2021 Acura TLX vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The 2021 Acura TLX was a striking, sporty sedan that stood out in a crowded class. Its design featured an assertive stance, highlighted by a steeply raked windshield, a fastback-style roofline, and an integrated tail spoiler. The front of the TLX was bold, with a grille pattern that seemed to radiate from the central Acura logo, flanked by horizontal "jewel eye" LED headlights. The rear was completed with twin trapezoidal tailpipes. The paint quality was exceptional, and the tasteful badging and chrome accents added to the premium feel of the sedan. Inside, the TLX offered a "sport sedan cockpit" with a well-organized dash and authentic materials like metal, leather, and open-pore wood. The 10.2-inch infotainment screen was strategically placed, giving the interior a cohesive and intentional design.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, particularly the AMG E53 Cabriolet, was a testament to luxury and design purity. Available in various body styles, the E-Class offered a range of options for different preferences. The AMG E53 Cabriolet, with its matte-finish paint, premium leather, and carbon fibre trim, was a visual delight. The design was both modern and elegant, with AMG styling, intricate wheels, and a convertible top that added to its allure. Inside, the E53 Cabriolet was a sanctuary of luxury, featuring high-resolution digital displays, Burmester speaker grilles, and supple leather. The attention to detail and the quality of materials used in the E-Class made it a standout in its class.

The 2021 Acura TLX was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder engine, producing 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. It featured a drive-by-wire throttle system and a 10-speed automatic transmission. The TLX's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) with torque vectoring was standard in Canada, enhancing its sporty performance. The TLX offered various drive modes, including Comfort, Normal, Sport, and Individual, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience. The Platinum Elite grade added adaptive dampers for a customizable ride. The TLX's handling was nimble and responsive, with a solid and balanced feel on various road surfaces.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet boasted a 3.0-litre turbo inline-6 engine with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology, delivering 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. The AMG Speedshift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system ensured power was efficiently delivered to the road. The E53 Cabriolet offered multiple AMG Dynamic Select driving modes, allowing for a versatile driving experience. The AMG-tuned air suspension and performance exhaust system added to the car's dynamic capabilities. The E53 Cabriolet excelled in both relaxed cruising and spirited driving, with a 0-100 km/h time of 4.6 seconds.

The 2021 Acura TLX's design choices, such as the shift-by-wire transmission, allowed for a reimagined centre console with a control panel inspired by the NSX. The interior featured a mini touchpad, cupholders, and storage cubbies, enhancing functionality. The rear seat comfortably accommodated two adults, while the front seats offered 12-way or 16-way power adjustability. The trunk provided 382 litres of cargo space, with a 60/40 split-folding rear seat for added versatility.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet was a true four-passenger convertible, with comfortable seating for all occupants. The Aircap system reduced cabin turbulence, and the Airscarf neck-warming system added comfort. The E53 Cabriolet featured heated and ventilated front seats, a triple-layer acoustic soft top, and multi-contour seats with massage. The trunk offered 360 litres of cargo space with the top up, though this was reduced when the top was down.

The 2021 Acura TLX was packed with technology, including drive-by-wire, shift-by-wire, and SH-AWD. The 10-speed automatic transmission featured Grade Logic Control, Shift Hold Control, and Cornering G Shift Control. The TLX offered ambient interior lighting and the ELS Studio 3D 17-speaker audio system. The infotainment system included navigation, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Platinum Elite grade added a head-up display and a G-Metre.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system with two 12.3-inch screens. The system offered touchscreen, voice, and steering wheel controls, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Upgrades included Wi-Fi, augmented reality navigation, and a head-up display. The Burmester surround-sound audio system provided exceptional sound quality. The MBUX system was intuitive, though it required some acclimation.

The 2021 Acura TLX came with adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. It featured a pedestrian injury mitigation design, ACE body structure, and a full complement of airbags. The TLX received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. It featured Pre Safe and Pre Safe Sound systems, pop-up rollbars, and Active Parking Assist. The Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control, Active Steering Assist, and more. The E-Class offered a comprehensive suite of safety features.