2020 Acura TLX vs 2021 Nissan Maxima

The 2020 Acura TLX underwent a significant design update, resulting in a more appealing appearance. Despite its somewhat generic look, the TLX became a more attractive option for buyers. The A-Spec option package further enhanced its styling with sporty visual upgrades, including 19-inch wheels and revised bumper designs. The special edition model, not available in Canada, offered a good balance of aesthetics and performance for under $50,000, especially when equipped with the SH-AWD powertrain and Technology Package.

In contrast, the 2021 Nissan Maxima set a bold design standard for Nissan's lineup, featuring a distinctive "floating" roofline and "V-Motion" grille. Its Art Deco-inspired front end and massive grille gave it a unique presence on the road. The 40th Anniversary Edition trim, unavailable in Canada, showcased elements like 19-inch gloss-black alloy wheels and black exterior trim. While the Maxima's design was daring, it shared some of its styling cues with other Nissan models, making it a standout choice for those seeking a more adventurous look.

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 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 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 in corners. The TLX's automatic transmission was well-behaved, and the car's handling capabilities did not compromise ride quality. During testing, the TLX achieved a fuel consumption rate of 10.2 litres per 100 kilometres.

The 2021 Nissan Maxima was equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 300 horsepower and 261 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive. While not a "four-door sports car," the Maxima delivered a satisfying driving experience with its powerful V6 and responsive CVT. However, its steering lacked precision, and the front end struggled with grip, leading to torque steer under heavy throttle. Despite these limitations, the Maxima remained agile for a large sedan and provided a comfortable ride on highways. The cabin was quiet, thanks to active noise cancellation, and the suspension offered a balance between handling and comfort.

The 2020 Acura TLX excelled in providing a comfortable and high-quality interior. The cabin featured premium materials, heated and ventilated front seats, and ample space 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 generous legroom and available heated seats. However, the TLX's trunk space was limited to 405 litres, which was more in line with compact cars than midsize sedans.

The 2021 Nissan Maxima prioritized front-seat comfort, offering generous headroom and legroom for the driver and front passenger. However, rear-seat passengers faced cramped conditions, with limited headroom and legroom. The seats were positioned inboard, affecting the sense of spaciousness. The Maxima featured Nissan's "Zero Gravity" front seats, designed for optimal support, with power adjustments and extra bolstering. Despite its sedan design, the Maxima's trunk space was also limited to 405 litres, falling short compared to hatchback competitors like the Kia Stinger and Volkswagen Arteon.

The 2020 Acura TLX's infotainment system was a point of frustration. It featured a dual-screen setup, with the top display not being a touchscreen and the bottom display offering limited touch functionality. The layout was confusing, with climate controls spread across different screens and buttons. The graphics were outdated, and the voice-recognition system was subpar. However, the Acura/ELS premium audio system delivered good sound quality, and the car offered Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, along with an optional navigation system.

The 2021 Nissan Maxima's infotainment system, while covering basic features, showed its age in terms of functionality. It came with an 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, and a newly standard WiFi hotspot. The system's graphics were dated, and small icons made navigation challenging. However, the Maxima provided analog controls for climate and audio functions, reducing reliance on the touchscreen. The standard 11-speaker Bose audio system offered good sound quality, but the notification sounds were jarring and outdated.

The 2020 Acura TLX had an aging vehicle architecture, reflected in its safety ratings. It received an "Acceptable" rating in the IIHS small overlap frontal-impact test, preventing it from earning a Top Safety Pick designation. However, it achieved 5-star ratings in all NHTSA tests. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and road-departure mitigation. While effective, these systems lacked refinement compared to more modern vehicles.

The 2021 Nissan Maxima earned the IIHS "Top Safety Pick+" rating, with top scores in all crash tests and a "Superior" rating for front crash prevention. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, and more. The Maxima also offered a 360-degree camera system on higher trims, enhancing safety and convenience.