VS
At a Glance
Power
355hp @ 5500
201hp @ 4800
Torque
354lb-ft @ 1400
221lb-ft @ 1600
Engine
3.0 L/183cc
2.0 L/121cc
Choosing between the Acura Tlx and the Audi A3 is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Acura Tlx delivers 355hp @ 5500 while the Audi A3 produces 201hp @ 4800. Pricing starts at $54,500 for the Tlx and $43,000 for the A3. 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)
355hp @ 5500
201hp @ 4800
Torque (lb-ft)
354lb-ft @ 1400
221lb-ft @ 1600
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
3.0 L/183cc
2.0 L/121cc
Engine Layout
V
—
Cylinders
6
4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
—
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic w/OD
Automatic
Number of Gears
—
7
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
19mpg
24mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
24mpg
34mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
15.9gal
14.5gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
194.6in
176.9in
Width (in)
75.2in
71.5in
Height (in)
56.4in
56.2in
Wheelbase (in)
113in
103.5in
Curb Weight (lbs)
4200lbs
3417lbs
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
Audi A3
1 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
A3
Practicality
Tied
Pros & Cons
Acura Tlx
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Audi A3
Lower starting price ($43,000)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Tlx or A3?
The Tlx produces 355hp @ 5500 and 354lb-ft @ 1400 of torque while the A3 delivers 201hp @ 4800 and 221lb-ft @ 1600 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Tlx and A3?
The Tlx starts from $54,500 and the A3 from $43,000. The A3 is cheaper by $11,500 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Should I buy the Tlx or the A3?
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