VS
At a Glance
Power
272hp @ 6500
394hp @ 5600
Torque
280lb-ft @ 1600
369lb-ft @ 2250
Engine
2.0 L/122cc
2.5 L/151cc
Choosing between the Acura Tlx and the Audi S3 is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Acura Tlx delivers 272hp @ 6500 while the Audi S3 produces 394hp @ 5600. Pricing starts at $49,900 for the Tlx and $52,000 for the S3. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
272hp @ 6500
394hp @ 5600
Torque (lb-ft)
280lb-ft @ 1600
369lb-ft @ 2250
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.0 L/122cc
2.5 L/151cc
Cylinders
4
5
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
—
7
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
21mpg
20mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
29mpg
29mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
15.9gal
14.5gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
194.6in
178.8in
Width (in)
75.2in
72.9in
Height (in)
56.4in
55.6in
Wheelbase (in)
113in
103.6in
Curb Weight (lbs)
4028lbs
3627lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Acura Tlx
1 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Tlx
Practicality
Tied
Pros & Cons
Acura Tlx
Lower starting price ($49,900)
Few notable weaknesses
Audi S3
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Tlx or S3?
The Tlx produces 272hp @ 6500 and 280lb-ft @ 1600 of torque while the S3 delivers 394hp @ 5600 and 369lb-ft @ 2250 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Tlx and S3?
The Tlx starts from $49,900 and the S3 from $52,000. The Tlx is cheaper by $2,100 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Should I buy the Tlx or the S3?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.
Also Consider