2023 Acura TLX vs. 2023 Honda Accord
Comparison of 2023 Acura TLX and 2023 Honda Accord
1. Introduction
Car selecting and buying is something very important. Depending on what a person needs the car for, they would want to look at many different factors to make sure they decide on the right car. Such factors would include the purpose of the car, gas consumption, space, comfort, and also the reliability/longevity. People may also have different taste on the style of the car, some people may prefer a car with aggressive looks, while others may prefer a car that looks ordinary but elegant at the same time. Making the wrong choice in purchasing a car can lead to regret. This is why it is important to look at comparisons of different cars to see which one suits you the best. So in this case, the objective of this comparison is to help give the reader a good idea of which car may be more suitable for them depending on what the readers needs and preferences are.
The 2023 Acura TLX and 2023 Honda Accord are two vehicles that would be great to compare because they have some similarities but more differences. The 2023 Acura TLX has caught many eyes these days with its new design and up-to-date technology. It has been given a lot of compliments for its style and also how it drives. On the other hand, the 2023 Honda Accord has also been known for its reliability and comfort in the sedan class. Its ride quality and interior has been loved by many customers. This comparison will give the facts and will help give an idea of which of these two cars would be more suitable for different kinds of people.
1.1. Overview of the 2023 Acura TLX and 2023 Honda Accord
Though the Accord and TLX are essentially the same on paper in many respects, the TLX will always be the vehicle for someone who is willing to pay more to have more. This can be interpreted by simply owning an Acura as the brand is marketed as a luxury car offering what it describes as "Precision Crafted Performance". Whether or not the TLX is really a luxury car is up to speculation, but it must be noted again that the Accord and many other vehicles like it have made it difficult to decide what the definition of a luxury car really is.
For passengers, the Accord is a clear winner with an edge of 3.2 inches in wheelbase and overall offering more space at all seating and headroom dimensions. The most interesting difference in comparisons is the fact that the Accord and TLX will have the same safety features and technology, which is a surprising point because most Acura vehicles are typically equipped with more features than its Honda counterpart at a specific price range. Step up to the TLX's highest level Type S trim, however, and you get the only TLX offering something not found in the Accord, and it is the 3.0L V6 turbo engine and an option to upgrade to the next generation Super Handling All-Wheel Drive System.
Acura and Honda vehicles have different platforms yet the same engines offered and the TLX and Accord are no exception as these vehicles come with the second generation Honda NSX precision all-wheel steer system and the next generation SH-AWD system. The Accord, on the other hand, is equipped with a continuously variable transmission or a 10-speed automatic, whereas the TLX offers an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission and torque converter automatic. Both vehicles have similar fuel economy, and the TLX only bests the Accord in the premium requirement of recommended premium gasoline, which is optimized for performance for the TLX's engines.
The Acura TLX is known for its performance and features. When compared to the Honda Accord, it's very similar because the first generation TLX was intended to be a replacement for the Acura TSX and Acura TL automobiles in the United States and Canada. All in all, the TLX exists solely to be a premium offering over the Accord as sales data has shown that the current TLX outnumbers the Accord when it comes to being the vehicle for consumers looking for an improved driving experience in a sedan and the TLX A-Spec's turbocharged inline-4 is a performance-minded upgrade over the Accord's offering anything beyond.
1.2. Importance of choosing the right vehicle
It is important that the reader understands the cruciality of choosing the correct vehicle, as it directly relates to the time and care given to one's work. Before an expensive purchase is made, it is advised that the buyer ask themselves a series of questions, which will allow them to assess their own needs. These questions include: How and where will the vehicle be used? Will fuel and insurance costs be factors of importance? Are there any specific models that the buyer prefers? In the case of the two cars to be compared, we assume fuel and insurance costs are of little issue, and will be comparing the vehicles from a performance and prestige aspect. Acura is well known and a highly respected manufacturer of performance vehicles and is a luxury brand, whereas the Honda is aimed at the middle of the road market, between normal conventional vehicles and higher-end luxury vehicles. With knowledge of this, we can make the assumption that the Acura model will be faster and offer a higher level of driving satisfaction than the Accord.
2. Performance
There is a second engine option for the Accord, which is a hybrid engine. The Acura TLX has separate front-wheel drive and SH-AWD models. When using the standard 2.0-liter engine with front-wheel drive, the drivetrain is the same as the Accord. If additional power is needed, it will engage the drivetrain, which can handle V-6 levels of power. For the SH-AWD TLX, it has a completely different engine. In this type of TLX, it carries something more prestigious, a 3.7-liter SOHC V6 engine that delivers 305 HP at 6300 RPM and 273 lb-ft at 5000 RPM. This engine is exactly the same as the Acura RDX, MDX, TL, and RL. It is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission with a manual sport shift option.
Both the 2023 Acura TLX and 2023 Honda Accord sedans come with 2.0-liter inline four engines. However, these two 2.0-liter engines are entirely different from one another. The Acura TLX has a turbocharged K20C4 Honda engine, producing 272 HP and 280 lb-ft of torque at 1600-4500 RPM. Although this is the same engine as the Accord Type R, the engine tune is different. Neither Acura nor Honda front-wheel drive cars have this engine; instead, the TLX engine is used in the Accord Type R. The engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic gearbox. This is a significant power difference from the Accord's standard 2.0-liter engine, which produces 192 HP and 192 lb-ft of torque at 1600-5000 RPM, with the same gearbox.
2.1. Engine power and specifications
2.1. Engine power and specifications
Looking into the engine and power specifications for both cars, it is clear that the Acura has a more advanced approach to the car enthusiast. The 2023 Acura TLX comes with two engine configurations; firstly, the 2.0-liter inline 4 engine capable of producing 272 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 280 lb-ft. of torque at 1600-4500 rpm. This is a slightly detuned version of the engine in the new 1G RDX, but with the 400-pound lighter, and more aerodynamic body, it should produce results in line with much of the V6 competition in the segment. The 2.0T will be available with Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), with both engines coming equipped with the Honda/Acura 10AT found on the upcoming TLX, and the 2.0T getting an 8AT upgrade option down the line. This advanced automatic gearbox system allows the car to receive the most efficient shift times and a smoother transition from gear to gear. This configuration is mainly designed for drivers that focus on better fuel economy with an optimal balance of power and handling. The second engine configuration is the 3.0-liter V6 that is specially designed for the Type-S. This will be the first production Type-S model in over a decade, and Acura has made sure that it will live up to the badge. The Type S will get an Acura-Exclusive 3.0-liter Turbo V6 estimated at 355 horsepower and 354 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine has been long awaited from Acura enthusiasts and is designed to compete with the best in its class. The Type-S has the option for a Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system that is designed to enhance driving dynamics by sending 70% of its torque to the rear wheels and distributing 100% of that torque to either the left or right rear wheel. The Type-S will come equipped with a 10AT transmission with the newly developed electronic shift lever. With the Type-S engine configuration, it is designed strictly for drivers that love higher performance and handling. The SH-AWD system combined with the new V6 has torque vectoring capabilities that result in exceptional handling and grip in all weather scenarios.
2.2. Acceleration and top speed capabilities
TLX uses the same engines found in the Accord, though Acura has slightly boosted the power for each. The 2.4L, 2.0L and 3.5L engines output 206hp/182lb-ft, 272hp/280lb-ft and 290hp/267lb-ft respectively. The 8DCT is available on 2.4L and 3.5L models, with the 2.0L turbo being treated to the 10AT. The statement about the transmission of an optional transmission for the 2.0L turbo in the Accord is all that stands between these vehicles in terms of acceleration, as the TLX has been clocked at 5.7 seconds 0-60mph, which tops the 5.8 seconds recorded for the 2.0L turbo 10AT Accord. The 10-speed AT TLX has been quoted at reaching a time "in the high 4 second range" for 0-60mph, which is a league ahead of anything possible with the Accord. AWD is available with all 3 engines on the TLX.
