2020 Toyota Camry vs 2020 Acura TLX

The 2020 Acura TLX, with its refreshed grille and nose, presented a more appealing design compared to its predecessors. Despite its somewhat generic appearance, the TLX became a more attractive option, especially with the A-Spec package that added sporty visual enhancements like 19-inch wheels and revised bumpers. The TLX was available at a starting MSRP of $37,490, with the SH-AWD powertrain and Technology Package recommended for a more comfortable and tech-savvy experience, bringing the price to $43,190. For those seeking a sportier look, the SH-AWD with Technology and A-Spec package was available for $45,690.

In contrast, the 2020 Toyota Camry marked a return to form with a focus on quality and style. The Camry's bold front fascia and sleek lines gave it a sporty edge, reminiscent of BMW's design cues. With 13 exterior colour options, including a black roof, the Camry aimed to be fashionable. Inside, the Camry used high-quality materials and a driver-focused dashboard, making even the base trims feel upscale. While not a luxury car, the Camry offered a compelling package with a starting price of $26,620, emphasizing value and reliability.

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 290-horsepower, 3.5-litre V6 engine with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The V6 provided a smooth power delivery, although peak torque of 267 pound-feet arrived at 4,500 rpm. The SH-AWD system enhanced driving dynamics by distributing up to 70% of engine output to a single rear wheel, making the TLX agile in corners. The TLX's fuel consumption was 10.2 litres per 100 kilometres during testing, slightly below the official rating of 10.3 L/100 km.

The 2020 Toyota Camry offered three powertrains: a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 203 horsepower (206 in XSE trim), a 3.5-litre V6 with 301 horsepower, and an all-wheel-drive option for the four-cylinder. The V6, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, provided a luxurious feel but lacked excitement in the TRD trim. The four-cylinder engine, lighter by 150-175 pounds, offered a more engaging driving experience, especially in the XSE trim. The AWD system, similar to the RAV4's, improved traction without significantly affecting fuel efficiency. The Camry's fuel consumption ranged from 7.6 to 9.4 litres per 100 kilometres, depending on the configuration.

The 2020 Acura TLX prioritized comfort and quality, with a well-appointed cabin featuring supple leather, heated and ventilated front seats, and ample room for front passengers. Keyless entry was standard, with options for a heated steering wheel and rain-sensing wipers. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom and available heated seats. However, the trunk space was limited to 405 litres, more akin to a compact car than a midsize sedan.

The 2020 Toyota Camry offered a user-friendly interior with intuitive controls and increased front legroom and hip room compared to its predecessor. The centre console housed a shifter, cupholders, and storage bin, while the rear seat saw a reduction in legroom and overall passenger volume. The trunk, at 428 litres, was smaller than some competitors. The addition of AWD did not compromise interior space, thanks to structural modifications.

The 2020 Acura TLX's dual-screen infotainment system was a point of frustration, with a non-touch top display and a touch-sensitive bottom screen. The layout was confusing, with climate controls split between physical buttons and the touchscreen. Despite these issues, the Acura/ELS premium audio system delivered good sound quality, and the car featured Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. A smartphone charger and optional navigation system were also available.

The 2020 Toyota Camry improved its technology offerings with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, alongside Bluetooth and SiriusXM radio. The infotainment system, while dated, was functional and responsive, with hard buttons for major functions. A 7-inch screen was standard, with an optional 8-inch upgrade. USB-A ports were available for connectivity, and a Qi wireless charging pad was optional. Higher trims featured a 7-inch multi-information display and an optional 10-inch head-up display.

The 2020 Acura TLX, despite its aging architecture, offered a suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. However, it did not earn a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS due to an Acceptable rating in the small overlap frontal-impact test. The TLX received five-star ratings from the NHTSA in all tests, including rollover. The safety systems, while effective, lacked the refinement of more modern vehicles.

The 2020 Toyota Camry came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, featuring emergency braking, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. A one-year trial of Safety Connect was included, with blind-spot monitoring optional. The Camry earned a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. A recall for leaking engine coolant affected some models with the 2.5-litre engine.