Engineer Explains Why Acura TLX is Better Than Lexus IS: 5 Top Reasons why the TLX is Better
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- Опубликовано: 10 сен 2024
- This is going to be a controversial video, because the camp is clearly divided on both sides of the fence when it comes to the question "which is better" - referring to the new 2021 Acura TLX to the newly revised 2021 Lexus IS.
While I am in love with Toyota and Lexus cars and would buy the Lexus IS in a heartbeat (especially the IS 500), the Acura TLX is still the better car when I do a formal, non-biased evaluation of the two.
This is a comprehensive, complete coverage of why I think the TLX is better and I go over all five reasons one by one. Please note that this is in addition to the full review I've already done on the 2021 Acura TLX previously.
Please watch until the end as I go over the reasons very logically and will help you make your decision about the TLX vs IS.
We all know Japanese built cars last longer
Hi all, many thanks for comments and feedback. I know that size-wise, the TLX competes more with the Lexus ES, but the data shows that IS buyers cross shop and cross compare to the TLX - which is why I'm comparing the two. They both have strengths and weaknesses, and they both have distinct character - so you can't go wrong with either one. Personally, I will pick the IS 500 launch edition which is what I am trying to get right now.
You'd have a much better argument for the Type S version of the TLX. But the standard tlx comes nowhere near measuring up to the Lexus IS.
I love the way you started with background information regarding the philosophical approach of both companies - thank you! It really added meaningful context to your position.
Only a Lexus mother could love the Lexus spindle grill.
Lexus: still made in Japan. I’ll take the Japanese made and assembled over the US assembled Acura
I test drive a base model tlx with the turbo 4 cylinder. Then a camary xle V6. The Acura felt much better. Ended up buying it.
Lexus still way better. Don’t even see any Acura TLX on the road
I had an acura tl in the past and it gave me nothing but problems. I have a 2016 lexus IS300 and it has had zero issues since day 1. Toyota is very reliable. Data shows us that you will be visiting the mechanic shop much less frequently with your lexus than you will with an acura.
They're reliable, but Honda and Toyota are both pinnacles of reliability. Honda cars are more interesting, sporty, and overall fun to drive. You lose maybe a smidgen of reliability, but you're not exactly living on the edge buying a Honda product. Toyota cars appeal to a slightly older, more conservative crowd. To each his own, that's my two cents. I've had 3 hondas in a row now with zero issues, and just bought my fourth.
I'm very excited for my new one.
I use too own a Honda Accord which was very reliable. But having my Lexus IS. For 6 years. The Lexus has been more reliable.. than the Honda it replaced 😊
Still take is f 350 just my choice Lexus is king to me
The Lexus is vastly better looking, I would even call it sexy. The Lexus is vastly more prestigious. Acura really needs to hire all new stylists to revive their dull, stodgy cars.
The reason Honda doesn’t grow and compete at the same level as Toyota is due to Honda‘s lack of developing a V8 engine. A V8 engine should have gone into the NSX, Ridgeline, pilot, passport, RL, and maybe the TLX. I’m pretty sure that is why the RL and the NSX failed.
The Acura is lower than before, thirstier than before, fatter than before, and smaller inside than a Civic. Add to that a ridiculous price for a Honda product and it's a very easy "no thanks".
There’s no comparison between American built and Japanese.
The RDX and Accord have lot problems. I own a 2022 IS 350 F no issues at all well built.
Design and made in the U.S Is gonna fall apart within 4 years.
We have 4, ES, IS, GS and LS, we traded Honda, Nissan, Porsche and Mercedes-Benz, while not leading edge technology, they out class Honda in ownership satisfaction.
Drive a Is350 and if you still go to with TLX then- there’s no help for you.
Toyota/Lexus isn’t too quick to be the first with new technology. They stay with tried and true, hence their high reliability ratings year after year.
Definitely!
Yeah but at some point you're just behind the curve hiding behind a shield of "reliability". The 3rd facelift on the IS is a perfect example
@@brianlee5357 I second that
Heh. Like Acura infotainment is bleeding edge. 😂🤣😂🤣😂 (TLX owner here.)
@@brianlee5357 true, but that is what sells for Toyota/Lexus. The numbers don’t lie
I'l take the V6 over the 4 cylinder turbo junk, that's a weak engine.
After working at Acura dealerships and also Lexus dealerships, my experiences have created my preferences. I like preferentes, and love Lexus. Acura is a good car while Lexus is truly great in my opinion and really no car compares to the Lexus if you know cars.
Lexus is better quality and reliability. Acura can't match Lexus quality and reliability. I use to own Acura and i would NEVER buy another Acura. Very expensive to repairs my Acura. I can drive Lexus for 10 years and trouble FREE. Can't said the same about Acura.
V6 over turbo 4 any day.
To me, handling breaking and power delivery are all important. Power is important but not by a landslide
until u get the n/a v6 like my boy did, now he cries everyday about no aftermarket support or tuning potential. Nice to look at tho
Nah not in this case. The V6 in the IS is a basic engine Lexus uses everywhere. The turbo 4 in the Acura is based on the Type R's engine
Turbo over V6 NA for me... this coming from a guy who used to own a 500hp SRT-4 and now owns a tuned N/A 370Z, which costs $15k to turbo. Tell me again why V6 N/A is better?
@@EatMyPropwash engine wear and tear…less to go wrong… but hey I have a turbo car who cares
Lexus built and designed in Japan, Honda built and designed in the USA, no brainier Lexus all day long...
I live the TLX but its 4,000 plus weight is a huge engineering mishap for an engineering focused car. That IS500 is a beast, and the Acura cannot compare.
Thank you everyone for your comments. Some people asked me which model I would buy as my personal car... and even though the TLX is a better car in most respects, I still like the Lexus myself and will likely buy the IS vs the TLX mainly because I love the current Lexus design and engineering. In fact, I'm pretty close to making a decision about putting a deposit for the IS 500 launch edition and trade-in my Supra.
I like both, I currently own a 07 tl type s 6 spd, I’ve owned is300 and is350. I will say the rear legroom is a big reason along with manual option was main reason. I want to get a new type S, but the is500 would be my preference. Overall growing up a Honda/Acura fanboy, I’ve grown to like Lexus better over the years with the exception of type s. Bought my wife a rx350 f sport from Honda CrV and liked that more than MDX and Passport
And I'm sure your personal loyalty to Toyota affects the decision making. I was in Automotive Sales Management and worked with Acura, Toyota and Honda over the years. In our home we have a Lexus UX200, Honda Civic Coupe EX and Honda Civic Hatchback Sport (all 2020). My experience selling Honda was far more pleasant and fruitful than Toyota. But I still respect their products as equal to Honda's.
I concur that Honda is more engineering driven than Toyota. Toyota responds to customer feedback. Whereas Honda creates a concept and a direction that achieves performance goals...as I see it.
Your review was calm, thought provoking and profoundly informative. Kudos!😀
@@islandon22 Thank you so much for your comments! I am loyal to Toyota in many ways but in this case, the TLX is simply a better car (and also a much bigger car). But if I were to actually own one, then yes, I would still pick the Lexus because I like the design better and the overall feel. At the end, they both make great products!
Totally understand. Likewise, my business experiences with Toyota were not positive, yet in spite of that, in this home there have been only 3 marques representing QUALITY BUILT cars: Honda(Acura), Toyota(Lexus) and Mazda. When we bought those 2 Hondas and that Lexus, we traded in three Mazda 3's. Sadly, Mazda may be going in a bad direction, seeing that they went backwards when they cut costs on this generation of Mazda 3, CX3 and CX30 by replacing Independent Rear Suspension with Torsion Beam. I'm still mortified by that move. Handling is our #1 "raison d'acheter" (translation: reason to buy). Honda offers the most precise and engaging handling of the Japanese manufacturers. IMHO
@@islandon22 I agree Honda gets the handling down and now they’re finally adding power. Still love my 93 prelude si/vtec.
I just traded in my TLX w/ Tech Package for the IS350 F sport....and so far I'm super glad I did! The Acura handled better, but the Lexus felt much more premium.
The TLX is newer, sure. And it may very well be better than a base IS. But in ever metric (style, V6, optional V8, dynamics, reliability, and dealer service, the Lexus IS and Lexus as a whole is the better brand.
Agreed. The TLX style looks way too North American as well - it almost looks like it’s from an actual American brand. Lexus holds true to its Japanese heritage. Also being built in Japan is a plus if you’re a JDM loyalist.
@@JJS432 Yes the IS looks definitively Japanese. It also just has a more overall attractive shape (long hood, muscular body, short deck) while the TLX just looks kinda goofy. It has the long hood, but it can’t quite hide its FWD architecture because of the large front overhangs. The TLX does have a more modern dash design, but it has the stupid touch pad. It didn’t work for Lexus so Lexus abandoned it, I’m sure why Acura would then adopt and old failed technology. Overall, IS for the win.
100% disagree. IS feels like it's 10 years old.
@@ThirdBrainLivesI have owned one for over 2 years now. It, most definitely, does not feel old.
Just get the IS500 with a v8!!!
Aint this TLX (Mid size sedan) to be compared to the Lexus GS?? The IS is a compact sedan so its in class with the ILX.
This is a inbetweener car
While the TLX is definitely bigger than the Lexus IS, they compete in the same market because the buyers cross shop these two
The problem with Honda/Acura is that they discontinue cars 🚗 like you throw away a pair of shoes 👞. Toyota/Lexus stays with their current vehicle instead of discontinuing vehicles then putting new names on new vehicles further confusing the buyer
Both of them are great auto manufacturers but you lost me when you said Toyota is customer and marketing driven and Honda is Engineer and technically driving, sounds like a paid advertisement for Honda if you ask me. Go anywhere in the world there is most likely a Toyota or Honda engine powering something and there’s a reason for that, reliability. especially in all its engineering. One company just holds itself at a higher standard when it come to that and we all know what company that is.
I love them both Acura and Lexus
I’d never own a Lexus, they’re shit. Acura is way more attractive and intuitive.
@@Cynical496 You never owned a Lexus so i'm not sure why you're talking.
Stay in your lane clown
@@Cynical496 for real
@@joshlovepopcorn i did and there shit compared to Acura
@@ZD3974 Don't get me wrong i'm an acura owner myself and love it. Way more reliable than my cadillac I had. But the new IS500 looks more apealing than the TLX type S IMO
You are comparing an apple to an orange! FWD vs RWD, no comparison! What Lexus does extremely well is fit and finish combined with reliability and resale. For this reason Lexus is seen as more a direct European competitor.
Lexus is also killing the competition in terms of resale value. European cars are dodo. Sure their tech is far superior than lexus but they depreciate so badly.
I wouldn’t worry too much about what you’re saying right now...because in a little bit you’ll be talking about the IS...🤷🏾♂️ am just saying...but no matter what am sticking to my Lexus 👍🏾
Is the bumper an option on the Lexus. The car nice until you get to that big wide over exaggerated grill. One word ‘HIDEOUS!’
@@gerardi2000 look u gotta realize...everyone is doing their own style & looks this y Lexus has to differentiate themselves too so u know what everyone have them opinion...but I luv it I have NP with it
@@gerardi2000 at first glance back in 2014 yes the grill looks hideous. But it has grown on me and now it absolutely looks beautiful to my eyes. The new IS’s aesthetic body design looks very aggressive and it is unmatch to any sedan out in the market IMHO.
@@gerardi2000 That grille on the LEXUS is the best grille i have ever seen on a car. Its really OUTSTANDING/ CLASSY design.
Y’all are tripping that grille is ugly and now they are doing a variation on the Toyota’s. It’s like pac man
Acura TLX is front bias base.Lexus IS is rear bias. You need to compare the IS with other rear wheel drive like Mercedes or BMW. We know Acura is a newer design so will have better technology
I think I'd prefer a car that was engineered and manufactured in Japan. The Japanese dont play when it comes to quality
I thought TLX competed with ES instead of IS.
I think the Acura is just so pain jane boring. Like the accord
lexus is better, very reliable
Nah, Lexus all day because Acura has that cluttered infotainment system. Lexus is just smooth all around
I have a 23 mdx type S, and just picked up a 23 integra A spec with tech package, and love them! Toyota vs Honda, you will be a winner with quality/longevity either way. My engineering question is, why does Honda/Acura continue to use a timing belt instead of chain? I also have reservations about the 1.5 turbo in the integra. Has great acceleration, but how it will hold up over time has yet to be seen.
This is my 2nd time watching and listening to the engineer's perspective as why the Accra A-spec is preferable over the Lexus IS. Excellent job especially pointing out the philosophical differences between the two auto companies in making and responding to vehicle design and manufacturing. Thank You! ♥ P.S. I wonder though . . . how the 4cyl will handle longevity compared to the 6cyl. we know can go the distance. 😉
Im my personal opinion any naturally aspirated engine will go longer before having anything needing repair vs any turbo engines. Turbo is squeezing extra power from the engine its connected to but at what expense? Perhaps shorter engine life or maybe just a new turbo every now and then for maintenance. 🤷
Acura does not have the same refinement as Lexus does. It will also not last or depreciate like the IS. Lexus is a far better vehicle
Trying to decide between the two… love the exterior of the Lexus but the interior of the Acura
Why is the tlx been compared with IS? Is it not supposed to be a direct rival or to the lexus es ?
I agree with your point! The IS is considered compact sedan and the TLX is a midsize sedan. So the video’s 3rd agument is trash 😆
The IS actually competes with the ILX but we all know IS will kill the ILX 😂 The TLX actually competes with the GS but sadly got discontinued.
@@johnlopez4762 I agree 👍you got my point right
The newest TLX is great, no doubt about that, yet so is the latest refresh of the IS. Newer isn't always better imo. Neither car is perfect, but the push button transmission and lack of smooth V6 kills the appeal of the TLX for me. The IS (in F Sport trim) simply looks killer imo, and that combined with a silky smooth V6 with 311 HP is enough to make it my choice even if the interior is mostly a rehash. The F sport seats are fantastic, and not just for looks...and most everything in the interior feels solid and well assembled. (Cheesy rear cup holders excepted) The IS looks great from any angle, not so much for the TLX. The front of that car seems a little too conservative for this segment, but of course thats subjective. Oh, and if you have fairly deep pockets you can also get the IS 500 with a very nice 470 hp V8. Nothing even close to that with the Acura.
AuotmotivePress - You constantly harp on saying TLX "this" and TLX "that" being better than the "IS" - The Lexus IS "what" as for 2021 Lexus has (2) all wheel drive IS models and you never say which one, why? - 2021 Lexus has 2 cars to choose from IS300 AWD 3.5 V6 260 HP and IS350 3.5 V6 311 HP... Next you only refer to limited specifications about the TLX and no true real drive road handling feel specs because the TLX AWD is not firm and sporty it has a soft and floating driver experience such as cornering G-Force is much lower than both Lexus IS models... You said nothing about TLX AWD true performance specs zero to sixty specs are slow 7 seconds flat!... And TLX AWD compared to what ever Lexus IS model you never referred to. - Lexus has year 2021 (IS300) has 3.5 V6 260 HP / 236 Torque and does zero to 60 in 6 seconds flat skid pad results IS300 AWD cut through the aforementioned figure -eight in 25.9 seconds at an average of 0.70 g, which whups that BMW 330i xDrive by 0.7 second and 0.04 g. The surprises don't stop there; against a 2020 Alfa Romeo Giulia Q4 that we tested last year, the supposedly dowdy Lexus bests the driver's favorite Italian by 0.8 second and 0.04 g. And Lexsus nicely equiped cost $48,275 versus Acura 2021 TLX AWD $49,325. Acura is not so much better if you ask me.
I will take a vehicle assembled in Japan over ANY other country.
The Acura isn’t as dependable as the Lexus though.
Huh? Honda make some of the best engines in the world.
What are you smoking?
I don’t smoke. Yamaha make some of Toyota engines.
So who makes the most reliable engines? Perhaps not surprisingly, it's the Japanese, with the top spot taken by Honda. Only one in every 344 Honda owners have had engine trouble, with second-placed rival Toyota notching up just one in 171.
@@drivecflso what’s better Honda or Toyota ?
Acura has always had more soul and driver focus. They nailed it with this TLX
lies
While the new TLX is pretty good, Acura seems to have lost most of their mojo in recent years, especially when it comes to making actual cars. They dressed up a 9th gen Civic as an ILX that was sold up until the Civic it was based on was in it's 11th gen...and even then 11th gen Civics were sold next to 9th gen ILX's for a while until the latest Integra was released.
The TLX cannot be specced with anything but SH-AWD (which is good, don't get me wrong) which suggests it's actually front wheel drive biased while the Lexus IS is most definitely rear biased and can be had with rear wheel drive. That alone would be enough to tip the scales in favor of Lexus...but the IS can also be had in 2 door coupe form with a choice of 2.0l I4 turbo, two different silky smooth V6's and even a honking 472 HP V8! I wouldnt even give the tech advantage to Acura...it's infotainment isn't touchscreen while the 2021+ IS has a choice of touch or finger pad..TLX has only finger pad. Oh, and the Mark Levinson sound system blows away even some higher priced sound systems..and certainly the one in the TLX.
everyone skip to 6 min mark. everything before that is just rambling
I purchased my brand new Acura TLX 2021 of November performance red tech pack front wheel drive love the vehicle
Consumer Reports - Annual Auto Issue - April 2021
1. 2021 Acura TLX - Overall Score 56
2. 2021 Lexus IS - Overall Score 70
3. 2021 Audi A4 - Overall Score 87
TLX Type S > Lexus IS. Easily.
Lexus IS500 F Sport Performance > TLX Type S x10^2. And that's just scientifically speaking.
Good review; however as a consumer Honda and Acura's reliability has gone down hill after the early 2000's due to all the high gadgets it has. Yes, it focus on tech like GM, Ford and all the others, while Toyota and Lexus focus on consumers who wants something reliable for themselves and their family. As a parent, am tired of taking the new Civic to the shop for a transmission repair, while my Lexus is almost at 400k miles. Also, it shouldn't matter where anything is made, as long as it's affordable and built well. I do hope Toyota don't lose focus on their quality in the future.
I have owned Acura’s in the past very good cars BUT there no Lexus , I have 2 Lexus cars right now very impressed with them both , I like the rear wheel drive better than the front wheel drive as well .
Only few Lexus are rwd. The ES is not Rwd. And Lexus stopped producing GS which was a real sports sedan.
Hurry and put your order in for a launch edition IS 500 before it’s too late!
They've all been claimed for
Gay
I'm not sure if it's a fair comparison between IS vs TL. it would make more sense between TLX vs ES350 or TLX vs LS460. But do like both, each has its own pros and cons.
I just don’t like the way the new tlx Looks. Yes the IS interior is dated but the IS just looks better to me.
Acura’s motto is Precision Crafted PERFORMANCE. They give us performance and unrelenting reliability compared to all other manufacturers. Go ahead and pay 30k or more than my Honda. Economically, I’ll save much more money on maintenance and fuel.
I've owned three Acura's before buying my fourth the 2021 TLX A-SPEC SH-AWD, this car is the best one yet' driving this car is so fun and well worth the $$$ there is no other car out there right now that can compare! sorry. Acura #1
Sorry my friend, you are dreaming, 4 cyl 290hp car, you need a turbo engine in your life. Try something like a Stinger 3.3t to start...
@@marcelobertao9050 ya damn right! The stinger is a actual RWD architecture car! Even the AWD stinger is very RWD biased. N the true gem of the stinger is that monster 3.3tt v6!! Looks are subjective but stinger looks better imo and with the new 2022 stinger interior updates the interiors are about equal. But when it comes to power and driving dynamics the stinger wins hands down💯
@@marcelobertao9050 The 2.0 290hp Acura is a turbo.
@@gaylenhalbert4391 I meant a real turbo, 290 hp doesn't get you anywhere, car is to expensive for a little engine, IMO
@@Tsand4 I mean pure power sure and something like having Brembo brakes on those badass GTs. But, the ride quality and engineering under the car is much better than the Stinger. There are many reasons why. that is true.
False. It has a lot of HONDA parts which are japanese - designed parts. So Acura is not quite an american engineered car
Acura’s (tlx team) failed, Lexus (Is Team) on top.
turbo's are expensive to maintain, they do not last beyond 70-75K miles, if they need t be replaced or rebuild you have to consider how long you will keep the car. I owned turbo's from Mazda and once the turbo was out, I did not bother to have it rebuilt as a lot of the engine components also need to be replaced and or adjusted, I do have a Acura MDX 2011 with SH-AWD and that car has 100K miles and I only change fluids, brakes and tires so far. SO if reliability and longevity are an issue, stay away from turbos! I can attest to that because I owned a CX-7 AWD GT, awesome car but expensive to maintain!
That’s weird. My Honda Civic has 130K miles and I’ve had zero issues with the turbo.
@@joecena6393 perhaps Honda turbo is a better option. Believe me, when a turbo breaks, is expensive to replace or rebuild.
Being that it’s a fwd accord based car wouldn’t the ES be a better comparison ? I know it’s not sporty but the F sport tries to be
Yep
I've always been a fan of Acura, my family has owned both and currently own a Lexus. Handling is definitely better on Acura's, the stereotype is definitely right about Lexus being an "old man car". Personally I'm Acura all the way, the interior is on par with today's competition. Whereas Lexus is lacking redesigns, starting with the same key fob that's been around in the early 2000's. Tech is way behind their competitors, Lexus needs to step up on that for sure
What do u think is a more comfortable car for long rides to drive? Acura or Lexus?
@@Icarusvampire Lexus for sure. It’s quiet and soft, won’t feel the bumps and the laminated front side windows will keep the inside quiet
I feel like it would make more sense to compare the TLK with the Lexus ES...
I agree, IS vs Accord and ES vs TLX.
First argument is fail lolzzz made in Japan > made in US. Sorry but that is facts
So, in a nutshell, ACURA is an American 🇺🇸 company (just like GM, Ford and Chrysler)? Not like LEXUS (totally Japanese)?
Varies from model to model from Acura, but in the case of the TLX-
Built, designed and manufactured in America, also handling SH-AWD tuning done in America. The drivetrains were designed in Japan with help from Honda of America and built in the US. So pretty American, but the Japanese still manage the company and set the guidelines and standards for the car.
@@wj6107 That’s a perfect saying for the explanation! Thx! 🥳🥳
@@wj6107 Now I got a better understanding. 🙏🏻
@@wj6107every acura is designed in the usa, made in the usa for the usa market. It’s basically an american company. Not sold in Japan or anywhere else. They failed in china too and were discontinued there.
@@MikeForsythe What about the RL/RLX line? TSX? Regarding the TLX 2.0T that clearly is not an engine designed by Honda America as that is a K-Series. Furthermore Acura put out a video detailing the development of the 3.0T in the Type S and this was a collaboration between Japan and the US. Some models were sold in Japan as Honda models, so what you say is not quite accurate.
Acura transmission is garbage. Lexus 100%
That Acrua is a very good looking car. It is also a compelling argument. Thank you!
Vacuum cleaner nozzles for exhaust pipes. Why Acura? Why?
I just bought a 2019 TLX (6 cyl ) last Sept ('22) that only had 10K miles. The only problem I have is that the back seat doesn't seem to have as much room as my 2020 Honda Civic Si sedan. It does have great pick up and drives smooth.
I need to know how is the gas mileage?
Just now there’s an engine recall for the tlx model in North America
I just need Honda to go RWD biased and start killing the enthusiast game
IS 350 F Sport has superb looks, I doubt the Type-S can beat that. Also having RWD bias system but yea SH-AWD is better and AWD on IS means 6 Speed instead of faster 8 Speed. The other issue on IS is lack of wood and leather. TLX has them both. TLX rear has some more space than IS 350. But now the NA V6 in the IS 350 is much smooth, linear with zero lag. Then the bulletproof nature of those Lexus cars vs TLX, finally the whole Made in Japan package seals the deal to be fair. Acura looks fine but it is no Lexus, also looking at Acurazine, I see a lot of issues in the modern Acuras, I do not know if Honda dropped the ball or whatever there's no spirit of pride in Acura I think vs Japanese Tahara made Lexus. The last of it's kind, the IS 350 since GS is dead which was superior and ES is FWD and made in US gets more smooth ride and premium interior but the FWD is a mega bummer for the price. Then the GX is also dead by 2024. LS is long gone since a decade+ finally RC is another one left with the NA V6 powertrain from Japan.
The TLX has one big advantage that the IS simply cant match, which is double wishbone front suspension. Even the IS500 will never beat the TLX Type S in tracktimes, which we will see in the near future. I drove both the a spec sh-awd and the 350 awd and the TLX is by far the superior car in terms of handling and vehicle dynamics
The Lexus IS has double wishbone front suspension too.
Guess this comment didn't age well. Lexus IS has an idependent double wishbone as well.
