2020 Acura TLX vs 2020 Hyundai Elantra

The 2020 Acura TLX, following a design refresh, presented a more appealing aesthetic, though it remained somewhat understated. The A-Spec option package enhanced its visual appeal with sporty upgrades like 19-inch wheels and revised bumpers. The exclusive TLX PMC Edition, limited to 360 units, stood out with its Valencia Red Pearl paint and unique exterior accents, hand-built by the same technicians who crafted the NSX supercar. The PMC Edition was priced at $50,945, while non-PMC models started at $33,995, with recommended packages pushing the price to just under $40,000.

In contrast, the 2020 Hyundai Elantra retained its bold, geometric styling from the previous year, setting the stage for the upcoming 2021 model. Available in six trims, the Elantra ranged from $19,300 to $24,150, with the Limited test vehicle priced at $27,630. The Elantra's angular design elements were highlighted by a black paint job, creating a striking contrast with chrome details. Inside, the Elantra offered an updated, upscale look with silver trim accents, though some hard plastics reminded occupants of its compact car status.

The 2020 Acura TLX PMC Edition boasted the top-performing powertrain in the lineup, featuring a 290-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and SH-AWD system. This setup provided a smooth power delivery, with peak torque of 267 lb-ft arriving at 4,500 rpm. The TLX's driving dynamics were enhanced by the SH-AWD system, which could direct up to 70% of engine output to a single rear wheel, offering impressive handling. The automatic transmission was well-behaved, and the TLX delivered a comfortable and quiet ride, achieving 23 mpg in combined driving.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra offered a range of powertrains, starting with a 147-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a new CVT. The Elantra Eco featured a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine with 128 horsepower and a 7-speed DCT, achieving 36 mpg in combined driving. The Elantra Sport, with a 201-horsepower, 1.6-liter turbo engine, provided a more engaging drive with its independent rear suspension. However, the standard Elantra's torsion beam axle detracted from ride quality. The Elantra Limited test car averaged 29.3 mpg, falling short of expectations.

The 2020 Acura TLX offered a luxurious interior with high-quality materials and comfortable front seats, featuring heating and ventilation. Rear passengers benefited from air-conditioning vents and optional heated seats. However, the trunk space was limited to 14.3 cubic feet, more akin to a compact car than a midsize sedan.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra provided roomy accommodations for four adults, with a fifth fitting for short trips. The Limited trim included power driver’s seat adjustment, leather upholstery, and a sliding center console armrest. All Elantras featured a dual-zone automatic climate control system, though rear air vents were absent. The trunk offered 14.4 cubic feet of space, comparable to some midsize sedans, and included a convenient interior grab handle.

The 2020 Acura TLX's dual-screen infotainment system was a source of frustration, with a non-touch top display and a touch-sensitive bottom screen. The layout was confusing, with climate controls split between physical buttons and the touchscreen. Despite these issues, the Acura/ELS premium audio system and smartphone charger were appreciated, and the car supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra came with a user-friendly touchscreen infotainment system, starting with a 5-inch display on the base SE trim and a 7-inch screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on the SEL. The Limited trim added wireless smartphone charging and a premium Infinity sound system. The Ultimate Package increased the screen size to 8 inches and included navigation. The system was easy to use, with shortcut buttons and volume/tuning knobs, and the voice recognition was satisfactory.

The 2020 Acura TLX, while earning 5-star ratings from the NHTSA, did not qualify for an IIHS Top Safety Pick due to an Acceptable rating in the small overlap frontal-impact test. The TLX included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and road-departure mitigation. However, these systems lacked refinement, with noticeable braking and steering interventions.

The 2020 Hyundai Elantra featured Hyundai Smart Sense as standard, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and full LED headlights. The Ultimate Package offered adaptive cruise control and pedestrian detection. The Elantra earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS with LED headlights and a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA.