2017 Acura TLX Vs. Honda Accord: Which Sedan Wins?

Hey guys, let's dive into a comparison that many car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike have been curious about: the 2017 Acura TLX vs. the 2017 Honda Accord. Both of these sedans come from reputable manufacturers known for their reliability and quality, but they cater to slightly different buyers and offer distinct driving experiences. If you're in the market for a mid-size sedan that offers a blend of luxury, performance, and practicality, you've probably considered both. We're going to break down everything you need to know to help you decide which one is the better fit for your garage.

We'll be looking at key areas like performance, interior comfort, technology, safety, and, of course, value. The 2017 model year was a significant one for both cars, with the TLX receiving a mid-cycle refresh and the Accord continuing its strong legacy. So, buckle up, and let's see how these two contenders stack up against each other.

Performance and Powertrain Options

When we talk about performance and powertrain options, this is where the 2017 Acura TLX really starts to differentiate itself from the 2017 Honda Accord. The TLX, being the more premium offering, comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces a healthy 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. This V6 is paired with a sophisticated 9-speed automatic transmission, which Acura tuned to provide smooth shifts and contribute to decent fuel economy for a V6. For those seeking even more dynamic driving, the TLX offered its Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, which further enhances handling and stability, especially in less-than-ideal road conditions. The power delivery in the TLX is generally more refined and robust, offering quicker acceleration and a more engaging feel when you put your foot down. It's the kind of power that makes merging onto the highway or passing slower traffic feel effortless and confident. The V6 isn't just about brute force; it’s also surprisingly smooth and quiet, adding to the overall premium experience.

Now, let's look at the 2017 Honda Accord. Honda is renowned for its engineering prowess, and the Accord is a testament to that. The standard engine for most 2017 Accords was a 2.4-liter four-cylinder producing 185 horsepower. While this is less powerful than the TLX's V6, it's a very capable engine for daily driving and everyday commutes. It’s known for its responsiveness and efficiency. For those who wanted more pep, Honda offered an optional 3.5-liter V6 engine, similar in displacement to the TLX, which churned out 278 horsepower. This V6 was available with either a 6-speed manual transmission (a rarity these days and a big plus for driving enthusiasts) or a 6-speed automatic. The four-cylinder engines were typically mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which is designed to optimize fuel economy by keeping the engine in its most efficient RPM range. While the Accord's V6 is strong, the TLX's V6, especially with the 9-speed auto and available AWD, often feels a bit more refined and powerful overall. However, the Accord's handling, particularly with its sportier trims, can feel more direct and engaging for some drivers. It’s a different flavor of performance – perhaps more focused on agility and driver connection, whereas the TLX leans more towards smooth, powerful, and composed cruising.

Fuel economy figures are also worth noting. The 2017 TLX V6 with front-wheel drive (FWD) achieved an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city / 34 mpg highway / 25 mpg combined. The SH-AWD version dropped slightly to 20 mpg city / 31 mpg highway / 24 mpg combined. For the 2017 Accord, the 2.4-liter four-cylinder with the CVT delivered an impressive 27 mpg city / 36 mpg highway / 31 mpg combined. Even the Accord's V6 manual achieved a respectable 18 mpg city / 28 mpg highway / 22 mpg combined, while the V6 automatic was rated at 19 mpg city / 30 mpg highway / 23 mpg combined. So, if fuel efficiency is a top priority, the four-cylinder Accord generally holds the advantage. If you prioritize power and refinement above all else, the TLX V6 shines, especially if you don't mind a slight dip in MPG. It's a trade-off between raw power and everyday economy, and both cars execute their respective strategies well.

