2015 Acura TLX is the new kid on the block. It replaces the Acura TSX and the TL. It’s a mid-size sports sedan that will have to compete against the likes of the Audi A4, BMW 3-Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and (in this case) Volvo S60.
The TLX is powered by Acura’s smooth 290 horsepower 3.5L V6 and delivers the power via the new 9-speed automatic transmission. Volvo S60 has a trick up its sleeve. It uses a 302 horsepower 2.0L super-turbo four cylinder. The supercharger is working at low rpm. Maximum torque of 295 lb-ft comes in at 2,100 rpm. The turbocharger takes over higher in the range. The result is smooth power delivery with no lag.
Acura’s trump card is the super handling SH-AWD. It uses torque vectoring to send the power the outside wheel(s) to bring the car through corners with authority.
| 2015 Acura TLX SH-AWD | 2015.5 Volvo S60 T6 FWD | |
| Engine | 3.5L V6 | 2.0 I4 |
| Power | 290 hp / 267 lb-ft | 302 hp / 295 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed Auto | 8-speed Auto |
| Drive | AWD | FWD |
| Highway range mi | 533.2 | 623.0 |
| EPA mpg | 21 / 31 | 24 / 35 |
| Passenger cu-ft | 107.6 | |
| Trunk cu-ft | 14.3 | 12.0 |
| Curb weight lbs | 3,774 | 3,472 |
| MSRP $ | $41,450 | $39,000 |
So, which car is quickest at one lap around IMI Motorsports park? And which is faster at 0-60 mph? Watch the video to find out.
Andre Smirnov is a life-long automotive enthusiast, writer, reporter, and software engineer. He has been a contributor at TFL since 2011.
