The redesigned 2021 Acura TLX midsize luxury sedan will launch in the United States on September 28 with a starting MSRP of $37,500, excluding a $1,025 destination charge.

This makes the base 2021 TLX $1,300 more expensive than the outgoing 3.5-liter V6-powered TLX. That’s quite a big difference considering that the base 2021 TLX comes with a 272 HP 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine whereas the 2020 TLX V6 had 290 HP.

However, Acura argues that the new model’s 2.0-liter engine delivers 13 lb-ft (17.6 Nm) more peak torque for a total of 280 lb-ft (379 Nm). Furthermore, the turbo-four delivers even more torque at the low end of the rev range: +48 lb-ft (65 Nm) at 1,500 rpm.

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2021 Acura TLX with Advance Package

Obviously, there are other factors to consider, including the model-exclusive body structure and chassis architecture, standard 10-speed automatic transmission, sport-tuned chassis with double wishbone front suspension, NSX-derived electro-servo brake-by-wire technology, and major increases to technologies and premium amenities.

For example, the 2021 TLX 2.0T adds the latest iteration of Acura’s True Touchpad Interface with a 10.2-inch HD center display and the AcuraWatch suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies as standard. Included for 2021 are the Traffic Jam Assist and Traffic Sign Recognition systems, as well as the next-generation passenger front airbag designed to mitigate potential injury in more steeply angled frontal collisions.

2021 Acura TLX with A-Spec Package

The base 2021 Acura TLX 2.0T model can be combined with the Technology Package ($41,500), A-Spec Package ($44,250) and Advance Package ($46,300). The list of optional extras is headlined by the torque vectoring Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), available on all trims for an additional $2,000.

Other available features include the 17-speaker ELS STUDIO 3DÒ premium audio system, and intensity adjustable LED interior ambient lighting with up to 27 IconicDrive themes.

The lineup will expand next spring with the well-equipped TLX Type S performance model powered by the 355 HP 3.0-liter V6 Turbo engine and featuring standard Super Handling All-Wheel Drive. Pricing will be in the low to mid $50,000s.