Toyota Prius vs Acura TLX

After decades of being the frumpy leader of the fuel-efficiency movement, the Prius emerges as one of the better-looking new cars to hit the market recently. This fifth-generation revelation in looks is then backed up by a huge jump in power without sacrificing any of the fuel-sipping ways of the earlier model. Add in impressive standard safety features and a reasonable suite of interior tech and comfort goodies, and you have an impressive hatchback that just now happens to be a hybrid.

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The 2024 Acura TLX introduces a handsome new grille and some bigger screens, but it retains the same chassis and powertrains as the 2023 model. The base trim is no longer available, and the lowest-level Technology Package sits some $5,000 above the older models’ starting price. Available with either a turbocharged four-cylinder engine or a turbo V6 in the speedy Type S trim, the TLX puts performance first, practicality second.

Verdict: It’s weirdly sized, looking like a midsize sedan on the outside but feeling like a compact sedan on the inside, but the TLX is an excellent performer. Overall, it’s a great choice for shoppers looking to buy a sports sedan on a budget.