this tlx well don’t all manufacturers have predial settings so that was nick picking imo.
15:30 I don't think the reason is the DRL. I think it's the self-illuminating instrument panel. In older cars when you get into the seat, turn on the ignition and cannot see any thing in the dials because it's too dark, you naturally reach for the light switch. In newer cars everything is self-illuminating. The driver never feels the need to turn on any light especially in the city where the streets are well lit.
Walmart had their own synthetic though, it's made by warren distribution. Which a lot have liked and it's only about 14 dollars for 5q. That's about as cheap as they get. Also "Rural King" has one also for about the same price. It you happen to have one near by. I've used Mag1 oil and liked it. (Which is also made my warren Distribution.). I will definitely buy it When I need oil again.
@@normt430 You mean Acura fanboys. Honda fanboys would probably want a Type R. The $50,000 Type-S is gonna be a car anyone would love. Its just a fair price for such a car.
Ryan has a 'Mobil 1' baseball cap in the background. I hope the next time he discusses motor oil he has upgraded his cap to #Amsoil Signature Series which is simply the best oil on the market.
Gabe, at 21:54 you start listing the luxury cars that are RWD/AWD. Don't forget the Kia Stinger. And to keep your 16 year-old safe, probably go for the 4 cylinder version, although you'd likely much prefer the twin turbo V6 :-)
Much like the Acura featured in the segment, I dislike car companies that overcomplicate things just to stand out or be unique. It's overcomplicating things just to overcomplicate them.
Using my cousin as an example, the issue with many older drivers after driving at night is that they turn off their automatic headlights after parking. I’m always having to turn her headlights back to auto for her, cause both her and her husband turn it all the way off.
I looked at a base TLX on the lot and the sticker with all fees was 39.5k. My Accord EX-L with the 2.0 and 10 speed, as well as navi and blind spot detection not on the base TLX, stickered at 33.8k. As per my comment above, the Accord is faster, much bigger trunk, much bigger rear seat, beat the TLX on the Car & Driver skidpad .89 to .87, and uses regular gas. Premium is recommended for the slower (much heavier) TLX. The TLX looks snazzier and has the double wishbone suspension not on Accords as well as a 5 link rear, yet is slightly outhandled by the Accord. C & D clocked my version of the Accord at 0-60 in 5.4sec after 40k miles. Thought I was going to starve over the TLX. Not so much after viewing and reading multiple reviews and checking out a value comparison. The TLX is a better value going up against its BMW and Audi rivals, but not against the high end Accord.
I would take the Accord or Legacy if you need AWD instead of a almost 50k TLX which by the way has no room in the back seat which was not mentioned. I doubt this car will sell that much and any takers will go for the super expensive twin turbo six that is comming this spring
Gabe buddy! What were you thinking then? So you want Honda / Acura to develop a RWD platform sedan? Even though you and I think that's cool the reality is such a car wouldn't address future needs and regulations. Putting all that R&D into a RWD platform for a sports sedan is a waste and also would not be financially feasible. Kia got rid of the Stinger and many other automakers have began the sedan exodus.
A lot of people just don't understand how to view great cars. Its sucks to see this but looks like some people enjoy being unfair towards new and nice cars because of how amazing these vehicles are.
I own 2 cars with an odd juxtaposition of oil requirements, when you would think they would be similar. My Audi 2.0T calls for a special-spec synthetic-only 0W-40 of which there is only one type of Mobil1 that meets it; my Subaru Forester XT 2.0T says several grades of Mobil1 5W-30 all are OK. However, Audi allows 10,000 mile changes and Subuar requires them at 6,000 miles. Perhaps the picky Audi/VW oil spec helps with the long interval. Just for kicks, I'm now trying the 0W-40 in the Subaru, figuring the thin viscosity at cold starts, and the thick viscosity in high temperatures, and the long-change-interval oil spec all couldn't hurt. But maybe I'm outsmarting myself.
The manufacturers that are offering long service intervals - it is mainly marketing driven. While there have been improvements in the last decade or so to oils and engines, do you really think the typical $20,000-$30,000 car has improved so much that they can increase intervals 50-100%? One year they had 6 month intervals, suddenly it became 12 months. If your engine suffers enough wear long term to need major repairs at 100,000 - 150,000 miles partly because you ran the oil longer (to manufacturer servicing requirements) - who really wins? The car manufacturer sells more cars and/or parts! Change the oil based on condition - if that means closer to the "old" recommendation of 6000 miles like the Subaru, so be it.
