Which sedans are faster than the Acura TLX Type S 0-60?

You know that feeling when you’re sitting at a stoplight in your TLX Type S, the Precision Cockpit™ glowing around you, and a BMW pulls up alongside with that telltale M badge? You know your sedan hits 60 in about 5 seconds flat—respectable numbers for a Japanese luxury performance machine. But the enthusiast in you wonders: what’s out there that’s quicker?

TL;DR: While the Acura TLX Type S delivers a satisfying 5.0-second 0-60 mph sprint, the performance sedan market is absolutely packed with options that leave it in the dust. From German heavyweights to electric shockers, we’ve rounded up 10 sedans that hit 60 mph faster—some nearly twice as quick. The list includes the BMW M3 Competition xDrive (3.5 seconds), Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing (3.9 seconds), and the jaw-dropping Tesla Model 3 Performance (2.9 seconds) .

Key Takeaways

The Gap is Real: The TLX Type S sits at 5.0 seconds 0-60, while competitors range from 4.8 seconds all the way down to a mind-bending 1.9 seconds .
German Dominance: BMW, Mercedes-AMG, and Audi dominate the quick-sedan segment, with multiple models beating the Acura .
Electric Changes Everything: EVs like the Tesla Model 3 Performance and Porsche Taycan Turbo GT rewrite the rulebook on acceleration, hitting 60 in under 3 seconds .
Manual Transmission Lives: Surprisingly, some of these quicker sedans—like the Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing—still offer a 6-speed manual, even if it’s slightly slower to 60 than the automatic versions .
Price Varies Wildly: You can spend anywhere from $55,000 for a Tesla Model 3 Performance to well over $200,000 for a Lucid Air Sapphire .

The Benchmark: Acura TLX Type S

Before we dive into the contenders, let’s establish the baseline. The Acura TLX Type S packs a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 making 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. With Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) shuffling power to all four corners, it hits 60 mph in about 5.0 seconds . That’s genuinely quick for a daily driver—enough to merge onto highways with authority and surprise the occasional commuter.

But in the world of performance sedans, 5 seconds is just the starting line.

The 10 Quicker Contenders

Here they are—10 performance sedans that will beat the TLX Type S to 60 mph. We’ve ranked them by 0-60 time, fastest first.

1. Lucid Air Sapphire: 1.9 Seconds

Let’s just get this one out of the way. The Lucid Air Sapphire is what happens when engineers decide physics is merely a suggestion. With 1,234 horsepower from three electric motors, this American electric luxury sedan doesn’t just beat the TLX—it absolutely demolishes it .

The Sapphire hits 60 mph in 1.9 seconds. That’s hypercar territory. It also delivers up to 512 miles of range, meaning you can drive from Los Angeles to San Francisco, charge once, and still embarrass just about anything with a license plate. Starting price? Around $250,000. But hey, you’re paying for that 3.1-second advantage over the Acura .

2. Porsche Taycan Turbo GT: 1.9 Seconds

Tied for the top spot, the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT also claims a 1.9-second 0-60 time . With 1,019 horsepower in overboost mode, this electric Porsche proves that Stuttgart knows a thing or two about speed—even without gasoline.

What makes the Taycan special is how it delivers that acceleration. Unlike some EVs that feel like roller coasters, the Porsche gives you that connected, driver-focused experience the brand is famous for. The cabin wraps around you like a precision-crafted interior should, and the handling matches the straight-line speed .

3. Tesla Model S Plaid: 1.99 Seconds

Tesla’s flagship sedan hits 60 in 1.99 seconds during track testing . With 1,020 horsepower and a 348-mile range, the Model S Plaid proved that electric sedans could not only compete with supercars but outright embarrass them.

The interior is minimalist—some would say sparse—but that 17-inch screen controls everything, and the yoke steering wheel… well, you either love it or hate it. For families wanting premium SUV comfort in sedan form, the Plaid offers surprising practicality alongside face-melting speed .

4. Mercedes-AMG S 63 E Performance: 2.6 Seconds

Here’s where things get interesting for luxury sedan and SUV enthusiasts. The Mercedes-AMG S 63 E Performance combines a twin-turbo V8 with an electric motor to produce 791 horsepower and 1,055 lb-ft of torque .

It hits 60 in 2.6 seconds—nearly twice as fast as the TLX Type S—while coddling you in one of the finest interiors on earth. The Ambient LED Cabin Lighting and massaging seats make you forget you’re in a 4,800-pound rocket ship. All-electric range is just 16 miles, but honestly, you’re not buying this for silent cruising .

5. Mercedes-AMG GT S E Performance: 2.9 Seconds

Yes, another Mercedes. The AMG GT S E Performance four-door combines a twin-turbo V8 with hybrid assist to deliver 831 horsepower and a 2.9-second 0-60 time .

This is the Mercedes that thinks it’s a sports car—and it’s not wrong. The chassis is tuned for attacking corners, the exhaust note is pure German symphony, and the interior strikes that perfect balance between luxury and performance. The ELS Studio® Premium Audio System equivalent (Burmester, in this case) ensures your favorite driving music sounds concert-hall quality .

