2020 Acura TLX vs 2021 MINI Cooper

A few years ago, Acura revamped the TLX midsize sedan's design, resulting in a more attractive, albeit somewhat anonymous, appearance. The 2020 TLX, especially with the A-Spec option package, featured enhancements like 19-inch wheels, revised bumpers, side sill skirts, and oversized exhaust outlets. The limited-edition PMC Edition, hand-built in Ohio, stood out with its Valencia Red Pearl paint and unique exterior accents. Priced at $50,945, the PMC Edition was the pinnacle of the TLX lineup, while non-PMC models started at $33,995.

The 2021 MINI Cooper, with its iconic rounded shape and compact dimensions, offered a wide variety of color choices and customization options, including graphics for the roof and Union Jack taillights. The interior continued the unique styling with circular design elements and a funky infotainment touchscreen. Despite its high-quality materials, the MINI's cabin was cramped, especially in the back seats, which were more suitable for cargo than passengers.

The 2020 Acura TLX PMC Edition came with the top-performing powertrain, featuring a 290-hp, 3.5-liter V6 engine, a 9-speed automatic transmission, and a torque-vectoring SH-AWD system. This setup provided a steady build-up of power, with 267 lb-ft of torque peaking at 4,500 rpm. The SH-AWD system could direct up to 70% of engine output to a single rear wheel, enhancing the car's agility. The TLX offered a comfortable and quiet ride, with sophisticated dampers and a well-behaved transmission. It returned 23 mpg on a testing loop, matching the EPA's combined driving estimate.

The 2021 MINI Cooper offered four powertrain options: a 134-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder for the base model, a 189-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder for the Cooper S, a 228-hp turbo-four for the John Cooper Works (JCW), and a 301-hp turbo-four for the JCW GP. All models were front-wheel drive, with manual and automatic transmission options. The MINI's small size made it feel spritely and agile, though the ride could be stiff and twitchy at higher speeds. Fuel economy varied, with the most efficient model delivering 28/37/31 mpg city/highway/combined.

The 2020 Acura TLX excelled in comfort and quality, with supple leather, heated and ventilated front seats, and ample room for front passengers. Rear occupants also enjoyed favorable accommodations, including air-conditioning vents and optional heated seats. However, the trunk was limited to 14.3 cubic feet, more akin to a compact car than a midsize sedan.

The 2021 MINI Cooper's interior was more suited for cargo than passengers, especially in the rear seats. The front seats were comfortable, but taller drivers might struggle with knee placement due to the dash design. Interior storage was tight, with small center console and door pockets. Hatchback models offered decent cargo space with the back seats folded, while convertibles had limited storage under the folding top compartment.

The 2020 Acura TLX's dual-screen infotainment system was a source of frustration, with a non-touchscreen top display and a touchscreen bottom display. The layout was confusing, with some climate controls on the touchscreen and others as physical buttons. The voice-recognition system was subpar, and the navigation graphics were outdated. However, the Acura/ELS premium audio system and smartphone charger were positives, and the car included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The 2021 MINI Cooper's base screen was a 6.5-inch unit, with an optional 8.8-inch screen offering SiriusXM, Apple CarPlay, and more. The MINI included more physical controls, making the technology easier to use while driving. However, Android Auto was not available, and the iDrive controller was difficult to reach due to the tight space. Some users might prefer using the touchscreen instead.

The 2020 Acura TLX had mixed safety ratings, with a 5-star rating from the NHTSA but only an Acceptable rating in the IIHS small overlap frontal-impact test. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and road-departure mitigation. However, these systems lacked refinement and could be intrusive.

The 2021 MINI Cooper also had mixed safety ratings, with Good scores in crash tests but Acceptable or Poor ratings for headlights. The standard front crash prevention systems earned Advanced scores, but the LATCH system was rated Marginal. The NHTSA had not rated the 2021 model. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and rear parking sensors, with other features available as options.