2023 Acura TLX vs 2023 Hyundai Elantra

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra offered a range of trims to suit various budgets, from the affordable SE to the more upscale Limited. The Elantra Hybrid models boasted impressive fuel efficiency, achieving between 50 mpg and 54 mpg in combined driving. For those who enjoyed a sportier drive, the turbocharged Elantra N Line and the performance-tuned Elantra N were available. The Elantra's exterior design was somewhat polarizing, but its interior, especially in the Limited trim, was well-received for its stylish and high-tech features, despite some hard plastic elements.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura TLX faced challenges due to supply chain constraints and market conditions. The TLX's design, based on a concept vehicle, featured a long, low, and lean look, which impacted rear-seat room and cargo space. The interior of the TLX Type S, with its premium materials and layered dashboard design, emphasized style over practicality. The control layout required some adjustment, and the rear seat was notably cramped. The TLX's trunk offered 13.5 cubic feet of cargo space, which was more in line with a compact car.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra Limited's 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produced 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While not particularly fast, the Elantra Limited's driving dynamics were surprisingly engaging, offering a peppy feel and impressive fuel efficiency, averaging 33 mpg during testing. The Elantra N Line and Elantra N provided more performance-oriented options with independent multi-link rear suspensions and more powerful engines.

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 featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque, along with performance enhancements like adaptive dampers and Brembo brakes. The Type S could accelerate to 60 mph in five seconds and had a top speed of 155 mph. However, the brake-by-wire system in the TLX Type S was less satisfying, and the car's fuel efficiency averaged 20 mpg during testing.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra provided a spacious and practical interior, with features like proximity-sensing keyless entry, a comfortable six-way power driver's seat, and dual-zone automatic climate control. However, the rear seat was less comfortable due to its reclined backrest and lack of air conditioning vents and USB charging ports. The Elantra's trunk offered 14.2 cubic feet of cargo space, with a hands-free trunk release feature available on some models.

The 2023 Acura TLX Type S featured premium Milano leather seats with artificial suede inserts and contrast stitching. The front seats were 16-way power-adjustable with heating and ventilation, but the rear seat was cramped with limited legroom. The TLX's trunk provided 13.5 cubic feet of cargo space, which was more in line with a compact car. The TLX's interior design prioritized style, but the control layout and narrow rear doors impacted practicality.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra offered a 10.25-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment display in higher trims, with features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and wireless smartphone charging. However, only Bluetooth supported a wireless connection, and the voice recognition system had some limitations. The Bose premium audio system in the Elantra Limited was underwhelming compared to competitors.

The 2023 Acura TLX's True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system was a source of frustration, with a 10.2-inch display that was not touch-sensitive. The TTI touchpad and buttons on the center console proved distracting, and the system occupied valuable center console space. Standard infotainment features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium audio system in higher trims. However, the TLX lacked wireless smartphone connectivity and Alexa Built-In, which impacted the overall user experience.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra came with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including automatic high-beam headlights, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and a driver monitoring system. The Elantra Limited added cyclist detection, intersection turning assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control with Highway Driving Assist. The Elantra received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS for 2022.

The 2023 Acura TLX included AcuraWatch, which offered forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors. The TLX Type S featured rain-sensing wipers and a wiper de-icer system but lacked a head-up display and surround-view camera. The TLX received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.