2020 Acura TLX vs 2021 Chrysler 300

The 2020 Acura TLX underwent a significant design update, resulting in a more appealing, albeit somewhat understated, appearance. The A-Spec option package enhanced its styling with sporty visual elements such as 19-inch wheels and revised bumper designs. 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 and feature-rich TLX.

In contrast, the 2021 Chrysler 300 maintained its classic "three-box design" since its 2014 facelift, offering a timeless and recognizable profile. The car's design evoked a sense of nostalgia without succumbing to retrofuturist trends. The 300's appearance was consistent across trims, from the base model to the high-end 300S, ensuring a sense of pride when arriving at any destination. The 2021 model featured updated bi-xenon halogen projector lamps and adaptive HID lamps on higher trims, with grille options in black or chrome. Wheel sizes ranged from 17-inch alloys on the base trim to 20-inch Black Noise wheels on the 300S, providing a robust and no-nonsense look.

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 the SH-AWD system. This setup offered a smooth power delivery, with peak torque of 267 pound-feet 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, providing a thrilling driving experience. The automatic transmission was well-behaved, and the car's handling was solid, with a comfortable ride quality. During testing, the TLX achieved 23 mpg, matching the EPA's combined driving estimate.

The 2021 Chrysler 300 offered a choice between a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine, delivering 292 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque in the 300 Touring and Touring L, and 300 horsepower and 264 lb-ft in the 300S. The 300S also had an optional 5.7-liter V8 engine with 363 horsepower and 394 lb-ft of torque, the only V8 in its class. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with paddle shifters available on the 300S. The 300 provided a comfortable and traditional luxury driving experience, with the V8 offering a fun, albeit not overly powerful, performance.

The 2020 Acura TLX offered a high-quality interior with comfortable front seats, featuring supple leather, perfect positioning, and heating and ventilation options. Rear passengers enjoyed adequate space and amenities like air-conditioning vents and optional heated seats. However, the TLX's trunk space was limited to 14.3 cubic feet, more akin to a compact car than a midsize sedan.

The 2021 Chrysler 300 excelled in interior space, providing generous legroom with 41.8 inches in the front and 40.1 inches in the rear, surpassing competitors like the Lexus ES350. The 300 offered 106.3 cubic feet of passenger volume, making it feel spacious compared to rivals. The trunk provided 16.3 cubic feet of cargo space, accommodating about four large suitcases, which was impressive for its class.

The 2020 Acura TLX's infotainment system was criticized for its dual-screen setup, which caused distraction and frustration. The top display was not a touchscreen, while the bottom one was, leading to confusion. The system lacked a tuning knob, and the voice-recognition system was subpar. However, the Acura/ELS premium audio system was praised, and the car included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The 2021 Chrysler 300 featured the Uconnect 4C infotainment system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, known for its intuitive interface and functionality. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. The Popular Equipment Group added advanced features like a 506-watt amp, nine premium Alpine speakers, GPS navigation, and a dual-pane sunroof, enhancing the car's tech offerings.

The 2020 Acura TLX received 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. It included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and road-departure mitigation systems. However, these systems lacked refinement compared to more modern vehicles.

The 2021 Chrysler 300 received "Good" scores in most IIHS crash tests but had a "Marginal" score in small overlap tests and a "Poor" rating for headlights. The NHTSA awarded it a four-star overall crash test rating. The 300 offered a range of safety features, but advanced systems like blind-spot monitoring and forward collision warning were only available on higher trims or as part of expensive packages.