2023 Honda Accord vs 2023 Acura TLX

The 2023 Acura TLX was a standout on the road, especially given its rarity in the market. Supply chain issues and other market factors had limited the availability of the TLX, making it a unique sight even in car-centric areas like Southern California. An eye-catching Type S model, adorned in Tiger Eye Pearl paint, alongside a performance wheel and tire package, showcased Acura's commitment to impressive aesthetics. The TLX was based on a concept vehicle that heralded a new design language for the brand, with a long, low, and lean body that still echoed the design cues of a rear-wheel-drive vehicle despite its front-wheel-drive platform. The dramatic tapering of the TLX's tail, while visually appealing, did reduce rear-seat space and cargo capacity. However, Acura anticipated consumers looking for more rear space would prefer their SUV models like the RDX or MDX instead.

Inside, the TLX displayed a layered dashboard design emphasizing the car’s width but often at the expense of practicality. Acura’s decision to use a control layout that necessitated a learning curve for owners led to distractions even after prolonged use.

Conversely, the 2023 Honda Accord took a markedly different approach to its redesign, presenting a more conservative and technical look compared to its predecessor. The Accord stayed true to its essence, blending modern elements with practical design without indulging overly in flashy details. The Canyon River Blue paint on our test car earned several compliments, and the EX trim’s pewter-finished wheels felt like a balanced choice.

The interior of the Accord EX was both functional and aesthetically pleasing, featuring cloth seats with contrast stitching and a metal mesh dashboard trim that tastefully integrated the air conditioning vents. The driver-focused cabin included digital instrumentation paired with a touchscreen infotainment system, and the overall fit and finish reflected Honda's attention to detail.

Under the hood, the 2023 Acura TLX offered a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Trim configurations and drivetrain variations allowed the TLX to return a fuel efficiency of 24-25 mpg in combined driving. The TLX was equipped with an Integrated Dynamics System giving drivers multiple driving modes and, in the case of the Type S, an exclusive Sport+ mode.

Acura’s SH-AWD system was a significant highlight, particularly in its torque vectoring capabilities that provided mechanical power delivery to individual rear wheels, enhancing grip and control. The Type S added a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, generating an impressive 355 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. The performance-tuned adaptive damping suspension, robust braking system, and precise steering calibration were designed to make driving the TLX Type S a thrilling experience. Nevertheless, the brake-by-wire system had its drawbacks, especially under spirited driving conditions, which detracted slightly from the sports sedan feel.

The 2023 Honda Accord, in contrast, featured a smaller turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 192 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque. This engine, though less powerful, was refined and practical for everyday driving needs. Paired with a CVT, the Accord handled urban and suburban conditions with ease, though the CVT’s imitation of traditional gear changes only partially masked its inherent characteristics. The Accord’s EPA-rated combined fuel efficiency stood at 32 mpg, although our test car achieved 28.7 mpg under less-than-ideal conditions.

The Accord’s driving dynamics were commendable, thanks to its well-tuned suspension and dual-pinion steering system. While the CVT’s Sport mode lacked the engagement purists might seek, the Accord retained a balance of comfort and responsiveness. The Michelin Energy tires, while adequate, left room for performance improvement, particularly for more enthusiastic driving scenarios.

In terms of interior space, the Acura TLX offered three interior color options with premium Milano leather and contrast stitching. The Type S model’s cabin was both stylish and functional, featuring 16-way power-adjustable front sport seats with heating and ventilation. However, the rear seat space was limited, with narrow rear doors and a cramped rear seat, sacrificing legroom for exterior design. The trunk offered just 13.5 cubic feet of cargo space, which was more akin to a compact car’s capacity.

The Honda Accord EX, while offering fewer luxury trimmings, boasted practical features such as a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and a 60/40-split folding rear seat. However, the EX’s interior lacked rear air conditioning vents and USB charging ports. Nonetheless, rear-seat passengers benefited from ample legroom and easy entry and exit. The Accord’s trunk capacity far outshined the TLX, offering a generous 16.7 cubic feet, making it ideal for longer trips and family use.

The 2023 Acura TLX’s technology package, unfortunately, detracted from its appeal. The True Touchpad Interface (TTI) proved to be a source of frustration, as did the unconventional layout of the vehicle’s controls. The 10.2-inch display wasn’t touch-sensitive, requiring use of the console touchpad, steering wheel buttons, and voice commands, which often led to driver distraction. However, the system did include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio, although wireless smartphone charging wasn’t particularly user-friendly.

The Accord LX and EX featured a simpler, yet effective, array of tech with a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It included essentials like Bluetooth connectivity, wired Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an eight-speaker audio system. Though it lacked some modern features like SiriusXM satellite radio, the system was intuitive and easy to use. Physical controls for key functions were a welcome throwback, though some minor confusions remained, such as the misplaced function control.

Both vehicles came well-equipped with advanced safety features. The Acura TLX included the comprehensive AcuraWatch suite, complete with forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and more. Notably, the TLX earned top marks in crash tests, including a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS.

The Honda Accord also featured an impressive array of safety technologies under the Honda Sensing suite, offering adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more. Optional safety enhancements for the EX trim included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Accord received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, confirming its prowess in protecting occupants.