How to Build a Custom Acura TLX

If you want to build a custom Acura TLX, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to options.
Written by Matt Nightingale
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
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With five trim levels and a number of available options and packages, it is easy to get exactly what you want from the Acura TLX. The TLX combines performance and style, earning the sports sedan a Car and Driver rating of 8.5/10.
Acura
offers a wide range of paint and interior options, performance options, right down to single one-off option—so the real fear is that you’ll spend so much time customizing your Acura TLX that you won’t have any time to drive it.
But, fear not! We're here to give you the low down on the high-end upgrades available for your new Acura TLX. We’ll look at the different trims and options packages available, what kinds of modifications you can make yourself to maximize your TLX experience, and customization options that can save you money. 
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Acura TLX customization options

The Acura TLX is available in five trim levels: 
Performance was top of mind when Acura designed the TLX. The base model comes with a powerful 272-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, and Acura’s trademarked Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system—available in all lower trims—is standard on the Advance and Type S models.
All trim levels are outfitted with a standard 10.2-inch infotainment console screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Wi-Fi hotspot capabilities.
The Technology trim brings with it a stereo upgrade and wireless charging pad, as well as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert systems. These features are standard on all higher trim levels.
The TLX hierarchy culminates in the high-end Type S trim. This model features an upgraded 355-hp turbo V-6 engine, and an available Performance options package adds high-performance tires and 20-inch Y-spoke wheels.
No matter what trim level you choose, you’ll be inundated with choices. Paint and interior options abound and add no more than $500 to your sticker price, while one-off options range from custom lug nuts to a first aid kit.
Key Takeaway The Acura TLX’s five trim levels build on each other, with the high-performance TLX S Type Performance as the cream of the crop.

Acura TLX optional packages

The TLX is blessed with an embarrassment of riches when it comes to options packages.
The Technology package features a blind-spot warning system, rear cross-traffic monitor system, and front and rear parking sensors. All but the base level trim come with the technology package as standard fare.
The Advance trim offers even more tech convenience with rain-sensing windshield wipers, head-up warning system, and a surround-view camera system
Here is a list of the options packages available for the various Acura TLX trims:
Package
Features
Which trims is it available on?
SH-AWD
Super handling all-wheel-drive system
TLX, Technology, A-Spec
Red interior
Perforated Milano Premium Leather and Ultrasuede-trimmed seats with contrast stitching and piping
A-Spec
Performance
Lightweight Y-spoke wheels, high-performance summer tires
Type S
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How to customize your TLX to save money

The Acura TLX offers luxury and performance for a very reasonable price. But there are some available options that can help you save even more money. Here are a few:
  • Blind-spot monitoring: Some
    car insurance
    providers offer discounts if your vehicle has additional safety features. Blind-spot monitoring is available in all trims above the base-level TLX. Besides saving money on insurance, a blind-spot monitoring system helps prevent accidents and can save money on expensive repairs. 
  • Head-up Display: The TLX Advance trim offers a head-up display and head-up warning system. This displays options menus and driver assistance warning signals in your line of sight while you are driving. This feature adds to your overall safety by allowing you to keep your eyes on the road at all times, and it could earn you a
    car insurance discount
    .
  • Front-wheel drive: Sometimes the best option is to not add an option. The TLX, Technology, and A-Spec trims all come with standard front-wheel drive. Upgrading to all-wheel drive may improve your acceleration, but you’ll find that your fuel efficiency suffers. You can stick with the standard front-wheel drive and save on gas. 
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The best Acura TLX mods

Even with all the options available from the factory, you still might want more for your vehicle. Here are some of the most popular aftermarket modifications for the Acura TLX.

Spoilers

Lower-level trim TLXs don’t come with a decklid spoiler, but you can add spoilers yourself. Adding aftermarket decklid and underbody spoilers can greatly improve your vehicle’s traction and fuel efficiency, with some added style.

Alloy wheels

Adding alloy wheels can dramatically improve your TLX’s performance. Light-weight aluminum decreased the overall weight of your vehicle, improving acceleration and decreasing stopping distances.

Suspension

One of the most popular modifications for the Acura TLX is suspension upgrades. Adjustable coilovers and new OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) bushings can greatly improve your handling and cornering, not to mention your enjoyment. Coilover kits start at around $500.
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How to find affordable insurance for your Acura TLX

Just because you’ve spent extra money customizing your new Acura TLX doesn’t mean you want to spend more money than you have to on insurance. If you want the best
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rates available, just download the
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All you have to do is enter your information and Jerry searches high and low for the best quotes from over 50 top providers. Jerry shows you the best quotes that offer the coverage you need. When you’re ready to start saving, Jerry can help you cancel your old policy and finalize your new one.
And it doesn’t stop there. Jerry reminds you when it's time to renew your policy and shows you the latest quotes—so you’ll always have the best insurance rates available. 
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