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2024 Acura TLX vs Cadillac CT5: Which is Better?
The Acura TLX, resembling an indulgent Integra, differs significantly due to its larger size and optional AWD. Its base model features FWD and a 272-hp turbo-four engine. While the TLX Type S offers AWD and a more potent 355-hp turbo V6. Both use a 10-speed automatic, but the V-6 outpaces the four-cylinder by a full second to 60 mph. Conversely, Cadillac’s CT5 departs from its historical luxury sedan image. Positioning itself as a sporty alternative to past DeVilles and Eldorados. The V-series fulfils this promise with agile handling and a robust 360-hp twin-turbo V6. However, lower trims, especially the base Luxury package with a 237-hp turbo-four, offer mediocre performance. While the CT5’s cabin boasts tech features and road-trip comfort. It falls slightly short of the upscale feel found in competitors like the BMW 3-series and Mercedes-Benz C-class.
| Acura TLX | Lexus ES | |
| Dimensions | 194.6 in x 75.2 in x 56.4 in | 195.9 in x 73.4 in x 56.9 in |
| Engine | 3.0L turbocharged V6 | DOHC 2.5L inline-4 + 2 AC motors |
| Horsepower | 355 hp | 215 hp |
| Torque | 354 lb-ft | 312 lb-ft |
| 0-60 MPH | 4.9 sec | 7.9 sec |
| 0-100 MPH | 12.6 sec | 20.7 sec |
| Top-Speed | 155 mph | 117 mph |
Acura TLX
Engine & Performance
The standard TLX is equipped with a 272-hp turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. It comes with FWD as standard, and there’s an optional Acura AWD system called SH-AWD that redistributes power among the wheels for better agility and traction. The TLX boasts excellent chassis tuning, providing an enjoyable driving experience and showcasing Acura’s ability to create a sporty sedan. This sentiment is particularly true for the higher-performance Type S. Features a 355-hp turbo 3.0L V6, a responsive 10-speed automatic, SH-AWD, and a sportier suspension setup. Unlike the regular TLX, the Type S has stickier summer tires on 20-inch wheels.
Price & Mileage
The Acura TLX is priced at $46,195 for the Technology trim and goes up to $58,195 for the high-performance Type S. The Type S, with its 355 hp, holds the top spot in both performance and price within the TLX lineup. The FWD TLX achieves fuel efficiency ratings of 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. Models equipped with SH-AWD experience slightly lower figures at 21 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. The sportier TLX Type S is rated at up to 19 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.
Acceleration & Features
The base turbo-four Acura TLX achieves a 0-60 mph time of 5.9 seconds. While the more powerful TLX Type S, equipped with the turbo V6, delivers a faster 0-60 time of 4.9 seconds. All TLX models feature a 12.3-inch infotainment system primarily controlled through a touchpad on the centre console. Some functions can be managed via steering-wheel buttons and physical controls next to the touchpad. Which also has a padded resting place for your wrist, making it more comfortable to operate. The TLX comes standard with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Advance package is available as an option for those desiring the premium ELS sound system and a wireless charging pad.
Cadillac CT5
Engine & Performance
The CT5 comes with a standard 237-hp turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine, and there’s an option to upgrade to a 335-hp twin-turbocharged 3.0L V6. The CT5-V, designed for performance, features a 360-hp version of the twin-turbo V6, along with adaptive dampers and an electronically controlled limited-slip differential. Both engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, with RWD as the standard configuration and AWD available as an option. In terms of ride and handling, the standard CT5 is characterized by a softer suspension and less athletic performance compared to its rivals.
Price & Mileage
The Cadillac CT5 is anticipated to be priced starting around $40,000 for the Luxury model and going up to $53,000 for the CT5-V. According to the EPA, the CT5 equipped with the standard turbo-four engine is estimated to achieve up to 23 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The 335-hp V6 variant is rated at up to 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, while the 360-hp version is slightly behind at 18 mpg city and up to 27 mpg on the highway.
Acceleration & Features
In testing, an RWD CT5 with a turbo four-cylinder engine reached 60 mph in 6.6 seconds, while an RWD CT5-V achieved 60 mph in 4.8 seconds. The Cadillac CT5 is equipped with the latest version of Cadillac’s infotainment system, presented on a sizable 33.0-inch curved touchscreen positioned upright in front of the driver and centre stack. This configuration is shared with the Lyriq electric SUV and the entry-level XT4 SUV. Control options include a rotary wheel located behind the shifter or the touchscreen itself. Standard features encompass Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, wireless phone charging, and hotspot capability. While a nine-speaker stereo comes standard, an optional premium stereo tuned by AKG is also available.