Introduction Acura TLX vs. Lexus ES

When looking for a luxury midsize sedan, two names stand out: Acura TLX and Lexus ES. Both models offer premium comfort, advanced technology, and strong performance. But which one suits your needs better? In this detailed comparison, we break down their performance, features, pricing, and overall value to help you decide.

Pricing and Features

Acura TLX Pricing and Trims

• Base TLX starts at $47,000 with front-wheel drive.
• SH-AWD TLX (recommended) costs around $52,000 and adds all-wheel drive, a 17-speaker ELS audio system, Milano leather seats, and sportier styling.
• Type S TLX is the top model at $59,000, featuring a turbocharged 3.0L V6 engine and performance upgrades like Brembo brakes and an adaptive suspension.

Lexus ES Pricing and Trims

• The base Lexus ES 250 (AWD) and ES 350 (FWD) start at $44,500.
• The ES 300h hybrid adds $1,400, making it $46,000.
• The Luxury trim ($48,500) and Ultra Luxury trim ($52,000) bring semi-aniline leather seats, a 14-way power driver seat, and ambient lighting.
• F Sport Handling trims cost around $50,000 and include sportier dampers and 19-inch wheels.

Verdict: The Lexus ES is cheaper at the base level, but the TLX Type S offers more performance-focused features.

Performance and Driving Experience

Acura TLX Powertrain Options

• Base model: 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder with 272 HP, 10-speed automatic, FWD or AWD.
• Type S: 3.0L turbocharged V6 with 355 HP, standard AWD, and a 4.9-second 0-60 mph time.
• Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) provides superior cornering and stability.

Lexus ES Powertrain Options

• ES 250 (AWD): 203 HP 2.5L inline-4, 0-60 in 8.6 seconds (slower than TLX).
• ES 350 (FWD): 302 HP V6, 0-60 in 6.6 seconds, offers a smooth ride.
• ES 300h Hybrid: 215 HP, 8.1-second 0-60 mph, and best fuel efficiency.
• F Sport Handling package sharpens the handling, but it’s less dynamic than the TLX Type S.

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Verdict: The Acura TLX Type S is the better choice for enthusiasts, while the Lexus ES Hybrid offers the best fuel economy.

Fuel Economy Comparison

• Acura TLX:
  • Base 2.0L: 22 MPG city / 31 highway / 25 combined.
  • Type S (V6 AWD): 19/25/21 MPG.
• Lexus ES:
  • ES 250: 25/34/28 MPG.
  • ES 350: 22/32/26 MPG.
  • ES 300h Hybrid: 43/44/44 MPG (most efficient).

Verdict: The Lexus ES 300h dominates in fuel efficiency, making it a top choice for long-term savings.

Interior and Comfort

Acura TLX Cabin

• Sportier design with leather upholstery and aluminum trim.
• 12.3-inch digital cluster & infotainment screen.
• Red interior option (on A-Spec and Type S).
• Tighter rear legroom (34.9 inches).
• Fold-down rear seats for added cargo flexibility.

Lexus ES Cabin

• More elegant, refined styling with wood and leather trim.
• More spacious back seats (39.2 inches of legroom).
• Two-tier dash design with 8.0-inch or 12.3-inch infotainment screen.
• More comfortable ride, especially in Luxury and Ultra Luxury trims.

Verdict: The TLX feels more sporty, while the ES provides better passenger comfort and space.

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Technology and Safety: Acura TLX vs. Lexus ES

Acura TLX

• AcuraWatch safety suite with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring.
• Optional 17-speaker ELS Studio audio system.
• Touchpad-based infotainment (some may find it harder to use).

Lexus ES

• Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, including pedestrian detection and traffic sign recognition.
• Standard 10-speaker audio system, optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson upgrade.
• Touchscreen-based infotainment (more intuitive than TLX’s touchpad).

Verdict: The ES infotainment is easier to use, but the TLX Type S has a more immersive driving experience.

Which One Should You Choose?

Choose the Acura TLX if you want:

 Sportier styling and a sharper driving experience.
 Better AWD performance (especially with Type S).
 A high-tech interior with a driver-focused cockpit.

Choose the Lexus ES if you want:

 A more comfortable ride with better rear-seat space.
 A fuel-efficient hybrid option (ES 300h).
 A smoother, more refined driving experience.