6. BMW M3 Competition xDrive: 3.5 Seconds

Now we’re entering more attainable territory. The BMW M3 Competition xDrive has been the benchmark for sports sedans for decades, and the current generation doesn’t disappoint .

With 523 horsepower from a twin-turbo inline-6 and all-wheel drive, it hits 60 in 3.5 seconds . That’s a full 1.5 seconds quicker than the Acura—an eternity in the car world.

The M3 offers that classic BMW driver-focused cockpit with everything angled toward the person holding the wheel. Yes, the grille is controversial, but get past the looks and you’ll find one of the most capable all-around performance sedans money can buy. Top speed hits 180 mph with the M Driver’s Package .

7. BMW M5: 3.5 Seconds

The bigger BMW sibling matches the M3’s 0-60 time at 3.5 seconds, but does it with significantly more muscle . The current M5 is electrified for the first time, pairing a twin-turbo V8 with an electric motor for a combined 717 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque .

Where the M3 feels like a scalpel, the M5 is more of a broadsword—still precise, but with devastating power. The interior offers more space for families, making it a legitimate alternative to the MDX for those who want performance without sacrificing passenger comfort. The Panoramic Moonroof and Heated and Ventilated Leather Seats make long road trips a pleasure .

8. Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing: 3.9 Seconds

Here’s the wild card. The Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing proves that American manufacturers still know how to build a world-class sports sedan .

With a twin-turbo V6 making 472 horsepower, the automatic version hits 60 in 3.9 seconds . But here’s the kicker—you can still get it with a 6-speed manual transmission. The manual adds a tenth or two to the 0-60 time (4.1 seconds), but it also adds immeasurable driver engagement .

The Blackwing features Brembo brakes, Magnetic Ride Control 4.0, and an electronic limited-slip differential. It’s a car built for enthusiasts, by enthusiasts. Top speed is an impressive 189 mph . For Acura owners who miss the days of shifting their own gears, this Cadillac deserves a serious look.

9. Tesla Model 3 Performance: 2.9 Seconds

Wait, didn’t we already cover the 2.9-second cars? Yes, but the Tesla Model 3 Performance deserves its own mention because it’s the most accessible rocket ship on this list .

Starting around $55,000, the Model 3 Performance delivers 510 horsepower and a 2.9-second 0-60 time . That’s supercar acceleration for mainstream luxury money.

The interior is minimalist—some would say spartan—with virtually everything controlled through the central screen. But the Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto integration work seamlessly, and the Wireless Charging Pad keeps devices topped up. Range checks in at 303 miles, though that’s lower than the Long Range version .

Is it as engaging as the BMW or Cadillac on a twisty road? Not quite. But for straight-line speed and daily usability, it’s nearly unbeatable value .

10. Genesis G70 3.3T: 4.5 Seconds

Rounding out our list is the Genesis G70 3.3T, which hits 60 in 4.5 seconds . That’s still half a second quicker than the TLX Type S, and it comes with a level of refinement that rivals the Germans.

The twin-turbo V6 produces 365 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque, channeled through an 8-speed automatic to either rear or all wheels . Pricing starts around $53,000, making it a compelling value proposition for first-time Acura buyers looking for Japanese luxury engineering-adjacent quality with Korean flair.

Inside, you’ll find leather all around, heated and ventilated front seats, and a comprehensive suite of technology. The G70 Sport Prestige adds Brembo brakes and a limited-slip differential, sharpening the handling considerably .

How They Stack Up: Performance Comparison

Model	0-60 mph	Horsepower	Drivetrain	Price Range
Acura TLX Type S	5.0 sec	355 hp	AWD	$55,000-$60,000
Lucid Air Sapphire	1.9 sec	1,234 hp	AWD (Electric)	~$250,000
Porsche Taycan Turbo GT	1.9 sec	1,019 hp	AWD (Electric)	~$200,000+
Tesla Model S Plaid	1.99 sec	1,020 hp	AWD (Electric)	~$90,000
Mercedes-AMG S 63 E Performance	2.6 sec	791 hp	AWD (Hybrid)	~$180,000
Mercedes-AMG GT S E Performance	2.9 sec	831 hp	AWD (Hybrid)	~$150,000
Tesla Model 3 Performance	2.9 sec	510 hp	AWD (Electric)	~$55,000
BMW M3 Competition xDrive	3.5 sec	523 hp	AWD	~$80,000
BMW M5	3.5 sec	717 hp	AWD (Hybrid)	~$120,000
Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing	3.9 sec	472 hp	RWD	~$60,000
Genesis G70 3.3T	4.5 sec	365 hp	RWD/AWD	~$53,000

Data compiled from manufacturer specifications and independent testing .

What Makes Them Faster?

Turbocharging and Electrification

Every car on this list uses forced induction or electrification—usually both—to achieve its acceleration. The TLX Type S uses a single turbocharger on its V6, which is effective but conservative compared to the twin-turbo setups found in the BMWs and Cadillac .

