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They’re both performance-oriented luxury sedans starting around $40,000, but the Acura TLX and BMW 3 Series have some important differences. Let’s see which is stronger in the areas that matter to you.
2022 Acura TLX
The top dog in Acura’s two-car sedan lineup was completely redesigned for 2021. The newest TLX is fun to drive and looks fantastic. Pricing starts at $38,900.
Acura TLX highlights
Class-above presence: While the TLX and 3 Series are similarly sized inside, the Acura is almost 9 inches longer than the BMW
BMW,
-1.78%.
In the land of bigger is better, the more substantial TLX holds a visual advantage.
Excellent resale value: Strong reliability and resale value are two pillars of Acura’s appeal. Combined with a starting price that puts it about $2,500 below the BMW, you’ll pay less for a similarly equipped TLX up front, and you’ll recoup a bigger share of that money when you sell it.
Longer powertrain warranty: Both cars offer 4 years or 50,000 miles of basic warranty coverage. But the Acura’s engine, transmission and related parts are covered by a longer 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty.
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2022 BMW 3 Series
The BMW 3 series
BMW
The sports sedan of sports sedans essentially created the category as we know it today. The BMW 3 Series remains as engaging as it is legendary. Pricing starts at $41,450.
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BMW 3 Series highlights
Famously exquisite driving feel: As is the case with so many performance-oriented European cars, there’s just something especially satisfying about driving the BMW 3 Series. Both cars are a blast, but the 3 Series can be more rewarding than the TLX. The BMW’s rear-wheel-drive design is no small factor here.
Superior fuel economy: In base form, the 3 Series is rated to return rather impressive city/highway combined fuel economy of 30 mpg. The TLX is rated for a lackluster 25 mpg. Fuel economy hasn’t been a top consideration for most shoppers in this segment historically, but gas prices being what they are, every little bit helps.
Broader lineup: If you count the high-performance BMW M3, the expansive 3 Series lineup offers enough upgrades to reach $90,000. For buyers who want it all, the BMW is capable of delivering more. The TLX lineup tops out around $55,000.
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Similarities
Standard 2.0-liter turbo engines, available all-wheel drive, interior room
Conclusion
The Acura TLX and BMW 3 Series are as different as they are similar. The bigger and boldly styled TLX is also a more pragmatic choice, while the 3 Series can deliver a purer sense of driving enjoyment. Which one speaks to you?
2022 Acura TLX
2022 BMW 3 Series
Starting Price
$38,900
$41,450
Popular Powertrains
Engine
2.0-liter turbo 4-cylinder
2.0-liter turbo 4-cylinder
Horsepower
272 hp @ 6,500 rpm
255 hp @ 5,000 rpm
Torque
280 lb-ft @ 1,600 rpm
294 lb-ft @ 1,550 rpm
Transmission
10-speed automatic
8-speed automatic
Fuel Economy
22 city/31 highway/25 combined mpg
26 city/36 highway/30 combined mpg
Also Available
Turbo V6, all-wheel drive
Turbo 6-cylinder, plug-in hybrid, all-wheel drive
Specs
Basic Warranty
4 years/50,000 miles
4 years/50,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty
6 years/70,000 miles
4 years/50,000 miles
NHTSA Overall Safety Rating
5 stars
5 stars
Max Seating Capacity
5
5
Wheelbase
113.0 inches
112.2 inches
Overall Length
194.6 inches
185.7 inches
Width
75.2 inches
71.9 inches
Height
56.4 inches
56.8 inches
Turning Diameter
40.1 feet
37.4 feet
Headroom, Front
37.2 inches
38.7 inches
Headroom, Rear
36.3 inches
37.6 inches
Legroom, Front
42.5 inches
42.0 inches
Legroom, Rear
34.9 inches
35.2 inches
Shoulder Room, Front
58.2 inches
56.0 inches
Shoulder Room, Rear
55.0 inches
54.6 inches
Cargo Space
13.5 cubic feet
13.0 cubic feet
This story originally ran on KBB.com.
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