What is the Acura equivalent to the Lexus ES 350?
In the midsize luxury-sedan category, the Acura TLX is generally regarded as the closest counterpart to the Lexus ES 350. Both aim to deliver comfortable, refined transport with premium features, but they diverge in character and powertrain offerings.
The ES 350 prioritizes ride comfort, quietness, and Lexus reliability, while the TLX emphasizes a more modern, tech-forward interior and sharper handling, with performance-focused variants such as the TLX Type S. This article compares their positioning, specs, and ownership considerations to help readers decide which sedan better fits their priorities.
Model positioning and pricing
Below is a snapshot of how the TLX and ES 350 typically sit in the market, including price guidance for recent model years and where each model excels.
- Size and luxury placement: Both are mid-size luxury sedans designed for daily comfort, quiet cabins, and rich feature sets.
- Base pricing: The Acura TLX generally starts lower than the Lexus ES 350 at base trim levels, reflecting its sportier positioning and newer platform. Exact prices vary by model year and region.
- Variants: The TLX offers sport-oriented trims and the high-performance TLX Type S, which has a significantly more powerful engine. The ES 350 does not have a direct high-performance variant, though Lexus offers other performance-focused models in its lineup.
- Drivetrain approach: The TLX ships with front-wheel drive as standard and offers SH-AWD on many trims, whereas the ES 350 is typically front-drive, with all-wheel-drive options limited to select markets/versions in some years. This affects handling characteristics and traction in different conditions.
- Interior emphasis: The ES 350 tends to emphasize a serene, luxurious, and quiet interior, while the TLX blends luxury with a more driver-centric, technology-forward experience and sportier styling cues.
In terms of value, buyers should weigh base pricing against what each model offers in terms of technology, safety features, and perceived long-term value. Both brands typically position their mid-size sedans in similar price bands, with the TLX offering more aggressive performance options and the ES 350 emphasizing ride refinement.
Powertrain and performance
The engine and handling characteristics are a defining difference between the two, with the TLX providing a broad range of performance options and the ES 350 focusing on smooth, confident acceleration.
- Acura TLX base engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four delivering around 272 horsepower, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This setup prioritizes efficiency with strong performance for daily driving.
- Acura TLX Type S: A high-performance variant featuring a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 producing about 355 horsepower, typically equipped with SH-AWD for enhanced grip and track-ready dynamics.
- Lexus ES 350 powertrain: 3.5-liter V6 delivering roughly 302 horsepower, mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. The focus is on linear, refined acceleration and a quiet highway ride.
- Drivetrain and handling differences: The TLX commonly offers SH-AWD on many trims, contributing to more confident acceleration and cornering in varied conditions. The ES 350 is predominantly front-wheel drive, emphasizing a serene, compliant ride rather than sport-tuned handling.
For buyers who want maximum straight-line performance and a sportier character, the TLX Type S stands out as the clear performance leader in Acura’s lineup, while the ES 350 remains the softer, more comfort-focused choice in Lexus’s lineup.
Technology, safety, and interior experience
Both models come well-equipped with modern driver-assistance features and infotainment systems, but their approach to tech and comfort reflects their brand philosophies.
- Infotainment and usability: The TLX prioritizes a modern, tech-forward cockpit with a large touchscreen in recent generations and strong smartphone integration; the ES 350 emphasizes a more understated, traditional luxury interior with refined materials and quiet ambiance.
- Safety suites: Both offer comprehensive driver-assistance packages. The TLX commonly includes AcuraWatch as standard or widely available, while the ES 350 features Lexus Safety System+ or its latest iterations, which include pre-collision avoidance, adaptive cruise, lane-centering assist, and other aids.
- Interior quality: Both cabins use high-grade materials and comfortable seating, but the ES 350 leans into classic luxury feel and cabin quietness, whereas the TLX emphasizes modern design cues and a more driver-centric layout.
- Seating and space: Both vehicles offer ample front and rear passenger space for a mid-size sedan, with trunk space typical for the class. Real-world comfort may tilt toward the ES for a more traditional luxury experience.
Ultimately, choice of technology and interior feel will come down to whether a buyer prefers Lexus’s serene, quiet luxury or Acura’s contemporary, technology-forward approach with optional high-performance tuning.
What to consider when choosing
If you’re deciding between the Acura TLX and the Lexus ES 350, consider these factors that often drive ownership satisfaction.
- Driving priorities: If you favor sportier handling and possible high performance with the Type S, the TLX is compelling. If you prize ride comfort and quiet refinement, the ES 350 is an excellent match.
- Powertrain variety: The TLX offers a range from efficient 2.0T to the high-performance 3.0T V6 with all-wheel drive in Type S. The ES 350 concentrates on the smooth 3.5L V6 experience, with more limited variation.
- Infotainment and features: If cutting-edge tech and a driver-focused interface appeal to you, the TLX’s newer tech stack may be more attractive. If a traditional luxury ambiance with refined controls suits you better, the ES 350 is a strong choice.
- Resale and ownership costs: Both brands emphasize reliability in their luxury segments, but depreciation and maintenance costs can vary by model year and option packages. It’s wise to review current ownership data and consider warranty coverage.
Test drives and a careful comparison of trims, options, and incentives will help identify which sedan aligns with your priorities for comfort, performance, and technology.
Summary
Across the midsize luxury sedan segment, the Acura TLX is the closest rival to the Lexus ES 350, offering similar space and luxury with a more dynamic, tech-forward approach and a broader range of powertrains (including the high-performance TLX Type S). The ES 350 prioritizes serene ride quality and traditional luxury refinement, with a smooth V6 and a quieter cabin. Buyers should weigh their preference for sportiness versus comfort, along with price, features, and drivetrain choices, to determine which sedan best fits their needs.
In short: the Acura TLX is the equivalent in spirit and market positioning to the Lexus ES 350, with distinct options that cater to different driver preferences. For a luxury sedan that emphasizes sportier performance and modern tech, choose the TLX; for a refined, quiet, classic luxury experience, choose the ES 350.
What are the negatives of the Acura TLX?
2025 Acura TLX Review
- Infotainment touchpad controller is distracting to use.
- Rear seats can feel cramped.
- Not as quick or fuel-efficient as many rivals.
What is the Acura equivalent of the Lexus ES 350?
Acura TLX
ACURA TLX VS LEXUS ES 350 COMPARISON
| Acura TLX | VS | Lexus ES 350 |
|---|---|---|
| 192″ L x 73″ W x 57″ H | Vehicle Dimensions | 196″ L x 73″ W x 57″ H |
| 2.4 L 4-cylinder | Engine | 3.5L V6 |
| 206 HP | Horsepower | 302 HP |
| 6 yr/70,000 mi | Horsepower | 6 yr/70,000 mi |
What cars are comparable to the Lexus ES 350?
The main competitors to the Lexus ES 350 include the Acura TLX, Cadillac CT5, Genesis G80, and Infiniti Q50, which are all luxury mid-size sedans that offer a similar blend of performance, luxury, and technology. Other competitors, depending on budget and specific needs, include the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, and Volvo S60.
Primary competitors
- Acura TLX: Often seen as a sportier alternative to the ES 350, the TLX provides strong performance but is sometimes criticized for its infotainment system.
- Cadillac CT5: Offers a sportier feel, but some reviews suggest its interior and technology may not be as refined as the ES 350's for its price point.
- Genesis G80: A direct competitor that focuses on a balance of performance, luxury, and value, sometimes at a lower price point than the Lexus.
- Infiniti Q50: Another key rival that is also known for strong performance, though the ES 350 is often noted for having a more spacious interior, particularly in the rear seats.
Other notable competitors
- Audi A4 / BMW 3 Series: These German sedans are known for their performance and handling, but are generally more expensive and can be less reliable than the ES 350.
- Volvo S60: While sometimes smaller, this competitor is priced similarly to the ES 350 and offers a plug-in hybrid option (Recharge) for those seeking electric-only commuting.
- Genesis G70: A smaller sedan from Genesis that competes with the ES 350 and is known for its sporty handling.
Which is better, Acura TLX or Lexus IS 350?
The main differences are that the Acura TLX is a more spacious, modern, and performance-oriented sedan, especially in the Type S trim, while the Lexus IS 350 is smaller but favored by some for its refined interior and reputation for reliability. Choosing depends on priorities: prioritize modern tech, space, and a powerful engine with the TLX, or choose the IS 350 for a more classic sports sedan feel and long-term reliability.
This video compares the features and performance of the TLX Type S and the IS 350 F Sport: 58sCarGurusYouTube · Oct 15, 2021
Acura TLX
- Performance: Generally seen as the sportier option, especially in the Type S trim, which features a turbocharged V6 engine. The base model is a 2.0L turbo four-cylinder.
- Technology: Features a more modern infotainment system with a larger standard screen (12.3 inches) and wireless Apple CarPlay on higher trims. The TLX uses a trackpad for infotainment control, which some users find clunky.
- Space: Offers more interior space, particularly for rear passengers, and a larger trunk.
- Interior: Modern design, with features like ambient lighting, a digital gauge cluster, and an available head-up display.
- Drivetrain: The TLX is available in front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD), with the Type S exclusively being AWD.
Lexus IS 350
- Performance: Comes with a powerful 3.5L V6 engine in the IS 350 trim, which is comparable to or more powerful than the TLX's base engine.
- Technology: Has a less modern infotainment system and the IS 350 lacks features like wireless charging, which are available on the TLX. The infotainment system, while less advanced, is considered more intuitive by some users.
- Space: Has a smaller cabin and a smaller trunk compared to the TLX.
- Interior: Considered more refined by some, though dated in some aspects. Features include standard dual-zone climate control, push-button start, and heated/ventilated leather seats.
- Drivetrain: Available in both RWD and AWD.
This video reviews the 2021 Acura TLX and compares it to the Lexus IS: 53sAutotraderYouTube · Dec 15, 2020
Which to choose?
- Choose the TLX if: You want the latest tech, a more modern and spacious interior, and strong performance, especially if considering the Type S trim.
- Choose the IS 350 if: You prioritize long-term reliability, a more engaging and smaller driving experience, or a slightly more refined interior (at the cost of modern tech).
