2020 Acura TLX vs 2020 Lexus ES

The 2020 Acura TLX underwent a significant design update a few years back, resulting in a more appealing, albeit somewhat understated, appearance. The A-Spec option package enhanced its styling with sporty visual elements like 19-inch wheels and revised bumpers. The exclusive 2020 Acura TLX PMC Edition, limited to 360 units, featured a striking 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 upgrades like the Technology and A-Spec Packages for a more attractive TLX under $40,000.

In contrast, the 2020 Lexus ES shed its "boring" label with a more aggressive design, highlighted by a large spindle grille that integrated well with its larger proportions. The rear featured sleek taillamps and a distinctive window kink, adding to its visual appeal. Inside, the ES boasted a luxurious cabin with soft-touch materials and a large infotainment screen. Available trims included the base 350 FWD, Luxury, Ultra Luxury, and F Sport, each offering a range of standard and optional features. The F Sport trim, in particular, added unique styling elements and performance-oriented features, making it a standout choice for those seeking a sportier look.

The 2020 Acura TLX PMC Edition came equipped with 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 pound-feet arriving at 4,500 rpm. The SH-AWD system enhanced driving dynamics by distributing up to 70% of engine output to a single rear wheel, offering a thrilling driving experience. Despite its performance capabilities, the TLX maintained a comfortable and quiet ride, with a fuel economy of 23 mpg in combined driving.

The 2020 Lexus ES featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 302 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. It achieved a 0-60 mph time of 6.6 seconds and a top speed of 131 mph. The ES prioritized comfort and refinement, with a suspension that absorbed road imperfections while maintaining precise steering. The F Sport trim offered an optional Adaptive Variable Suspension, adding a Sport+ mode for enhanced performance. Despite its Camry and Avalon roots, the ES provided a lively driving experience, especially with the upgraded suspension and paddle shifters.

The 2020 Acura TLX offered a well-appointed cabin with high-quality materials and comfortable front seats. Heated and ventilated seats, along with ample room, ensured a pleasant experience for both driver and passengers. Rear occupants benefited from air-conditioning vents and optional heated seats. However, the TLX's trunk space was limited to 14.3 cubic feet, which was on the smaller side for a midsize sedan.

The 2020 Lexus ES excelled in interior space, providing generous head- and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The cabin featured practical storage solutions, including deep door pockets and a well-designed center console. The ES offered 16.7 cubic feet of trunk space, which was competitive for its class. However, the lack of fold-down rear seats limited its cargo versatility.

The 2020 Acura TLX's infotainment system was criticized for its dual-screen setup, which caused confusion and frustration. The top display was not a touchscreen, while the bottom one was, leading to a cumbersome user experience. Despite these drawbacks, the TLX included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a premium audio system and a convenient smartphone charger.

The 2020 Lexus ES featured the Lexus Remote Touch system, controlled via a touch-sensitive pad. While not a touchscreen, the system was intuitive once presets were set. The ES came standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, displayed on either an 8-inch or 12.3-inch screen. The infotainment system was complemented by a 10-speaker audio system, with an optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson upgrade. A head-up display was also available, offering crisp graphics and customization.

The 2020 Acura TLX included a range of advanced driver assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. However, its aging architecture resulted in an Acceptable rating in the IIHS small overlap frontal-impact test, preventing it from earning a Top Safety Pick. The TLX did receive 5-star ratings from the NHTSA in all tests, including rollover.

The 2020 Lexus ES came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features like forward collision avoidance, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. The system also included pedestrian and cyclist detection, dynamic radar cruise control, and lane-tracing assist for semi-autonomous driving. Additional safety features included a full array of airbags, traction control, and stability control.