The Honda Accord is ahead of the curve in so many categories, and acceleration is the project that the rest of the class is trying to catch up with. The 1.5-liter and 2.0-liter turbo engines punch at the top of their class, with the former providing more low-end torque and the latter increasing speed and responsiveness up to ridiculous levels. A hybrid model is also available, offering little to those with a lead foot but maintaining a snappy acceleration for a vehicle in its class. All trims are equipped with a CVT, though an optional 10-speed automatic transmission for the 2.0-liter turbo adds an extra something to an already exhilarating drive.
2.3. Fuel efficiency and eco-friendly features
Both the TLX and the Accord return decent fuel economy figures. The efficiency levels of the two are aligned with their status as comfortable commuter cars rather than performance-oriented sports sedans. The hybrid model of the Accord is the efficiency leader of the two, with a rating of 48 mpg in combined driving. The base 1.5-liter engine now has an EPA rating of 33 mpg in combined driving (30 city and 38 highway) with a standard CVT automatic and a similar figure to its past ratings. Furthermore, the 2.0-liter turbo engine and ten-speed automatic transmission step down to 26-27 mpg depending on package choice, which is a significant drop from the combined 252 hp 30 mpg the pre-facelift model was rated at with a V6. Step up to the TLX and you will encounter a similar delta between 4-cylinder and V6 engines, with the V6 being faster but less economical. The despatched 2.4-liter TLX primarily comes in FWD form with 23/33/27 city/highway/combined ratings, while the AWD-only 3.5-liter models were rated at 20/29/23.
3. Features and Technology
The all-new TLX has been designed to deliver a new degree of precision-crafted performance. Reflecting the sedan's positioning in the Acura lineup as a performance-focused premium sport sedan, the new 2023 Acura TLX Type S will be powered by Acura's Type S Turbo V6, with an estimated 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. The new turbocharged V6 will be mated to a highly-refined 10-speed automatic transmission, which first made its debut in the critically acclaimed Acura TLX PMC Edition. The TLX Type S' available Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) delivers more dynamic handling and precise all-weather performance, further advancing the TLX's competitive advantage in the luxury performance sedan category. With the return of Type S and its exclusive turbocharged V6 engine, TLX continues to provide customers with a clear option to step up in performance, beyond the standard TLX 2.0L and 3.0L models. Acura's performance strategy is focused on creating emotional connections between drivers and their vehicles, and the TLX Type S is the latest model to deliver on this promise. So, while the TLX Type S leads the charge in performance, there is still a TLX for those who seek well-rounded luxury. With the A-Spec and Advance Package available on the TLX with 2.0L and 3.0L engines, the TLX lineup has an offering for a wide variety of customers. All models are for customers that seek a thrilling driving experience without compromising on luxury and comfort.
Acura's safety and driver-assistance systems are some of the most advanced in the industry, and for 2023, the TLX is equipped with the most modern iteration of AcuraWatch. This includes new capabilities like Traffic Jam Assist, which helps keep the car centered in its lane and a set distance from the car in front, and an upgraded camera system with a wider field of view. Acura is also the first brand to introduce a solution for pedestrian safety in low-speed accidents to the U.S. market. The TLX also improves its lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control system with low-speed follow, and road departure mitigation, and the TLX earns a "good" designation in all crashworthiness tests following a thorough enhancement to its body structure to improve occupant protection in a small overlap crash.
3.1. Advanced safety and driver-assistance systems
The 2023 Acura TLX comes with the new Night Vision technology. This system provides a far better view of animals and pedestrians in poorly lit environments. Infrared LEDs project light which is absorbed by objects ahead, creating a clear image on the driver's display. The system functions when the headlights are turned on and can be activated with a dedicated button on the steering wheel. When the button is pressed, the screen changes to a night vision display. The preview makes it possible to see an image of what is being projected by the infrared light. With the flick of a switch, the image captured by the infrared light is cancelled, and only the normal front view is displayed. Parking is a much easier task when you have eyes in the back of your head, and with the TLX's multi-camera system, there are cameras almost all around the car. There are wide-angle lens front and rear cameras, left and right turning mirror cameras, and a concealed rear camera, resulting in a total of 4 views which are displayed on the centre display. The rear camera is concealed beneath the lip of the trunk, integrated into the Acura emblem. When reverse is engaged or the rear view camera button is pressed, the image from the rear camera will be displayed, with a set of guidelines to assist the driver while parking. The camera can also provide an audio warning and a braking action to prevent hitting an object behind the car. This system is similar to the parking aid system in the Honda Legend.
