The 2020 Acura TLX FWD A-SPEC 2.4L achieves 26 MPG combined. While not class-leading, fuel efficiency is not usually the main reason someone chooses this car. The TLX A-Spec, especially with the naturally aspirated 2.4-liter engine, is more for drivers seeking sporty looks, comfortable daily driving, and the reliable reputation of Acura. Fuel efficiency is appreciated, but secondary to the overall experience.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the TLX A-Spec at 23 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway. The city figure shows the effect of stop-and-go traffic, where the 2.4-liter engine and eight-speed automatic transmission work harder to maintain momentum. The highway MPG demonstrates the engine’s efficiency at a steady cruise, likely because the transmission selects an optimal gear for lower RPMs. The highway number suggests decent long-distance fuel economy, but frequent city driving will lower the overall average.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,250 for the 2020 Acura TLX A-Spec. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with about 55% of those miles in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that fuel prices change based on location and time of year. It’s a useful point of reference, but your actual fuel costs depend on your driving and location.

Real-world expectations

Do not expect to consistently match the EPA’s MPG figures in real-world driving. Quick acceleration, frequent short trips, and heavy traffic can all reduce fuel economy. However, with careful driving, you can get close to the EPA’s estimates. Owners who focus on fuel efficiency will adopt techniques like smooth acceleration, avoiding hard braking, and properly maintaining their vehicle where they’ll get the best results. You can also browse all TLX MPG across all years and read user reviews for more real-world experience.

How it compares

The TLX’s fuel economy is about average for the mid-size sedan segment. For example, a similar 2020 Lexus IS 300 RWD with its 2.0L turbo-4 achieves 21 MPG city and 31 MPG highway. The BMW 330i manages around 25 MPG city and 34 MPG highway. The TLX offers a great overall design, but it’s not the most fuel-efficient. Buyers considering alternatives like the Mazda 6, which often gets slightly better real-world MPG, should carefully consider what they prioritize. The Honda Accord 2.0T offers similar performance in a less luxurious style for roughly the same fuel costs. Comparing all Acura fuel economy data may help with product planning.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

Watch traffic flow and avoid quick acceleration and braking. The TLX’s eight-speed automatic transmission will help get good fuel efficiency if you let it shift smoothly. Quick acceleration will quickly lower your MPG.

Make sure your tires have the right amount of air. Tires with not enough air increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure often and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended levels found on the doorjamb sticker.

Use cruise control on the highway. Keeping a consistent speed helps improve fuel efficiency. The TLX’s adaptive cruise control system can further improve efficiency by automatically adjusting your speed to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.

Keep your vehicle well-maintained. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance ensure the engine runs well. An engine that is not maintained very well will consume more fuel.

Avoid carrying extra weight in your vehicle. Extra weight reduces fuel economy. Remove items you don’t need from the trunk and back seat to improve your MPG.