A prototype for the 2014 (editor's note: we think it will be a 2015) Acura TLX has headed for the mountains, and we have a slew of shots of it undergoing elevation testing.

The new TLX has been downsized a bit compared to outgoing TL (which it replaces), in order to leave a little more space between it, and the new range-topping RLX. The TLX springs from the mechanicals of the updated Honda Accord, and is expected to be powered by Honda's new Earth Dreams SOHC 3.5-liter 24-valve V6, with direct injection and mated to either a six-speed automatic. A 7-speed dual-clutch transmission is also to be a possibility.

The TLX is also expected to share the four-cylinder hybrid drivetrain from the Honda Accord, representing a new model compared to the existing TL lineup.

We expect to see thinly-veiled "concepts" of the TLX to begin popping up on the auto show circuit by year's-end.