3.2. Infotainment and connectivity options
Furthermore, Acura offers a 13-speaker ELS studio audio system, which is more impressive than the Accord's premium audio system. This could be a game changer for individuals in the music industry or families who enjoy listening to music daily. Both vehicles offer wireless cellphone charging and a Bluetooth and handsfree link system. However, the Acura's smartphone integration is more intuitive than the Accord's, as it does not require a wired connection. If you choose the TLX A-spec or advance package, Acura will also provide a rear door smart key entry option, which is not available in the lower trims or Honda's Accord.
The Acura TLX comes standard with an advanced infotainment system, which includes an embedded Acura navigation system. In contrast, the Honda Accord relies solely on Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for directions. The Acura's infotainment system is more advanced than Honda's Accord due to its new and improved touchpad system and abundance of physical controls. Additionally, the TLX features a larger 10.2-inch display screen compared to the Accord's 8-inch display, making it easier to read and navigate. Both vehicles are equipped with a 4G LTE mobile hotspot, which is useful for passengers who require constant access to their mobile devices during long drives.
3.3. Comfort and convenience features
Acura TLX offers a 16-way, power adjustable driver seat developed via an orthopedic study to be one of the most comfortable in the industry. The TLX also comes with a power adjustable lumbar support for both front seats. All 4 outer seating positions are equipped with seat heaters. The 2-setting seat heater offers an automatic timed shut off to prevent battery drain. The driver seat takes that a bit further with a 3-setting memory. All these features are things that were expected before, however, the Acura TLX premium really shines through with features such as the Keyless Access System with Pushbutton Start. This means that the TLX will recognize the driver's presence and unlock the door for you. Once inside, it’s a simple push of the start button and you’re ready to go. The Keyless access system gives the driver the ability to store radio presets and climate control settings for the two key fobs. The settings are automatically adjusted based on which key fob is recognized. The TLX offers automatic recognition for the primary driver, setting all other features as that for the primary driver automatically when the car is turned off.
4. Price and Value
Given the TLX's drastic improvement in performance, quality, and feature content, it's no surprise that prices have climbed significantly versus the previous generation. The base 2021 TLX 2.0T started at $2,700 more than its closest predecessor, the last-gen Acura TLX V6. That larger up-front investment didn't come with the added security of residual value, where higher-quality rivals like the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class have historically been much stronger. The advantage at the low end, however, is that a well-equipped TLX with the 2.0T engine or the significantly quicker and better-handling TLX Type S can cost several thousand less than a comparably equipped German sports sedan. The refreshed and considerably improved 2021 TLX is still too new for there to be an accurate assessment of long-term ownership costs and reliability, but Acuras have typically been considered a sound value in this regard with better than average predicted reliability and total 5-year ownership costs. Note that the Acura TLX has significantly better fuel economy than competing luxury sport sedans, and this can particularly help reduce ownership costs on the more powerful and less efficient engine options. Unfortunately, the TLX only ranks in the middle of the pack for 5-year depreciation, which is a warning sign that residual value might remain below class leaders. Regardless, the lower starting price relative to the first-gen model should help offset increased depreciation for those buying new or lightly used.
4.1. Cost comparison of the 2023 Acura TLX and 2023 Honda Accord
From the price, you might sense that the Acura TLX is very high in price compared with the 2023 Accord, but the next thing that we have to consider is the features that Acura has. Designated as a luxury car, the TLX has a robust array of features that are more advanced and comprehensive than the Accord. All TLX models wear Acura's Jewel Eye LED headlights and feature a driver-adjustable adaptive two-mode with idle stop. 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, power moonroof, and integrated dynamic system with four driving modes are inclusive in the basic package. The TLX is also the only sedan that applies the direct adaptive steering system that provides the most responsive handling, performance, and comfort feel. All these features will only create more cost if applied to the Accord. Though the Accord will still have good value, the choice of features leads the buyer to consider and sacrifice the price of the car. This is what Acura expects to draw customers to buy the TLX, with regard to the features and the car's performance.