The Subaru engine was designed for a 30 weight oil, a thicker 40 weight oil could damage it by not lubricating all the little tight areas because it is too thick. I would not risk that, a 40 weight would only be useful for higher temps/harder driving then normal. Follow the change interval of the manufacture or general oil, don't go with what other manufactures do with your car. If you want to try a better oil, go with a Full Group 4 synthetic in 0W 30, German Castrol 0W 30 is a good real Group 4 full synthetic and going with a lower number on the "winter" side is normally safe.
I lease a 2018 Accord EX-L with the 2 L turbo and 10 speed. It may not look as dashing as the TLX, but it is significantly faster 0-60 (Car and Driver clocked my car at 0-60 in 5.4 seconds after 40 K miles) and even beat the TLX on the Car & Driver skidpad... despite the double wishbone suspension on the TLX. My EX-L also has blind spot detection (the 39.5k sticker priced base TLX doesn't) and uses regular gas where the 2 L on the TLX has a recommendation for premium gas. In terms of value the Honda outweighs the heavier TLX. Bigger trunk, by a lot. Bigger rear seat, by a lot. Faster, slightly better handling, somewhat better mileage, and quite luxurious for a family sedan. Finally, the ergonomics on the 2018 and newer Honda Accord are better than the TLX, and much simpler.
The TLX "Lacks Pizzaz" much like yourselves! Dry and boring and covering your butts on the oil thing. You didn't answer the question... "follow you manufacturers recommendations".... No need for your "expert opinions" Boy, has Consumer Reports lost it's luster! Just recommend the Prius and be done with automotive insights. The Acura is a beautiful car and will out last either of those BMW's you compare it to... $10,000 dollars less maintenance expense too.
About the oil... Is it OK/good to change only when the car says to change it? And is it possible that the smokey conditions in the west have adversely affected the motor oil?
The TLX has gotten lukewarm reviews and it's pissing off all the Honda/Acura fanboys. Like most car manufactures SUV are there bread and butter and they simply don't put much effort into there sedans. Theres nothing special about the new TLX in Aspec and basic trim. Maybe the S will change that, but we will have to wait and see
The gauges being lighted-all the time are contributing to the problem, but the source is people are not paying attention to their own vehicles and surroundings. You're supposed to know your car before you drive it; not checking to see that your lights are on is just negligent and irresponsible.
Realize sedans are going the way of the dinosaur, but living in New England, looking forward to the 'surviving' sedans becoming AWD as we really need it in this area.
Acura has lacked audience targeting for awhile now. The new TLX sounds like is missing the mark again. You want a performance car? Look elsewhere - even the Kia Stinger. Want a luxury car? Look elsewhere - perhaps Lexus ES or IS. The Acura does nothing particularly well and won't offend anyone except for the track pad. I don't expect it to sell well, just like the last version didn't. On tires - all weather are great. In Connecticut, living on a mountain, we can climb our mountain going home with Goodyear WeatherReady tires in our Subaru with AWD. All weather tires are great, even the ones that are not the best according to CR (that goes to Michelin Crossclimate+ which cost about $40 more a tire). GM cars the DRL (Daytime Running Lights) automatically turn off and the headlights turn on so forgetting to turn on your headlights in their cars should not happen.
Everything said here about Acura and their new TLX seems to be un true. How can you expect the new TLX to be just like the previous model?? This car is meant meet its mark and it has. More than ever before, Acura is getting their attention and doing the right thing.
And while I have to buy small items made in China due to no other options, I certainly wouldn't buy a car from a company owned in China. There are too many other options.
I think they did a good job on the TLX, I was hoping they did a great job. Acura needs to stop putting their cars up against the Germans, if they can't deliver 100%.
My Kia Forte LXS (keep in mind close to base model) has headlights that are automatic lights as standard and they even go on if my wipers are on for a about a minute, you would think it was standard right? I just think they shouldn’t have an off option bc so many turn their automatic lights off for some reason. My friends Nissan Rouge same year doesn’t, you have to turn it on yourself so really interesting
That’s because Kia and Hyundai’s are selling you a value proposition vs other competitors in their category they will always give you more tech than Toyota and Honda. How about comparing the Acura to a Lexus and other Germans than you will probably be saying omg 50k for a German sedan that has a base package.
@@JeffSpehar-ov1cn Baloney. The Accord is the best all around family sedan in the U.S. It's more fun to drive than any Camry, and most auto mags OTHER than stodgy CR rate it as the best. Closest to it is the very lovely Mazda 6.
Mechanics are the wrong people to ask oil questions to. You should be asking engine rebuilders these questions. They are the ones to have first hand experience with different oils and additives etc when it comes to benefits and negatives .
