21 MPG combined is what you get with the 2021 Acura TLX Type-S. This isn’t just an economy car; it’s a sport sedan that prioritizes performance over ultimate gas mileage. Most TLX Type-S buyers want a rewarding driving experience and unique styling. They know the supercharged V6 and Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system use more fuel.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the TLX Type-S gets 19 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure shows how stop-and-go driving, with idling and acceleration, decreases fuel efficiency. The TLX Type-S does better on the open highway, maintaining efficient engine speeds and achieving a more respectable 25 MPG with its 10-speed automatic transmission. This shows the trade-off in performance vehicles: great acceleration and handling use more fuel.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Acura TLX Type-S at $2,750. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year with average national fuel prices. Actual fuel costs can change based on driving habits, city vs. highway driving, and local fuel prices. Premium fuel is recommended for the TLX Type-S to get maximum performance, and it’s usually more expensive than regular gas. This annual cost is important for drivers with high mileage.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a standard, but real-world fuel economy can differ. Aggressive driving, frequent use of Sport+ mode, and long idling periods reduce MPGs. Careful driving, like smooth acceleration and steady highway speeds, can help you get closer to, or even better than, the EPA estimates. The TLX Type-S encourages fast driving, so discipline is needed if fuel economy is a concern. You can see TLX MPG across all years and user reports on our website.

How it compares

The Acura TLX Type-S competes with other sport sedans. The BMW M340i xDrive, for example, gets a combined EPA rating of 25 MPG with its turbocharged inline-six. The Audi S4, with its turbocharged V6, gets 24 MPG combined. The Cadillac CT5-V gets 20 MPG combined. The TLX Type-S is similar to its rivals in fuel economy. The slightly lower MPG is balanced by Acura’s unique driving experience, styling, and brand reliability. You can find all Acura fuel economy data on our site if you’re interested.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the TLX Type-S’s drive modes. Sport and Sport+ modes improve throttle response and shift patterns for maximum performance, while Comfort and Normal modes prioritize fuel efficiency. Select Comfort or Normal when you don’t need performance driving, like during commutes or highway driving.

Check your tire pressure. The TLX Type-S has low-profile tires that are sensitive to pressure changes. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check and keep the recommended tire pressure to improve efficiency and handling.

Avoid idling. Modern engines don’t need long warm-up periods. Idling wastes fuel without covering any distance. Turn off the engine if you’ll be stopped for more than a minute to save fuel. Also, avoid idling while using accessories like the radio or climate control for long.

Drive smoothly and consistently. Avoid quick acceleration and hard braking, which use more fuel. Keep a steady speed on the highway and watch traffic to reduce speed changes. Cruise control on long highway stretches can help stabilize your speed and fuel consumption.

Consider the weight you’re carrying. Extra weight in the car increases the engine’s workload and fuel use. Remove unnecessary items from the trunk and passenger area to lighten the load and improve gas mileage. A lighter car is more efficient.