2021 Acura TLX vs 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

The 2021 Acura TLX was a striking, sporty sedan that stood out in a crowded class. Its assertive stance was highlighted by a steeply raked windshield, a fastback-style roofline, and an integrated tail spoiler. The front featured a bold grille pattern radiating from the central Acura logo, flanked by horizontal "jewel eye" LED headlights. Twin trapezoidal tailpipes added to its sporty appeal. Inside, the TLX offered a "sport sedan cockpit" with authentic materials like metal, leather, and wood, creating a high-quality feel. The 10.2-inch infotainment screen was strategically placed, enhancing the interior's sleek design.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, carried over from the previous model year, boasted a bold design that stood out even among aggressively styled sedans. Its catfish-like front end and matte gray paint scheme were eye-catching, complemented by an integrated deck-lid spoiler and aerodynamic taillight strakes. Inside, the Sonata Hybrid offered a more conventional yet refined cabin with soft-touch surfaces and a modern haptic bezel surrounding the vivid touchscreen infotainment system. The seats were comfortable for long trips, and the rear passengers enjoyed ample space. The Sonata Hybrid was available in Blue, SEL, and Limited trims, each offering a range of features from aerodynamic wheels to a solar panel roof on the Limited trim.

The 2021 Acura TLX was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission with drive-by-wire and shift-by-wire systems. Front-wheel drive was standard, with Acura's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) available. The TLX offered an engaging driving experience with its Integrated Dynamics System, allowing drivers to choose between Comfort, Normal, Sport, and Individual modes. The car's adaptive dampers and increased torsional stiffness contributed to its nimble handling and solid feel on various road surfaces.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid combined a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering a total of 192 horsepower through a six-speed automatic transmission. The Limited trim featured a solar panel roof, adding about two miles per day to the driving range. The Sonata Hybrid offered solid acceleration and a smooth transition between battery and engine power. Its Drive Mode toggle allowed drivers to switch between Eco, Sport, Custom, and Smart modes, with flashy graphics enhancing the experience. The Sonata Hybrid's refined driving dynamics included light yet precise steering and effective brakes.

The 2021 Acura TLX's shift-by-wire transmission allowed for a reimagined center console, featuring a control panel inspired by the NSX. The console housed a mini touchpad, cupholders, and a storage cubby. The rear seat comfortably accommodated two adults, with a 60/40 split for trunk access. The trunk offered 13.5 cubic feet of cargo space, with a wide opening for easy loading. The front seats were supportive and adjustable, with options for heated and ventilated seats.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid provided 16 cubic feet of trunk space, one of the largest among midsize hybrid sedans. The cabin offered ample legroom for front passengers and decent rear-seat space. The sloping roofline required some head lowering when entering the rear, but once inside, headroom was adequate. The front featured cargo pockets and a center console, with a tray for small items or a wireless charging pad.

The 2021 Acura TLX was packed with technology, including drive-by-wire, shift-by-wire, and SH-AWD systems. Its 10-speed automatic transmission featured Grade Logic Control, Shift Hold Control, and Cornering G Shift Control. The TLX offered ambient interior lighting themes and an impressive ELS Studio 3D 17-speaker audio system. The infotainment system included navigation, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Advance Package added a head-up display and a G-Meter and Turbo Boost Indicator.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 10.25-inch screen available on the Limited trim. The infotainment system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a customizable information panel. The Limited trim included a head-up display, though its adjustability was limited for taller drivers. The touchscreen layout was intuitive, with haptic buttons for various functions. The SEL and Limited trims featured a wireless charging pad.

The 2021 Acura TLX included the AcuraWatch suite of driver-assistance technologies, such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Additional safety features included a pedestrian injury mitigation design, ACE body structure, and a full complement of airbags. The TLX also offered rear cross-traffic alert, parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system. While not yet tested by IIHS or NHTSA, Acura aimed for top safety ratings.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid came standard with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including forward-collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Limited trim added a head-up display, surround-view monitor, and parking sensors. The Sonata Hybrid earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and was a 2021 IIHS Top Safety Pick, with top marks for its driver-assistance features and optional LED headlights.