I just returned from an overnight trip to Michigan and completed my first 1000 miles in my TLX SH-AWD Tech. It only took 10 days to hit 1000 miles thanks to 700 miles from the Michigan round trip.
Consider this still initial feedback given the 10 days
Observations -
1. Tires, tires, tires - some of you already know that I replaced the OEM Goodyears with Michelin A/S 3's in the stock size and that I also have the 4G TL SH Tech model. Steering feel and handling improved dramatically and in corners - with the tire upgrade, TLX wins hands down over my TL in terms of handling.
2. Sport+ mode - I'm liking the 6th to 3rd "triple-tap" to downshift for corner entry. It works really well in Sport+, but I don't think it works at all in Sport or other modes. (I tried) I haven't noticed a significant delay using the 6th to 3rd method in Sport+, but I do notice the lag in the downshift when I go through the gears one at a time if going to 4th from a higher gear. If you haven't tried the triple tap, try it while in 6th at about 40-45mph and see what you think. This is a feature with the ZF transmission. Exercise care in trying the triple tap to downshift while at too high a speed to avoid excessive engine rpm. From 40-45mph is very safe range to go from 6th to 3rd.
3. On my 700 miles round trip, I averaged 32.2mpg and this is with the car in Sport mode the whole trip - 600+ miles were interstate highways.
4. In Normal and Sport modes, the shift from 2nd to 3rd has been a bit rough, but seems to be improving. All other shifts have been very smooth.
5. I didn't noticed any lag yet in passing performance with the 9AT. I was expecting some hesitation from top gear to downshift. I didn't notice it in Sport mode. That said, I still expect to see some lag based on the design of the transmission as other reviews have mentioned. I need to drive it more and see how it does in the other modes for this concern.
6. Transmission control layout - I was worried that the absence of a shift lever might be more unnatural since I routinely cradle the shift lever on the TL and other cars. This hasn't been an issue for me and I find the center armrest comfortable. I do still find myself looking at the controls when putting it in reverse or activating the brake hold. I turn the idle stop off right after starting the engine. As far as the layout is concerned, it feels most awkward and slower when backing out of a parking space or out of a driveway - looking down at the controls before putting in Drive. (I think it will take a long time to get used to it for this circumstance)
7. Performance e.g. acceleration - My 4G TL "feels" stronger during acceleration from a stop. The TLX may be faster on paper but it doesn't feel like it most of the time e.g. in normal driving for me. I kinda miss the more audible growl of the TL's 3.7L too.
8. The whole trip to Michigan was non-stop drizzle. The windshield wipers are so quiet. Very nice.
9. LKAS and forward collision warning. Works pretty good I guess. Interstate 75 is pretty rough as far as lane markings and road quality between Findlay OH and Toledo. The LKAS worked OK. I think the value of the system is best for long highway cruising to minimize corrections while keeping attention and control of the wheel. I found myself more relaxed and able to let it keep the car centered in the lane with lighter input from me. Several times, the system sensed steering input was required even though my hands were always on the wheel because of my light pressure. I think the idea of being able to take your hands off the wheel may be a good demo of the technology, but I don't think it is safe or prudent to do so and hope it doesn't get misused. Forward Collision braking light flashed a few times when merging in behind cars in traffic, and I think a shiny metallic trailer on a large semi triggered it from the next lane once.
I'm going to drive the TL for a few days (teaching my daughter to drive - lol) and compare the comfort/ergo aspects again.
Just an update - consider my bias in that I am a SH-AWD fan and haven't driven non-Acura or Honda in a decade.
Consider this still initial feedback given the 10 days
Observations -
1. Tires, tires, tires - some of you already know that I replaced the OEM Goodyears with Michelin A/S 3's in the stock size and that I also have the 4G TL SH Tech model. Steering feel and handling improved dramatically and in corners - with the tire upgrade, TLX wins hands down over my TL in terms of handling.
2. Sport+ mode - I'm liking the 6th to 3rd "triple-tap" to downshift for corner entry. It works really well in Sport+, but I don't think it works at all in Sport or other modes. (I tried) I haven't noticed a significant delay using the 6th to 3rd method in Sport+, but I do notice the lag in the downshift when I go through the gears one at a time if going to 4th from a higher gear. If you haven't tried the triple tap, try it while in 6th at about 40-45mph and see what you think. This is a feature with the ZF transmission. Exercise care in trying the triple tap to downshift while at too high a speed to avoid excessive engine rpm. From 40-45mph is very safe range to go from 6th to 3rd.
3. On my 700 miles round trip, I averaged 32.2mpg and this is with the car in Sport mode the whole trip - 600+ miles were interstate highways.
4. In Normal and Sport modes, the shift from 2nd to 3rd has been a bit rough, but seems to be improving. All other shifts have been very smooth.
5. I didn't noticed any lag yet in passing performance with the 9AT. I was expecting some hesitation from top gear to downshift. I didn't notice it in Sport mode. That said, I still expect to see some lag based on the design of the transmission as other reviews have mentioned. I need to drive it more and see how it does in the other modes for this concern.
6. Transmission control layout - I was worried that the absence of a shift lever might be more unnatural since I routinely cradle the shift lever on the TL and other cars. This hasn't been an issue for me and I find the center armrest comfortable. I do still find myself looking at the controls when putting it in reverse or activating the brake hold. I turn the idle stop off right after starting the engine. As far as the layout is concerned, it feels most awkward and slower when backing out of a parking space or out of a driveway - looking down at the controls before putting in Drive. (I think it will take a long time to get used to it for this circumstance)
7. Performance e.g. acceleration - My 4G TL "feels" stronger during acceleration from a stop. The TLX may be faster on paper but it doesn't feel like it most of the time e.g. in normal driving for me. I kinda miss the more audible growl of the TL's 3.7L too.
8. The whole trip to Michigan was non-stop drizzle. The windshield wipers are so quiet. Very nice.
9. LKAS and forward collision warning. Works pretty good I guess. Interstate 75 is pretty rough as far as lane markings and road quality between Findlay OH and Toledo. The LKAS worked OK. I think the value of the system is best for long highway cruising to minimize corrections while keeping attention and control of the wheel. I found myself more relaxed and able to let it keep the car centered in the lane with lighter input from me. Several times, the system sensed steering input was required even though my hands were always on the wheel because of my light pressure. I think the idea of being able to take your hands off the wheel may be a good demo of the technology, but I don't think it is safe or prudent to do so and hope it doesn't get misused. Forward Collision braking light flashed a few times when merging in behind cars in traffic, and I think a shiny metallic trailer on a large semi triggered it from the next lane once.
I'm going to drive the TL for a few days (teaching my daughter to drive - lol) and compare the comfort/ergo aspects again.
Just an update - consider my bias in that I am a SH-AWD fan and haven't driven non-Acura or Honda in a decade.
