2023 Mercedes-Benz CLA vs. 2023 Acura TLX

The 2023 Acura TLX is a fantastic head turner with superb driving dynamics, Type S performance and solid safety ratings. But is this enough to beat the 2023 Mercedes-Benz CLA Class, a car which has received acclaim for its handling and comfort, gorgeous appearance and stellar performance?

Design & Style

The Mercedes-Benz CLA Class is a compact car with 4 doors that is considered the brand’s introductory model. It uses the same platform as the Mercedes-Benz AMG® CLA which means drivers can expect to enjoy a laid back commuting experience. The cabin furnishings are premium including the leather covered seats which are plush and provide excellent back support, and infotainment is provided via a large and high resolution touch screen.

The Acura TLX is a sports sedan with a refined interior and comfortable cabin. Its front wheel drive has been standardized whereas all wheeled drive can be purchased separately. Its latest update for this year is the Type S PMC Edition, which includes three unique paint colors called 120R White, Long Beach Blue and Curva Red. It also has twenty inch wheels which are copper colored with a rear diffuser and decklid spoiler in back.

Technology & Safety

The Acura TLX standardizes many of its safety features, such as the frontal impact alerts, emergency automated brakes and lane management. Other features include the ability to identify traffic signs automatically, blind area monitoring, airbags and automatic alerts for cross traffic in the rear. Perks inside its cabin include a ten inch touch display, ELS audio system, wifi, climate control and the choice of Android or Apple CarPlay.

The Mercedes-Benz CLA Class easily matches the Acura when it comes to safety, as it is equipped with all the same features. These include emergency automatic brakes which are standardized, airbags, lane management, adapted cruise control and more. Its cabin perks consist of satellite radio, Burmester audio, Bluetooth®, Apple CarPlay or Android auto, powered seats and climate control.

Performance

Every Mercedes-Benz CLA Class is outfitted with a 4 cylinder, 2 liter engine that can produce 221 horsepower, with the ability to blaze from 0 to 60 in about 5.6 seconds. The Acura TLX is powered by a 4 cylinder, 2 liter engine that is turbocharged and capable of generating 272 horsepower, but because of its 2 ton curb weight it falls behind when it comes to acceleration, taking 5.9 seconds to get from 0 to 60.

The Bottom Line

Both cars seat five passengers. And though the Acura has an edge in horsepower, the Mercedes-Benz CLA Class has an edge in acceleration and fuel economy at 27/23/33 mpg versus only 21/19/24 mpg for the Acura, and this combined with the TLX’s limited legroom in back and finicky touchpad controller make the Mercedes-Benz CLA Class the winner.

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