2023 Acura TLX vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class retained its stunning appearance from the previous year, following a comprehensive redesign in 2021. This model continued to defy the notion that sedans were becoming obsolete, offering a sleek and elegant design that harkened back to its rich lineage. The S-Class's long, low profile and distinctive Mercedes-Benz grille, complemented by a star hood ornament, exuded sophistication. Inside, the dashboard featured a waterfall of open-pore wood trim and a 12.8-inch touchscreen, with a separate 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, all crafted with meticulous attention to detail and high-quality materials.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura TLX faced challenges due to the consumer shift towards SUVs and supply chain constraints. Despite these hurdles, the TLX stood out with its sporty and eye-catching design, particularly in the Type S variant with its Tiger Eye Pearl paint and performance enhancements. The TLX's design, inspired by a concept vehicle, emphasized a long, low, and lean profile, though it compromised rear-seat headroom and cargo space. Inside, the TLX featured a layered dashboard design, but its control layout required some adjustment for drivers. The Type S model, with its turbocharged V6 engine and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive, offered a thrilling driving experience, albeit with some quirks in its braking system.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class excelled in performance, offering a choice between the S500 and S580 models. The S500 featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six-cylinder mild-hybrid engine with EQ Boost, delivering 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. The S580, with a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8, also benefited from EQ Boost. Both models used a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic AWD. Despite their weight, the S-Class models were quick, with the S500 reaching 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and the S580 in 4.4 seconds. Fuel efficiency was respectable, with the S500 rated at 11.4 L/100 km city and 8.0 highway, while the S580 consumed 14.3 L/100 km city and 9.5 highway.

The 2023 Acura TLX offered a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard SH-AWD in Canada. The TLX's fuel economy was rated at 11.3 L/100 km city and 8.1 highway. The Type S model, with a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, delivered 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. It featured performance enhancements like a sport automatic transmission, adaptive dampers, and Brembo brakes. The Type S accelerated to 60 mph in five seconds and had a top speed of 250 km/h. However, its brake-by-wire system occasionally caused a disconnect between driver inputs and braking response.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class excelled in providing a luxurious and spacious interior. It offered ample room for passengers, with powered sun blinds, a Panorama Sunroof, and a 510-litre trunk. The cabin featured six USB-C ports and a 115-volt power supply. Front seats were rapid-heating and offered various comfort options, while the Executive Rear Seating package catered to chauffeured passengers. However, the wide-opening doors could be challenging to close from a seated position.

The 2023 Acura TLX Type S featured an Ebony interior with premium Milano leather and artificial suede inserts. The front sport seats were 16-way power-adjustable with heating and ventilation. However, rear-seat comfort was compromised due to narrow doors and limited legroom. The TLX's trunk offered 382 litres of cargo space, more akin to a compact car. The interior design prioritized style over practicality, with a focus on preserving the concept car's aesthetics.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class boasted cutting-edge technology, including a 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen with the latest MBUX infotainment system. The OLED screen offered superior image quality and energy efficiency. The S-Class also featured a 12.3-inch LED virtual instrument panel, with an optional 3D instrument cluster. Augmented video for navigation and an available augmented reality head-up display enhanced the driving experience. The Burmester 3D Surround sound system provided high-fidelity audio, with an optional 4D system for an immersive experience.

The 2023 Acura TLX's technology was a mixed bag. The True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, with a 10.2-inch display, was a source of frustration. The TTI touchpad and buttons on the centre console were not intuitive, and the system lacked a touchscreen. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 17-speaker ELS Studio 3D audio system. However, the TLX did not support wireless smartphone integration, and the TTI occupied valuable console space.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Magic Vision Control, adaptive cruise control, active steering assist, and active brake assist. The Pre-Safe systems prepared the vehicle for imminent collisions, and car-to-x communication enhanced safety awareness. Rear-passenger airbags and rear-seat belt bags were available for added protection.

The 2023 Acura TLX came standard with driver aids like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The Type S model included rain-sensing wipers and a surround-view camera. The TLX's Advanced Engineering Compatibility (ACE) body structure contributed to its safety ratings. The IIHS awarded the TLX a Top Safety Pick+ rating, while the NHTSA gave it a five-star overall crash-test rating.