Acura TLX vs Toyota Corolla Hybrid

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid presented a refreshed look with its new all-wheel-drive option, standard on all trims except the base LE. The hybrid system saw a power boost, and subtle style updates were made to the grille patterns and rear bumpers. The exterior design was more appealing than previous generations, with a sculpted front end featuring wraparound headlights and a sporty trapezoidal grille. However, the side and rear remained conventional. Inside, the Corolla Hybrid was minimalistic, with an abundance of hard plastics and a lack of standout features. The XSE trim added SofTex synthetic leather, but the overall interior quality fell short compared to competitors like the Honda Civic and Mazda 3.

The 2024 Acura TLX, redesigned in 2021, received a slight update with a more elegant frameless grille and the removal of the radar emitter. The Jewel Eye LED headlights and air intakes added to its sporty appearance. The TLX's character lines were restrained, and the A-Spec trim featured 19-inch alloy wheels, while the Type S had 20-inch Berlina black split-spoke rims. Inside, the TLX exuded luxury with leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The new 12.3-inch infotainment screen and busy centre stack required some acclimation, but the red leather upholstery and ambient lighting in the Type S emphasized its performance focus.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid housed a 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine with hybrid drive, producing 134 horsepower and 156 pound-feet of torque. The powertrain included a CVT and front-wheel drive, with an additional 40-hp electric motor for AWD. Acceleration was quick initially, but power built slowly, taking around nine seconds to reach 100 km/h. The hybrid's EV mode was challenging to maintain on open roads, but braking was consistent. Handling was adequate, though not particularly engaging, and road noise was noticeable.

The 2024 Acura TLX A-Spec featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and SH-AWD. The Type S boasted a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine with 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in about five seconds. The TLX offered multiple driving modes, with Sport+ enhancing performance. Adaptive dampers and Brembo brakes contributed to its nimble handling, despite its weight.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid provided ample front space, though the steering wheel's limited telescoping could be an issue for taller drivers. The cabin's simplicity was user-friendly, but interior storage was limited. Rear seats offered adequate space, and the trunk's 371-litre capacity was competitive for its class, though the rear seats didn't fold flat.

The 2024 Acura TLX's dimensions placed it between compact and midsize segments. The front seats were spacious, but rear legroom was limited at 886 mm. The trunk offered 382 litres of cargo space, suitable for a compact sedan. The TLX's long hood contributed to its visual presence but affected maneuverability in tight spaces. The front seats were comfortable, with convenient cupholders and a well-designed steering wheel.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid featured an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was responsive, with improved voice commands and OTA updates. However, the JBL audio system was unavailable in Canada.

The 2024 Acura TLX included a 17-speaker ELS Studio 3D audio system, wireless connectivity, and Amazon Alexa. Dual 12.3-inch displays offered crisp graphics, but the True Touchpad Interface required adjustment. Phone projection with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto was cumbersome, leading to a frustrating experience.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid received a five-star NHTSA rating and was a Top Safety Pick+ by IIHS. It included Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 with features like automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control.

The 2024 Acura TLX also earned a five-star NHTSA rating and "Good" IIHS scores. It came standard with a comprehensive suite of ADAS, including automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control, without additional costs.