2022 Acura TLX vs 2021 BMW 5 Series

The 2021 BMW 5 Series presented a restrained design, distinguishing itself from other BMW sedans with its understated elegance. It underwent a minor styling refresh, resulting in a sleeker appearance. The standard LED headlights were more streamlined, and the signature twin-kidney grille was enlarged, though not excessively so. Additional updates included trapezoidal tailpipes, L-shaped taillights, and new bumpers for the M Sport Package. The interior maintained the classic BMW layout, with familiar elements like the touchscreen positioning and unique shifter design. While the lower trims featured SensaTec upholstery, higher trims offered luxurious options like Dakota and Nappa leather, enhancing the premium feel of the cabin.

The 2022 Acura TLX, on the other hand, boasted a wide and long stance, reminiscent of a larger luxury sedan. Its design was bold, with thin headlights, a five-sided grille, and large tailpipes contributing to its substantial presence. The Type S variant added exclusive features like Tiger Eye Pearl paint and 20-inch Y-spoke gray wheels, enhancing its sporty appeal. Inside, the TLX was snug, with impressive detailing even in lower trims. The Type S offered faux-suede inserts and red stitching, while the A-Spec model allowed for daring color combinations. Despite its compact interior, the TLX's design elements and materials conveyed a sense of value.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series offered a range of powertrain options, starting with the 530i's 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It could accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds. The 540i featured a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system, delivering 335 hp and 362 lb-ft of torque. It achieved zero to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds with rear-wheel drive and 4.6 seconds with xDrive all-wheel drive. The M550i xDrive and M5 offered even more power, with the latter reaching 617 hp in Competition spec. Additionally, the 530e plug-in hybrid provided a combined output of 288 hp and an electric driving capability.

The 2022 Acura TLX featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, generating 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Super Handling-All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system enhanced stability and handling precision. The Type S variant boasted a 3.0-liter turbo V6 engine, producing 355 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. The TLX excelled on the track, thanks to its double-wishbone front suspension, adaptive dampers, and SH-AWD system. The Type S offered a balanced and predictable driving experience, with minimal turbo lag and a Sport+ driving mode. However, the exhaust note was subdued, and the summer P Zero tires emitted extra noise on the highway.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series, available as a four-door, five-seat sedan, offered spacious front-seat accommodations and adequate rear-seat room. It provided 14.0 cubic feet of trunk space, surpassing rivals like the Audi A6 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The 16-way power front seats with various adjustments ensured comfort, though forward visibility was limited due to the long hood. A surround-view camera system aided in maneuvering.

The 2022 Acura TLX, despite its large exterior, had a compact interior. The back seat offered decent headroom but limited legroom. The front seats, especially in the Type S, were comfortable with adjustable side bolsters. The touchpad interface for the infotainment system required acclimation, as did the pushbutton gear selector. Trunk space was modest at 13.5 cubic feet, and the double-wishbone suspension consumed additional space.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series featured a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with the iDrive 7 system and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Standard features included Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth, SiriusXM, and a WiFi hotspot. The rotary knob controller provided tactile feedback, while voice control and gesture controls were available. However, the layout of the instrument cluster could be confusing.

The 2022 Acura TLX offered a simple and quick infotainment interface, though some typefaces were small. The head-up display, available with the Advance Package, allowed interaction with various functions. The ELS Studio audio system with 17 speakers was included, along with voice recognition, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. The Technology Package linked climate control to navigation, and standard features included LED headlights and a suite of driver assistance features.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series received a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS for the 2020 model, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. Standard safety features included lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic high beams. The Driving Assistance Plus Package added adaptive cruise control and other advanced features.

The 2022 Acura TLX earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and headlight visibility. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall score. Standard safety features included knee airbags, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and traffic-sign recognition. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on higher trims.