2021 Acura TLX vs 2021 Nissan Maxima

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 of the TLX was bold, featuring a grille pattern that seemed to radiate from the central Acura logo, flanked by horizontal "jewel eye" LED headlights. Twin trapezoidal tailpipes added to its sporty appeal. The paint quality was exceptional, with tasteful badging and chrome accents enhancing its premium look. Inside, the TLX offered a "sport sedan cockpit" with a well-organized dash and authentic materials. The 10.2-inch infotainment screen was strategically placed, giving the interior a modern and cohesive feel.

In contrast, the 2021 Nissan Maxima set a bold tone with its design, featuring a steeply-angled front end and a massive grille reminiscent of an Art Deco locomotive. The Maxima's styling elements, such as the "floating" roofline and "V-Motion" grille, influenced other Nissan models. The 40th Anniversary Edition added a two-tone exterior, gloss-black alloy wheels, and red leather upholstery, giving it a unique and stylish appearance. Inside, the Maxima's dark-red leather seats and white gauge faces provided a retro vibe. While the Maxima's design was daring, it was toned down in subsequent models, yet it maintained a distinct presence on the road.

The 2021 Acura TLX was equipped with a newly developed 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 available. The TLX offered an engaging driving experience with its Integrated Dynamics System, allowing drivers to choose between Comfort, Normal, Sport, or Individual modes. The TLX's handling was impressive, with increased torsional stiffness and rigidity, providing a solid and balanced feel on various road surfaces.

The 2021 Nissan Maxima came with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 300 horsepower and 261 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission and front-wheel drive. While not a "four-door sports car," the Maxima offered a quick and enjoyable driving experience. The V6 engine provided a satisfying sound, and the CVT was responsive. However, the Maxima's steering lacked precision, and it was prone to torque steer under heavy throttle. Despite these limitations, the Maxima remained a sporty option compared to competitors like the Toyota Avalon and Volkswagen Arteon, with the Kia Stinger being the only model to surpass it in performance.

The 2021 Acura TLX's design choices enhanced its form and function. The shift-by-wire transmission allowed for a streamlined center console, featuring a control panel inspired by the NSX. The TLX offered comfortable sport bucket seats with 12-way power adjustability and available Milano leather. The rear seat accommodated two adults comfortably, with a 60/40 split for trunk access. The trunk provided 13.5 cubic feet of cargo space, with a wide opening for easy loading.

The 2021 Nissan Maxima prioritized front-seat space, offering generous headroom and legroom. However, rear-seat passengers experienced limited space, with the lowest rear legroom among full-size sedans. The Maxima's cabin was driver-focused, with a low window line and large mirrors for excellent visibility. The "Zero Gravity" front seats provided comfort with eight-way power adjustment for the driver. The Maxima's trunk offered 14.3 cubic feet of cargo space, but its conventional design limited loading flexibility compared to hatchback competitors.

The 2021 Acura TLX was packed with technology, including drive-by-wire, shift-by-wire, and SH-AWD systems. The 10-speed automatic transmission featured advanced controls for optimal performance. The TLX offered ambient interior lighting 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 for a sporty touch.

The 2021 Nissan Maxima's technology showed its age, with an 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. A WiFi hotspot and USB ports were standard, but the infotainment system's graphics and sounds felt outdated. The Maxima included analog controls for convenience, but the touchscreen's usability was lacking. An 11-speaker Bose audio system was available, but the overall tech experience was less refined than competitors.

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

The 2021 Nissan Maxima received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional features were adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system. The Maxima lacked the ProPilot Assist system, but its safety features were comprehensive and user-friendly.