2022 Lexus IS vs 2022 Acura TLX

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance carried forward the legacy of its predecessor, the 2008 Lexus IS F, with a similar formula. It featured a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 472 horsepower and 395 pound-feet of torque, delivered to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. Priced at $56,500, plus a $1,075 destination charge, it offered a thrilling driving experience with a blend of comfort, quality, and dependability. The IS 500 F Sport Performance maintained a stealthy appearance with minor trim modifications and exclusive 19-inch wheels, while its interior mirrored the IS 350 F Sport, providing a comfortable and well-constructed space for four passengers.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura TLX presented a bold and substantial exterior design, reminiscent of a larger luxury sedan. It boasted a wide stance, thin headlights, and a distinctive grille, creating a striking visual presence. The TLX Type S added unique elements like Tiger Eye Pearl paint and 20-inch Y-spoke wheels, enhancing its sporty appeal. Inside, the TLX offered a snug yet impressively detailed cabin, with features like faux-suede inserts and a flat-bottom steering wheel in the Type S. However, the touchpad interface for the infotainment system required acclimation, and trunk space was limited at 13.5 cubic feet.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance was powered by a robust 5.0-liter V8 engine, delivering 472 horsepower at 7,100 rpm and 395 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. This rear-wheel-drive sedan featured an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission and a limited-slip differential, offering driving modes like Eco, Normal, Sport S, and Sport+. The IS 500 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds, thanks to its adaptive variable suspension and Yamaha rear performance damper, which enhanced ride comfort and stability. Despite its thrilling performance, the IS 500's fuel efficiency was modest, averaging 17.7 mpg.

The 2022 Acura TLX, equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, produced 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The TLX offered Super Handling-All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) for improved stability and handling precision. The Type S variant featured a 3.0-liter turbo V6 engine with 355 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque, excelling on the track with its double-wishbone front suspension and adaptive dampers. While the TLX provided a balanced and predictable driving experience, its exhaust note was subdued, and fuel economy for the Type S was average at 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance excelled in comfort, with effective climate control and seat ventilation systems. The front seats offered excellent support and a snug fit, while the rear seats accommodated average-height adults. However, storage space was limited, with a small trunk measuring 10.8 cubic feet. The IS featured a well-organized control layout, with buttons and knobs for easy access to functions.

The 2022 Acura TLX, despite its large exterior, provided a tight interior space for four passengers. The back seat offered decent headroom but limited legroom. The front seats in the Type S were comfortable, with adjustable side bolsters and a low driving position. The touchpad interface for the infotainment system required adjustment, and trunk space was modest at 13.5 cubic feet. The TLX's climate control was straightforward, and the cabin featured well-marked controls.

The 2022 Lexus IS featured a touchscreen infotainment system with an 8-inch display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The IS 500 Premium added a 10.3-inch touchscreen, a navigation system, and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system. The dynamic voice command system was highly effective, providing quick and accurate responses to voice queries.

The 2022 Acura TLX offered a simple and quick infotainment interface, though some typefaces were small. The TLX included a head-up display, available with the Advance Package, and an ELS Studio audio system with 17 speakers. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. The Technology Package linked climate control to navigation, and the TLX came with a full suite of driver assistance features.

The 2022 Lexus IS came equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, offering a comprehensive package of safety features. It included lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and low-speed automatic braking. The IS earned a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with a four-star frontal-impact rating.

The 2022 Acura TLX received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall score from the NHTSA. It featured standard knee airbags, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and traffic-sign recognition. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were included in the Technology Package and higher trims.