The realm of sports sedans is shrinking, and the discontinuation of the Acura TLX is proof that the segment is indeed on the decline. Despite the sharp handling and good refinement, it wasn’t enough to keep the car going into 2026. With production having ended in July 2025 due to declining sales, it opens the door to questions about Acura TLX competitors. As 2025 ends and 2026 begins, the remaining stock will still go up against TLX competitors, and this is why we’re diving into cars like the Acura TLX.
Base Trim Engine
2L I-4 ICE
Base Trim Transmission
10-speed automatic
Base Trim Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Base Trim Horsepower
272 HP @6500 RPM
Base Trim Torque
280 lb.-ft. @ 1600 RPM
Base Trim Fuel Economy (city/highway/combined)
22/31/25 MPG
Base Trim Battery Type
Lead acid battery
Infotainment & Features
8 /10
Where research meets the right deal
Fortunately, the market is still filled with Acura TLX comparable cars, with a rival for each of the three TLX trim levels. The refreshed 2026 Lexus IS 350 brings rear-wheel-drive (RWD) dynamics and proven reliability. The 2026 Genesis G70 has bold styling and impressive power. Oh, and the value is exceptional! And for those craving the thrill of the drive, the 2026 BMW M340i xDrive remains the benchmark for engaging driving with its potent inline-six. These are all cars similar to the Acura TLX, each offering a unique take on the sports sedan. The Acura’s demise may be a tough pill for some to swallow, but the segment isn’t dead yet.
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Acura TLX Technology vs Lexus IS 350
Powertrains Compared, But It’s FWD vs RWD
2025 Acura TLX Technology
2026 Lexus IS 350 RWD
Engine
2.0L Turbo Four-cylinder
3.5L V6
Horsepower
272 hp
311 hp
Torque
280 lb-ft
280 lb-ft
Transmission
10-speed Automatic
8-speed Automatic
Drivetrain
FWD
RWD
The 2025 Acura TLX Technology is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine delivering 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. The mill is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the front wheels. The powertrain provides responsive acceleration and respectable real-world fuel efficiency, which makes it an ideal companion for your daily drive. All the while, it maintains that sporty edge. Front-wheel drive (FWD) ensures predictable handling in most conditions, supported by a powertrain that’s tuned for refinement and low-end torque delivery.
In comparison, the refreshed 2026 Lexus IS 350 features a naturally aspirated 3.5L V6 producing 311 hp and 280 lb-ft, paired with an eight-speed automatic and RWD. Having experienced the engine in previous tests, we can confidently say that “compared to turbocharged contemporaries, the V6’s grunt feels lackluster when you mash the pedal.” Still, power delivery is smooth and there’s an exciting build toward the redline. The V6’s classic feel rewards enthusiastic driving, while the rear-drive layout is sure to enhance the car’s balance and driver engagement. The IS 350 AWD will also be available, pairing the same V6 engine with a six-speed automatic transmission and AWD.
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Performance: TLX Technology vs IS 350
The TLX Technology’s road manners are composed, supported by precise electric power steering, and a comfortable yet controlled ride. The 0–60 mph sprint is brisk, too, being cleared in around six seconds, and the EPA estimates 22/31 mpg on the city/highway cycles. The FWD platform offers minimal torque steer, making it versatile for varied driving scenarios. The 2026 IS 350 counters with sharper RWD dynamics that have been enhanced by a new rack-parallel electric power steering system for more linear feedback and refined suspension tuning. Lexus is yet to announce the performance and EPA figures for the 2026 IS 350, but expect it to be similar – or slightly better – than the 2025 model’s.
- 2025 IS 350 RWD 0–60 mph: 5.6 seconds
- 2025 IS 350 AWD 0–60 mph: 5.7 seconds
- 2025 IS 350 RWD EPA: 23 mpg (combined)
- 2025 IS 350 AWD EPA: 22 mpg (combined)
Interior & Features: TLX Technology vs IS 350
Inside the TLX Technology, occupants are treated to premium leatherette upholstery, a True Touchpad interface with a 12.3-inch display, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a standard 13-speaker ELS Studio audio system. The cabin is designed around the driver, featuring items such supportive seats, ample tech integration, and the AcuraWatch safety suite. The refreshed 2026 IS 350 boasts a driver-centric cockpit with an updated 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital gauges, high-quality materials, physical climate controls, and Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 advanced aids as standard. Other luxury touches include a Mark Levinson audio system and an ergonomically more traditional interior layout.
Pricing: TLX Technology vs IS 350
Though production has ended, the TLX is still listed on Acura’s website. The 2025 TLX Technology is priced from $45,400, offering a generous standard equipment list. Even with the door slowly closing on its run, it still represents strong value in the segment. Lexus, on the other hand, has yet to announce the 2026 IS 350’s price. Whichever direction the Japanese automaker chooses, expect the IS 350 to be priced similarly to the outgoing TLX Technology, with a strong focus still being placed on durability and brand prestige.