The hybrids and EVs take things further by adding instant electric torque. There’s no waiting for boost to build—you step on the accelerator, and the car simply goes. That’s why the Tesla Model 3 Performance can match the Mercedes-AMG GT’s time for half the price .

All-Wheel Drive Traction

Most of these quicker sedans send power to all four wheels. The BMW M3 Competition xDrive, Mercedes-AMG models, and Teslas use sophisticated AWD systems to put power down without wheelspin .

The TLX Type S also features AWD, but its SH-AWD® system prioritizes handling over drag-strip launches. It’ll rotate through corners better than many rivals, but it won’t match their off-the-line brutality .

Weight Considerations

Here’s where the TLX faces a challenge. At around 4,200 pounds, it’s no lightweight . But many of the cars on this list are even heavier—the M5 and S-Class hybrids push past 4,800 pounds . The difference is power.

More horsepower and torque overcome the weight penalty. The Lucid Air Sapphire weighs over 5,000 pounds but has enough power to defy physics .

Real-World Driving: Does 0-60 Matter?

Here’s the thing about 0-60 times—they’re not everything. The Acura TLX Type S offers a driver-focused cockpit, precision-crafted interior, and that AcuraWatch™ safety suite that makes daily driving less stressful. It’s a car you can live with 365 days a year.

The BMW M3 Competition xDrive might be quicker, but it also rides firmer and costs more to maintain. The Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing offers that manual transmission engagement, but rear seat space is tighter than the Acura’s .

And the electric cars? They’re brutally quick, but you’ll need to plan around charging stops on road trips. The Tesla Supercharger network makes this easier than any other EV brand, but it’s still a consideration for road trippers .

The Engagement Factor

If you’re a driving enthusiast, 0-60 times only tell part of the story. The Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio (not on our list due to slightly slower 0-60 times) is widely considered one of the best-handling sedans ever made . The Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing with the manual transmission will involve you in the driving process in ways the Teslas simply cannot match .

The TLX Type S falls somewhere in the middle. It’s more engaging than the electric cars, less engaging than the Cadillac or BMW M3. But it also costs less than most of them and offers that Japanese luxury reliability that keeps owners coming back.

FAQ: Performance Sedan Questions Answered

Q: Is the Acura TLX Type S slow compared to rivals?
A: No, 5.0 seconds to 60 is genuinely quick. It’s just that the competition has gotten incredibly fast. Think of the TLX as a balanced daily driver rather than a straight-line specialist .

Q: What’s the cheapest car that beats the TLX Type S to 60?
A: The Tesla Model 3 Performance starts around $55,000 and hits 60 in 2.9 seconds . The Hyundai Elantra N with the dual-clutch automatic hits 60 in 4.8 seconds and starts under $35,000 .

Q: Do any of these quicker sedans offer a manual transmission?
A: Yes! The Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing offers a 6-speed manual, though it’s slightly slower to 60 than the automatic version . The BMW M3 and M4 used to offer manuals, but the latest Competition models are automatic-only .

Q: Are electric sedans really faster than gasoline ones?
A: In a straight line, absolutely. The instant torque of electric motors gives EVs a massive advantage off the line. The Tesla Model 3 Performance costs about the same as a TLX Type S but is nearly twice as quick to 60 .

Q: What about the Audi RS5 Sportback?
A: The Audi RS5 Sportback hits 60 in 3.8 seconds, making it comfortably quicker than the TLX Type S . With 444 horsepower and Audi’s legendary Quattro AWD, it’s a compelling alternative for luxury buyers.

Q: How important is 0-60 for everyday driving?
A: For merging and passing, anything under 6 seconds feels plenty quick. The bigger difference comes in how the power is delivered. Turbo cars like the TLX have a surge of power as boost builds, while electric cars and supercharged engines respond instantly .

Q: Will the next TLX Type S be quicker?
A: Acura hasn’t announced下一代 plans, but industry trends suggest hybridization is coming. A hybrid TLX Type S could potentially shave a second off the 0-60 time while improving fuel economy.

The Bottom Line

The Acura TLX Type S remains a fantastic performance sedan. It blends Japanese luxury engineering with genuine driving excitement, all wrapped in a precision-crafted interior that makes daily commutes enjoyable. The ELS Studio® Premium Audio System alone is worth the price of admission.

But if straight-line speed is your priority, the market offers plenty of quicker options. From the accessible Tesla Model 3 Performance to the absurd Lucid Air Sapphire, there’s a faster sedan for every budget .

The question isn’t whether these cars are faster—they are. The question is whether you need that speed. For most drivers, the TLX Type S provides more than enough acceleration for real-world driving, wrapped in a package that’s easier to live with than its more hardcore competitors.

What’s your take? Would you trade the TLX’s balanced nature for the brutal acceleration of a Tesla, or do you prefer the Acura’s blend of luxury and performance? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.

References: