2021 Nissan Altima vs 2020 Acura TLX

The 2020 Acura TLX underwent a significant design update, resulting in a more appealing, albeit somewhat understated, appearance. The A-Spec option package enhanced its styling with sporty visual upgrades, including 19-inch wheels and revised bumper designs. This special edition, not available in Canada, offered a good-looking TLX for under $50,000, especially when opting for the SH-AWD with Technology and A-Spec packages.

In contrast, the 2021 Nissan Altima showcased a strong family identity with its bold V-Motion grille and sleek, aerodynamic profile. Its design featured a sloping roofline and taut body lines, giving it a modern yet slightly traditional look. The Altima's fit and finish were exceptional, with deep lustrous paint and rich chrome details. It offered six exterior colours, each with unique names, and a well-designed interior with an uncluttered dashboard and standard 8-inch touchscreen display.

The 2020 Acura TLX offered two powertrain options: a 206-horsepower, 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine with front-wheel drive and an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, and a 290-horsepower, 3.5-litre V6 engine with the SH-AWD system and a nine-speed automatic transmission. The V6 provided a steady build-up of power, transforming the TLX into a thrilling ride in Sport or Sport+ mode. The SH-AWD system enhanced driving dynamics by distributing up to 70% of engine output to a single rear wheel, making the TLX agile and responsive. Despite its performance capabilities, the TLX maintained a comfortable and quiet ride, with a fuel consumption of 10.2 litres per 100 kilometres during testing.

The 2021 Nissan Altima, available in Canada with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 182 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, featured a standard all-wheel-drive system. The AWD system, biased towards the front wheels, could send up to 50% of torque to the rear wheels when needed. The Altima's fuel consumption ratings were competitive, with the base model achieving 9.1 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 7.9 combined. The Altima's suspension setup and electric-powered steering provided decent feedback and feel, making it a reliable choice for everyday driving.

The 2020 Acura TLX excelled in providing a comfortable and luxurious interior. It featured high-quality materials, heated and ventilated front seats, and ample room for both driver and passengers. Keyless entry was standard, with optional heated steering wheel and rain-sensing wipers. Rear seat occupants enjoyed generous 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 Nissan Altima boasted Nissan's Zero Gravity front seats, praised for their comfort on long drives. The front cabin offered ample storage options, including a large glovebox and centre console storage bin. The rear seats provided sufficient headroom and legroom for two adults, with a 60/40 split-folding design for trunk access. The Altima's trunk capacity was 436 litres, offering more space than the TLX.

The 2020 Acura TLX's dual-screen infotainment system was a point of contention, with a non-touchscreen top display and a touchscreen bottom display causing confusion. The system's layout and functionality were criticized, though the Acura/ELS premium audio system and smartphone connectivity were appreciated. The TLX included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with optional navigation.

The 2021 Nissan Altima came equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard tech features, including an 8-inch NissanConnect touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Platinum grade offered a Bose audio system and Nissan Door to Door Navigation. NissanConnect Services provided additional features like WiFi hotspot and emergency crash notification, enhancing the Altima's tech appeal.

The 2020 Acura TLX, despite its aging architecture, earned 5-star ratings from the NHTSA but fell short of a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS. It included standard safety features like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking, though these systems lacked refinement compared to newer models.

The 2021 Nissan Altima featured Nissan Safety Shield 360, a comprehensive suite of safety features standard on all models. The Platinum grade offered ProPilot Assist, enhancing highway driving safety. The Altima received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick + rating from the IIHS, underscoring its strong safety credentials.