2024 Acura TLX vs. 2024 BMW 3 Series Comparison

For car buyers looking for a luxury sedan with equal parts stability, performance, and a high level of practicality all in one package, allow us to present two interesting options. The 2024 Acura TLX and BMW 3 Series come with turbo 4-cylinder engines, offer room for five inside, and each have all-wheel drive (AWD) on their options sheet.

During our multi-mile test, the Acura TLX earned praise for its handling and aesthetics, such as the standard surround sound audio system. As for the BMW 3 Series, it has long been a benchmark among small luxury sedans that put a smile on the driver’s face. It’s perfectly balanced when spinning through twists and turns, but it also has an adult-friendly rear seat and plenty of trunk space.

So, should we call this eagle and go home? Of course not; these two sedans deserve a deeper dive. Let’s take a look at some of the highlights of the TLX and 3 Series.

2024 Acura TLX

Acura updated the TLX lineup for the 2024 model year, and there are now three trims: Technology, A-Spec, and Type S. Pricing starts at $46,195 for the entry-level model, including destination charge. The base engine is a 272-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

The base Technology trim is now the only front-wheel drive variant; All-wheel drive is standard on the A-Spec and Type S. A few other changes this model year include a redesigned front bumper, new wheel designs, and more standard amenities like leather upholstery, a display 12.3 inch infotainment and wireless. charge the device.

Acura TLX highlights

Quality and reliability: Hey, we get it, 0-60 mph bragging rights are pretty cool. But it’s also nice to know the luxury car you paid for will hold its value and hold together after many comfortable miles. The TLX has a better reliability record and resale value, as well as a better warranty than the BMW.

Excellent All-Wheel Drive: Standard on the A-Spec and S-Type is Acura’s standard All-Wheel Drive. Don’t think that AWD is only used when traversing wet or snowy roads. This system increases grip and agility in all kinds of driving conditions, rain or shine.

Racy Type S: When choosing an S Type, the most important upgrade is what goes on in the engine bay. The 355-hp turbocharged V6 carries the top Acura TLX from 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds.

ELS sound system: Elliot Scheiner is the Grammy Award-winning sound engineer who provides the brains (and professional ears) behind this excellent sound system. It is offered in 12 or 17 speaker formats.

Check out this week’s Fair Trade Price or see TLX models for sale near you.

2024 BMW 3 Series

The 2024 BMW 3 Series has a starting price of $45,495, including destination charges. This brings you the 330i rear-wheel drive sedan that comes with a 255-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder and 8-speed automatic transmission. This is a smooth, efficient and addictive powertrain that will suit most 3 Series buyers.

Except, as you’ll learn shortly, BMW offers a choice of powertrains in the 3 Series. This includes an honest-to-goodness 6-speed manual transmission.

Highlights of the BMW 3 Series

Driving dynamics: Why has the 3 Series been held in such high regard for so long? Trust us, get behind the wheel, and you’ll know why. Even the standard model has sharp steering, firm but flexible suspension, and brakes that inspire confidence.

Engine options: Go back; this will take time. Overall, the 3 Series in all its guises can be had with a turbo 2.0-liter 4-cylinder (330i), a turbo 2.0-liter gas-electric 4-cylinder (330e), a turbocharged inline-6 ​​(M340i), and a turbo inline -6 (M3). Some highlights of each include the 22 miles of electric range offered by the 330e, the extra punch of the M340i’s 382-hp turbo 6-cylinder, and the mega acceleration offered by the 503-hp M3 Competition. Oh, and if you’re looking for that 6-speed stick shift, it’s offered in the standard-brew, rear-wheel-drive M3 that has only 473 hp.

Curved Display: This large display has a 12.3-inch digital instrument screen paired with a 14.9-inch touchscreen. This makes you feel as if you are on the flight deck as you are behind the wheel of a luxury sedan. It’s standard on every 3 Series.

Harman Kardon Audio: Not to be outdone by the Acura TLX in the audio department, a 16-speaker Harman Kardon surround sound system is optional.

Check out this week’s Fair Trade Price or see a 3 Series for sale near you.

Similarity

The Acura TLX and BMW 3 Series prove there is life left in the luxury sedan field. Not everyone needs or wants the added size and heft of an SUV, however. In their basic form, these two have high agility, well-designed cabins, and can be turned into fast thrill-seeking machines through their optional engines.

Conclusion

The BMW 3 Series comes with a wide range of powertrains and sporty driving characteristics that shine even in the base model. There’s a lot to like here; it’s easy to overlook the Bimmer’s few flaws. For starters, the big M3 has a similar asking price of just over $75,000. The standard driver aids are also very quick, considering the 3 Series’ status.

Considering the Acura TLX, we think it makes a good case for itself with its build quality, wider range of standard features (including many driver aids), and similar driving dynamics. Nor does it have the obvious advantage of delivering a sedan’s luxury punch. Take them both for a test drive, set the price you like best, and we think you’ll walk away happy.