Acura 2.4
Honda K24 — one of the most reliable four-cylinders ever built. VTC rattle on cold start is normal at higher mileage. Chain-driven, no belt. 400,000 km examples documented.
Base TLX with 8-speed DCT — efficient and quiet
206 hp K24 with dual-clutch. Less drama than the V6, but also fewer transmission issues. Good choice for commuters.
Engine Weaknesses 1
Variable timing control actuator produces metallic rattle for 1-3 seconds on cold start due to oil pressure loss during shutdown.
Symptoms: Brief metallic rattle on cold start, disappears when oil pressure builds
Vehicle Weaknesses 2
Park pawl dislodges under certain conditions. Vehicle rolls despite gear selector in P. Always use parking brake as backup.
ZF 9HP nine-speed automatic particularly problematic in 2015 model year TLX. Lurching on takeoff, kickdown hesitation, harsh downshifts.