2021 Acura TLX vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The 2021 Acura TLX was a striking, sporty sedan that stood out in a crowded class. Its assertive stance was highlighted by a steeply raked windshield, a fastback-style roofline, and an integrated tail spoiler. The front of the TLX was bold, featuring a grille pattern that seemed to radiate from the central Acura logo, flanked by horizontal "jewel eye" LED headlights. Twin trapezoidal tailpipes added to its sporty appeal. The paint quality was exceptional, with tasteful badging and chrome accents enhancing its premium look. Inside, the TLX offered a "sport sedan cockpit" with a well-organized dash and authentic materials like metal, leather, and wood. The 10.2-inch infotainment screen was strategically placed, giving the interior a cohesive and intentional design.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, particularly the AMG E53 Cabriolet, was a testament to luxury and versatility, available in coupe, convertible, sedan, and station wagon forms. The AMG E53 Cabriolet, with its matte-finish paint, premium leather, and carbon fiber trim, exuded opulence. Its design was pure and elegant, with AMG styling, intricate wheels, and a convertible top that added character. Inside, the E53 Cabriolet was a haven of luxury, featuring high-resolution digital displays, glow-in-the-dark air vents, and Burmester speaker grilles. The interior was a sensory delight, offering a blend of modern technology and classic luxury, making it a standout in its class.

The 2021 Acura TLX was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. It featured a drive-by-wire throttle system and a 10-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with Acura's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) available. The TLX offered an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 22 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined for FWD models. The car's Integrated Dynamics System allowed drivers to choose between Comfort, Normal, Sport, or Individual modes, adjusting the car's parameters accordingly. The TLX was praised for its nimble handling and solid feel, with adaptive dampers enhancing its ride quality.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet featured a 3.0-liter turbo-six engine with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology, delivering 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. The AMG Speedshift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system ensured power was efficiently delivered to the road. The E53 Cabriolet could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. It offered multiple AMG Dynamic Select driving modes, an AMG-tuned air suspension, and a performance exhaust system. The E53 Cabriolet was versatile, providing a quiet and comfortable ride on highways and a thrilling experience on winding roads, with its amplified exhaust note adding to the driving excitement.

The 2021 Acura TLX's shift-by-wire transmission allowed for a reimagined center console, featuring a control panel inspired by the NSX. The console housed the infotainment interface, a mini touchpad, and cupholders. The rear seat comfortably accommodated two adults, with adequate head- and legroom. The front sport bucket seats offered 12-way power adjustability and were available with perforated Milano leather. The trunk provided 13.5 cubic feet of cargo space, with a 60/40 split-folding rear seat for added versatility.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet was a true four-passenger convertible, with comfortable seating for all occupants. The Aircap system reduced cabin turbulence, while heated seats and a heated steering wheel were standard. The test car featured rapid-heating front seats, heated armrests, and the Airscarf neck-warming system. Sun-reflective leather and a triple-layer acoustic soft top enhanced comfort. The multi-contour front seats with massage and Air Balance fragrance system added to the luxury experience. The trunk offered 9.5 cubic feet of cargo space, reduced when the top was down.

The 2021 Acura TLX was packed with technology, including drive-by-wire, shift-by-wire, and SH-AWD. The 10-speed automatic transmission featured Grade Logic Control, Shift Hold Control, and Cornering G Shift Control. The TLX offered ambient interior lighting and the ELS Studio 3D 17-speaker audio system. The infotainment system included navigation, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Advance Package added a head-up display, G-Meter, and Turbo Boost Indicator.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system with two 12.3-inch screens. The system was user-friendly, with touchscreen, voice assistant, and steering wheel controls. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, WiFi, and augmented reality navigation. The test car had a Burmester surround-sound audio system. MBUX's complexity required acclimation, but it offered a customizable and intuitive experience.

The 2021 Acura TLX came with the AcuraWatch suite, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. It featured a pedestrian injury mitigation design, ACE body structure, and a full complement of airbags. New for 2021 were a next-generation front-passenger airbag, pedestrian sensing, and autonomous emergency braking. The TLX had not been tested by IIHS or NHTSA, but previous models received high ratings.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. It featured Pre Safe and Pre Safe Sound, Active Parking Assist, and a surround-view camera system. The Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control, Active Steering Assist, and more. The test car's safety features were comprehensive and effective.