If you have an Acura TSX, you might wonder about the gas it needs. The question is: “Does Acura TSX Require Premium Gas?” Well, here’s the deal: while it doesn’t demand premium fuel like some newer Acuras, using higher-octane gas is better for performance.

I usually fill up with premium unleaded gas of 91 octane or higher for better engine performance[1] In a pinch, I’ve used gas with 87-90 octane without any immediate issues. But keep in mind, using lower-octane gas for too long might affect how the car performs.

The good news is that the Acura TSX can handle gasoline with up to 15% ethanol (E10 or E15). This offers some flexibility in fuel choices. But I prefer to go for the higher octane stuff to keep my TSX running smoothly. So, choosing the right gas is part of keeping this impressive vehicle in top shape.

Acura TSX Engine and Fuel Requirements

The Acura TSX has a strong 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, giving off 201 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque. [2] People who love cars really like how it performs.

Deciding on fuel can be a bit tricky. Regular gas has an 87 rating, while premium has 91 or higher. This rating tells you how well fuel works in the engine.

If fuel doesn’t work right, it can make the engine act up. Premium gas, with its higher rating, protects engines like the TSX’s.

The company says premium is “recommended”, but NOT required for an Acura TSX. Sure, regular gas might save money, but it might hurt your engine later on.

Effects of Using the Wrong Fuel

Putting the wrong fuel in your car can be a big problem. It can seriously mess up your engine and fuel system. Imagine mixing different kinds of chemicals inside your car—it causes a lot of chaos.

For example, using gasoline when your car needs diesel (or the other way around) can damage important engine parts like fuel injectors and pumps. Fixing these damages costs a lot of money or might even mean replacing the whole system.

But it’s not just about damage—your car’s performance and how efficiently it uses fuel also take a hit. Using a lower-grade fuel than what’s recommended can make weird noises in your engine, reducing its power. It might also result in increased fuel consumption for your vehicle. This means you’ll end up spending more money every time you fill up at the gas station.

To avoid all these problems, just use the right fuel for your car. It’s a simple way to prevent big issues and keep your car running smoothly.

Fuel Economy Of The Acura TLX

The 2022 Acura TLX’s fuel efficiency shows it balances power and fuel savings well. The standard 2.0-liter turbocharged engine offers a solid 22 MPG city and 31 MPG highway. [3] Choosing the 3.0-liter V6 with Super Handling All-Wheel Drive slightly drops this to 21 MPG city and 29 MPG highway. [4] Still, even with the stronger engine, the TLX competes well.

The TLX includes features that help save fuel, like the stop/start system that turns off the engine at stops. There’s also an Eco mode for better efficiency.

Actual mileage can vary based on driving habits and conditions. Overall, the TLX nails a blend of power and efficiency. Whether for daily drives or road trips, it promises a rewarding, eco-friendly ride.

Acura Fuel Tank Size Per Generation

The Acura TLX has had two main periods. The first was from 2015 to 2020, and the second began in 2020 and lasted till 2022.

In its first phase (2015-2020), the Acura TLX had a pretty big fuel tank—17.2 gallons or 65 liters, [5] to be exact. This larger tank meant you didn’t have to stop for gas as often, allowing for over 500 miles on highways with an impressive estimated 31 miles per gallon.

Moving into the second phase from 2020 onward, the TLX reduced its tank size to 15.85 gallons or 60 liters. [6] Despite this smaller tank, its engines and fuel-saving features kept efficiency high. This generation still covers over 450 miles per tank, achieving around 29 miles per gallon on highways.

Conclusion

In conclusion, using premium gasoline in an Acura TSX isn’t a must, but it definitely helps the engine work better. While regular gas won’t cause immediate problems, choosing premium fuel means your engine runs more efficiently and smoothly. Using the wrong fuel can harm the engine and make it perform worse over time.

Yes, premium gas costs more, but it’s a good investment. It helps your car use less fuel and protects the engine. The decision is yours, but it’s smart to follow what the manufacturer suggests.