2021 Lexus ES vs 2022 Acura TLX

The 2021 Lexus ES expanded its lineup to include the new ES 250 series, featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and standard all-wheel drive (AWD). These models were priced similarly to the ES 350, which came with a 3.5-liter V6 and front-wheel drive (FWD). The ES 250 and ES 350 were available in Standard, F Sport, Luxury, and Ultra Luxury trims. Additionally, the ES 300h, a gas-electric hybrid version, offered significant fuel economy improvements and came in Standard, Luxury, and Ultra Luxury trims. Lexus also made blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert standard on all trims except the base model. A new limited-production Black Line Special Edition of the ES 350 debuted, featuring unique styling elements and a matching set of Zero Halliburton luggage.

The 2022 Acura TLX had a wide and long stance, making it appear larger than its competitors like the BMW 3 Series. It featured thin headlights, a five-sided grille, and a V-shaped front bumper, giving it a substantial and aggressive look. The Type S trim added exclusive features like Tiger Eye Pearl paint, Performance Red Pearl, and 20-inch Y-spoke gray wheels inspired by the Acura NSX. The TLX's interior was snug but well-detailed, with a narrow center console and a Scandinavian airport lounge vibe in upper trims. The Type S models included faux-suede inserts, red stitching, and real metal shift paddles, offering a sporty and luxurious feel.

The 2021 Lexus ES 350 was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 302 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered Normal, Eco, and Sport driving modes, with Sport+ and Custom modes available on models with adaptive damping suspension. The ES 350 accelerated to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds and had an EPA fuel economy rating of 25 mpg combined. During testing, it averaged 22.9 mpg. The ES 350 F Sport felt quicker than its claimed acceleration time, with a firm ride, flat cornering stance, and overall athleticism. However, it was not an outright sports sedan, as that role was reserved for the Lexus IS models.

The 2022 Acura TLX featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The TLX was available with Super Handling-All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) for an additional $2000, which improved stability and handling precision. The Type S trim came with a 3.0-liter turbo V6 engine producing 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. The TLX's double-wishbone front suspension, adaptive dampers, and SH-AWD system made it balanced and predictable on the track. The Type S had a subdued exhaust note but offered a comfortable ride and impressive handling. Fuel economy for the Type S was 19 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined, while the regular TLX with SH-AWD achieved 21/29/24 mpg.

The 2021 Lexus ES had a daring interior layout that was still functional, with sport-bolstered front seats offering 10-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. The rear seats provided good foot and legroom, with a comfortable seating position and available power rear window sunshade. Outward visibility was excellent, and storage was plentiful but oddly configured. The trunk measured 13.9 cubic feet, with an optional hands-free power trunk.

The 2022 Acura TLX, despite its large exterior, had a tight interior for four passengers. The back seat had decent headroom but limited legroom. The front seats were comfortable, with adjustable side bolsters and a low driving position. The touchpad interface for the infotainment system required acclimation, as did the pushbutton gear selector. The climate control was straightforward, and the trunk offered 13.5 cubic feet of space. The TLX's double-wishbone suspension took up more space, limiting trunk and cabin room.

The 2021 Lexus ES had a problematic touchpad interface that required constant attention to the screen. However, the climate controls and primary stereo controls were separate and easy to use. The ES featured a dynamic voice command system, a 12.3-inch widescreen display, and a 10-speaker premium sound system. The larger display added dynamic navigation and connected services, with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson sound system available.

The 2022 Acura TLX had a simple and quick infotainment interface, but the typefaces were small and hard to read. The head-up display was only available with the Advance Package, which also included 360-degree cameras, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel. The ELS Studio audio system with 17 speakers was included in the Type S trim. The TLX featured Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and 12-way heated front seats. The Technology Package linked the climate control to the navigation system and included standard driver assistance features.

The 2021 Lexus ES came with Lexus Safety System 2.0, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, lane-centering assistance, adaptive cruise control, road-sign recognition, and automatic high-beam headlights. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on all trims except the base model. The ES received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Acura TLX also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It featured knee airbags for the driver and passenger, a unique passenger airbag, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, auto high beams, and traffic-sign recognition. Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors were included in the Technology Package and higher trims.