2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class vs 2022 Acura TLX

The 2022 Acura TLX presented itself as a luxury sedan with a wide and long stance, reminiscent of a larger class vehicle. Its dimensions were notably broader than the BMW 3 Series, with a width advantage of over 7.5 centimetres. The TLX's design featured thin headlights, a five-sided grille, and a V-shaped front bumper, contributing to its substantial appearance. The Type S variant added unique elements like the Tiger Eye Pearl paint and 20-inch Y-spoke alloy wheels, enhancing its sporty aesthetic. Inside, the TLX maintained a compact feel, with impressive detailing and a Scandinavian-inspired interior vibe, especially in upper trims. The use of faux-suede inserts and daring colour combinations, such as bright blue paint with red leather, showcased Acura's bold design choices.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class integrated design elements from other Mercedes models, resulting in a cohesive and stylish sedan. The front end mirrored the CLA-Class, while the rear took cues from the S-Class, creating a recognizable Mercedes silhouette. The cab-rearward proportions emphasized its rear-wheel-drive platform, distinguishing it from the front-wheel-drive CLA-Class and A-Class. Standard LED headlights and taillights, with an optional Digital Light system, added to its modern appeal. Inside, the C-Class aimed to replicate the luxury of the S-Class, with features like a freestanding touchscreen, ambient lighting, and intricate speaker grilles. Despite its luxury billing, the standard MBTex synthetic leather upholstery was typical for its price range, with Nappa leather available as an upgrade.

The 2022 Acura TLX was equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four engine, delivering 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. In Canada, the TLX came standard with Super Handling-All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), enhancing stability and handling precision. The Type S variant featured a 3.0-litre turbo V6 engine, producing 355 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque, showcasing its track-developed capabilities. The TLX's double-wishbone front suspension and adaptive dampers contributed to its balanced and predictable handling. However, the subdued exhaust note and summer P Zero tires' highway noise were noted drawbacks. Fuel efficiency for the Type S was moderate, with city and highway ratings of 12.3 and 9.8 litres per 100 kilometres, respectively.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C300 model featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, generating 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, complemented by a nine-speed automatic transmission and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The C300 achieved a 0 to 100 km/h time of 6.0 seconds, with a top speed of 210 km/h. The sportier AMG C43 variant offered 402 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, with a quicker 0 to 100 km/h time of 4.5 seconds. While the C300's power was sufficient, it experienced turbo lag and occasional rough shifts. The ride quality was luxurious, with good body control and precise steering, though it required a deliberate approach in corners. The C-Class lacked the air-suspension systems of its larger siblings but still impressed with its mix of luxury and sportiness.

Despite its large exterior, the 2022 Acura TLX offered a snug interior for four passengers. The back seat provided decent headroom but limited legroom, with a wheelbase slightly longer than a 3 Series. The front seats were comfortable, with adjustable features in the Type S. Acura's true touchpad interface for the infotainment system required acclimation, as did the pushbutton gear selector. Trunk space was limited at 382 litres, less than a Honda Civic, due to the double-wishbone suspension.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan, longer and wider than its predecessor, offered increased interior space. It led its class in front-seat headroom and rear-seat legroom, though front legroom was less competitive. The seats were comfortable, with good bolstering for spirited driving. The C-Class's trunk space was generous at 455 litres, with a wide opening for easy loading. The 40/20/40 split-folding rear bench accommodated longer items, though Mercedes did not publish a cargo-space figure with the seat folded.

The 2022 Acura TLX featured a simple and quick infotainment interface, though some typefaces were too small to read easily. The head-up display, available only on the Platinum Elite trim, allowed interaction with various functions. Heated rear seats were also limited to the Platinum Elite, while the Type S offered features like 360-degree cameras and a heated steering wheel. The ELS Studio premium audio system, standard on higher trims, provided excellent sound quality. AcuraWatch, a suite of driver assistance features, came standard, offering semi-automated control on marked highways.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class boasted an S-Class-inspired infotainment setup, with a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and 11.9-inch touchscreen. Standard features included keyless entry, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Burmester 3D surround-sound system. The MBUX infotainment system, with its "Zero Layer" setup, allowed easy access to functions. The optional augmented-reality navigation system provided helpful visual cues for turns. Touch controls on the steering wheel were intuitive, grouped by function for ease of use.

The 2022 Acura TLX received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall score from the NHTSA. It featured standard knee airbags, a unique passenger airbag, and a suite of safety features, including lane-keep assist, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on higher trims.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class also earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. It offered a comprehensive array of standard safety features, such as automatic emergency brake assist, blind-spot monitoring, and Pre-Safe systems. Optional features included lane-keep assist, a 360-degree camera system, and Car-to-X communication, which provided real-time warnings based on networked vehicle data.