Acura TLX A-Spec AWD vs Genesis G70 2.5T Prestige AWD
Powertrains Compared: AWD vs AWD
2025 Acura TLX A-Spec
2026 Genesis G70 2.5T Prestige AWD
Engine
2.0L Turbo Four-cylinder
2.5L Turbo Four-cylinder
Horsepower
272 hp
300 hp
Torque
280 lb-ft
311 lb-ft
Transmission
10-speed Automatic
8-speed Automatic
Drivetrain
AWD
AWD
The TLX A-Spec AWD is powered by the same turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder (272 hp and 280 lb-ft) and 10-speed automatic transmission as the base FWD model. It is the same engine as the Technology trim, but the drivetrain is Acura’s torque-vectoring Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). This system actively distributes power between the axles and wheels for improved traction and agility in various driving conditions. The 2026 Genesis G70 2.5T Prestige employs a turbocharged 2.5L inline-four generating 300 hp and 311 lb-ft, paired with an eight-speed automatic and AWD (there is also an RWD model). Thanks to the forced induction, the engine provides stronger low-end pull and more aggressive acceleration – on paper, at least – to the TLX A-Spec AWD.
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Performance: TLX A-Spec vs G70 2.5T
Equipped with SH-AWD, the TLX A-Spec is sure to excel when it comes to all-weather confidence. Supporting this, 0–60 mph takes less than six seconds, while the combined mileage sits around 24 mpg. The G70 2.5T AWD counters with turbo power for 060 mph sprints that require only 5.9 seconds, suspension that’s tuned on the sporty side, available Brembo brakes, and sharp steering. It is rated at 28 mpg combined.
Interior & Features: TLX A-Spec vs G70 2.5T
The TLX A-Spec features sporty enhancements like Ultrasuede inserts, ventilated seats, premium ELS 3D audio, and the comprehensive AcuraWatch safety package – all in a driver-oriented cabin. The 2026 G70 Prestige elevates the experience with quilted Nappa leather, optional Lexicon premium sound, a large infotainment screen, a head-up display, and generous standard technology.
Pricing: TLX A-Spec vs G70 2.5T
The TLX A-Spec AWD is priced at $50,400 and comes packed with sporty styling, AWD, and advanced features for a package that offers solid value at the price. The 2026 G70 2.5T Prestige starts at $50,450, providing exceptional bang-for-buck with higher power, a strong warranty, and luxurious appointments that often outpace rivals.
Acura TLX Type S AWD vs BMW M340i xDrive Sedan
Powertrains Compared: TLX Type S AWD vs M340i xDrive
2025 Acura TLX Type S
2026 BMW M340i xDrive
Engine
3.0L Turbo V6
2.5L Turbo Four-cylinder Hybrid
Horsepower
355 hp
386 hp
Torque
354 lb-ft
398 lb-ft
Transmission
10-speed Automatic
8-speed Automatic
Drivetrain
AWD
AWD
The 2025 TLX Type S boasts a turbocharged 3.0L V6 with 355 hp and 354 lb-ft, the brand’s standard SH-AWD, and a 10-speed automatic transmission. The 2026 BMW M340i xDrive features a mild-hybrid turbo 3.0-liter inline-six delivering 386 hp and 398 lb-ft, linked to an 8-speed automatic and all-wheel drive, offering seamless power buildup, high-revving excitement, and efficient mild-hybrid assistance.
Performance: TLX Type S AWD vs M340i xDrive
The Type S impresses with adaptive dampers, massive Brembo brakes, and SH-AWD for sharp handling, confident braking, and all-road prowess. However, it achieves the 0–60 mph run in under six seconds. Though it feels quick, it’s not class-leading. The M340i xDrive changes the game with strong acceleration (4.1 seconds from zero to 60 mph), pinpoint steering, a balanced chassis, and an M Sport differential.
Interior & Features: TLX Type S AWD vs M340i xDrive
The TLX Type S indulges its occupants with 16-way front power seats, open-pore wood, ELS 3D premium audio, and a driver-focused layout. The 2026 M340i xDrive provides high-tech iDrive with curved displays, an optional Harman Kardon or Bowers & Wilkins audio system, sport ergonomics, and advanced driver aids. All of this can be customized to the owner’s liking, something many brands can’t match.
Pricing: TLX Type S AWD vs M340i xDrive
The TLX Type S retails for $58,050. It’s steep, but the price is justified against the standard performance and luxury equipment. It represents strong value against pricier Germans. The 2026 M340i xDrive starts at $63,700, with the price increasing when you start ticking off the option boxes. Still, the car commands a premium for driving purity and brand heritage.
“The TLX Type S is not the perfect luxury sport sedan. The back seat and trunk are less than impressive and it’s slower than the competition. However, that competitive starting price and strong roster of standard features make it excellent value amongst its rivals”
– Jared Rosenholtz, Editor-At-Large, CarBuzz
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Sources: Acura, BMW, Genesis, Lexus
