The Acura TLX looks a lot like an Integra that's eaten Thanksgiving dinner with two separate families. Given its larger footprint and available all-wheel drive, it's a completely different bird from the Integra, though. The four-door TLX starts with front-wheel drive and a 272-hp turbocharged inline-four engine. Moving up to a TLX Type S unlocks all-wheel drive (also optional for Advance trim) and a 355-hp turbocharged V-6. Both powertrains use a 10-speed automatic, but the significantly peppier V-6 gets to 60 mph a full second quicker than the four-cylinder. The TLX's size straddles the line between compact and mid-size, so it feels slightly roomier than the Audi A4 and the BMW 3-series but lacks the rear-passenger legroom of larger competitors such as the Audi A6 and the BMW 5-series. The Type S performance-oriented model nails steering and brake feel, but its excitement is somewhat dulled by its 4201-pound heft.
The BMW 3-series has been the benchmark for the sport-luxury sedan segment for decades, and for good reason. The 3-series marries its smart, subtle, and handsome exterior with a rich interior that boasts a 14.9-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, giving the cabin a decidedly modern look. The 3-series also offers three excellent powertrains. The base 330i model’s turbocharged four-cylinder provides appropriate oomph and impressive fuel economy while the plug-in hybrid 330e improves efficiency and adds 23 miles of all-electric range. Sitting atop the range is the M340i, pairing a potent 382 horsepower turbocharged inline-six with a well-sorted chassis that provides deft corner-carving abilities while still gracefully handling normal daily driving needs. Competitors like the Genesis G70 may offer more features at a lower price point, but the BMW’s combination of high-quality materials and class-leading performance means it’s still the go-to sports sedan—and a 2024 Editors' Choice award winner.
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