2020 Acura TLX vs 2021 BMW 2 Series

The 2020 Acura TLX, following a design refresh, emerged as a stylish yet somewhat understated midsize sedan. The A-Spec option package enhanced its visual appeal with sporty upgrades like 19-inch wheels and revised bumpers. The exclusive 2020 Acura 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, priced at $50,945, was the pinnacle of the TLX lineup, while non-PMC models started at $33,995. CarGurus recommended the Technology and A-Spec Packages for a well-rounded TLX under $40,000, though the powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine and SH-AWD were reserved for higher trims.

The 2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, introduced as a four-door sedan with front-wheel drive, marked a departure from BMW's traditional rear-wheel-drive coupes. Despite its name, it lacked the utility of its larger 4 Series Gran Coupe sibling. Available in 228i and M235i models, the 2 Series offered xDrive AWD as an option for the 228i and standard for the M235i. The 228i xDrive Gran Coupe, equipped with the M Sport and Premium Packages, featured a sleek design with large LED headlights and a tapering roofline. Inside, it adhered to BMW's modern design with a touchscreen infotainment system and digital instrumentation, offering a premium feel despite its entry-level status.

The 2020 Acura TLX PMC Edition boasted the top-performing powertrain in the TLX lineup, featuring a 290-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and SH-AWD. 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, allowing the TLX to pivot and accelerate out of corners with ease. The automatic transmission was well-behaved, and the paddle shifters added to the driving enjoyment. The TLX offered a comfortable and quiet ride, with impressive handling capabilities and a fuel economy of 23 mpg in combined driving.

The 2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, specifically the 228i xDrive model, featured a 228-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed sport automatic transmission and AWD. BMW claimed a zero-to-60 mph time of six seconds for this model. The 2 Series Gran Coupe offered a lively driving experience, with paddle shifters and a more engaging exhaust note in Sport mode. The M Sport Package enhanced the driving dynamics with sharp and direct steering, while the suspension provided a firm yet comfortable ride. The 228i xDrive averaged 27.9 mpg during testing, surpassing the EPA's estimate of 27 mpg in combined driving.

The 2020 Acura TLX provided a comfortable and well-appointed interior, with high-quality materials and outstanding front seats. The cabin featured supple leather, heated and ventilated seats, and ample space for front occupants. Rear passengers also enjoyed favorable accommodations, with 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 2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, while practical for two passengers, offered snug but comfortable sport-bolstered front seats with adequate storage. Entry and exit were challenging due to the low-slung design. The rear seats were less accommodating, with limited headroom and legroom. The trunk, however, was spacious at 15.2 cubic feet, with additional storage under the load floor and a 40/20/40-split folding rear seat for added utility.

The 2020 Acura TLX's dual-screen infotainment system was a source of frustration, with a non-touchscreen top display and a touchscreen bottom display. The layout was confusing, with climate controls split between physical buttons and the touchscreen. The voice-recognition system was subpar, and the navigation graphics were outdated. However, the Acura/ELS premium audio system delivered good sound quality, and the car featured Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The 2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe came with Live Cockpit Plus, featuring a 5.1-inch display between analog gauges. The Premium Package upgraded to Live Cockpit Pro with a fully digital 10.25-inch display. The infotainment system, powered by iDrive 7.0, included an 8.8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and navigation. The system was user-friendly, with responsive software and multiple control options. The car also featured a premium sound system and an optional head-up display.

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

The 2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe offered advanced driving-assistance systems under the Active Driving Assistant umbrella, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and active blind-spot warning. The lane-keeping assistance was effective but could be aggressive. The IIHS rated the 2 Series Gran Coupe highly for crash protection, though it missed a Top Safety Pick due to headlight ratings and vehicle-to-pedestrian test results.