How Does the 2021 IS Stand up to the Acura TLX?

Face Off

Acura recently revealed its all-new, completely redesigned TLX, which aims to bring a fresh bit of sportiness to the compact luxury sedan segment. And with a refreshed Lexus IS arriving for the 2021 model year as well, now is a great time to see how these two rivals stack up against each other. 

Photos: Lexus

Fresh and Sporty

With the new TLX, Acura is aiming to instill a bit of sportiness into the segment, which it's doing with a 272 horsepower engine, beefy brakes, and an all-new chassis featuring Acura's optional Super Handling All-Wheel Drive. The TLX drives like a proper sports sedan should and wears some very attractive new sheet metal. And for those that want even more sportiness, a Type S version is on the way as well.

Photos: Acura

>>Join the conversation about the 2021 IS vs the Acura TLX right here in the Club Lexus forum.

New Face

Meanwhile, the 2021 IS has received a much-deserved update with new interior and exterior designs that help keep the long-running model fresh. Lexus has also updated the car's handling with some suspension tweaks and is the first model equipped with Lexus Driving Signature, which reportedly provides better feedback. The new IS's drivetrains carry over from the last generation, however, which means that a 311 horsepower V6 is the top offering.

Photos: Lexus

>>Join the conversation about the 2021 IS vs the Acura TLX right here in the Club Lexus forum.

Pros and Cons

The 2021 Acura TLX carries a base MSRP of $38,525. It offers a host of safety features and driver amenities, as well as available all-wheel-drive. On the downside, the new TLX is not offered with a hybrid option and has a somewhat small trunk that offers little in the way of cargo space.

Photos: Acura

 >>Join the conversation about the 2021 IS vs the Acura TLX right here in the Club Lexus forum.

Proven Winner

Meanwhile, the 2021 IS starts out at $39,000, and thanks to its proven drivetrains, should be ever bit as reliable as its predecessors. The addition of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability is quite welcome and perhaps overdue, but on the flip side, the lack of a manual transmission option and no IS F return is a bit of a bummer.

Photos: Lexus

>>Join the conversation about the 2021 IS vs the Acura TLX right here in the Club Lexus forum.

Interesting Comparison

Ultimately, both of these cars have a few advantages and disadvantages when compared to each other. One big consideration is the fact that the TLX is front-wheel-drive in base form, while the IS is rear-wheel-drive, which is the traditional enthusiast's choice. The Lexus also features a bolder design versus the TLX's more subdued and refined appearance.

Photos: Acura

>>Join the conversation about the 2021 IS vs the Acura TLX right here in the Club Lexus forum.

Picking a Winner

Thus, both of these new models are compelling options for those seeking a new luxury sedan. And in this shrinking segment, that's certainly a good thing. Either choice seems like a good bet, but we'd lean toward the IS due to its plethora of options, RWD configuration, and proven reliability.

Photos: Lexus

>>Join the conversation about the 2021 IS vs the Acura TLX right here in the Club Lexus forum.

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