10:28 🙏🏽 FINALLY!! I've been saying for years they need a RWD , That's the only thing that kept me from buying a TLX, if Ford can make the explorer RWD again I don't know why Acura can't do it
Change your synthetic oil every 5000 miles or once per year with a good oil filter. Regular oil change every 3000 miles. Dealers say longer to wear out your motor so you will buy a new car. And the no change trans oil, should be changed about every 30,000 miles.
HATE the front logo. It's 2014 Genesis lame. No Remote start. Huge key fob. Accord even has remote start. No panoramic. Rims are blah. Tail lights should have been like concept. Too round now. The Accord is a full second faster 0-60. Overall nice, expect to see them on sale for $27,000 in 2 years with 20k miles.
11:54 Exciting?????!!!! Pizazz??!!!! Boring???!!!! What the heck does that crap even mean. This is one reason why I am cancelling my subscription. I come here for objectivity. Not to hear a litany of useless adjectives.
fu*k rwd... no one is going to drive there standard 2 liter turbo TLX around a racetrack if you live in a place where it snows rear wheel drive is absolute worst front wheel drive or all-wheel drive for the win Acura thought about people who actually live in snow and don't want to spend a lot more money to get all wheel drive....
RWD is the worst. Anyone who lives where snow falls would much prefer a FWD or AWD car. In other words, not all of us drive a TLX around a race track. I think Acura nailed the new TLX!
You say it like it can't be RWD and AWD. thats why tlx is behind the pack even voring toyota offers rwd in lexus IS/GS
@@JDMHaze The IS is for little people only as its tight as a clams azz inside and the GS is no longer in production!
these people at CR are NOT auto enthusiasts. Far from it. A foam cube with 4 run flat tires and a 40hp 2 cyl engine are more to their liking. it's called playing "pretend". Not sure why they even compart the TLX to a BMW... definitely out of step for the Prius huggers!
Maybe you should try reading the Acura manual about the TrueTouch trackpad...you simply touch the pad where you want to select on the screen, no having to move your fingers around to find your spot! It's much faster and accurate to select items than the Lexus.
If it had a German badge they would be signing a different tune!
Yes
Biggest reason why so many drive at night without turning their headlights on is because dashboards and gauges nowadays are mostly illuminated all the time, giving you the false impression your headlights are on too. In the past, the dash and gauges only lit up when you turned on your parklights or headlights.
deekay2 bingo
plus the drls are all going led and are very bright at night. when you are parked. they really light up the area and make you think your lights are on.
I think the new Acura tlx fits perfect in the segment. Overall it gives you alot for it prices.. you want a faster and better handling version than wait for the type s.. i disagree with their comments completely
no, It's a decent car, but I think Acura is just being pure lazy, the bastardized push button bop it extreme shifter Needs to go, the lack of RWD is Non-competitive, but then again Audi does it too... And the interior doesn't look that much better than the last one, car is half the price have a much better interior layout
I never got the rear wheel drive lovers , in summer they can be fun but by me it snows and stuff and rwd is freaking horrible , I always loved fwd cars for bad weather , currently driving 2021 acura tlx sh-awd and had to drive through a blizzard , it drove great and guess what ? I was passing by a bunch of rwd cars , high end ones... and ppl were getting stuck, sliding all over the highway etc , so you guys can keep your rwd stuff 😂
In my opinion, the new Acura TLX does look promising compare to the previous generation. But for the price, I would rather get a fully loaded Honda Accord 2.0T instead.
I’ve owned a 2019 Accord EX-L 2.0T for a year now and have been very pleased with it; especially it’s maneuverability and acceleration. I can’t see spending nearly $10,000 more for the TLX. By the way, the 2.0 T’s push button shifter took me about 5 minutes to get used to.
Unfortunately that really isn't saying much. The new TLX just has too many poor design choices and only really caught up to models that are already a few years old. I love Acura and hate to see that they still aren't putting in full effort.
Sorry but that's basically when you can't afford the extra that you will get with the Acura TLX.
@@Whatitup How on earth does the all new 2021 TLX look a few years old to you?? Look at every latest model from Acura, how would anyone say they "aren't still putting in full effort". Great of them they don't make their cars look overcomplicated like the other brands do. Acura has the most best looking models.
Electronic or constant backlit gauges are one of the biggest reasons people think their headlights are on. The lit up dash fools them.
Yes, I think this may be the biggest culprit.
Some cars nowadays have auto on/off headlights
My therory on the subject of headlights not being on at night is that so many cars now have their dash lights illuminated all the time. Back in the day, dash light did not come in untill the headlights were on. If a driver couln't read the speedometer, they knew they needed their lights on. I think a good safety ferature they should put in cars in a system to alert the driver that the lights are not on when it's dark out.
