2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2022 Acura TLX

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, part of the W213 generation, was a departure from its predecessor's sharper angles, adopting a more fluid and curvier design reminiscent of the S-Class and C-Class models. This design philosophy, termed "sensual purity" by Mercedes' chief designer, Gorden Wagener, was evident in the E-Class's elegant and handsome appearance. The 2021 model introduced edgier front features, such as squinted headlights and an inverted trapezoid grille, while the rear design echoed the W212 with horizontal taillights. Despite the absence of the classic standing hood ornament, the E-Class maintained its reserved and conservative exterior, with AMG models offering a more dramatic flair through features like quad exhaust tips and 20-inch wheels.

Inside, the E-Class was a showcase of luxury and modernity, with a cabin rich in decadent materials and exuberant style. The interior featured polished or matte woods, aluminum, and carbon fibre accents, complemented by intricate details like metal speaker grilles and elaborate stitching. The ambient lighting was interactive, enhancing the car's climate and mood settings. The dashboard housed two 12-inch screens, with the 2021 model transitioning to a digital display for the instrument panel. The new steering wheels, particularly in the AMG model, featured touch-sensitive controls and additional screens, adding to the lavish and modern feel of the E-Class's interior.

The 2022 Acura TLX presented a wide and long stance, giving it the appearance of a larger luxury sedan. Its dimensions surpassed those of the BMW 3 Series, with a wider track and a longer body, particularly noticeable in the low-slung hood. The TLX's design was substantial yet understated, with thin headlights, a five-sided grille, and large tailpipes contributing to its big-body sedan look. The Type S variant added exclusive features like the Tiger Eye Pearl paint and 20-inch Y-spoke alloy wheels, enhancing its sporty appeal. The TLX's exterior design was both bold and refined, with functional elements like open air intakes on the Type S for improved cooling.

Inside, the TLX was snug, with impressive detailing even in lower trims. The interior featured a narrow centre console with a silver drive mode dial, angled air vents, and aluminum trim, creating a contrast against the wide dash. Upper trims offered ambient lighting and soft, finely grained surfaces, contributing to a premium feel. The infotainment system, while not a touchscreen, was intuitive with practice, and the pushbutton gear selector required some acclimation. The TLX's interior was comfortable, with the Type S offering additional features like faux-suede inserts and red stitching, but the overall space was limited compared to its exterior dimensions.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class saw a significant change with the introduction of electrified inline-six powertrains, replacing the conventional V6 engines. The E450 model became a hybrid, utilizing a 48-volt electrical system to supplement the traditional 12-volt system. This setup included a small lithium-ion battery powering an electric starter-generator, providing extra power and torque for brief periods. The system allowed for more frequent engine shutdowns, theoretically saving fuel and reducing emissions. The E450's 3.0-litre inline-six engine produced 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, with additional power from the battery's overboost. The AMG E53 model added a second turbo, resulting in 429 hp and 384 lb-ft, offering brisk acceleration and a healthy exhaust note.

The AMG E63 S was the performance pinnacle, featuring a hand-built 4.0-litre V8 with 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. This model included advanced features like a dry-sump oil pump and the ability to disengage the front axle for drifts. The E-Class's variable-rate air suspension and rear-biased all-wheel drive provided a balanced and comfortable ride, even in the AMG models. Fuel efficiency varied, with the E450 and E350 models offering better ratings than the AMG variants. The E-Class's performance was characterized by its smoothness and power, with the AMG models delivering exhilarating speed and handling.

The 2022 Acura TLX offered a smooth and powerful driving experience, with its 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the TLX delivered quick shifts and responsive performance. In Canada, the TLX came standard with Super Handling-All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), a system that enhanced stability and handling by varying torque distribution between the rear wheels. The Type S model featured a 3.0-litre turbo V6 with 355 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque, providing impressive track performance with its double-wishbone front suspension and adaptive dampers.

The TLX's SH-AWD system excelled in cornering, offering a balanced and predictable driving experience. The engine's broad torque and minimal turbo lag made for an engaging drive, while the Brembo brakes provided strong stopping power. The Type S's active exhaust added a sporty touch, though some might find it too subdued. The regular TLX offered a more comfortable ride, with the Type S adding a performance edge without sacrificing comfort. Fuel efficiency was reasonable, with the Type S consuming more than the regular TLX, but both models offered a satisfying blend of performance and practicality.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured a redesigned infotainment system with a touchscreen, enhancing usability. The touchpads on the steering wheel were reshaped, and shortcut buttons for navigation and stereo settings remained. The cabin was spacious, accommodating four adults comfortably, with ample headroom and legroom. The E-Class offered various body styles, including a coupe, convertible, and wagon, each with unique features. The sedan provided 540 litres of trunk space, while the wagon offered up to 1,820 litres with seats folded. The E-Class's interior was user-friendly, though mastering the dual screens required practice.

The 2022 Acura TLX, despite its large exterior, was tight for four passengers. The back seat offered decent headroom but limited legroom. The front seats were comfortable, with the Type S offering additional adjustments. The infotainment system used a true touchpad interface, requiring acclimation but becoming easier with practice. The climate control was straightforward, and the trunk offered 382 litres of space, less than expected for its size. The TLX's interior was well-designed, with a focus on comfort and functionality, though space was limited compared to its exterior dimensions.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system, offering a touchscreen interface with improved organization and natural voice processing. The system included features like live camera feeds, massaging seats, and seat kinetics. While it didn't support over-the-air updates, it offered standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a wireless phone charger and connected services. Optional driving assists provided semi-autonomous control, and the instrument cluster offered customizable displays. The E-Class's technology was advanced and user-friendly, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2022 Acura TLX offered a simple and quick infotainment interface, though some typefaces were small. The head-up display, available on the Platinum Elite, allowed interaction with various functions. The ELS Studio premium audio system was included on higher trims, offering excellent sound quality. Standard features included voice recognition, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and heated front seats. Higher trims linked climate control to navigation, adjusting air based on the sun's position. The TLX's technology was comprehensive, with a focus on convenience and connectivity.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was highly rated for safety, with a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick+" from IIHS. It featured innovations like Pre-Safe Sound and side bolster inflation during collisions. Standard safety features included forward automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, with additional driver-assist features available as options. The E-Class's safety features were comprehensive, providing peace of mind for drivers and passengers.

The 2022 Acura TLX also received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from IIHS and a five-star overall score from NHTSA. It included standard knee airbags, lane-keep assist, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims offered additional features like blind-spot monitoring and parking sensors. The TLX's safety features were extensive, ensuring a secure driving experience.