2021 Acura TLX vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, part of the W213 generation, showcased a design evolution that embraced the "sensual purity" theme, moving away from the sharper angles of its predecessor. This model featured a more fluid and curvier form, reminiscent of the S-Class and C-Class models. The E-Class had a slightly edgier front with squinted headlights and an inverted trapezoid grille, while the rear design echoed the W212 with horizontal taillights. Despite the absence of the classic standing hood ornament, the E-Class maintained its elegant and reserved appearance, especially in its AMG variants, which boasted a more dramatic look with quad exhaust tips and 20-inch wheels. Inside, the E-Class was a showcase of luxury, with rich woods, aluminum, and carbon fiber adorning the cabin. The interior was a blend of decadent materials and modern technology, featuring two 12-inch screens, a digital display, and a lavish steering wheel with touch-sensitive controls. The E-Class interior was unmatched in its class, offering a rich and inviting space.

The 2021 Acura TLX stood out in the crowded premium sport sedan class with its assertive stance, highlighted by a steeply raked windshield, fastback-style roofline, and integrated tail spoiler. The TLX's front was bold, with a grille pattern radiating from the central Acura logo and jewel eye LED headlights. The twin trapezoidal tailpipes added to its sporty appeal. Inside, the TLX offered a "sport sedan cockpit" with authentic materials and a well-organized dash. The 10.2-inch infotainment screen was strategically placed, and the interior design featured tight gaps and matching fonts, creating a cohesive and visually appealing environment. The TLX's interior was a testament to quality and attention to detail, providing a comfortable and engaging space for both driver and passengers.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class introduced significant changes under the hood, transitioning from conventional V6 engines to electrified inline-six powertrains for its high-volume models. The E450 became a hybrid, utilizing a 48-volt electrical system to enhance power and torque, offering up to 21 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque for brief moments. This system allowed for more frequent engine shutdowns, contributing to fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. The E450's 3.0-liter inline-six engine produced 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, with additional power from the battery's overboost. The AMG E53 model added a second turbo, delivering 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, providing brisk acceleration and a refined driving experience. The AMG E63 S, with its 4.0-liter V8 engine, offered a staggering 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque, making it a performance powerhouse. Despite its performance capabilities, the E-Class maintained a comfortable ride, with fuel economy ratings of 25 mpg combined for the E53 sedan and 18 mpg combined for the E63 sedan.

The 2021 Acura TLX featured a new turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth and responsive shifts. The TLX's performance was enhanced by its drive-by-wire throttle system and shift-by-wire connection, allowing for distinct driving modes through the Integrated Dynamics System. The TLX's handling was nimble and engaging, with adaptive dampers available in the Advance package. The TLX's chassis boasted increased torsional stiffness and rigidity, providing a solid and balanced feel on various road surfaces. The TLX's fuel economy was rated at 25 mpg combined for FWD models and 24 mpg combined for AWD models, making it a competitive choice in its class.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offered a spacious and comfortable cabin, accommodating four adults with ample headroom and legroom. The redesigned infotainment system and touchscreen made everyday tasks more intuitive, although mastering the dual screens required some learning. The E-Class provided various seating configurations, with the sedan offering 13 cubic feet of trunk space, while the coupe and convertible had slightly less. The wagon variant featured a stowable rear-facing jump seat and up to 64 cubic feet of cargo space with seats folded. The E-Class's interior was user-friendly, with separate climate controls, drive mode switches, and seat controls on the doors, enhancing convenience and comfort.

The 2021 Acura TLX's interior was thoughtfully designed, with a shift-by-wire transmission allowing for a streamlined center console. The TLX featured a control panel inspired by the NSX, with paddle shifters on the steering wheel for manual control. The center console housed the infotainment interface, a mini touchpad, and cupholders positioned for convenience. The TLX's rear seat offered adequate space for two adults, with a 60/40 split-folding design for trunk access. The trunk provided 13.5 cubic feet of cargo space, with a wide opening for easy loading. The TLX's front seats were comfortable and supportive, with available Milano leather and power adjustability, ensuring a pleasant driving experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system, offering a touch-responsive main screen with improved organization and shortcut buttons for major functions. Gesture controls and natural voice processing enhanced user interaction, while features like live camera feeds and massaging seats added to the luxury experience. The E-Class offered a range of connected services, although Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were not wireless. The instrument cluster provided customizable displays, allowing drivers to choose between traditional gauges or modern graphics, creating a dynamic and engaging driving environment.

The 2021 Acura TLX was equipped with advanced technology, including drive-by-wire and shift-by-wire systems, enhancing performance and handling. The TLX's infotainment system featured a 10.2-inch screen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The ELS Studio 3D audio system, available in higher trims, delivered exceptional sound quality. The TLX offered ambient lighting themes and a head-up display in the Advance Package, providing a modern and enjoyable driving experience. The TLX's technology suite catered to both performance and comfort, making it a well-rounded choice for tech-savvy drivers.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was renowned for its safety features, earning a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS for the sedan model. The E-Class offered innovative safety technologies, such as Pre-Safe Sound and side bolster inflation during collisions. Standard safety features included forward automatic emergency braking, a driver-attention monitor, and blind-spot monitoring, with additional driver-assist features available as options.

The 2021 Acura TLX came standard with the AcuraWatch suite, offering adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. The TLX featured a robust body structure, advanced airbag systems, and pedestrian sensing technology. Additional safety options included rear cross-traffic alert and a surround-view camera system. While the 2021 TLX had not been tested by safety organizations, Acura aimed for top ratings, building on the previous generation's strong safety performance.