2022 Acura TLX vs 2021 BMW 5 Series

The 2021 BMW 5 Series presented a restrained design, distinguishing itself from other BMW sedans with its understated elegance. It lacked the flashy design elements of the 3 Series and the grandiose size of the 7 Series, opting instead for a more subtle presence. The 2021 model year introduced a minor styling refresh, enhancing the sedan's sleekness with streamlined LED headlights and a larger, yet tastefully proportioned, twin-kidney grille. Additional updates included trapezoidal tailpipes, L-shaped taillights, and new bumpers for the M Sport Package, contributing to a slightly longer body while maintaining an efficient drag coefficient.

Inside, the 5 Series retained its classic BMW layout, with familiar design cues that unmistakably identified it as a BMW. The interior featured a mix of materials, with options for SensaTec upholstery or upgraded Dakota and Nappa leather. The test car boasted Nappa leather in Mocha, enhancing the luxurious feel, while aluminum trim added a touch of sophistication. However, the sport steering wheel felt somewhat out of place, given the car's overall luxury orientation.

The 2022 Acura TLX, on the other hand, showcased a bold and wide stance, reminiscent of a larger luxury sedan. Its dimensions exceeded those of the BMW 3 Series, with a wider track and a longer body, giving it a commanding presence. The TLX's design featured thin headlights, a distinctive five-sided grille, and large tailpipes, creating a visually striking appearance. The Type S variant added exclusive elements like the Tiger Eye Pearl paint and 20-inch Y-spoke alloy wheels, enhancing its sporty appeal. Despite its substantial exterior, the TLX maintained a clean design, with only subtle nods to current trends.

Inside, the TLX offered a snug yet well-detailed cabin, with impressive materials and design elements. The Type S featured faux-suede inserts and red stitching, while the steering wheel had a flat bottom and real metal shift paddles. The interior's Scandinavian-inspired ambiance was accentuated by ambient lighting and high-quality finishes. However, the infotainment system's touchpad interface required some acclimation, and the trunk space was limited compared to its exterior size.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series offered a diverse range of powertrains, starting with the 530i's 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This entry-level model could accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 6.0 seconds, with a top speed limited to 210 km/h or 235 km/h with performance tires. The 540i variant featured a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system, delivering 335 hp and 362 lb-ft of torque, achieving zero to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds. The M550i xDrive and M5 models offered even more power, with the latter reaching 617 hp and a top speed of 305 km/h with the M Driver’s Package. Additionally, the 530e plug-in hybrid provided a combined output of 288 hp and an electric range of 31 km.

The 2022 Acura TLX, equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four engine, delivered 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The TLX's Super Handling-All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system enhanced stability and handling precision, particularly in the Type S variant, which featured a 3.0-litre turbo V6 engine producing 355 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. The TLX's double-wishbone front suspension and adaptive dampers contributed to its balanced and predictable handling, while the Brembo brakes provided strong stopping power. However, the Type S's exhaust note was considered too subdued for some enthusiasts.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series, available as a four-door, five-seat sedan, offered a spacious interior with competitive front-seat space and ample rear-seat room. The 540i model provided 396 litres of trunk space, surpassing rivals like the Audi A6 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The test car featured 16-way power front seats with various adjustments, providing comfort and support. However, forward visibility was hindered by the long hood, though a surround-view camera system aided in parking.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura TLX, despite its large exterior, felt tight for four passengers inside. The back seat offered decent headroom but limited legroom, while the front seats provided comfort with adjustable features. The TLX's infotainment system utilized a touchpad interface, requiring some adaptation, and the trunk space was limited to 382 litres. The climate control was straightforward, and the cabin featured high-quality materials and design elements, though the touchpad interface posed a learning curve.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series came equipped with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen featuring the iDrive 7 system, along with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Standard features included Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The rotary knob controller provided a tactile interface, while voice control and gesture controls offered alternative options. However, the instrument cluster's layout could be confusing, and the gesture controls required practice.

The 2022 Acura TLX featured a simple and quick infotainment interface, though some typefaces were small and difficult to read. The head-up display, available on the Platinum Elite trim, allowed interaction with various functions. The ELS Studio premium audio system, standard on higher trims, delivered excellent sound quality. The TLX also offered features like wireless charging, linked climate control, and a full suite of driver assistance features, including AcuraWatch.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series received a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS for the virtually identical 2020 model, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. Standard safety features included lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic high beams. The Driving Assistance Plus Package added advanced features like adaptive cruise control and traffic-jam assist.

The 2022 Acura TLX also earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and headlight visibility. The NHTSA awarded the TLX a five-star overall score. Standard safety features included knee airbags, lane-keep assist, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors.