2021 Mazda MAZDA3 vs 2020 Acura TLX

The 2020 Acura TLX underwent a significant design update, resulting in a more appealing, albeit somewhat generic, appearance. The A-Spec option package enhanced its styling with sporty visual elements such as 19-inch wheels, revised bumpers, side sill skirts, and large exhaust outlets. This special edition, not available in Canada, offered a blend of comfort and style, with prices starting at $37,490 MSRP, excluding fees. CarGurus recommended the SH-AWD powertrain with the Technology Package for its added features, and the A-Spec for a sportier look, all under $50,000.

In contrast, the 2021 Mazda MAZDA3, following its 2019 redesign, garnered accolades for its dramatic and sophisticated styling, winning awards like the World Car Design of the Year. The sedan version, while more conservative, still captivated with its elegant design. The 2.5 Turbo model, available in both sedan and hatchback forms, featured AWD and a range of interior options, including luxurious leather finishes. The test sedan, priced at $36,881 Canadian, showcased Mazda's attention to detail, with a high-contrast interior and premium materials, aiming to elevate the brand's status.

The 2020 Acura TLX offered two powertrain options: a 206-horsepower, 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine with front-wheel drive, and a more robust 290-horsepower, 3.5-litre V6 engine paired with Acura's SH-AWD system. The V6 delivered a smooth power build-up, with peak torque of 267 lb-ft at 4,500 rpm. The SH-AWD system enhanced driving dynamics, allowing up to 70% of engine output to a single rear wheel, providing agility and stability. The TLX's nine-speed automatic transmission was well-behaved, and the car's suspension offered a firm yet comfortable ride. Fuel consumption was recorded at 10.2 L/100 km during testing.

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 Turbo featured a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque with 93-octane fuel. The engine, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and Mazda's i-Activ AWD system, delivered a transformative driving experience. The car's performance was smooth and predictable, with Sport mode enhancing transmission shifts and cornering capabilities. The Mazda3 Turbo's suspension and steering were tuned for sportiness, and despite its compact size, it offered a thrilling drive. Fuel consumption during testing was 11.5 L/100 km, reflecting spirited driving.

The 2020 Acura TLX provided a luxurious interior with high-quality materials and comfortable seating. The front seats were heated and ventilated, offering ample space and support. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom and optional heated seats. However, the trunk space was limited to 405 litres, more akin to a compact car than a midsize sedan.

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 2.5 Turbo's interior exuded luxury with leather upholstery and heated front seats. However, it lacked some premium features, such as ventilated seats and rear-seat amenities like air vents and USB ports. Storage was adequate, and the sedan's trunk offered 374 litres of space. The hatchback version provided significantly more utility, with up to 1,334 litres of cargo space with the seats folded.

The 2020 Acura TLX's infotainment system was a point of contention, featuring a dual-screen setup that was confusing and frustrating to use. The top display was not a touchscreen, while the bottom one was, leading to potential distractions. Despite these issues, the Acura/ELS premium audio system delivered good sound quality, and the car included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

Mazda Connect, the infotainment system in the 2021 Mazda MAZDA3, combined an 8.8-inch display with smartphone integration. However, the lack of a touchscreen and poor voice-recognition technology were drawbacks. The system relied on a control knob, which was cumbersome for simple tasks. The 12-speaker Bose audio system offered excellent sound quality, and the Premium Package included a useful head-up display.

The 2020 Acura TLX, while equipped with standard safety features like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking, showed its age in crash-test ratings. It received an Acceptable rating in the IIHS small overlap frontal-impact test but earned 5-star ratings from the NHTSA. The safety systems, though effective, lacked the refinement of more modern vehicles.

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 excelled in safety, earning top ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS. Its ADAS systems were designed to support the driver, with features like adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and Traffic Jam Assist. The systems operated smoothly, encouraging driver engagement and confidence.