2020 Acura TLX vs 2021 Honda Accord

CarGurus experts rate the 2020 Acura TLX as 6 out of 10 for look and feel, whereas the 2021 Honda Accord scores higher at 9 out of 10. The Acura TLX underwent significant visual updates to shed its previous, less appealing design. The A-Spec option package enhances the TLX's appearance with sportier aesthetic touches, including 19-inch wheels, revised bumper designs, and side sill skirts. The TLX PMC Edition, limited to 360 units and hand-built in Ohio, offers exclusive features and the vibrant Valencia Red Pearl paint, making it a standout model priced at $50,945. In contrast, the Honda Accord received a mid-generation refresh for the 2021 model year, featuring a wider, restyled grille, LED headlights and fog lights, new alloy wheel designs, and an attractive Sonic Gray Pearl option. The interior across the Accord lineup boasts quality materials, and with trim levels offering features like leather seats and a power moonroof, it caters to a variety of preferences without venturing into luxury territory.

Performance ratings from CarGurus experts are tied at 9 out of 10 for both the 2020 Acura TLX and the 2021 Honda Accord. The Acura TLX, particularly in its PMC Edition, showcases a 290-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a 9-speed automatic and SH-AWD, providing a thrilling driving experience and competent handling thanks to its torque-vectoring system. Despite its performance, the TLX offers a comfortable ride, even in daily driving scenarios. The Honda Accord offers two engine options: a 192-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder and a more potent 252-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo-four, with the latter proving more engaging while still maintaining decent fuel economy. Though it lacks the athleticism of the Acura, the Accord's driving dynamics are commendably balanced, offering a satisfying blend of comfort and control.

In terms of practicality, the Acura TLX scores a 7 out of 10, while the Honda Accord excels with a 9 out of 10 rating. The TLX provides a luxurious cabin experience with high-quality materials and excellent front seats but falls short in rear-seat space and trunk capacity, offering just 14.3 cubic feet. On the other hand, the Accord shines with its spacious interior, accommodating rear seats, and a generous 16.7 cubic feet of trunk space, along with thoughtful standard features for convenience and comfort across all trim levels.

Technology sees the 2020 Acura TLX rated poorly at 2 out of 10, primarily due to its frustrating dual-screen infotainment setup, which is less intuitive and user-friendly compared to competitors. The 2021 Honda Accord, scoring a 9 out of 10, features a more straightforward and functional 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complete with physical knobs, standard smartphone integration, and available high-end features in upper trims, showcasing Honda's commitment to delivering contemporary technology without complexity.

Safety ratings reflect a distinction between the two models, with the 2020 Acura TLX earning a 7 out of 10 due to aging design and ADAS technologies that, while effective, lack the refinement of newer systems. The 2021 Honda Accord achieves a 9 out of 10, bolstered by its comprehensive Honda Sensing suite, excellent IIHS and NHTSA ratings, and a range of standard and available safety technologies that demonstrate Honda's focus on occupant protection.

Both the 2020 Acura TLX and the 2021 Honda Accord receive a perfect 10 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness from CarGurus experts. The TLX offers a unique value proposition in the luxury sedan market, especially with the A-Spec and PMC Edition variants. Meanwhile, the Accord's competitive pricing across its trim levels, combined with its efficiency and feature set, make it an attractive option for those prioritizing value without sacrificing quality or performance.