Engineer Explains Why Acura TLX is Better Than Lexus IS: 5 Top Reasons why the TLX is Better

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.

[@AutomotivePress]

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.

[@alexanderradetsky6994]

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.

[@rbasi25]

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.

[@MikeYurbasovich]

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.

[@larkt6693]

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 😊

[@Rickster1965]

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.

[@doobedi]

Definitely!

[@brianlee5357]

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

[@anotherincognito7900]

@@brianlee5357 I second that

[@cube1us]

Heh. Like Acura infotainment is bleeding edge. 😂🤣😂🤣😂 (TLX owner here.)

[@Jackdman25]

@@brianlee5357 true, but that is what sells for Toyota/Lexus. The numbers don’t lie

[@Mx5pro]

I love them both Acura and Lexus

[@Cynical496]

I’d never own a Lexus, they’re shit. Acura is way more attractive and intuitive.

[@joshlovepopcorn]

@@Cynical496 You never owned a Lexus so i'm not sure why you're talking. Stay in your lane clown

[@ZD3974]

@@Cynical496 for real

[@ZD3974]

@@joshlovepopcorn i did and there shit compared to Acura

[@joshlovepopcorn]

@@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

[@chucklau3512]

V6 over turbo 4 any day.

[@kabysummit5801]

To me, handling breaking and power delivery are all important. Power is important but not by a landslide

[@MQBjon]

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

[@philspaghet]

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

[@EatMyPropwash]

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?

[@omichaelnato5388]

@@EatMyPropwash engine wear and tear…less to go wrong… but hey I have a turbo car who cares

[@henrysniper8481]

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.

[@davarenalford1725]

We all know Japanese built cars last longer

[@omairsh8]

Acura has always had more soul and driver focus. They nailed it with this TLX

[@juarche4236]

lies

[@jbm0866]

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.

[@jbm0866]

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.

[@peterhoma6385]

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 .

[@realnapster1522]

Only few Lexus are rwd. The ES is not Rwd. And Lexus stopped producing GS which was a real sports sedan.

[@leojanuszewski1019]

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.

[@TJDST4]

That Acrua is a very good looking car. It is also a compelling argument. Thank you!

[@lexingtonanderson4282]

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.

[@alwayne5932]

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 👍🏾

[@gerardi2000]

Is the bumper an option on the Lexus. The car nice until you get to that big wide over exaggerated grill. One word ‘HIDEOUS!’

[@alwayne5932]

@@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

[@johnlopez4762]

@@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.

[@doobedi]

@@gerardi2000 That grille on the LEXUS is the best grille i have ever seen on a car. Its really OUTSTANDING/ CLASSY design.

[@gerardi2000]

Y’all are tripping that grille is ugly and now they are doing a variation on the Toyota’s. It’s like pac man

[@jbm0866]

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.

[@andys1548]

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

[@Icarusvampire]

What do u think is a more comfortable car for long rides to drive? Acura or Lexus?

[@andys1548]

@@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

[@jeffnesbitt1168]

Hurry and put your order in for a launch edition IS 500 before it’s too late!

[@blackice7408]

They've all been claimed for

[@ZD3974]

Gay

[@markchangcoco5427]

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.

[@joeycampos142]

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

[@marcelobertao9050]

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...

[@Tsand4]

@@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💯

[@gaylenhalbert4391]

@@marcelobertao9050 The 2.0 290hp Acura is a turbo.

[@marcelobertao9050]

@@gaylenhalbert4391 I meant a real turbo, 290 hp doesn't get you anywhere, car is to expensive for a little engine, IMO

[@pmiahky]

@@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.

[@omichaelnato5388]

Lexus: still made in Japan. I’ll take the Japanese made and assembled over the US assembled Acura

[@Shane-zx4ps]

Lexus built and designed in Japan, Honda built and designed in the USA, no brainier Lexus all day long...

[@doobedi]

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.

[@chevyss934]

This is a inbetweener car

[@AutomotivePress]

While the TLX is definitely bigger than the Lexus IS, they compete in the same market because the buyers cross shop these two

[@Nukem962001]

Turbo V6 type S has me wanting to go back to Acura. I test drove the A-Spec and fell in love. I am awaiting for the Type S to trade in my 2013 Audi S5.

[@AidenRZ777]

How many problems have u had with ur car

[@Nukem962001]

@@AidenRZ777 the Audi? Actually a lot, all under warranty. Mostly issues with the MMI (Multi Media Interface) Just had an issue with right rear brake caliper sticking not under warranty. Had all four bearings replaced under warranty. I keep having the seals replaced in my driver side door. After 6 months I have water leakage issues. Past that great driving car. I know seems like a lot over 6 years of owning it.

[@AidenRZ777]

@@Nukem962001 wait how many miles is on it and u didn’t want a bmw or merc? That Audi is on a fwd platform and did u get extended warranty?

[@Nukem962001]

@@AidenRZ777 Had BMWs in the past will never go back. While also a great driving car, was probably the least reliable car I ever owned. I wanted a Merc C63 AMG, but couldn't find one close.

[@AidenRZ777]

@@Nukem962001 what about a RS5?

[@dipu827]

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.

[@jacoby1234ification]

I purchased my brand new Acura TLX 2021 of November performance red tech pack front wheel drive love the vehicle

[@timw2083]

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.

[@Soh90]

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.

[@JJS432]

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.

[@Soh90]

@@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.

[@ThirdBrainLives]

100% disagree. IS feels like it's 10 years old.

[@Chidoro41]

​@@ThirdBrainLivesI have owned one for over 2 years now. It, most definitely, does not feel old.

[@vapeking466]

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. 🤷

[@nosaonline]

Why is the tlx been compared with IS? Is it not supposed to be a direct rival or to the lexus es ?

[@johnlopez4762]

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.

[@nosaonline]

@@johnlopez4762 I agree 👍you got my point right

[@alanaguirre594]

Lexus still way better. Don’t even see any Acura TLX on the road

[@Miiike604]

You have some really awesome content. Thank you for putting this video together. Really informative.

[@AutomotivePress]

You're very welcome! Thank you so much for watching!

[@channelnamehere4065]

TLX Type S > Lexus IS. Easily. Lexus IS500 F Sport Performance > TLX Type S x10^2. And that's just scientifically speaking.

[@bradh6185]

I thought TLX competed with ES instead of IS.

[@DailyDriver.]

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

[@natelove187]

Yep

[@mafiotzi]

I drive an Acura TL Type-S 2007 since 2014. Car runs flawlessly. Only spent money on maintenance and minor things like exhaust repair and other parts that wear off over time. For my next car was looking at these 2 cars. TLX Type-S or IS 350. After many hours of research I'm leaning heavily towards the TLX Type-S. Savagegeese have some amazing reviews of all these cars.

[@ontarioman6301]

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

[@alphabeta8403]

Lexus (RWD) > Acura (FWD-based) Lexus 8 speed > Honda 10 speed (too many gears) 51/49 weight distribution > 57/43 (nose heavy)

[@Shabbe02]

How is it too many gears?

[@mattbrown942]

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

[@alphabeta8403]

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.

[@frankmiller95]

@@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.

[@mindmusclemeditation9768]

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.

[@teemanz2264]

Es don’t have AWD

[@upbeattvraw-hiphop8242]

@@teemanz2264yes it does. The ES250 is AWD.

[@veegizzlemilliken6441]

Açura #1💯💯👍💪

[@scottscott5827]

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

[@danielmelendez9943]

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!

[@joecena6393]

That’s weird. My Honda Civic has 130K miles and I’ve had zero issues with the turbo.

[@danielmelendez9943]

@@joecena6393 perhaps Honda turbo is a better option. Believe me, when a turbo breaks, is expensive to replace or rebuild.

[@notoriouslopez1]

The Acura isn’t as dependable as the Lexus though.

[@gerardi2000]

Huh? Honda make some of the best engines in the world.

[@Shabbe02]

What are you smoking?

[@gerardi2000]

I don’t smoke. Yamaha make some of Toyota engines.

[@drivecfl]

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.

[@shanedawnson7197]

@@drivecflso what’s better Honda or Toyota ?

[@stylif6651]

Excellent comparative review from an engineer standpoint, thank you! 👌🏼 Since purchasing a Type-R in 2017, I'm very much looking forward to welcoming the Type-S in the near future. Indeed a heavier TLX frame chassis and less engaging (or neutral) on the road, but I'm looking for comfort, AWD with a sporty feeling and the TLX Type-S caught my attention.