All cars shpould have automatic headlights in 2020.
@@rightlanehog3151 agreed! But even automatic headlights can be turned off.
No, its because millennials are stupid.
It took me one one day to learn how to use the touch pad it was easy to use.... the power is perfect for what the car the shawd does work better then the 2018 TLX I had .... the transmission is way better then the 9 speed on the 2018 TLX
One of the best features of both Volvos I have owned - the default setting is that the headlights are always on. Both my Audi A3 and Ford Explorer had automatic headlights, which I also liked.
There are also those that will not let the car decide whether the headlights are on or off. They like to override the system and manually control them. And..they drive in the dark with their lights off. Both the GM and FCA vehicles I've owned have done well and there is no reason to move the switch off AUTO.
Don't listen to these guys. Just got my 2021 Acura TLX A spec. 65 year old man who loves this car. And if you can't use the touch pad you've got the problem, not the car. This car is AWESOME
It's a typical Honda made junk nowadays.
Wait until the quality problems raise their head. You'll be at thr dealerships sucking down their coffee like a drug addict.
Enjoy
@@normt430 Whos says its gonna have quality problems?? Its a new car + MADE BY ACURA, that's why in fact its never even gonna have quality problems.
For the oil change time interval, don't go over a year. Synthetic or regular. For the real bias awd, try a Genesis G70
Three months and 2,800 miles into my new 2024 TLX Type S, I am thoroughly delighted with the car. Searched for "tlx" on this channel out of curiosity, as I generally appreciate CR's auto testing methodology.
In this case, I think CR dropped the ball... particularly when it comes to the True Touchpad Interface. The learning curve is about one week, and I like the Acura's system much better the interface in our Volvo, which relies on a touchscreen for everything including HVAC and seat heating.
We're all used to our phones and tablets, so perhaps we instinctively want the same interface in our cars... but that doesn't make automotive touchscreens a good idea! A touchscreen requires the driver to refocus from the road ahead to the screen a foot or two away, and then to maneuver a finger to touch a small icon; not always all that easy in a moving car. This is often followed by the need to swipe or poke along a virtual "slider" to make an adjustment. Precious seconds are spent with the driver's attention devoted to that touchscreen. It's an inherently distracting system for someone whose top priority is (or should be) to maintain situational awareness of what's happening ahead and around the vehicle.
Please note that Acura uses clearly labeled good-old-fashioned buttons for all HVAC and seat heating/cooling controls. That's increasingly rare, because it's cheaper for manufacturers to throw all controls on the touchscreen... Tesla being the most extreme example.
As far as Acura's touchpad system goes, once you've programmed your radio presets, adjusted the vehicle and sound settings to your liking and configured the "home" screen, you rarely need to use it while driving. Start the car, switch to Android Auto or Apple Car Play (both wireless for '24), bring up Waze for those all-important police warnings, and you're good to go. The audio and navigation systems are fully controllable from the steering wheel or by voice. With the screen positioned back toward the windshield, it's in my line of sight so I don't need to look away or refocus from the road ahead. It also supports my clean-car obsession by remaining blissfully devoid of finger-smudges.
Alas, for 2025 Acura has thrown in the towel -- at least with their top-selling MDX -- bringing the screen forward and making it touch sensitive. Not sure whether the TLX will follow suit. If given a choice between two otherwise identical TLXs, I would absolutely choose the touchpad version every time.
When i use to take in my new car to the dealership for oil changes. Every single time i took it in. They would turn off the auto headlights for when they took it into the shop. They never turned it back on when i received the car back. I think this is very common for a lot of consumers.
It's common for everybody They've done that to literally every vehicle I have ever owned
Timestamps for topics would be nice.
They've been putting bookmarks for every topic in the descriptions for years...but nobody bothers to actually hit "show more" and read them. Maybe they decided to just not bother with them or the new kind in the slider anymore.
They're in the description now, thanks for the catch!
Pauline Weinberger thats what this was lol
Speaking of DRLs, I recently took my 2018 Focus in for its 30000 mile service. It was a rainy day and I didn't notice the mechanic had turned off my headlights. I usually have the switch set to auto, which automatically turns on my headlights at night. The reason I didn't notice the change is because setting the headlight switch to off enabled the DRLs. Which don't work at night. They also don't work when the switch is set to auto. I had driven this car for three years and didn't even know it came with DRLs. This is a pretty stupid design as far as I'm concerned and it has me wondering if it works that way with all Ford vehicles.
