2021 Lexus IS vs 2020 Acura TLX

The 2020 Acura TLX underwent a significant design update a few years ago, resulting in a more appealing appearance. The facelift included a new grille and nose, which improved the overall aesthetics of the midsize sedan. However, the TLX still maintained a somewhat anonymous look. To enhance its styling, the A-Spec option package was available, adding features like 19-inch wheels, revised bumper designs, side sill skirts, and oversized round exhaust outlets. The TLX was priced starting at $37,490 MSRP, with additional fees of $2,190. CarGurus recommended upgrading to the SH-AWD powertrain with the Technology Package for $43,190, or the SH-AWD with Technology and A-Spec for $45,690, to achieve a more attractive appearance for under $50,000.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus IS made a bold statement with its athletic proportions and elegant design. The sedan's stance and fast roofline gave it a dynamic look, even when stationary. The IS featured a new version of the Lexus signature "spindle" grille with an attractive diamond mesh, narrow headlights, and flawless paint and chrome. Inside, the dash was tastefully simple, with a centre stack resembling a retro hi-fi setup. The interior matched the exterior's bold and modern aesthetic, although the analog clock felt outdated. The IS's design successfully combined elegance and sportiness, making it a standout in its class.

The 2020 Acura TLX offered two powertrain options. 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-hp, 3.5-litre V6 engine and a nine-speed automatic transmission. The V6 provided a smooth power delivery, with peak torque of 267 pound-feet arriving at 4,500 rpm. The TLX's driving dynamics were enhanced by the SH-AWD system, which could direct up to 70% of engine output to a single rear wheel, improving cornering performance. The automatic transmission was well-behaved, and the car's handling was solid, thanks to amplitude reactive dampers and a weight distribution of 61% over the front wheels. The TLX delivered a comfortable and quiet ride, with fuel consumption of 10.2 litres per 100 kilometres during testing.

The 2021 Lexus IS offered a range of powertrains. The IS 300 RWD featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine producing 241 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The IS 300 AWD had a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine with 260 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. The IS 350 models, available with AWD in Canada, used the same V6 but tuned to 311 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. RWD models had an eight-speed automatic transmission, while AWD models used a six-speed automatic. The IS achieved a top speed of 230 km/h, with 0-60 mph times ranging from 6.9 seconds for the IS 300 RWD to 5.6 seconds for the IS 350 RWD. Fuel efficiency varied, with the IS 300 RWD consuming 11.0 L/100 km in the city and 9.5 combined, while the AWD version had higher figures.

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

The 2021 Lexus IS focused on driver-centred design, offering a comfortable and supportive driving position. The F Sport trim's bolstered seat was standard in IS 350 models, with heating and ventilation. The IS used NuLuxe synthetic upholstery, which was eco-friendly and easy to clean. Storage options included an open cubby, twin cupholders, large door pockets, and a decent glovebox. Rear seats were comfortable for two passengers, though legroom was limited. The trunk offered 305.8 litres of space, with a deep configuration and a temporary spare stored beneath the load floor.

The 2020 Acura TLX's infotainment system was a point of frustration, with a dual-screen setup that was not user-friendly. The top display was not a touchscreen, while the bottom one was, leading to confusion. Climate controls were split between physical buttons and the touchscreen, and the voice-recognition system was subpar. Despite these issues, the Acura/ELS premium audio system delivered good sound quality, and the car featured Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

The 2021 Lexus IS introduced a touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, alongside a touchpad. Lexus Enform services were included, with free trial periods for features like Safety Connect and Service Connect. The Mark Levinson 17-speaker audio system was a recommended option, providing excellent sound quality. However, some features, like Dynamic Navigation, were only available for the first three years, which could be a drawback for long-term ownership.

The 2020 Acura TLX had mixed safety ratings. It did not qualify for a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS due to an Acceptable rating in the small overlap frontal-impact test. However, it received 5-star ratings from the NHTSA in all tests. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and road-departure mitigation. The systems lacked refinement compared to newer models, with noticeable pulsing and exaggerated steering wheel movements.

The 2021 Lexus IS was rated a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS and received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA. It came equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, which included a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning with steering assist, road-sign recognition, and adaptive cruise control. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring, a backup camera, and LED lighting. Lexus Enform Safety Connect provided emergency assistance and collision notification.