While the next chapter in the TLX story has yet to be revealed, we’ve crystal ball-gazed what form it could take
by Josh Byrnes
May 4, 2024 at 12:38
- Aiming for an all-electric future by 2040, Acura plans to release two additional EVs besides the ZDX within the next two years.
- The 2027 TLX represents a significant step in this direction, and is tipped to arrive by late 2026.
- The electric TLX is expected to occupy the same market segment as the current gasoline-powered model.
Honda’s premium division, Acura, is undergoing a significant shift towards electric mobility with the aim of becoming an all-electric brand by 2040. The first product offering in this transition is the ZDX electric crossover co-developed with General Motors, which recently went on sale in North America.
Beyond that, not much else has been announced, but we do have an idea of what the brand is planning for the next few years. These include the launch of an electric compact crossover built on Honda’s in-house developed e:Architecture, which should debut in 2025, possibly bearing the RDX badge. Additionally, there are plans for a fully-electric luxury sedan that will likely replace the TLX.
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Buoyed by recent patent images of a softly styled sedan that will not reach production, as it was an internal concept that never materialized, we’ve crafted an illustration to envision the future of electric Acura sedans in TLX guise.
Powerful Proportions
Our design study features an assertive stance that hints at its electron-fuelled performance capabilities and Acura’s latest design language, which draws inspiration from luxury Italian powerboats. It showcases a wide, athletic stance, expressive silhouette, and sharp character lines, all finished in a striking matte paint job.
The front fascia features theatrical lighting, including a dramatic evolution of Acura’s Diamond Pentagon grille with innovative “Particle Glitch” lighting and Chicane daytime running lights. Additional design elements like frameless windows, pronounced haunches, deeply scalloped sheet metal, 3-dimensional LED taillamps, and a large rear diffuser emphasise its dynamic appeal.
It’s difficult to determine the positioning (and dimensions) of the future electric TLX without having seen actual prototypes, but it is possible that Acura will follow the same path as the current model, straddling the line between compact and mid-size luxury sedans. This would result in more interior space than rivals like the Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series, but less than their larger A6 and 5 Series offerings.
Luxury Smarts
Inside, we envision an electrified TLX replacement designed with performance and luxury in mind. It would offer a low-slung driving position within a cabin comfortably accommodating five passengers. The dashboard features racing-style digital instrumentation backed by red ambient and pipe lighting, creating an energised atmosphere.
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Acura’s next-generation HMI could sport transparent micro-LED technology with a curved display aided by haptic feedback. We’d also expect Google integration, wireless smartphone connectivity, and an augmented reality head-up display to enhance driver interaction. Sustainable yet luxurious materials include marbled recycled plastic and 100% biomass leather.
Amped Propulsion
Ideally, the sports sedan will be powered by a dual-motor, super-handling all-wheel-drive (SH-AWD for short) system, offering up to 500 horsepower in the Type S configuration. Cutting-edge battery technology, including semi-solid and all-solid-state batteries, ensures robust performance and efficiency.
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The secret Acura patent designs we unearthed turned out to be for an internal study.
Like many other automakers, future Acura EVs should feature Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS) to ensure reliable and anxiety-free motoring. However, this will also depend on how Tesla proceeds with its Supercharging network in the future, following the recent turmoil in the division with the massive layoffs.
Based on information surrounding Honda’s ‘0 Series’ Concept EVs, it could fast-charge from 15% to 80% in 10-15 minutes. Notably, Acura and Honda have moved away from the previously announced Ultium platform partnership with General Motors, focusing instead on proprietary technologies.
The Competition
When the electrified TLX replacement eventually comes to market, it will be a brave new world amongst EV rivals. If it occupies the space between compact and mid-size luxury sedans, as expected, its pricing and positioning could put it up against competitors like the Alfa Romeo Giulia EV and the upcoming BMW i3.
It might also compete with cheaper, base offerings from larger options like the Audi A6 e-tron and BMW i5. Additionally, the electric TLX could even find itself battling more affordable EVs like the Hyundai Ioniq 6 and Tesla Model 3, depending on its final pricing strategy.
Would an electrified TLX replacement have merit? Share your views in the comments below.
Note: The illustrations in this story are not affiliated with or endorsed by Acura
