Refreshing or Revolting: Acura Type S Concept
We hope the next TLX looks a lot like this
The Acura Type S Concept debuted during Monterey Car Week, and we think it's the brand's hottest car since the NSX. Although it's only a concept, it gives us some idea of what the next-generation TLX sedan will look like. The Type S Concept borrows styling elements from the brand's NSX, Daytona prototype racer, and Precision concept from 2016. Do you think these influences blend together in a cohesive way; is the concept refreshing or revolting? Before you make up your mind, let's examine its design.
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Up front, Acura exercised restraint. The Type S features a small, tame grille, flanked by bold vents. The side vents take after those on the NSX, and the Jewel Eye LED headlights are a signature throughout the Acura lineup. The so-called "Chicane" light signature is inspired by the automaker's ARX-05 Daytona prototype race car. The concept features a sculpted hood that isn't overdone, as well as a subtle Type S badge inside the grille.
One telltale sign this is a concept: There are no door handles. The side profile reveals a long hood and a smooth roofline. A bold crease runs upward from the front wheel to the back of the car, much like on the Precision concept. Also notice the subtle Acura Design badge and side sills in forged carbon, a new material for Acura. The Type S sits on 21-inch wheels complemented forged carbon inlays, which cover yellow brake calipers.
Forged carbon is also seen on the decklid spoiler and rear diffuser, complimenting the wraparound forged carbon splitter up front. The rear of the car is formed by simple lines and Chicane taillights that match the design of the headlights. Adding to its athletic appearance—and tying in to previous Type S models—are quad chrome exhaust outlets. Acura's choice to keep Type S badges minimal is a different approach than other performance marques, who sometimes slather their logos on every visible surface.
Do you think the Acura Type S Concept is refreshing or revolting? Let us know in the comments on Facebook.
When I tell people I write about cars, the most common reply I receive is “Really?” I guess I never strike people as a car type as I drive down the freeway in the right lane going 60 mph in my old SUV. My gripes about driving in city traffic and fast drivers don’t help my case, either. For a time, the only cars I liked were old cars. Not old as in "classic" or "vintage," but as in well-worn. My first appreciation of cars came when I drove a very old Ford pickup. It wasn't perfect: I used a booster seat to reach the gas pedal, and the turn signal once fell off in my hand as I was learning to drive. But the thing I valued most was the memories. It took several years for me to truly become a "car person." Being a long-time writer and an avid reader has helped me develop a healthy curiosity and a desire to know how things work. This has made cars one of the most fascinating points of study for me because they are such intricate machines. I am interested in how cars can reach 200 mph, how they can run on hydrogen, and how they can drive and park on their own. I also enjoy learning how cars can solve problems whether it be in the form of reducing pollution, minimizing traffic, or helping people stay connected on the road. Yes, maybe I’m not a gearhead. Perhaps I’m a car nerd. Either way, I very much enjoy writing about cars and helping people stay in tune with the automotive industry. I wouldn't want to be writing about anything else. And don’t get me wrong: I know how to drool over a hot car. I am fascinated by the Tesla Model S, awed by the Lamborghini Veneno, and am hopelessly obsessed with the Audi R8.
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