2021 Acura TLX vs 2021 Subaru WRX

The 2021 Acura TLX was an eye-catching, sporty sedan, standing out in a class flush with similar competitors. Its assertive stance was highlighted by a steeply raked windshield, fastback-style roofline, and an integrated tail spoiler, all indicating its dynamic character. The front fascia was nothing short of bold, featuring a grille that seemed to radiate outwards from the prominent Acura logo, flanked by horizontally arrayed “jewel eye” LED headlights. The rear end was equally striking with twin trapezoidal tailpipes that extended beneath the bumper. Top-notch paint quality and the tasteful application of badging and chrome accents complemented the TLX's premium look.

Inside, the TLX showcased a similar dedication to quality and attention to detail. Acura described its driver's position as a “sport sedan cockpit," an apt term given the thoughtfully sectioned dash with clustered functions. Authentic materials were used throughout—if something appeared to be metal, wood, or leather, it indeed was. The 10.2-inch landscape-oriented infotainment screen sat gracefully atop the center stack, merging seamlessly with the dashboard design, ensuring it looked intentional rather than an afterthought.

The 2021 Subaru WRX, in contrast, carried a more adolescent aesthetic, often compared to its racier sibling, the WRX STI. Though less aggressive than the STI, the WRX retained a sporty edge with its wedge-like front end and minimalistic trunk lid, creating an illusion of speed even when stationary. Aerodynamic bodywork and a functional hood scoop added to its performance-ready look.

Inside, the WRX's cabin was practical but uninspiring, similar to other Subaru compact cars from the past decade. The interior design felt dated compared to contemporaries like the VW GTI and Honda Civic Si. Functionality was prioritized over aesthetics, and the fit and finish reflected this choice, with the use of hard plastics that contributed to its juvenile reputation.

The 2021 Acura TLX was designed to excel in the premium sport sedan category, prioritizing the "sport" aspect with a newly developed turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine. This engine produced a robust 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with Acura’s Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) available across the lineup. Fuel economy was competitive, with the EPA estimating 22 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined for FWD models, and slightly lower for AWD models.

Performance wasn't just about power; it was about how that power was delivered. The Integrated Dynamics System allowed drivers to select different modes (Comfort, Normal, Sport, or Individual), adjusting throttle response, steering, and suspension settings accordingly. The TLX's adaptive dampers provided further tuning capabilities, making it nimble and balanced. Acura emphasized its enhanced torsional stiffness and rigidity, contributing to a solid and confident feel on various road surfaces.

In contrast, the 2021 Subaru WRX was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder boxer engine, generating 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Buyers could choose between a six-speed manual transmission or a CVT. While the manual option was more engaging, its clutch felt vague, requiring precise rev management to avoid lag. The CVT, though less enthusiast-focused, managed to keep the engine in its powerband effectively.

The WRX boasted Vehicle Dynamics Control with Active Torque Vectoring, enhancing cornering precision by modulating torque between the front and rear wheels and applying slight braking. The steering was well-weighted, making twisty roads enjoyable, but the ride was notably stiffer compared to competitors like the Civic Si and GTI.

The Acura TLX's shift-by-wire transmission allowed innovative interior design. The transmission was controlled via a sleek panel in the center stack, freeing up space on the center console for other functionalities, including a touchpad for the infotainment system. The front sport seats were exceedingly comfortable, with standard 12-way power adjustability and optional perforated Milano leather. Rear seating was spacious enough for two adults, though the center seat was best for short trips. Cargo capacity was generous at 13.5 cubic feet, with a wide trunk opening facilitating easy loading.

In comparison, the Subaru WRX's conventional sedan layout offered a trunk with up to 12 cubic feet of cargo space. This was less than the Civic Si sedan but more than its coupe counterpart. The trunk space couldn't compete with the cargo versatility of the VW GTI, especially with its seats down. However, the WRX's traditional sedan form provided ample comfort for front occupants and decent rear-seat space, accommodating four adults comfortably. The rear seats didn't fold down to extend trunk capacity, which could be a limitation for some users.

The 2021 Acura TLX was brimming with technology aimed at both performance and comfort. Key performance tech included drive-by-wire, shift-by-wire, and SH-AWD. The 10-speed automatic transmission featured Grade Logic Control, Shift Hold Control, and Cornering G Shift Control, which collectively optimized shift patterns and stability during spirited driving. For occupant comfort, ambient lighting themes added a touch of personalization.

A standout feature was the ELS Studio 3D 17-speaker premium audio system, available on higher trims, delivering an exceptional audio experience. Acura's infotainment system included a 10.2-inch display, Bluetooth, Siri Eyes Free, SMS Text Messaging, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Advance Package added a head-up display and nifty features like a G-Meter and Turbo Boost Indicator.

In contrast, the WRX came standard with a 6.5-inch touchscreen running Subaru's Starlink infotainment system, with an optional 7-inch screen on higher trims. Both screens supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though their graphics appeared dated. The system was user-friendly, and our Limited test model with the available Harman Kardon stereo provided a solid audio performance. Despite an update, the WRX’s tech felt less advanced compared to newer rivals.

The 2021 Acura TLX came equipped with the AcuraWatch suite of driver-assistance technologies, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Additional safety features included pedestrian injury mitigation, Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure, and a full array of airbags. Advanced safety features, such as rear cross-traffic alert and a surround-view camera system, were available on higher trims. While crash test ratings were not available at the time, Acura aimed for top safety scores.

The Subaru WRX, however, did not come standard with the latest safety features. Subaru’s EyeSight system, which included adaptive cruise control and emergency automatic braking, was available only on higher trims with the CVT. Other safety options, such as adaptive high beams and blind-spot monitoring, were limited to the top-tier Limited trim. All WRX trims did include tire pressure monitoring and traction control.