2020 Acura TLX vs 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

A few years ago, Acura revamped the TLX midsize sedan's design, resulting in a more attractive, albeit somewhat nondescript, appearance. The 2020 TLX, especially with the A-Spec option package, featured enhancements like 19-inch wheels, revised bumpers, side sill skirts, and oversized exhaust outlets. The limited-edition TLX PMC Edition, hand-built in Ohio and painted in Valencia Red Pearl, stood out with unique body-color and gloss black accents. Priced at $50,945, the PMC Edition was the pinnacle of the TLX lineup, while non-PMC models started at $33,995, with recommended upgrades pushing the price to just under $40,000.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, introduced in 2017, sported a smooth, rounded body reminiscent of earlier generations. Available in sedan, wagon, coupe, and cabriolet forms, the E-Class maintained a conservative yet elegant design, with options like a traditional hood ornament and chrome grille or a sportier grille with a large Mercedes emblem. LED lighting added a delicate touch, and the car's proportions remained visually appealing across different models. The cabriolet, in particular, showcased the E-Class's fluid form, with a contrasting soft top revealing a luxurious interior.

The 2020 Acura TLX PMC Edition came equipped with the top-performing powertrain, featuring a 290-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 engine, a 9-speed automatic transmission, and a torque-vectoring SH-AWD system. This setup provided a steady build-up of power, with 267 pound-feet of peak torque arriving at 4,500 rpm. The SH-AWD system could direct up to 70% of engine output to a single rear wheel, enhancing the car's handling dynamics. The TLX's automatic transmission was well-behaved, and the paddle shifters added to the driving experience. The car's sophisticated dampers and somewhat heavy steering contributed to a solid feel on the road, while maintaining comfort and quietness during daily driving. The TLX achieved 23 mpg in combined driving, matching EPA estimates.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E350, replacing the E300, featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The revised turbo and shorter intake runners improved response, but the car's performance above 40 mph was less impressive. The E450, with a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine delivering 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, offered a more balanced and effortless driving experience. AMG models, like the E53 and E63 S, provided even more power and performance, with the E63 S boasting a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing 603 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque. Fuel economy varied across models, with the E63 S achieving 16/23 mpg.

The 2020 Acura TLX offered a comfortable and high-quality interior, with supple leather, heated and ventilated front seats, and ample room for both front and rear passengers. Rear occupants benefited from air-conditioning vents and available 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 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured a more complex infotainment system, with the COMAND interface requiring multiple steps for various functions. Despite this, the E-Class provided a spacious and functional interior, with clear sightlines and high-resolution digital displays. The coupe had a usable rear seat, and the wagon included a rear-facing jump seat for small children. Practical features like a net in the front passenger footwell and concealed cupholders added to the car's functionality.

The 2020 Acura TLX's dual-screen infotainment system was a major drawback, with a non-touchscreen top display and a touchscreen bottom display causing confusion and frustration. The system's layout and controls were not user-friendly, and the voice-recognition system was subpar. However, the Acura/ELS premium audio system and smartphone charger were notable positives, and the car included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class boasted advanced technology, including a semi-automated driving system, V2X communication, and customizable digital displays. Standard features included Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Optional features like multi-contour seats, a Burmester stereo, and the Energizing Comfort Package added to the car's tech-forward appeal. AMG models included a Track Pace app for performance enthusiasts.

The 2020 Acura TLX received 5-star ratings from the NHTSA but did not qualify for a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS due to an Acceptable rating in the small overlap frontal-impact test. The car included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and road-departure mitigation systems. However, these systems lacked the refinement and smoothness of more modern vehicles.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan and wagon earned 5-star ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. The coupe and cabriolet models were not tested but were expected to perform similarly. The E-Class featured innovative safety technologies like Pre-Safe Sound, side bolster inflation during side collisions, and crosswind stabilization. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, a driver attention monitor, and blind-spot monitoring, with additional driver-assist features available as options.