2022 Lexus IS vs 2022 Acura TLX

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance was a nod to its predecessor, the 2008 Lexus IS F, maintaining the essence of a powerful, naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V8 engine. This engine delivered 472 horsepower and 395 pound-feet of torque, channelled to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. Priced at $72,900 Canadian, the IS 500 F Sport Performance was a thrilling ride, offering a balance of excitement and everyday comfort. Its exterior styling was subtle yet distinctive, with minor trim modifications and exclusive 19-inch alloy wheels, while the interior remained consistent with the IS 350 F Sport, featuring quality materials and a user-friendly infotainment system.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura TLX presented a bold and substantial exterior, with a wide and long stance reminiscent of a larger luxury sedan. It was notably wider and longer than the BMW 3 Series, with design elements like thin headlights, a five-sided grille, and large tailpipes contributing to its commanding presence. The Type S variant added unique features such as Tiger Eye Pearl paint and 20-inch Y-spoke alloy wheels. Inside, the TLX was snug, with impressive detailing and a Scandinavian-inspired design in upper trims. The infotainment system required some acclimation due to its unique touchpad interface, but the overall impression was one of well-spent money.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance was equipped with a robust 5.0-litre V8 engine, producing 472 horsepower at 7,100 rpm and 395 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. This rear-wheel-drive sedan featured an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission and a limited-slip differential, offering driving modes like Eco, Normal, Sport S, and Sport+. It accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds, with a weight distribution of 56% over the front wheels and 44% over the rear. The adaptive variable suspension and Yamaha rear performance damper provided a comfortable ride, while upgraded brakes ensured reliable stopping power. Despite its thrilling performance, the IS 500's fuel efficiency was less impressive, averaging 13.3 litres per 100 kilometres.

The 2022 Acura TLX, on the other hand, offered a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four engine with 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft 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, delivering 355 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. The TLX's double-wishbone front suspension and adaptive dampers provided consistent grip and balance, while the Brembo front brakes offered strong stopping power. The Type S's fuel efficiency was moderate, with a combined rating of 11.2 litres per 100 kilometres.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance offered a comfortable interior with effective climate control, including seat heaters and a heated steering wheel. The front seats were snug yet supportive, while the rear seats provided adequate space for average-height adults. Storage was decent, though the centre console's touchpad controller occupied valuable space. The trunk space was limited, measuring just 305 litres. The control layout was intuitive, with buttons and knobs clearly marked for ease of use.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura TLX, despite its large exterior, had a compact interior. The back seat offered decent headroom but limited legroom, while the front seats were comfortable with adjustable side bolsters. The infotainment system's touchpad interface required some getting used to, but the climate control was straightforward. Trunk space was mediocre at 382 litres, and the double-wishbone suspension took up additional space. The TLX's interior design was well-executed, with a focus on comfort and functionality.

The 2022 Lexus IS featured a touchscreen infotainment system, solving previous ergonomic issues. The system included an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a dynamic voice command system. The IS 500 added a 10.3-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, delivering impressive sound quality.

The 2022 Acura TLX's infotainment interface was simple and quick, though some typefaces were small. The TLX offered a head-up display on the Platinum Elite trim, while features like heated rear seats and a 360-degree camera were available on higher trims. The ELS Studio premium audio system with 17 speakers was included on the A-Spec, Platinum Elite, and Type S trims. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a full suite of driver assistance features.

The 2022 Lexus IS came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, offering a range of driving assistance and collision-prevention technologies. The IS earned a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received a four-star frontal-impact collision rating for the driver and front passenger.

The 2022 Acura TLX was also rated a "Top Safety Pick+" by the IIHS and received a five-star overall score from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included knee airbags, lane-keep assist, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on higher trims.