2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class vs 2020 Acura TLX

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 bumpers. The limited-edition PMC Edition, painted in Valencia Red Pearl, stood out with unique body-color and gloss black accents, hand-built by the same technicians who crafted the NSX supercar. Priced at $50,945, the PMC Edition topped the TLX lineup, while non-PMC models started at $33,995. The Technology and A-Spec Packages offered additional comfort and style for under $40,000, though the powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine and SH-AWD were exclusive to the higher-end models.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class retained a familiar exterior design but boasted a drag coefficient of 0.22, making it more aerodynamic than a Toyota Prius. Slightly larger than its predecessor, the S-Class exuded luxury with its classic Mercedes hood ornament and grille. Standard 19-inch wheels could be upgraded to 20-inch or 21-inch options, with the 20-inch wheels complementing the car's proportions. Inside, the S-Class featured a minimalist design centered around a prominent infotainment touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. Ambient lighting with 250 LED elements and a choice of 64 colors added a touch of elegance, while high-quality materials like Nappa leather and open-pore wood trim underscored its luxury status.

The 2020 Acura TLX PMC Edition featured the top-performing powertrain in the lineup, with a 290-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 engine, a 9-speed automatic transmission, and a torque-vectoring SH-AWD system. This setup provided a smooth power delivery, with peak torque of 267 pound-feet arriving at 4,500 rpm. The TLX offered a thrilling driving experience, especially in Sport and Sport+ modes, with the SH-AWD system enhancing cornering capabilities. The automatic transmission was well-behaved, and the car's handling was solid, thanks to amplitude reactive dampers and a balanced weight distribution. The TLX delivered a comfortable and quiet ride, achieving 23 mpg in combined driving.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class offered two engine options: the S500 4Matic with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six producing 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque, and the S580 4Matic with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 generating 496 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. Both models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and EQ Boost, a mild-hybrid system providing additional power and efficiency. The S500 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds, while the S580 achieved it in 4.4 seconds. The S-Class included standard air suspension and optional E-Active Body Control, along with rear-wheel steering for improved maneuverability. The S580 offered a fast and comfortable ride, with precise steering and effective Sport and Sport+ modes.

The 2020 Acura TLX provided a quality interior with comfortable front seats featuring supple leather, heating, and ventilation. Rear passengers enjoyed adequate space and climate control options, though the trunk was limited to 14.3 cubic feet, more akin to a compact car. Despite its performance focus, the TLX prioritized passenger comfort and convenience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class improved on its predecessor with more headroom and rear legroom, though front legroom was limited. Cargo space increased to 12.9 cubic feet, but remained smaller than other luxury sedans. The S-Class featured power-adjustable front seats with 19 motors, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The interior offered ample storage, with a large center console and rear-seat amenities. The optional Executive Line package added features like power-adjustable rear seats and four-zone climate control, enhancing its appeal for chauffeur-driven use.

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 causing confusion. The system's layout and controls were not user-friendly, though the Acura/ELS premium audio system and smartphone charger were appreciated. The TLX included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the overall infotainment experience was lacking.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch OLED central touchscreen, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The updated MBUX infotainment system offered increased computing power and a user-friendly interface. The S-Class included an augmented-reality head-up display and ambient lighting that reacted to certain functions. While some features, like the steering-wheel touchpads, were less intuitive, the overall technology package was advanced and well-executed.

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. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and road-departure mitigation. While effective, these systems lacked the refinement of more modern vehicles.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS, but it included a comprehensive suite of safety features, such as a rear-passenger airbag and advanced driver-assist systems. Mercedes claimed improvements in traffic-sign recognition and lane-keep assist, with adaptive cruise control and automated lane centering performing smoothly. The S-Class' safety technology was sophisticated and effective, enhancing driver confidence.