Really appreciate you guys taking the time to do an actual mini-lesson. It's nice to learn these things as someone without a mechanical background
Everyone got their own opinion. Just go test drive the car yourself. If you like it, buy it, and if you don't don't buy it. I test drove it, and I like it and I already placed my order to buy it, because I like it and it's my money that's buying it.
What a great attitude: "I don't care if someone more knowledgeable than I am can help inform my opinion; I'm not interested in learning anything additional or new or what I might not have thought of from anyone, because I already know everything". I hope you're not a scientist.
@@Mr21scott It still comes down to his personal choice. That's why there are hundreds of models, not just one. He likes it, he bought it.
Apparently his likes outweigh their dislikes.
I don't know what you people are thinking! KBB, Edmunds, and virtually every TLX review on youtube rates this car an absolute winner. Styling, technology, materials, fit and finish, features, performance and handling have all been given rave reviews. Yeah, maybe the BMW is a bit better in handling performance, but the TLX undercuts a new 540i X by $25K. Maybe you should all go back to reviewing garbage disposals?
Another reason they forgot to mention about people driving at night with DRL's is most newer cars have a lighted gauge cluster. In the olden days you could tell your headlights were not on because you could not see the gauges. Today I see people all the time with only their DRL's on at night and the bright gauge light because its on the day intensity setting.
You are correct. Why don't all cars in 2020 come with automatic headlights? My 2005 Vibe has them and that was a cheap car 15 years ago.
Looking forward to the Type S, disappointed in CR's first impressions of the TLX, it seems it's just a better set of tires away from greatness based on other reviews.
Consumer reports is anti Honda/Acura in their recent reviews
Why depend on someone else’s opinion on what the car feels or drives like aren’t you the one driving it.
CR never rates Acura products fairly to what I've seen aside from the center touchpad thing.
I don't understand how "there's nothing that wows you when you drive a 2021 TLX" or that "its boring and nothing exiting". They literally rated this car like a Toyota Camery. Its the all new TLX, the most sportiest, best handling, and fun sedan to ever drive. I think they just haven't rated or tested this car properly.
before watching - really looking forward to what you think of the new TLX. I have a bit of a soft spot for this kind of Acura.
I'm pretty sure that track pad could work with with just two changes
1.) a more instant response.
2.) adding indentations that correspond to tiles on the screen, or a texture that lets you know exactly where your finger is when you put it down.
a third change that would help would be for only pieces of the trackpad to move when you press down, and not the whole thing. to my finger it has the feel of trying to flatten a large exercise ball with a 4x8 sheet of plywood by standing balancing the plywood on the exercise ball. Yes you can do it, but I wouldn't recommend doing it. like seriously, don't do that.
@@roguedogx 4.) Just admit the trackpad is stupid and make it a touchscreen. You know, like virtually every phone that every human being owns and knows how to use already.
I am not sure Aaron's question was fully answered. So if a car is only being driven 3000 miles or less a year, how much time between synthetic oil changes is acceptable?
They just said, read the manual.
They pretty much did. If your car is under warranty, follow the owner manual’s service intervals.
As of right now, most vehicle and engine oil manufacturers recommend changing your engine oil and filter once a year, regardless how little miles you drive.
I think people who can't tell the difference between the DRLs and actual headlights should not be driving. At the very least its as common as remembering to use a switch to signal your lane change so you should be able to remember to use your switch for your headlights when it starts getting dark
there is a big difference in ambient light levels in various kinds of areas. In my mostly urban driving, I hardly notice what effect my headlights are having, for weeks and months at a time. (but yes, I think it's important to have a perfect record about remembering to turn on headlights, and yes I do as far as I know)
WOW.. these people sound wAY too old to be giving car reviews lol They obviously didn't give this car a chance. As far as the track pad, it's pretty easy to operate and to get used to. And it's no where NEAR the not so good one on the Lexus.Also, there's no need for Acura to do the same as other manufacturers are doing as far as making the car RWD instead of the FWD and AWD offered. It's like what the hell are you talking about (eyes rolling)
You can actually personalized your comfort settings instead of choosing one of theirs it’s in the menu. Also you say you don’t like predial settings on this tlx well don’t all manufacturers have predial settings so that was nick picking imo.
15:30 I don't think the reason is the DRL. I think it's the self-illuminating instrument panel. In older cars when you get into the seat, turn on the ignition and cannot see any thing in the dials because it's too dark, you naturally reach for the light switch. In newer cars everything is self-illuminating. The driver never feels the need to turn on any light especially in the city where the streets are well lit.
I agree with you but there is simply no excuse for manufacturers to delete automatic headlights in 2020. I have them on my 2005 Pontiac Vibe!!!
