2022 BMW 2 Series vs 2023 Acura TLX

The 2022 BMW 2 Series presented a fresh exterior design that diverged from the aggressive front fascia seen in other BMW models. It maintained a sleek and aerodynamic appearance with a wider kidney grille and upright triangular air curtains. The M240i xDrive Coupe, in particular, showcased a performance-oriented style with shadowy M-type accents and the M Shadowline package, which extended dark finishes to various exterior elements. The interior of the 2 Series Coupe was driver-focused, featuring standard perforated SensaTec synthetic upholstery and optional Vernasca leather. The cabin exuded a high-end vibe with mixed material finishes, although some areas revealed cost-cutting plastics.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura TLX was a rarity on the road, partly due to supply chain constraints and a shift in consumer preference towards SUVs. The TLX Type S, tested in a striking Tiger Eye Pearl paint, was based on a concept vehicle that introduced a new design language to Acura. It featured a long, low, and lean profile with a rear-wheel-drive look, though this design compromised rear-seat room and cargo space. Inside, the TLX employed a layered dashboard design, but its control layout required a learning curve, causing potential distractions. The Type S model boasted a turbocharged V6 engine and Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), enhancing its performance credentials.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series, despite its subcompact size, delivered impressive performance. The 230i Coupe was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, while the M240i xDrive featured a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The 230i Coupe accelerated to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds, whereas the M240i xDrive achieved the same in just 4.1 seconds. Both models had a top speed of either 130 mph or 155 mph, depending on specifications. The 2 Series came with an eight-speed Sport automatic transmission, calibrated for smooth shifts and quick responses with paddle shifters. The M240i xDrive included performance features like an aerodynamic kit, adaptive M suspension, and M Sport brakes, contributing to its balanced handling and dynamics.

The 2023 Acura TLX offered a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The TLX Type S, the sportiest model, featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in five seconds and reached a top speed of 155 mph. The Type S included performance enhancements such as a sport automatic transmission with rev-matching downshifts, adaptive dampers, and Brembo front calipers. However, the TLX’s Electro Servo braking system, based on NSX technology, lacked a physical connection between the brake pedal and the master cylinder, leading to occasional mismatches between driver inputs and braking response.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series was compact, with rear seats suitable for children or short trips. Despite its larger dimensions, the coupe remained a tight fit for many. The slanted roofline and Hofmeister-kinked rear window added to its attractive profile but limited rear headroom. The trunk offered 10 cubic feet of cargo space, with 40/20/40-split fold-down rear seats for added versatility. The interior featured soft touchpoints and improved ergonomics, with multifunction buttons on the leather-wrapped sport steering wheel.

The 2023 Acura TLX Type S offered a choice of interior colors, including premium Milano leather with artificial suede inserts. The front sport seats were 16-way power-adjustable, providing excellent comfort, but the rear seat was cramped, lacking legroom. The TLX’s trunk held 13.5 cubic feet of cargo, comparable to a compact car. The flat trunk floor and enclosed hinges maximized usability.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series came equipped with an 8.8-inch touchscreen and a 5.1-inch driver information display. The infotainment system featured BMW Live Cockpit Plus, capable of over-the-air updates, cloud-based navigation, and real-time traffic updates. Connectivity options included a WiFi hotspot, USB ports, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. An optional Live Cockpit Professional upgraded the infotainment to a 10.25-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital display. The 2 Series also offered remote features like the BMW Digital Key and a 10-speaker Hi-Fi sound system, with an optional Harman Kardon 14-speaker system.

The 2023 Acura TLX’s True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system was a source of frustration, with a 10.2-inch display controlled by a touchpad and buttons. The system’s layout proved distracting, and the TTI occupied valuable center console space. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a complimentary three-year subscription to AcuraLink connected services. The TLX lacked wireless smartphone integration and Alexa Built-In, relying on AcuraLink Remote for Alexa compatibility. The 17-speaker ELS Studio 3D audio system in higher trims delivered excellent sound quality.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series featured Active Driving Assistant, including blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, lane departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. Additional safety options included adaptive front LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, and a 360-degree surround view. The BMW Drive Recorder could capture driving footage before and after a collision. The 2 Series had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA.

The 2023 Acura TLX came standard with AcuraWatch, offering forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring and parking sensors. The TLX featured an Advanced Engineering Compatibility body structure and eight airbags. The IIHS awarded the TLX a Top Safety Pick+ rating, while the NHTSA gave it a five-star overall crash-test rating.