[@leroyjenkins-vc7kr]

just bought a 2018 TLX V6, I love it so much, always have had hondas but this is my first Acura :)

[@les7213]

I feel like the better comparison would be the Lexus ES

[@mikeoxberg3502]

es compare to mercedis e class, audi a6, and bmw 5 series. tlx just B class sedan

[@Bookerdevin101]

I think I'd prefer a car that was engineered and manufactured in Japan. The Japanese dont play when it comes to quality

[@Chidoro41]

I have a 2012 tsx and thought I was going to get a tlx. Used 92 accord, new 98 civic, new 12 tsx. I did not enjoy my test drive of the tlx. So disappointed in the powertrain and the acceleration lag. The IS powertrain actually drives more like my previous Hondas. I hated the piped in sound of the tlx too. I actually waited for the 2nd gen tlx before car shopping. I will be getting an is350 this July.

[@shravan8848]

What did you end up getting ?

[@Chidoro41]

​@shravan8848 I purchased a IS350 AWD in Iridium. Just crossed the 25k mile mark and it's as much fun and bullet proof as the day I purchased it back in May '21.

[@harryhowell5644]

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.

[@phil33603]

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.

[@DC10TX]

But which one is more reliable? 👀

[@YoungDen]

Nah, Lexus all day because Acura has that cluttered infotainment system. Lexus is just smooth all around

[@Striker50_]

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

[@flashsushi1843]

Lexus should up its game and offer more vehicles with torque vectoring. Right now only RCF has it since the GSF is dead.

[@natelove187]

Torque costly 💰💰💰

[@mrgreen9086]

I would love to hear your thoughts on the Genesis g70

[@AutomotivePress]

Let me get one for media review!

[@kewl820607]

Great video bro when you doing one on ES F Lexus ?

[@AutomotivePress]

Let me look into that... thank you

[@PreparationdobleH]

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.

[@vinci93]

lexus is better, very reliable

[@seanmarietta9059]

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.

[@MM-gg3rg]

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.

[@johnlopez4762]

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.

[@anonemoose6121]

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

[@anonemoose6121]

At the end of the day, really appreciate the thorough walkthrough & hearing it from an informed engineer’s perspective. Great video and well done!

[@that0871]

I own a 08 TL type S and still havent pulled the trigger on the TLX. I like the V6

[@kpranjith23]

That panel gap should not be on a luxury car. Still I would take TLX over IS. I think if Lexus brings in ES with AWD and a turbo it would better compete with TLX.

[@AutomotivePress]

Yes that wide gap actually surprised me....

[@mquiobeable]

Front reminds me of a Ford Mustang, makes sense because it was designed and built in America.

[@freakasound]

everyone skip to 6 min mark. everything before that is just rambling

[@nunyobizniz2028]

Good Review, But what is a IES?

[@michaelperks8607]

Nice car. Nicer interior and probably does drive better but I don't care who makes it, turbo engines are not as reliable. This car does have a timing chain which is nice but the v6 are belts. Fuck that!! I also live in snowy winters so the AWD is a big plus. LEXUS FOR LIFE 🤘😎🤘

[@timsanchez5834]

The Tlx is better performance wise though it's turbo will have much more problems in the future verse the Lexus Is naturally aspirated 6 cylinder

[@hellotp2959]

Still take is f 350 just my choice Lexus is king to me

[@jmesa78]

I got the 2021 is350 and my wife 2021 TLX. And we also own 2013 Pilot and 2016 Accord. Personally I don’t have any problems with this vehicles, but yes V6 is better than the 4 cylinder.

[@chevyss934]

So which of the 2 do you guys prefer the tlx or is350?

[@haduong5828]

I have both 2018 MDX and RX 350. They weren’t built in Japan either one. But to me Lexus craftsmen-shift build quality and luxurious interior is better than Acura despite the reliability.

[@hryou1]

Personally, I cannot stand wind noise and road noise on Honda/Acura models in general. It is fun to drive and all but man that wind/road noise is a deal breaker for me.