Walmart had their own synthetic though, it's made by warren distribution. Which a lot have liked and it's only about 14 dollars for 5q. That's about as cheap as they get. Also "Rural King" has one also for about the same price. It you happen to have one near by. I've used Mag1 oil and liked it. (Which is also made my warren Distribution.). I will definitely buy it When I need oil again.
The cheapest I saw for the new tlx is $42,500 base price so I would love to know where they are $33k
With the Type-S pushing $50,000 who else besides Honda fanboys would buy this?!
$33,500 is what the 2020 TLX started at. This is the 2021 model. A big price jump.
@@normt430 You mean Acura fanboys. Honda fanboys would probably want a Type R. The $50,000 Type-S is gonna be a car anyone would love. Its just a fair price for such a car.
Nokian makes some brand new just released all-seasons that are supposed to work very well in the winter.
Another great show!
I believe the Camry comes with AWD.
not standard and it's only for the crap 4cyl motor
loved that response, ryan.
What's the difference in cost for maintenance on an EV vs a conventional car
Ryan has a 'Mobil 1' baseball cap in the background. I hope the next time he discusses motor oil he has upgraded his cap to #Amsoil Signature Series which is simply the best oil on the market.
Gabe, at 21:54 you start listing the luxury cars that are RWD/AWD. Don't forget the Kia Stinger. And to keep your 16 year-old safe, probably go for the 4 cylinder version, although you'd likely much prefer the twin turbo V6 :-)
Much like the Acura featured in the segment, I dislike car companies that overcomplicate things just to stand out or be unique. It's overcomplicating things just to overcomplicate them.
Thanks for the info on the Tlx
I love Ryan's smile/smirk
Mike the Ford Explorer is a rear wheel drive based all wheel drive system.
Using my cousin as an example, the issue with many older drivers after driving at night is that they turn off their automatic headlights after parking. I’m always having to turn her headlights back to auto for her, cause both her and her husband turn it all the way off.
Completely wrong on the price! Nowhere near $33k! The 2021 Acura TLX starts at $37,500
they must be smoking crack....
I looked at a base TLX on the lot and the sticker with all fees was 39.5k. My Accord EX-L with the 2.0 and 10 speed, as well as navi and blind spot detection not on the base TLX, stickered at 33.8k. As per my comment above, the Accord is faster, much bigger trunk, much bigger rear seat, beat the TLX on the Car & Driver skidpad .89 to .87, and uses regular gas. Premium is recommended for the slower (much heavier) TLX. The TLX looks snazzier and has the double wishbone suspension not on Accords as well as a 5 link rear, yet is slightly outhandled by the Accord. C & D clocked my version of the Accord at 0-60 in 5.4sec after 40k miles. Thought I was going to starve over the TLX. Not so much after viewing and reading multiple reviews and checking out a value comparison. The TLX is a better value going up against its BMW and Audi rivals, but not against the high end Accord.
I would take the Accord or Legacy if you need AWD instead of a almost 50k TLX which by the way has no room in the back seat which was not mentioned. I doubt this car will sell that much and any takers will go for the super expensive twin turbo six that is comming this spring
This should be titled '3 morons do a car review", they really have no clue!
Butt hurt Honda (Acura) review.
acura fan eh
Funny. Your comment has the most thumbs up. It's true.
The Chrysler 300 all wheel drive and the Dodge Charger and Challenger all wheel drive models function as a rear wheel drive car most of the time.
Gabe buddy! What were you thinking then? So you want Honda / Acura to develop a RWD platform sedan? Even though you and I think that's cool the reality is such a car wouldn't address future needs and regulations. Putting all that R&D into a RWD platform for a sports sedan is a waste and also would not be financially feasible. Kia got rid of the Stinger and many other automakers have began the sedan exodus.
Im a little shocked how much people dont have a good impression on the tlx
A lot of people just don't understand how to view great cars. Its sucks to see this but looks like some people enjoy being unfair towards new and nice cars because of how amazing these vehicles are.
I own 2 cars with an odd juxtaposition of oil requirements, when you would think they would be similar. My Audi 2.0T calls for a special-spec synthetic-only 0W-40 of which there is only one type of Mobil1 that meets it; my Subaru Forester XT 2.0T says several grades of Mobil1 5W-30 all are OK. However, Audi allows 10,000 mile changes and Subuar requires them at 6,000 miles. Perhaps the picky Audi/VW oil spec helps with the long interval. Just for kicks, I'm now trying the 0W-40 in the Subaru, figuring the thin viscosity at cold starts, and the thick viscosity in high temperatures, and the long-change-interval oil spec all couldn't hurt. But maybe I'm outsmarting myself.
