2021 Acura TLX Type S Getting Turbo V6 Power To Fight Audi’s S4

The Type S moniker will be making a comeback for the 2021 model year as it will be attached to a hot version of the new Acura TLX.

The sports sedan, which will challenge the likes of the Audi S4, Mercedes-AMG C43 and BMW M340i, will feature a new turbocharged V6, Car&Driver reports. The displacement is unknown, but it could be 3.0 liters, bringing significantly more power than the old TL Type S’ naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 rated at 290 HP and 267 lb-ft (361 Nm) of torque.

The lump will channel the power to the new-gen Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, likely through a dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Read: We Drive A Brand New 2003 Acura CL 3.2 Type-S, A Fun Throwback To Sedan-Based Coupes

2021 Acura TLX prototype

Underpinning the regular and sports-oriented TLX and TLX Type S will be a new platform that has been specifically designed for it. The car will get improved handling courtesy of a control-arm front suspension replacing the usual struts.

The regular TLX is expected with the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, sourced from the current Honda Accord and matched to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive will be standard, but an all-wheel drive system will make its way to the options list.

2019 Acura Type S Concept

Previewed by the stunning 2019 Type S Concept, the new generation TLX should be one of the prettiest cars in the segment, with fat rear fenders, dynamic roofline and an aggressive front end. The range-topping TLX Type S might kick things up a notch by offering a quad-tailpipe exhaust system, as well as a sporty body kit and big wheels.

Acura is understood to premiere the regular TLX this summer, launching it shortly after with an MSRP of around $35,000. The TLX Type S could follow in early 2021, as long as the coronavirus pandemic doesn’t interfere with the plan.