2021 Honda Civic vs 2022 Acura TLX

The 2021 Honda Civic continued the tradition of segment-defining models that Honda released every decade or so. With its bold design, the 10th-generation Civic, introduced in 2016, was a car that people either loved or hated. Despite its polarizing appearance, it became a familiar sight on the roads, with over a million units sold. The Civic Touring sedan, with its Cosmic Blue Metallic paint and 18-inch wheels, was a striking vehicle, though its appeal varied depending on the angle and lighting. Inside, the Civic's interior, once daring, showed signs of aging, particularly with its 7-inch infotainment screen. However, it still featured quality materials and thoughtful design, maintaining its role as a trendsetter in the compact car segment.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura TLX presented a wide and long stance, reminiscent of a luxury sedan from a larger class. Its design, with thin headlights, a five-sided grille, and large tailpipes, exuded a sense of sophistication. The TLX Type S added exclusive features like Tiger Eye Pearl paint and 20-inch Y-spoke alloy wheels, enhancing its sporty appearance. Inside, the TLX offered a snug yet impressively detailed cabin, with features like a narrow centre console and ambient lighting. The infotainment system, though not a touchscreen, was complemented by a head-up display and a premium audio system. The TLX's interior, while compact, provided a sense of luxury and comfort, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a refined driving experience.

The 2021 Honda Civic offered a choice between a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 158 horsepower and a turbocharged 1.5-litre engine producing 174 horsepower. The latter, standard on the Touring trim, provided ample power and a satisfying driving experience. The Civic's sophisticated suspension and steering contributed to its composed and gratifying ride. However, the continuously variable transmission (CVT) was a drawback, with its droning noise and lack of responsiveness. Despite this, the Civic excelled in fuel efficiency, averaging 6.8 litres per 100 kilometres, surpassing official estimates.

The 2022 Acura TLX, on the other hand, featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine with 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, standard in Canada, enhanced stability and handling precision. The Type S variant, with a 3.0-litre turbo V6 engine producing 355 horsepower, excelled on the track, thanks to its double-wishbone front suspension and adaptive dampers. The TLX's performance was further complemented by its broad torque range and minimal turbo lag. However, the subdued exhaust note and highway noise from the summer tires were minor drawbacks. Fuel efficiency for the Type S was moderate, with a combined rating of 11.2 litres per 100 kilometres.

The 2021 Honda Civic sedan, despite its low seating position, offered a spacious interior comparable to a decade-old midsize car. The front seats provided comfort, with the driver's seat offering eight-way power adjustment. However, the lack of rear air conditioning vents was a drawback for rear passengers. The Civic's centre console was highly practical, offering ample storage space. The trunk, with a capacity of 428 litres (416 litres for the Touring trim), was generous for its class.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura TLX, despite its large exterior, had a compact interior. The back seat offered decent headroom but limited legroom. The front seats, especially in the Type S, provided excellent comfort with adjustable side bolsters. The TLX's infotainment system, controlled by a touchpad, required acclimation but became easier with practice. Trunk space was limited to 382 litres, which was less than the Civic's. The TLX's interior, while snug, offered a sense of luxury with its detailed design and high-quality materials.

The 2021 Honda Civic's technology was somewhat dated, with a standard 5-inch LCD screen and basic connectivity features. The Touring trim offered a 7-inch touchscreen, a 10-speaker audio system, and navigation. However, the voice recognition system was unsophisticated, and the premium sound system, while nice, was not a significant upgrade over the standard setup.

The 2022 Acura TLX, on the other hand, featured a more advanced infotainment system, though the typefaces were small and difficult to read. The TLX offered a head-up display, heated rear seats, and a premium audio system with 17 speakers. The climate control system was linked to the navigation, adjusting air based on the sun's position. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a suite of driver assistance features. The TLX's technology package was comprehensive, offering a range of features that enhanced the driving experience.

The 2021 Honda Civic came equipped with Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems. It included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. However, the LaneWatch system, which used a camera for blind-spot monitoring, was limited to the right side and had its drawbacks. Despite this, the Civic earned a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA, making it a safe choice for families.

The 2022 Acura TLX also received high safety ratings, earning a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star overall score from the NHTSA. It featured standard knee airbags, lane-keep assist, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The TLX's safety features were comprehensive, providing peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.