I suggest you research Amsoil Signature Series oil.
The manufacturers that are offering long service intervals - it is mainly marketing driven. While there have been improvements in the last decade or so to oils and engines, do you really think the typical $20,000-$30,000 car has improved so much that they can increase intervals 50-100%? One year they had 6 month intervals, suddenly it became 12 months. If your engine suffers enough wear long term to need major repairs at 100,000 - 150,000 miles partly because you ran the oil longer (to manufacturer servicing requirements) - who really wins? The car manufacturer sells more cars and/or parts!
Change the oil based on condition - if that means closer to the "old" recommendation of 6000 miles like the Subaru, so be it.
The Subaru engine was designed for a 30 weight oil, a thicker 40 weight oil could damage it by not lubricating all the little tight areas because it is too thick. I would not risk that, a 40 weight would only be useful for higher temps/harder driving then normal. Follow the change interval of the manufacture or general oil, don't go with what other manufactures do with your car. If you want to try a better oil, go with a Full Group 4 synthetic in 0W 30, German Castrol 0W 30 is a good real Group 4 full synthetic and going with a lower number on the "winter" side is normally safe.
I think the issue with lights is the new cars instrument cluster lights up even if the headlights are off
That's not the the symbol for DRLs, that's the symbol for the car's sidelights, which turns on the taillights as well.
I lease a 2018 Accord EX-L with the 2 L turbo and 10 speed. It may not look as dashing as the TLX, but it is significantly faster 0-60 (Car and Driver clocked my car at 0-60 in 5.4 seconds after 40 K miles) and even beat the TLX on the Car & Driver skidpad... despite the double wishbone suspension on the TLX. My EX-L also has blind spot detection (the 39.5k sticker priced base TLX doesn't) and uses regular gas where the 2 L on the TLX has a recommendation for premium gas. In terms of value the Honda outweighs the heavier TLX. Bigger trunk, by a lot. Bigger rear seat, by a lot. Faster, slightly better handling, somewhat better mileage, and quite luxurious for a family sedan. Finally, the ergonomics on the 2018 and newer Honda Accord are better than the TLX, and much simpler.
Acura interiors are by far better, the sound systems, and infotainment! it’s on a different level than the Accord.
Only HMC has an Acura slower than Honda.
i noticed the that people don't have there headlights and the back lights are off
Daytime running lights. Those should include taillights.
What’s the number 1 most important fluid’s for a vehicle’s longevity if engine oil is number 2?
2:05 I heard him say "single most", not "second most".
lmaooo ikr. maybe antifreeze lol
The TLX "Lacks Pizzaz" much like yourselves! Dry and boring and covering your butts on the oil thing. You didn't answer the question... "follow you manufacturers recommendations".... No need for your "expert opinions" Boy, has Consumer Reports lost it's luster! Just recommend the Prius and be done with automotive insights. The Acura is a beautiful car and will out last either of those BMW's you compare it to... $10,000 dollars less maintenance expense too.
About the oil... Is it OK/good to change only when the car says to change it? And is it possible that the smokey conditions in the west have adversely affected the motor oil?
The TLX has gotten lukewarm reviews and it's pissing off all the Honda/Acura fanboys. Like most car manufactures SUV are there bread and butter and they simply don't put much effort into there sedans. Theres nothing special about the new TLX in Aspec and basic trim. Maybe the S will change that, but we will have to wait and see
The gauges being lighted-all the time are contributing to the problem, but the source is people are not paying attention to their own vehicles and surroundings. You're supposed to know your car before you drive it; not checking to see that your lights are on is just negligent and irresponsible.
If your car is under manufacturer warranty, follow their maintenance intervals. It is not worth the saving, and hassle if something goes wrong.
Yeah that should be common sense, and honestly I change my oil before the intervals, there's a saying
"oil is cheap engines are not"
How did she get the specs on the type S?? They haven’t released that yet!!
Ryan’s room - notice the Mobil 1 hat? Is that deliberate product placement? LOL
I saw that immediately and have advised him to get an Amsoil Signature Series cap to replace it.
Realize sedans are going the way of the dinosaur, but living in New England, looking forward to the 'surviving' sedans becoming AWD as we really need it in this area.
I’ll keep my KIA Stinger GT2.
