The 2021 Acura TLX with the 2.0L turbo-4 gets 25 MPG combined. This is an important figure for understanding its place in the market. The TLX aims for a blend of sportiness and near-luxury comfort at a price below German rivals. Its fuel economy reflects this balancing act: better than a thirsty V6, but not quite at the top for efficiency-focused sedans.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 22 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway for the front-wheel-drive 2021 Acura TLX. The city figure is fairly typical for a modern, turbocharged four-cylinder engine of this output. Stop-and-go traffic and frequent acceleration reduce fuel consumption, especially given the TLX’s curb weight. The highway MPG, however, is more respectable. The ten-speed automatic transmission allows the engine to cruise at relatively low RPMs, improving efficiency on longer journeys. If most of your driving occurs in urban environments, expect to see numbers closer to that 22 MPG mark. If you want to compare this particular model’s MPG with other models, check out all TLX MPG across all years.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,300 for the 2021 Acura TLX 2.0L. This figure assumes 15,000 miles driven per year and uses the national average fuel price at the time of estimation. Individual driving habits and local fuel prices will significantly impact the real-world cost. Expect to spend more than $2,300 per year on fuel if you drive more aggressively or live in an area with higher gas taxes. More conservative drivers in areas with lower fuel costs will likely see a lower annual expense. This estimate provides a useful benchmark for comparing the TLX’s running costs against other vehicles.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures offer a standardized point of comparison, real-world fuel economy often varies. The TLX should generally deliver within a few MPG of the stated estimates. Driving style, tire pressure, ambient temperature, and the use of accessories like air conditioning all play a role. Drivers who accelerate quickly will find it hard to achieve the advertised MPG, while those who prioritize smooth acceleration and consistent speeds will likely get closer to, or even exceed, the EPA numbers. It’s advisable to track your own fuel consumption over time to get a more accurate picture of what to expect in your specific driving conditions.

How it compares

The Acura TLX competes with the BMW 330i (26 MPG combined), the Mercedes-Benz C300 (28 MPG combined), and the Audi A4 (29 MPG combined). The TLX offers a blend of performance and features, but it lags behind some competitors in fuel efficiency. The TLX often costs less, making value a key part of its appeal. The Genesis G70 2.0T, another sporty sedan in the class, achieves around 25 MPG combined, matching the TLX’s rating. The TLX’s luxury, sporty handling, and competitive pricing makes its slightly lower MPG acceptable for many buyers who prioritize other attributes. Explore all Acura fuel economy data to see where the TLX falls compared to Acura’s other offerings.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the TLX’s drive mode selector. The “Econ” mode reduces throttle response and optimizes transmission programming for maximum fuel efficiency. It may slightly reduce the car’s sporty feel, but it can noticeably improve MPG, especially in city driving.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level specified on the doorjamb sticker.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. Smooth, gradual inputs are key to maximizing fuel economy. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady pace whenever possible. Rapid acceleration and hard braking waste fuel and put unnecessary strain on the engine and brakes.

Minimize idling. Modern engines are designed to be efficient when running. Extended idling burns fuel without moving the car. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine and restart it when you’re ready to go. The TLX’s auto start-stop system helps, but it’s not always active, so be mindful of idling time.

Regular maintenance is critical. Ensure your engine is properly tuned and that all scheduled maintenance is performed on time. A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently and consumes less fuel. Pay particular attention to air filter replacement, spark plug condition, and oil changes.