| Engine | 2.0L 4-cyl |
| Transmission | Automatic (S10) |
| Drive | All-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | Premium Gasoline |
| Vehicle Class | Compact Cars |
| Engine Desc | SIDI |
| Start-Stop | Yes |
| EPA Vehicle ID | 44617 |
24 MPG isn’t going to shock the automotive world, but it’s a realistic expectation for the 2022 Acura TLX AWD 2.0L. This isn’t a hybrid or an economy car; it’s a stylish, comfortable, and fun-to-drive sport sedan with all-wheel drive. The TLX buyer values driving enjoyment and a premium experience, and this fuel economy, while not great, is often a compromise they’re willing to accept for the vehicle’s other qualities. They want a car that looks and feels good, handles well in all weather, and offers a touch of luxury, and the TLX delivers. Fuel efficiency is part of the equation, but rarely the main reason for buying.
## City and highway performance
The EPA estimates the 2022 Acura TLX AWD 2.0L will get 21 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. Many drivers might notice higher fuel consumption in city driving. Stop-and-go traffic and frequent acceleration can drain the engine more than cruising at a steady highway speed.
On the open road, however, the TLX AWD 2.0L is more efficient. The 10-speed automatic transmission helps, keeping the engine at the right RPMs for fuel conservation at cruising speeds. Drivers who often take longer trips will likely see numbers closer to the EPA highway estimate, which saves them money on gas.
## Annual fuel cost
The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Acura TLX AWD 2.0L at $2,400. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and assumes national average fuel prices. Remember that fuel prices change, and driving habits affect this number. Drivers who mainly drive in the city or accelerate quickly will likely spend more than this amount, while those who spend more time on the highway and drive efficiently could spend less. The $2,400 figure is a useful estimate, but it’s a general guide.
## Real-world expectations
While the EPA provides a standard estimate, real-world fuel economy often differs. Your personal MPG will vary based on driving style, traffic, and even the weather. Aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, and idling in traffic all hurt fuel economy. Cold weather can also reduce MPG because engines are less efficient when cold, and winter tires create more drag. Many owners report seeing figures close the EPA’s combined estimate, but some report slightly lower numbers, especially in city driving. Tracking fuel consumption over time offers a better understanding of what to expect in specific driving conditions.
## How it compares
The Acura TLX AWD 2.0L’s fuel economy sits in a certain spot among its competitors. The BMW 330i xDrive, a benchmark vehicle, gets an EPA-estimated 28 MPG combined, a better result than the TLX. The Audi A4 quattro comes in similarly at 28 MPG combined. On the other hand, the Genesis G70 2.0T AWD, while known for its value and driving, only gets 23 MPG combined, which is less than the TLX. These differences can add up over a year and might influence buyers who care a lot about fuel efficiency. You can view all Acura fuel economy data here, and to dive deeper, check out the TLX MPG across all years.
## Tips to maximize efficiency
Gentle acceleration and braking are crucial for maximizing fuel economy in any car, but this is especially important for the TLX 2.0T. Avoid flooring the gas pedal and try to anticipate traffic to minimize sudden stops. Smooth inputs will help the engine operate more efficiently and reduce fuel consumption.
The TLX’s 10-speed automatic transmission is designed to save fuel, but how well it works depends on the drive mode selected. Choose “Normal” or “Econ” mode for everyday driving to encourage earlier upshifts and less aggressive throttle response. Sport mode is fun, but it will affect fuel economy.
Regular maintenance is important for keeping the TLX running efficiently. Make sure that the tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, because low tire pressure increases rolling resistance and reduces fuel economy. Also, follow the maintenance schedule for oil changes and other services to keep the engine running well.
Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Extra cargo in the trunk adds weight, which requires more energy to accelerate and maintain speed. Remove items that are not needed to lighten the load and improve fuel economy.
Minimize idling time. If stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s usually more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine than to let it idle. Modern engines restart quickly, and prolonged idling wastes fuel.