2020 Acura TLX vs 2020 Nissan Altima

The 2020 Acura TLX, with its refreshed grille and nose, presented a more appealing design compared to its predecessors. Despite its somewhat anonymous appearance, the A-Spec option package added a sporty flair with enhancements like 19-inch wheels and revised bumper designs. The TLX was available at a starting MSRP of $37,490, with the SH-AWD powertrain and Technology Package recommended for a more comprehensive driving experience. This package, priced at $43,190, offered comfort, convenience, safety, and infotainment upgrades, while the A-Spec version added a racy appearance for $45,690.

In contrast, the 2020 Nissan Altima, available in Canada in S, SV, and Platinum trims, showcased a clean and contemporary design following its recent redesign. The Altima Platinum, priced at $37,028, featured 19-inch machined-finish aluminum wheels, enhancing its visual appeal. However, some design elements, like the door handles and rear diffuser panel, were less well-received. Inside, the Altima boasted a clean and ergonomic layout, with a high-mounted touchscreen infotainment system and clearly legible climate controls. The interior materials were on par with the midsize sedan segment, though limited to black or gray colour options.

The 2020 Acura TLX offered two powertrain options. The front-wheel-drive models came with a 206-horsepower, 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The SH-AWD versions featured a more powerful 290-horsepower, 3.5-litre V6 engine with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The V6 provided a smooth power build-up, with peak torque of 267 pound-feet arriving at 4,500 rpm. The SH-AWD system, capable of directing up to 70% of engine output to a single rear wheel, significantly enhanced the TLX's driving dynamics. The TLX delivered a comfortable and quiet ride, with a fuel consumption of 10.2 litres per 100 kilometres during testing.

The 2020 Nissan Altima, equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 188 horsepower, featured a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive. The Altima's ride and handling were impressive, thanks to Intelligent Ride Control and Intelligent Trace Control technologies. The CVT, designed to mimic a traditional automatic, occasionally produced sudden power surges. The Altima's suspension and steering systems contributed to a smooth and controlled driving experience.

The 2020 Acura TLX excelled in providing a comfortable and high-quality interior. The cabin featured supple leather, heated and ventilated front seats, and ample room for both driver and passengers. Keyless entry was standard, with optional features like a heated steering wheel and rain-sensing wipers. Rear seat passengers enjoyed generous legroom and available heated seats. However, the trunk space was limited to 405 litres, more akin to a compact car.

The 2020 Nissan Altima prioritized comfort with NASA-inspired seat designs, though it lacked a front passenger seat height adjuster and ventilated front seats. Heated front seats and side mirrors were standard, with an optional heated steering wheel. The Altima offered substantial in-cabin storage and a 436-litre trunk, complete with optional grocery bag hooks. However, it lacked a wireless smartphone charging pad.

The 2020 Acura TLX's infotainment system was criticized for its dual-screen layout, which caused distraction and frustration. The top display was not a touchscreen, while the bottom one was, leading to confusion. Despite these issues, the Acura/ELS premium audio system and smartphone charger were appreciated, and the car offered Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

In contrast, the 2020 Nissan Altima featured a nearly perfect infotainment system with an 8-inch display, physical and virtual buttons, and stereo volume and tuning knobs. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with available options like a Bose premium audio system and NissanConnect Services. The system's voice recognition technology required specific commands, but the door-to-door navigation function was particularly useful.

The 2020 Acura TLX, despite its aging architecture, earned 5-star ratings from the NHTSA but did not qualify for a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. However, these systems lacked refinement compared to more modern vehicles.

The 2020 Nissan Altima offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and ProPilot Assist. The Altima received a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS. However, the ProPilot Assist system was found to be hard to trust, with irritating audible alerts and a challenging lane-centring system.