2022 Hyundai Elantra vs 2023 Acura TLX

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra underwent a significant transformation from its previous iterations, shedding its unremarkable appearance for a bold and striking design. The redesign introduced a longer wheelbase, wider stance, and lower roofline, giving the Elantra a distinctive four-door-coupe silhouette. This new look set it apart from its competitors and even its sibling, the Sonata, with unique styling elements like the "Z" shape creases on its sides. Inside, the Elantra's interior saw improvements in material quality and design, offering a slightly above-average experience for its class. While some hard plastics were present, the overall value, especially with its advanced tech features, made it a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura TLX faced challenges due to external factors like the pandemic and supply chain constraints, making it a rare sight on the roads. The TLX's design was based on a concept vehicle, introducing a new design language for Acura. It featured a long, low, and lean profile with a rear-wheel-drive look, though this came at the cost of rear-seat room and cargo space. Inside, the TLX's layered dashboard design emphasized width, but the control layout required some adjustment for drivers. The Type S model, with its turbocharged V6 engine and performance enhancements, was the most expensive version, offering a thrilling driving experience despite some ergonomic challenges.

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra offered a range of powertrain options, starting with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT and FWD. This setup was adequate for most buyers, though it lacked power during hard acceleration. The Elantra Hybrid, with a 1.6-liter engine and electric motor, delivered 139 hp and up to 195 lb-ft of torque, offering impressive fuel economy. The N Line variant, with a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine producing 201 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque, provided a more engaging driving experience with its sport-tuned suspension and multi-link independent rear suspension. The N Line's DCT, while clunky at low rpm, delivered crisp shifts at higher speeds, enhancing the driving dynamics.

The 2023 Acura TLX featured a turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The TLX offered multiple driving modes, including Comfort, Normal, Sport, and Individual, with the Type S adding a Sport+ mode. The Type S model, with its turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 355 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque, delivered exhilarating performance. It featured performance-tuned suspension, adaptive dampers, and Brembo brakes, enhancing its driving dynamics. However, the TLX's brake-by-wire system, while innovative, lacked the tactile feedback of traditional systems, affecting the overall driving experience.

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra impressed with its practicality and ease of use. Its compact size made it easy to navigate tight spaces, and the interior offered clear instrumentation and controls. The Elantra's seats were comfortable, though the N Line's low seating position required extra effort to get in and out. Despite its compact size, the Elantra provided ample space for passengers, with three kids comfortably seated in the back during a long journey. The trunk offered 14.2 cubic feet of cargo space, adequate for most needs, though the narrow trunk opening posed a challenge for larger items. Some drawbacks included the droning noise from the moonroof and the lack of rear USB ports and air vents.

The 2023 Acura TLX's interior featured premium Milano leather with artificial suede inserts and contrast stitching. The front seats offered excellent comfort with 16-way power adjustments, but the rear seats were less accommodating due to narrow doors and limited legroom. The TLX's trunk held 13.5 cubic feet of cargo, more akin to a compact car than a midsize model. The flat trunk floor and enclosed hinges helped maximize space, but the overall capacity was limited compared to competitors.

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra came equipped with a surprising level of technology for its price. The base SE model featured an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while higher trims offered a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation and a Bose premium audio system. The Elantra's infotainment system was user-friendly, with quick and easy smartphone pairing. However, only wired versions of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available with the larger touchscreen.

The 2023 Acura TLX's technology was a source of frustration for some users. The True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, with its 10.2-inch display, required a learning curve and occupied valuable center console space. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio, with upgrades available for wireless charging and premium audio. The TLX lacked Alexa Built-In, relying on AcuraLink Remote for Alexa compatibility. While the ELS Studio 3D audio system sounded excellent, the lack of wireless smartphone integration was a drawback.

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and lane-keeping assistance. Additional features like adaptive cruise control and rear automatic braking were available on higher trims. The Elantra received top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, with the Limited trim's LED headlights earning a "Good" rating.

The 2023 Acura TLX came standard with AcuraWatch, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Type S model added rain-sensing wipers and a wiper de-icer system. The TLX received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though the front passenger's seating position received a four-star rating in frontal-impact tests.