Interior Comfort and Design

Moving inside, let's talk about the interior comfort and design of the 2017 Acura TLX versus the 2017 Honda Accord. The TLX, as Acura's sport sedan, aims for a more upscale and luxurious feel. From the moment you step inside, you'll notice the use of higher-quality materials. We're talking about soft-touch surfaces, premium leather upholstery (standard on most trims), and meticulous attention to detail in the stitching and finishes. The seats are typically very comfortable and supportive, especially on longer journeys, and offer a good range of adjustability. The cabin is designed to be a sanctuary, with excellent sound deadening that keeps road noise to a minimum, creating a quiet and refined atmosphere. The dashboard layout is driver-focused, with a clean and modern aesthetic. The dual-screen infotainment system, while perhaps a bit dated by today's standards, was advanced for its time and integrated controls for audio, navigation, and climate. The overall ambiance is one of understated luxury, aiming to provide a premium experience without being overly ostentatious. It feels like a step above your typical mainstream sedan, which is exactly what you'd expect from an Acura.

In contrast, the 2017 Honda Accord, while not a luxury vehicle, offers an interior that is remarkably well-designed, practical, and surprisingly spacious. Honda has always excelled at maximizing interior space, and the Accord is no exception. The cabin feels airy and open, with generous legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The seats are supportive and comfortable, designed for long-haul journeys, though perhaps not as plush as the TLX's leather. Material quality in the Accord is excellent for its class – it's durable, well-assembled, and features soft-touch materials in key areas. What the Accord often does better than many competitors, including sometimes the TLX, is its intuitive layout and ease of use. The controls are logically placed, and the infotainment system (HondaLink) is generally user-friendly, with physical buttons for essential functions alongside the touchscreen. The Accord's trunk space is also typically very generous, making it an excellent choice for families or those who need to haul a lot of gear. While the TLX offers a more luxurious environment, the Accord often wins in terms of sheer practicality and user-friendly design. It strikes a fantastic balance between comfort, space, and everyday usability. It feels solid, well-built, and designed with the driver and passengers' comfort in mind, offering a very pleasant experience for its price point.

The difference often comes down to what you prioritize. If you want that elevated sense of luxury, premium materials, and a quieter, more serene cabin, the TLX is the clear winner. If you prioritize maximum passenger and cargo space, a very practical and user-friendly layout, and a sense of openness, the Accord might just edge out the TLX. Both cars offer excellent seating positions and good visibility, making them easy to drive and navigate in various conditions. The TLX aims for sophisticated comfort, while the Accord delivers practical, spacious, and user-friendly comfort. It’s a matter of personal preference and what you value most in your daily driver.

Technology and Features

When we discuss technology and features, the 2017 Acura TLX and the 2017 Honda Accord showcase different approaches, reflecting their market positioning. The TLX, aiming for a premium feel, comes equipped with a dual-screen infotainment system. The upper screen displays navigation and other vehicle information, while the lower 7-inch touchscreen handles audio, climate controls, and smartphone integration. For 2017, Acura updated the TLX with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, which was a significant upgrade, bringing modern smartphone integration to the luxury sedan. Other available tech features often included premium audio systems (likeELS Studio surround sound), heated and ventilated front seats, a power-adjustable steering wheel, keyless ignition, and a suite of driver-assistance technologies. These driver aids, such as adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist, were part of Acura's suite of safety innovations, enhancing both convenience and safety on the road. The TLX also typically offered features like remote start, LED headlights, and a power moonroof, reinforcing its premium status. The integration of these features is generally seamless, aiming to enhance the driving experience without being overly intrusive.

Conversely, the 2017 Honda Accord, while a mainstream vehicle, was not short on technology for its segment. It featured the HondaLink infotainment system, which included a 7-inch touchscreen display on most trims. Available features included Pandora, HD Radio, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a rearview camera. For 2017, Honda made Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard on all Accord models equipped with the touchscreen infotainment system, a huge boon for connectivity and user experience. This made syncing your smartphone and accessing apps like navigation, music, and messaging incredibly straightforward. Other notable features on higher trims included a one-touch power moonroof, push-button start, heated front seats, and even available LED daytime running lights. Honda also offered a range of driver-assistance technologies, often grouped as the