23 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards, but it’s the price for entry into the Acura TLX FWD A-SPEC 3.5L 6-cyl club, a club populated by those who prioritize stylish design and a responsive V6 engine over outright fuel efficiency. This isn’t a car for hypermilers; it’s for those who value a balance of sporty character and everyday practicality. They accept the fuel cost in exchange for a rewarding driving experience.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 20 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway for the 2018 TLX A-SPEC with its 3.5L V6 and nine-speed automatic transmission. The city figure reflects the engine’s tendency to consume more fuel during stop-and-go traffic, while the highway figure showcases its ability to cruise efficiently at higher speeds. Acura’s transmission programming certainly helps; it’s geared for quicker acceleration around town and relaxed cruising on the open road. Many owners find the numbers accurate when they commit to a normal commute, and these are estimates formulated by the government based on laboratory testing. Your experience will vary depending on driving style and conditions, but it’s a good basis for comparison with competing vehicles.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Acura TLX FWD A-SPEC 3.5L 6-cyl to be $2,500. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price. This figure provides a standardized way to compare running costs with other vehicles. Keep in mind that real-world fuel prices fluctuate, as do driving habits. Someone who drives less than 15,000 miles or someone who drives aggressively with constant hard acceleration is likely to see a much different number at the end of the year.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized rating, real-world MPG can vary significantly based on several factors including driving style, traffic conditions, and even tire pressure. Aggressive acceleration and frequent braking will decrease fuel economy, while maintaining a steady speed and anticipating traffic will improve it. Owners who frequently use the paddle shifters and push the V6 engine hard will naturally see lower numbers than those who drive conservatively and let the automatic transmission do its work. The A-SPEC trim’s sportier tuning might also encourage more spirited driving, which can impact fuel consumption.

How it compares

The Acura TLX A-SPEC sits in a competitive segment, and its fuel economy figures need to be viewed in that context. For example, a similarly equipped Lexus ES 350, a traditional competitor, delivers around 22 MPG combined, a figure that’s close, but not identical. The BMW 330i, despite its turbocharged four-cylinder engine, often achieves slightly better numbers, typically in the range of 28 MPG combined. The more powerful Kia Stinger GT, with its twin-turbo V6, lags significantly behind, drinking fuel at a rate of around 20 MPG combined. The Acura buyer is typically willing to accept a slight hit in fuel economy compared to some competitors in exchange for the A-SPEC’s unique combination of style, performance, and Acura’s renowned reliability. You can review TLX MPG across all years for more context.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The TLX A-SPEC’s V6 is responsive, but punching the throttle frequently will quickly deplete your fuel tank. Practice smooth starts and stops to minimize fuel consumption. Try using the paddle shifters to upshift early and keep the engine in its most efficient rev range.

Maintain proper tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the pressure recommended on the tire placard, which is generally located on the driver’s side doorjamb. Consider using a portable tire inflator to make the process as simple and easy as possible.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Remove any unnecessary items from your car, as extra weight can decrease fuel economy. Heavy items in the trunk or back seat require the engine to exert more effort, which translates to increased fuel consumption. This might sound basic, but many drivers haul around equipment they really don’t need.

Use cruise control on the highway to help maintain a consistent speed and optimize fuel efficiency. This prevents unintentional acceleration and deceleration, which can waste gas and hurt your average MPG. While cruise control isn’t recommended for congested city streets, it can be a huge benefit to your highway fuel economy results.

Take advantage of Acura’s maintenance schedule and keep the engine properly tuned. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance can maintain optimal engine performance and maximize fuel efficiency. Don’t ignore warning lights related to engine or emissions systems, because they could indicate a problem that is harming your fuel mileage. Explore all Acura fuel economy data to inform your decisions.