Acura has lacked audience targeting for awhile now. The new TLX sounds like is missing the mark again. You want a performance car? Look elsewhere - even the Kia Stinger. Want a luxury car? Look elsewhere - perhaps Lexus ES or IS. The Acura does nothing particularly well and won't offend anyone except for the track pad. I don't expect it to sell well, just like the last version didn't. On tires - all weather are great. In Connecticut, living on a mountain, we can climb our mountain going home with Goodyear WeatherReady tires in our Subaru with AWD. All weather tires are great, even the ones that are not the best according to CR (that goes to Michelin Crossclimate+ which cost about $40 more a tire). GM cars the DRL (Daytime Running Lights) automatically turn off and the headlights turn on so forgetting to turn on your headlights in their cars should not happen.
Everything said here about Acura and their new TLX seems to be un true. How can you expect the new TLX to be just like the previous model?? This car is meant meet its mark and it has. More than ever before, Acura is getting their attention and doing the right thing.
Interesting. Between The Straight Pipes and now CR, Acura might need to do some more tuning for the TLX.
Honda doesn't care. They still sell the RDX in relatively big numbers and that car needs work too.
Thanks for this, heavily debating between an Acura 2021 TLX, and a Volvo S60 for my next car.
I’d be careful on getting an S60, their resale is horrible.
If you want something that last long, go for the TLX
@@Jacobk66 Reliability on the Acura is horrible.
And while I have to buy small items made in China due to no other options, I certainly wouldn't buy a car from a company owned in China. There are too many other options.
Volvo's have too many issues, too unreliable, poor resale value.
I think they did a good job on the TLX, I was hoping they did a great job. Acura needs to stop putting their cars up against the Germans, if they can't deliver 100%.
Bingo. It's just competitive now to models that are already a few years old. They need to go above and beyond to win people back to the brand.
CR rocks! Thanks for the information!
This tripped me out. It felt like my grandma was lecturing me about cars.
My Kia Forte LXS (keep in mind close to base model) has headlights that are automatic lights as standard and they even go on if my wipers are on for a about a minute, you would think it was standard right? I just think they shouldn’t have an off option bc so many turn their automatic lights off for some reason. My friends Nissan Rouge same year doesn’t, you have to turn it on yourself so really interesting
That’s because Kia and Hyundai’s are selling you a value proposition vs other competitors in their category they will always give you more tech than Toyota and Honda. How about comparing the Acura to a Lexus and other Germans than you will probably be saying omg 50k for a German sedan that has a base package.
Where are the show notes that you usually add in the description???
Added! Thank you for letting us know!
@@consumerreports thank you for adding them! Please always add them as they are very helpful :)
A big fan of talking cars.
The new TLX is way to heavy for this class based on other reviews this car is not even close to the accord 2.0t in straight line performance.
And the Accord is a piece of junk.
@@JeffSpehar-ov1cn Baloney. The Accord is the best all around family sedan in the U.S. It's more fun to drive than any Camry, and most auto mags OTHER than stodgy CR rate it as the best. Closest to it is the very lovely Mazda 6.
Aaaaaaaaaaaaah I don't like
Acura' ....
Mmmmmmmm I don't like the track pad....
Mechanics are the wrong people to ask oil questions to. You should be asking engine rebuilders these questions. They are the ones to have first hand experience with different oils and additives etc when it comes to benefits and negatives .
10:28 🙏🏽 FINALLY!! I've been saying for years they need a RWD , That's the only thing that kept me from buying a TLX, if Ford can make the explorer RWD again I don't know why Acura can't do it
Great info and knowledgeable panel 👍🏽
Change your synthetic oil every 5000 miles or once per year with a good oil filter. Regular oil change every 3000 miles. Dealers say longer to wear out your motor so you will buy a new car. And the no change trans oil, should be changed about every 30,000 miles.
HATE the front logo. It's 2014 Genesis lame.
No Remote start. Huge key fob. Accord even has remote start.
No panoramic.
Rims are blah.
Tail lights should have been like concept. Too round now.
The Accord is a full second faster 0-60.
Overall nice, expect to see them on sale for $27,000 in 2 years with 20k miles.
boring?? naw
These guys HATE ACURA😂
11:54 Exciting?????!!!! Pizazz??!!!! Boring???!!!! What the heck does that crap even mean. This is one reason why I am cancelling my subscription. I come here for objectivity. Not to hear a litany of useless adjectives.
fu*k rwd... no one is going to drive there standard 2 liter turbo TLX around a racetrack if you live in a place where it snows rear wheel drive is absolute worst front wheel drive or all-wheel drive for the win Acura thought about people who actually live in snow and don't want to spend a lot more money to get all wheel drive....
Ryan is very handsome.
Please get a coach for public speaking. The um, ah and uh are unnecessary. The use of these words make you all look unprofessional.
Gabe has to be one of the worst on the channel. I've never understood how adults can't put a sentence together.
First