The 2023 TLX will start at the price of $37,000 according to the latest information released by Acura, apart from the Type S that is going to cost around $53,000 and there is no exact price information for the Accord. The main attraction here is the Accord 2.0T Sport that is now moving into the luxury car segment. The price for this type is only around $31,000 but it will lack the power and glamour of Acura because the concept of the Type S is also the same with Accord, moving from mid sedan to luxury sedan. For the exact same level, car type, and segment, the Acura will be slightly more expensive than the Accord, but the price is still tolerable considering the whole car performance and features.
4.2. Resale value and long-term ownership costs
Acura is projected to be the 12th most reliable brand out of 32 in the year 2023 according to consumer reports while being the fourth Japanese brand, which is impressive considering it is a luxury brand and every Japanese auto company has more emphasis on reliability and value. And since the 1980s, Acura has built a reputation of being Japan's answer to German luxury brands. Now coming to Honda, it's the sixth most reliable brand which is slightly lower than what it used to be a decade ago, with consumer reports predicting that in 2023 Honda will have many first-year models and newly refreshed models, there could be some reliability issues and owners should wait a year before making a purchase of Honda. And since TLX is a first-year model production affected by the reliability problems of a problematic 2014-2021 generation, it's possible that the 2023 TLX may have a lower reliability rating than expected of a luxury sedan because of an introduction year. According to consumer reports, the best bet for a TLX would be the second-year model production of a revised 2021-2022 type S. Also, Acura TLX was a decision for the 2023 best luxury resale value award by KBB, a good sign that despite leaving the old form of luxury for a newer sport and near luxury orientation; TLX will still retain its luxury status and more likely high resale values. So it is possible that Honda and Acura may have similar expected reliability on their vehicles, but simply an Acura will cost more to own due to projected higher expected resale value.
Next to resale value, another major aspect that can impact long-term ownership costs is the expected reliability of the vehicle. Since expected reliability is closely related to potential repair bills, it plays a major role in manipulating residual value and overall ownership costs. A car that's cheap to own but highly reliable can sometimes cost more to own over the long-term period due to higher expected resale value. And in this case, Acura is a clear-cut leader of Honda.
Acura TLX and Honda Accord hold their value at above-average rates, but the TLX is likely to cost rather more to own over the long-term period. According to the projections of KBB, the 5-year resale value of a base-level Acura TLX 2023 is 46% around $24,000, while for Honda Accord it is 48% around $22,500. Now those are the official estimations of KBB, but that doesn't mean an Acura TLX will depreciate faster than Accord, it's just the way KBB fares those vehicles in the market when compared.
4.3. Warranty and maintenance coverage
Prospective luxury car buyers who place a high value on peace of mind and reduced cost of ownership can often find a lot to like with a premium or luxury brand. Acura's warranty and maintenance coverage will be a strong selling point for the TLX when compared to competing non-luxury midsize sedans. The Accord is also a very dependable vehicle and this is backed up by its history. While the TLX is an all-new model, it is based on the new global platform the 2023 Honda Accord shares, and will likely be as dependable as previous Accords that have proven to hold up well over time. This could be a model where the TLX can come close to the Accord in the categories of reliability and reducing long-term ownership costs when compared to previous generations. In the big picture, some buyers will find it more appealing to stretch their budget on a luxury model when said model has comparable or slightly higher long-term costs of ownership to a non-luxury model.
Acura offers the same limited and powertrain warranties as the 2023 Honda Accord. It also has a slight advantage with its complimentary scheduled maintenance coverage that the Accord does not have. The 2023 Honda Accord comes with a limited warranty of 3 years or 36,000 miles, and a powertrain warranty of 5 years or 60,000 miles. The Acura TLX has the same length limited warranty, but has a powertrain warranty of 6 years or 70,000 miles. The Acura TLX goes a lot further in this category with its complimentary scheduled maintenance that covers basic maintenance for 4 years or 50,000 miles.