[@haduong5828]

@@hryou1 I experienced the same with my 2018 MDX

[@stevenr6279]

Acura wins 🏆suspension, power, interior, AWD, and fresh looks. Lexus IS inline 4 needs more ponies, the interior needs a fresh new look, however, the New exterior styling is nice. Nevertheless, buying either vehicle is a proper purchase.

[@starvinmarvin7964]

As far as looks go the tlx is a better design imo. Just love the style of it compared to its competitors.

[@seinundzeiten]

This is the exact video I was looking for, since I was down to these 2 cars to buy on my short list. I think the Acura might be better if it is in manual...

[@AutomotivePress]

I'm glad that the video was helpful

[@njackson18]

Technology; yes you are right. here is what you are missing as an engineer. All the tech falls apart. Lexus blends both nicely and does not over do it. The TLX should also be compared to the ES not the IS. Lexus as a Brand is more reliable and luxurious. Both are great cars though.

[@yajiinaachi]

Lexus is always the answer. Period

[@RickymaRI87]

I couldn't help but wondered why you compared the tlx to the is. You even made it as one of your 5 reasons it better. You are comparing an accord to a Corolla. The tlx is more of a gs or es competitor. The is is ilx's competitor.

[@saqu3197]

I just need Honda to go RWD biased and start killing the enthusiast game

[@CThao-kx2le]

Acura engine/transmission is more oil leaked than IS or Toyota or probably Toyota transmission will last longer.

[@joeycampos142]

Sorry my 1999 Acura CL has 160,000 miles, no leaks at all, and that motor is still 💪

[@rustyellis3702]

Natural aspiration and turbo are apples and oranges, Lexus owners buy n/A FOR A REASON

[@wongchai807]

Great break down, I love both. Can't go wrongwith either.

[@devincruz7011]

Good try but no

[@mkm692]

The IS300 and IS350 both have a hump next to your right leg which I never liked, i’m surprised the engineers never got rid of that issue.

[@Sportstouring]

The IS is dated, basically a 12 yr old car.

[@medhan654]

Drive a Is350 and if you still go to with TLX then- there’s no help for you.

[@Izzy-qv5eb]

I really like the look of the new TLX that’s point # 6 in my opinion . Thanks David for giving us your perspective you always have good points!

[@KingSi89]

#7 is everyone and their grandparents have an IS

[@nevessl998]

TLX anyday!

[@bronxtaskforce01]

I hate to say it but products being built in the US is that great. The Acura depreciates faster than Lexus.

[@nickmacias9940]

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.

[@ememdan2056]

Acura’s (tlx team) failed, Lexus (Is Team) on top.

[@philo5096]

I'l take the V6 over the 4 cylinder turbo junk, that's a weak engine.

[@karimmourabitamari6540]

IS AWD FSport in red can only have 6 speed transmission. Big negative.

[@silvestersze9968]

I like authentic American food made by American and Japanese cuisine made by local Japanese. But not sure if the American-Chinese food from Chinatown may be a differently ‘third kind’ of product… 🎉😅 But could be unique though

[@education8293]

Honda will never get global respect until they make a rwd v8. Other than that, Honda is a chic car...

[@rameshkumarmaruthalingam255]

Not tox Acura not ies Lexus

[@Eugen-E]

False. It has a lot of HONDA parts which are japanese - designed parts. So Acura is not quite an american engineered car

[@theking-og4oe]

The IS is a compact sedan. The TLX is a midsize sedan, they cant be compared 🤦🏽‍♂️

[@philspaghet]

Lol yes they can. They're both the flagship models for Lexus and Acura

[@lkae4]

Amazing information. Thank you 🤙🏽

[@AutomotivePress]

You're welcome!

[@wongchai807]

Two best brands.

[@Sportstouring]

No they aren't. Lexus is top notch Acura is average.

[@wongchai807]

@@Sportstouring haha..Toyota are the most reliable cars by far.

[@Sportstouring]

@@wongchai807 No it's not. Toyota is top notch in top 3.

[@dennisellis5986]

To me it's a tough one. I can't really decide between the two models. But what I can say is this. Both automobiles looks nice and well design. With it's sleek looks. Both automobiles and companies offers something different from the rest.

[@AutomotivePress]

they are both great cars, just different flavor....

[@haithamalhawamdeh3134]

Great review

[@jeremymoore145]

Awesome review