2015 Acura TLX Revealed With 8 or 9-Speeds

Completing Acura’s sedan lineup and continuing its new technology push, the all-new TLX model has been revealed today at the Detroit Auto Show with the choice of either an eight-speed or nine-speed automatic transmission.

While technically a concept, true to tradition the car is a thinly veiled version of the production model.

Replacing both the TL and TSX the TLX is 3.8 inches shorter than the current TL but mirrors that car’s 109.3-inch wheelbase. As a result, it fits right into the middle of the ILX and RLX in the brand’s three-car sedan lineup.

The big news, however, is what’s under the hood. Surprisingly it’s not the engines but two all-new transmissions. Rather than the six-speed automatic or even the new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, Acura will offer either an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission or nine-speed automatic.

The TLX will also be available with two engines and with either front- or all-wheel drive. A new direct-injection 2.4-liter four-cylinder that Acura promises is “significantly lighter” than the brand’s previous 2.4L will come mated to the eight-speed DCT, while a 3.5-liter V6 gains the new nine-speed automatic.

Both engines will be offered in a front-wheel drive package with Acura’s Precision All-Wheel Steer (or P-AWS).

As for the all-wheel drive models, they will come exclusively with the V6 and nine-speed and the latest version of the brand’s SH-AWD system.

It isn’t surprising considering the multi-geared transmissions, but Acura is claiming fuel economy for the car will be class-leading.

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To maximize driver enjoyment, the TLX will come with another Acura first called the “Integrated Dynamics System.” The system will deliver four driving modes to better customize the drive: ECON, Normal, Sport and Sport Plus. Each drive mode will adjust the settings for the electric power steering, throttle response, SH-AWD and P-AWS control logic, transmission shift timing and the Active Noise Control setting.

A long list of safety and convenience features will be available including a collision mitigating braking system, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, a blind spot indicator and adaptive cruise control with a low-speed follow function.

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On display in Detroit the TLX Prototype is shod in a stunning Athletic Red Pearl paint and features Acura’s signature Jewel Eye LED headlights and big 20-inch wheels wrapped in wide 265/30ZR20 tires.

The TLX production model could debut as early at the Chicago Auto Show next month with an on-sale date for the 2015 model year car set to come later this year.