25 MPG combined may not be class-leading, but it’s a reasonable compromise for those seeking a stylish and fun-to-drive sports sedan like the 2023 Acura TLX FWD A-SPEC 2.0L 4-cyl. Buyers drawn to the TLX A-Spec likely value distinctive design, a comfortable interior, and a satisfying driving experience. Fuel costs are a consideration, but performance and aesthetics often play a larger role in their decision.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the TLX A-Spec’s city and highway fuel economy are 22 MPG and 30 MPG respectively. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving conditions that can negatively impact fuel consumption due to frequent acceleration and braking. The 30 MPG highway rating is more reflective of steady cruising, where the 2.0L turbocharged engine can operate more efficiently. While 30 MPG isn’t class-leading, it’s reasonable for a sporty sedan, providing a decent balance between performance and economy on longer trips.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Acura TLX FWD A-SPEC 2.0L 4-cyl to be $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and uses national average fuel prices. Individual costs will vary depending on local fuel prices and driving habits. Drivers who primarily drive in the city, have a lead foot, or live in areas with pricier gasoline can expect to pay more than the EPA estimate, while those who do mostly highway driving might see lower costs. See TLX MPG across all years for a wider perspective.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy can vary depending on individual driving habits, road conditions, and even weather. Aggressive starts, frequent hard braking, and high speeds will all decrease fuel efficiency. Smooth acceleration, gentle braking, and maintaining consistent speeds will help maximize MPG. Tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and cargo weight also have an effect. Owners sometimes report numbers slightly below the EPA combined figure in mixed driving, while others see figures closer to the 30 MPG highway number on long road trips.

How it compares

Several competitor vehicles offer similar performance and fuel economy. The Lexus IS 300 RWD, for example, delivers a comparable 21 MPG city and 31 MPG highway, but its driving experience is arguably less engaging than the TLX. The BMW 330i offers better performance and similar luxury features, but its fuel economy is only marginally better at 25 MPG combined. The Audi A4 with its standard quattro all-wheel drive, is rated at 24 MPG combined. The TLX A-Spec provides a good mix of style, performance, and fuel efficiency for its target buyer browsing all Acura fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the TLX A-Spec’s selectable drive modes. The “Normal” or “Comfort” mode will provide a more relaxed throttle response and shift mapping, prioritizing fuel efficiency over outright performance. Sport mode is fun, but it significantly impacts fuel consumption with its more aggressive throttle and higher shift points.

Monitor your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires create greater rolling resistance, reducing fuel economy. Check the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure and maintain it consistently.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle.

Use cruise control on the highway whenever possible. Maintaining a consistent speed helps optimize fuel efficiency and reduces the temptation to accelerate and decelerate unnecessarily.

Plan your trips strategically. Combining errands into a single trip can reduce the overall distance you travel and minimize cold starts, which are less fuel-efficient. Avoid driving during peak traffic times when possible, as stop-and-go driving drastically diminishes fuel economy.