2015 Acura TLX
Out with the old, in with the new… and so goes it in the automotive world. And one of the latest to do so is Acura with the 2015 TLX.
Partially an exercise in consolidation, the TLX enters the Acura lineup as both the TL and TSX depart. Wheelbase measures the same as the TL-just over 109 inches—though the chassis is different with four-wheel steering on most models.
While the bodywork is still conservative, there are cues that lend aggression: short front and rear overhangs, sweeping profile with a teardrop like greenhouse, and optional larger wheels. Acura’s jeweled LED headlights make an appearance here, as well.
But to us it is the interior that really shines. The TLX rivals some of the best for comfort, with great seats and materials. Technology is always an Acura focus and there is quite a lot of it inside. The dual screen center stack is an evolution of the Honda trademark setup. Again true to Acura form, the overall looks is certainly premium but not over the top.
Power is by way of a 206 horsepower 2.4 liter inline 4 with an in house designed 8-speed dual clutch automatic, or a 290 horsepower 3.5 liter V6 with a 9-speed ZF box that includes push button gear selection. Front wheel drive is standard with all-wheel drive an option for the V6.
Neither engine felt particularly sporty, but the IDS drive mode selector can spice things up.
So with plenty that’s new for Acura this year, the TLX is on sale now, starting at around $32,000.
Specifications
- Engine: 2.4 liter/ 3.5 liter
- Horsepower: 206/ 290
- Price: starting around $32,000
2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid
We’re seeing more and more automakers fill in the gaps in their lineups with electrification, like adding a hybrid twist to a legacy model. Subaru has done just that with the 2025 Forester Hybrid, and they’ve done it in a way that doesn’t sacrifice any of the original’s strengths.
First, the powertrain is still all-wheel drive, spurred by a familiar 2.5-liter boxer-four paired with Subaru’s next-generation hybrid system and a Lineartronic CVT; and while its 194-horsepower output is appreciated, more so are its fuel economy figures. We’re talking 35 mpgs combined, with eight hours of California drive time getting us closer to 37.
BEN DAVIS: “What I like the most, and I think what most loyal Forester buyers are going to like the most about this hybrid is that there’s no compromise over the regular gasoline version Forester, especially in regards to fuel tank size. It’s the same 16.6-gallon tank, and in the Hybrid, where you’re getting a mixed 35 miles to the gallon, that equals a 581-mile range. You do have to give up a spare tire for that, but it’s a small price to pay, I guess.”
Some light off-roading further showcased the Hybrid’s capabilities, exactly what we’d expect from a Forester.
The exterior is nearly identical to the gas-only model, except for wearing the appropriate “hybrid” badging. Inside, a 12.3-inch gauge cluster and 11.6-inch tablet-style touchscreen come standard. If you’re at all familiar with the current Forester, this interior will look very familiar.
And pricing for the 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid is, fortunately, in familiar territory, too, starting around $35,000, about five-grand more than the Base gas model.