The 2020 Acura TLX FWD A-SPEC 3.5L’s 23 MPG combined fuel economy won’t impress everyone, and likely isn’t the main reason to buy it. The TLX A-Spec, especially with the V6, offers character and a sportier driving experience compared to the average premium sedan. For buyers who prioritize those attributes, this fuel economy is an acceptable trade-off.

City and highway performance

According to EPA estimates, the 2020 TLX A-SPEC V6 FWD gets 20 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine’s increased workload in stop-and-go traffic. Highway cruising allows the engine to operate more efficiently. The 30 MPG highway number is respectable, showing the car’s potential on longer trips, but the city figure reveals it uses more fuel in urban driving.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Acura TLX A-SPEC V6 FWD at $2,500. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year with a mix of city and highway driving, and considers national average fuel prices. This gives prospective buyers a concrete dollar figure to consider, so they can weigh the cost of fuel against the benefits of the A-SPEC’s enhanced performance and styling. This is an EPA-estimated annual fuel cost, not a real-world guarantee.

Real-world expectations

EPA figures are a useful starting point, but real-world fuel economy varies considerably based on driving habits and conditions. Aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, and consistent use of the car’s sportier driving modes will decrease fuel efficiency from the EPA’s 23 MPG combined. A driver who prioritizes smooth acceleration, anticipates traffic flow, and uses cruise control on the highway may see figures closer to, or even slightly exceeding, the EPA estimates. Consider that TLX MPG across all years varies considerably according to engine and drivetrain choices.

How it compares

The 2020 Acura TLX A-SPEC V6 FWD’s fuel economy places it in a specific position among its competitors. The Lexus ES 350, a key rival also powered by a V6, achieves slightly better 26 MPG combined. The BMW 330i, with its turbocharged four-cylinder engine, boasts an EPA-estimated 28 MPG combined. These differences matter to buyers who are cross-shopping based on both fuel efficiency and driving experience. The TLX buyer sacrifices some fuel economy for the unique character of Acura’s V6 engine and the sharper handling of the A-SPEC trim. It’s a conscious decision.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 3.5L V6 in the TLX responds well to smooth acceleration, so avoid abrupt throttle inputs. Gentle acceleration and braking, especially after a cold start, will help the engine reach its operating temperature more quickly and reduce fuel consumption during this initial phase.

Pay attention to tire pressure. Maintaining the correct tire pressure (as indicated on the door jamb, not the tire itself) minimizes rolling resistance, which contributes directly to fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressures regularly, particularly with temperature changes.

Minimize idling. The 3.5L V6 consumes fuel even when the vehicle is stationary. If you anticipate a wait of more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Excessive idling, especially in urban environments, can noticeably reduce your overall fuel economy.

Plan your routes to avoid stop-and-go traffic whenever possible. The TLX’s automatic transmission, while smooth, is less efficient in constant stop-start scenarios. Choosing routes with fewer traffic lights and more consistent speeds will yield better efficiency.

Consider using the ‘Econ’ mode when maximum performance isn’t required. This mode adjusts throttle response and transmission shift points to prioritize fuel efficiency. It might slightly reduce the car’s responsiveness, but it can make a meaningful difference in fuel consumption, especially on longer commutes. Explore all Acura fuel economy data to contrast the TLX with other models.