For the first time in more than a decade, Type S returns to Acura showrooms with the debut of the 2021 Acura TLX Type S, simply the best performing sedan in Acura history.
The new TLX Type S is powered by the Type S Turbo V6, a new Acura-exclusive 355-horsepower turbocharged 3.0-liter engine. It also features a specially tuned double-wishbone front and multilink rear suspension, Brembo® front brakes and new Sport+ driving mode for the Integrated Dynamics System.
Previously available on select models from the 2001-2008 model years, Acura's Type S performance brand is recognized by driving enthusiasts seeking a more dynamic driving experience with additional power, improved handling and stronger braking. The 2021 TLX Type S pushes this philosophy to new heights and will be followed by the first-ever Acura MDX Type S.
Previewed by the Type S Concept in 2019, Acura's engineers have created an emotional and exciting premium performance sedan without sacrificing the everyday usability and comfort of the critically acclaimed second-generation TLX.
The new Acura TLX Type S is about 25-percent quicker to 60 mph than the standard TLX with a 0-60 time around 5 seconds and has a significantly higher top speed, increasing from 130 mph to 155 mph (electronically limited). Braking performance is also improved and with standard SH-AWDÒ with torque vectoring, 20-inch wheels and available summer tires, it's the best performing Acura sedan ever.
TLX Type S is instantly recognizable by its open-surface Diamond Pentagon grille that improves engine cooling, quad exhaust outlets, a front splitter and rear diffuser. Its driver-focused interior features an NSX-inspired flat bottom steering wheel with the Type S logo, 16-way adjustable Milano leather seats with adjustable bolsters and Type S-embossed headrests.
Powertrain
At the heart of the 2021 Acura TLX Type S is the Type S Turbo V6, an all-new, 24-valve, DOHC 3.0-liter V6 engine with direct-injection and a single twin-scroll turbocharger. Exclusive to Type S models, the engine was developed by some of the company's most experienced powertrain engineers, including members of the team that developed the Civic Type R engine and the NSX's bespoke twin-turbocharged V6 hybrid power unit.
As a result, the engine benefits from multiple disciplines and learnings from the current 3.5-liter V6, the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and the NSX engine itself to produce 355 horsepower and 354 lb.-ft. of torque.
Reengineered to match the additional torque of the new engine, the 10-speed automatic transmission is now stronger and shifts more quickly. Also optimized for the performance demands of the Type S customer, the fourth generation of Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ with torque vectoring is standard.
Type S Turbo V6
An all-new, 24-valve, DOHC 3.0-liter with direct-injection and a single twin-scroll turbocharger developing up to 15.1 psi of boost, the Type S Turbo V6 features all-aluminum construction and compact dimensions. Its block is unique, sharing only bore spacing and a 60-degree architecture with the 3.5-liter V6 found in the MDX. Significant differences between the two include the 3.0-liter's 6-bolt sintered main caps for increased crank rigidity and durability, and a fully square 86 mm bore and stroke.
Numerous engineering steps were taken to ensure the new engine's compact size and low profile. This includes the placement of the turbocharger adjacent to the engine above the transmission and the use of low-profile cylinder heads. Fully assembled, the engine is 8 mm shorter than the naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6. The Type S Turbo V6 is also the same width as the 3.5-liter V6.
The newly developed twin-scroll turbo features independent internal paths for the rear and front cylinder banks to feed exhaust pressure to the turbine, which helps improve turbo response. The engine's rear bank of cylinders pressurize the smaller diameter scroll to rotate the smaller diameter part of the turbine, while the front bank feed the larger diameter scroll and turbine wheel. As a result, the engine's peak torque of 354 lb.-ft. is available starting from an exceptionally low 1,400 rpm.
To improve emissions, the turbo system's heat management has been optimized to quickly activate the catalytic converter. This includes the use of a double pipe from the exhaust manifolds to the turbo itself that includes external bellows to dissipate extra heat. The catalytic converter connects to the exhaust outlet of the turbo using a V-band, which further reduces heat mass entering the catalyst.
This is the first time this thermal management technology has been used in the Acura engine. To better manage overall engine temperatures an additional sub-radiator is employed and the open-surface Diamond Pentagon grille increases airflow to the engine compartment by 10 percent.
Design, Development and Manufacturing
Design, engineering and development of the 2021 Acura TLX Type S was conducted primarily in America, with styling led by Acura Design in Torrance, Calif., and full platform development led by engineers at Honda Development & Manufacturing of America, LLC, the company's development center in Raymond, Ohio. Engineering development of the new 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 was led by the company's R&D center in Tochigi, Japan.
The new Acura TLX Type S is manufactured exclusively at the company's Marysville, Ohio, plant using domestic and globally sourced parts, with the company's Anna, Ohio, engine plant serving as the exclusive global source for the 3.0-liter turbocharged engine. This same facility builds all Acura engines sold in North America including the twin-turbo V6 used in the NSX.
The 10-speed automatic transmission is manufactured at the company's Tallapoosa, Georgia, plant, and the SH-AWD® system's front power takeoff unit and rear differential is manufactured in the company's Russells Point, Ohio, plant.
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