2023 Acura TLX vs 2023 Chrysler 300

The 2023 Chrysler 300 retained its classic design elements that harkened back to its 2005 debut, which drew comparisons to the Bentley Arnage. Despite its age, the 300's styling remained appealing, with its bold grille, round headlights, and stately proportions. The final production year offered various trims, including the exclusive 300C, which featured a powerful V8 engine and rear-wheel drive. While the exterior exuded luxury, the interior did not quite match this promise, with materials and design showing their age despite premium touches like carbon-fibre trim and Laguna leather upholstery.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura TLX, particularly the Type S model, stood out with its sporty and eye-catching design. The TLX's styling was based on a concept vehicle that introduced a new design language for Acura, featuring a long, low, and lean profile with a rear-wheel-drive look. However, this dramatic styling compromised rear-seat headroom, legroom, and cargo space. Inside, the TLX's layered dashboard design emphasized width, but the control layout required some adjustment for drivers. The Type S model, with its turbocharged V6 engine and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive, was the most expensive version, offering a thrilling driving experience.

The 2023 Chrysler 300C was celebrated for its power and performance, thanks to its 6.4-litre Hemi V8 engine producing 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain enabled a 0 to 100 km/h sprint in approximately 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 257 km/h. The 300C featured an adaptive damping suspension, Brembo brakes, and performance tires, enhancing its driving dynamics. However, the car's rear-wheel-drive setup required careful throttle management to maintain grip, especially in Sport or Track mode. The 300C's performance came at the cost of cabin noise and fuel economy, with a combined rating of 13.1 L/100 km.

The 2023 Acura TLX offered a different performance experience, with most models equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. The TLX Type S, however, featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine delivering 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system provided excellent grip and control, while the Type S model included performance enhancements like adaptive dampers and Brembo brakes. The TLX Type S accelerated to 60 mph in five seconds and had a top speed of 250 km/h. Despite its performance capabilities, the TLX Type S's fuel efficiency was not its strong suit, with a combined rating of 11.0 L/100 km.

The 2023 Chrysler 300 offered a spacious front-seat experience with power-adjustable seats, premium leather, and heating and ventilation features. However, the rear seats were less accommodating, with limited legroom and a slouch-inducing backrest angle. Storage space was lacking, and the car's age showed in its lack of modern smartphone storage or wireless charging options. The trunk provided a generous 461 litres of cargo space, with enclosed lid hinges to protect belongings.

In the 2023 Acura TLX, the Type S model featured a premium interior with Milano leather and artificial suede inserts. The front sport seats offered excellent comfort with 16-way power adjustments, heating, and ventilation. However, the rear seats were cramped, with narrow doors and limited legroom. The TLX's trunk held 382 litres of cargo, more akin to a compact car, but a flat floor and enclosed hinges maximized usability.

The 2023 Chrysler 300 came with an older Uconnect infotainment system featuring an 8.4-inch touchscreen. While it offered essential features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM, the system's graphics and interface showed their age. The 300C included a Harman Kardon audio system and an SRT Dashboard for performance settings. However, the lack of a surround-view camera and high-resolution reversing camera was a drawback.

The 2023 Acura TLX's True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system was a source of frustration for some users. The 10.2-inch display was not touch-sensitive, requiring the use of a touchpad and buttons. While the system included features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium audio system, the TTI proved distracting. The TLX also offered a wireless charging pad and navigation, but the lack of wireless smartphone integration was a downside.

The 2023 Chrysler 300 offered limited standard safety features, with most advanced systems available only as options. The SafetyTec Plus Group included features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. However, the adaptive cruise control system was not very sophisticated, and the car's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a Marginal rating from the IIHS.

The 2023 Acura TLX came standard with a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The Type S model added features like a surround-view camera and rain-sensing wipers. The TLX's Advanced Engineering Compatibility body structure contributed to its excellent crash-test ratings, earning a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.