Sap
Natural aspiration and turbo are apples and oranges, Lexus owners buy n/A FOR A REASON
The Acura TLX is more of a competitive comparison to the Lexus ES not IS.
I hear what you are saying about cross shoppers in the comment below, however IS is RWD and a small sedan, ES is FWD and is a mid size which more like the TLX.
You might say that the TLX also comes in AWD however if you consider the way the motors/transmissions are set up in the cars (IS vs TLX) it is a very different configuration.
Es don’t have AWD
@@teemanz2264yes it does. The ES250 is AWD.
Lexus (RWD) > Acura (FWD-based)
Lexus 8 speed > Honda 10 speed (too many gears)
51/49 weight distribution > 57/43 (nose heavy)
How is it too many gears?
The 10 speed is actually a really good transmission. It doesn’t gear hunt, and the SH-awd can basically act like a rear wheel drive car
10 gears = shifting often = no fun. 59/41 nose heavy weight distribution cannot behave like a RWD car having near 50/50 balance.
A G70 or IS350 F sport RWD is much more neutral and fun on S curves than a FWD based SHAWD.
@@alphabeta8403 lf you want the best power and handling, it's hard to go wrong with the BMW E46, M3, which is probably the last good, somewhat reliable BMW so far.
just bought a 2018 TLX V6, I love it so much, always have had hondas but this is my first Acura :)
The IS is a compact sedan. The TLX is a midsize sedan, they cant be compared 🤦🏽♂️
Lol yes they can. They're both the flagship models for Lexus and Acura
But which one is more reliable? 👀
While all of the statements may be true, I still prefer the IS 350 to this. I guess "better" doesn't always = more desirable.
Yes you're right... even though the TLX is a "better car", personally I would still buy the Lexus IS as I prefer a slightly older but proven design and engineering. Also the Lexus IS is built at Tahara factory which is one of the best in the world.
@@AutomotivePress Agreed. Tried and true wins every time for me.
IS = rear wheel drive. Like a true luxury brand
@@rammanohar8161 Is Audi a true Luxury brand?
@@hybridsnowleopard no, just BMW and Merc are.
Front reminds me of a Ford Mustang, makes sense because it was designed and built in America.
Toyota all day....japanese built cannot be beat
The TLX may better statistically better, the subjective factors keep me with the Lexus. I like the looks, naturally aspirated V8 sound, and proven reliability of the IS500.
The TLX-Type S vs M340i vs IS500 will be a great comparison.
The small interior space in the TLX ruined this car for me. It's a boat yet the inside is smaller than a Honda Civic
This car seems closer in comparison to the Lexus ES than the Lexus IS. Am I wrong?
All that and…I’m still buying Lexus at the end of the day. Has an “it” factor for me, very personal & subjective I know. TLX may objectively be the better car, but still lol
At the end of the day, really appreciate the thorough walkthrough & hearing it from an informed engineer’s perspective. Great video and well done!
Do you trust that the Acura turbo will be reliable of the long run?
Its been proven in 1st gen rdx
Yes it will be reliable
@@AutomotivePress thanks but still hesitant to make purchase decisions when it comes to turbo powered vehicles
@@tubedude92 fair enough... I personally do like naturally aspirated engine too
Japan 🇯🇵 is better built ! I’m an Acura lover too 😂
TLX is not a compact sedan. It is 10 inches longer. Why the comparison? IS should be compared with the Integra. The TLX is nice but has that ridiculous button transmission.
TLX exterior is big but interior is smaller. Integra is a civic and doesn’t compete with the IS.
@@MikeForsythe TLX interior is smaller, but is still larger than the IS because the former is a mid-size sedan and has has more car to work with.
I'm wondering why he didn't mention the fact that the Acura has the battery in the trunk and no spare tire😳 wtf is up w/that!! i guess if u get a flat better call for a flatbed tow tk, bcuz thats the only way you getting home! as far as which veh i'd take, the Acura looks to be the better buy!
I hate to say it but products being built in the US is that great. The Acura depreciates faster than Lexus.
Just being built in Japan is worth the price.
Acura engine/transmission is more oil leaked than IS or Toyota or probably Toyota transmission will last longer.
Sorry my 1999 Acura CL has 160,000 miles, no leaks at all, and that motor is still 💪
Good try but no
The lexus looks better.
Açura #1💯💯👍💪