2021 Lexus IS vs 2020 Acura TLX

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 large exhaust outlets. The limited-edition TLX PMC Edition, hand-built in Ohio, stood out with its Valencia Red Pearl paint and unique exterior accents, priced at $50,945. Non-PMC models started at $33,995, with recommended upgrades pushing the price to just under $40,000.

The 2021 Lexus IS, on the other hand, made a bold statement with its athletic proportions and elegant design. The car's fast roofline and compact, sporty cabin were complemented by a new spindle grille and narrow headlights. The interior matched the exterior's boldness, featuring a tastefully simple dash and a retro hi-fi feel. However, the analog clock felt outdated in an otherwise modern cabin.

The 2020 Acura TLX PMC Edition boasted the top-performing powertrain in the lineup, featuring a 290-hp, 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 lb-ft of torque peaking 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 agility. The TLX offered a comfortable and quiet ride, with a fuel economy of 23 mpg combined.

The 2021 Lexus IS offered a range of powertrains. The IS 300 RWD had a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine with 241 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, while the IS 300 AWD featured a 3.5-liter V6 with 260 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. The IS 350 models, both AWD and RWD, had a 3.5-liter V6 producing 311 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. The IS 350 RWD accelerated from 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds. The IS's fuel efficiency varied, with the IS 300 RWD achieving 25 mpg combined and the IS 350 AWD rated at 22 mpg combined.

The 2020 Acura TLX excelled in comfort and quality, with supple leather, heated and ventilated front seats, and ample room for front passengers. Rear occupants also enjoyed favorable accommodations, though the trunk space was limited to 14.3 cubic feet.

The 2021 Lexus IS focused on driver-centered design, with easily adjustable, supportive seats, and ample storage space. The F Sport trim's bolstered seats were standard in IS 350 models, featuring heating and ventilation. The IS used NuLuxe synthetic upholstery, which was eco-friendly and easy to clean. The second row was comfortable for two but cramped for three, and the trunk offered 10.8 cubic feet of space.

The 2020 Acura TLX's dual-screen infotainment system was a major drawback, with a confusing layout and outdated graphics. The top display was not a touchscreen, while the bottom one was, leading to frustration and distraction. However, the Acura/ELS premium audio system and smartphone charger were positives, and the car supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The 2021 Lexus IS featured a touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Lexus Enform services offered various connected features, including a three-year trial for Safety Connect and a 10-year complimentary subscription for Service Connect. The Mark Levinson 17-speaker audio system was a recommended option, providing superb sound quality.

The 2020 Acura TLX had mixed safety ratings, with a 5-star rating from the NHTSA but only an Acceptable rating from the IIHS 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 refinement and smoothness.

The 2021 Lexus IS had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but it was expected to perform well. The car came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, which included a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning with steering assist, road-sign recognition, adaptive cruise control, and intelligent high beams. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a backup camera.