Driving down a quiet country road, I felt a mix of excitement and apprehension. It was a crisp, clear day, perfect for what lay ahead. I was about to test three impressive sedans: the 2021 Acura TLX, the Honda Accord, and the Hyundai Sonata N Line. The stage was set for a drag and roll race that would pit these three against each other in a showdown of performance, style, and innovation.
First up was the Acura TLX. I’d always been intrigued by Acura’s blend of luxury and performance. The TLX, with its aggressive front grille and sleek lines, certainly looked the part. As I settled into the driver’s seat, the cabin greeted me with a sense of refined elegance. The leather-wrapped steering wheel and the high-resolution infotainment screen spoke of a premium experience.
Starting the engine, I was met with a throaty growl from the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Acura’s engineers had fine-tuned this powertrain to deliver a robust 272 horsepower. I eased the TLX onto the drag strip, feeling the immediate response as I pressed the throttle. The acceleration was smooth yet powerful, with the 10-speed automatic transmission delivering seamless shifts. It was clear that the TLX was designed for performance, and it showed as it surged down the strip with impressive speed.
Next, I turned my attention to the Honda Accord. The Accord has always been a benchmark for midsize sedans, and the latest model continued that tradition with a refreshed design and upgraded features. The Accord I was driving was the Sport 2.0T, which meant it was equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine producing 252 horsepower.
As I started the Accord, I was greeted by a quieter engine note compared to the TLX. The Accord’s cabin was spacious and comfortable, with a modern, user-friendly infotainment system. I rolled onto the drag strip, and as I pushed the throttle, the Accord delivered its power smoothly. The acceleration was quick, though it felt more refined and less aggressive compared to the TLX. The CVT transmission did a good job of keeping the engine in its power band, but it lacked the immediate response of the TLX’s automatic.
Finally, it was time for the Hyundai Sonata N Line. Hyundai had been making waves with their performance-oriented models, and the Sonata N Line was no exception. With its striking design, featuring a wide stance and aggressive front bumper, the Sonata N Line looked ready to perform.
The interior was sporty yet comfortable, with a driver-focused cockpit and supportive seats. The Sonata N Line was powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine producing 290 horsepower. Starting the engine, I could hear a distinctive, sporty growl that promised an exhilarating ride. As I accelerated down the drag strip, the Sonata N Line lived up to its reputation. The power delivery was robust, and the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission provided rapid shifts that kept the engine in its power band.
After the drag race, it was time for the roll race. This would test how well these sedans could perform at higher speeds and in different driving conditions. I drove the TLX, Accord, and Sonata N Line onto a stretch of highway, ready for the next phase of testing.
The TLX’s performance was evident as I accelerated from 60 mph. The power delivery was strong and consistent, and the car felt planted and stable. The handling was precise, with minimal body roll, making it clear that the TLX was engineered with performance in mind.
The Accord, while not as aggressive as the TLX, still performed admirably. The engine responded well, and the CVT kept the car in its optimal power range. The Accord’s handling was secure, though it didn’t have the same sporty edge as the TLX.
The Sonata N Line, however, truly excelled in this environment. Its turbocharged engine delivered a thrilling acceleration, and the dual-clutch transmission provided quick, seamless shifts. The Sonata N Line felt agile and responsive, with a sportier edge compared to the other two. The steering was sharp, and the car seemed to come alive at higher speeds.
As I wrapped up the day’s testing, I reflected on the performance of each vehicle. The Acura TLX impressed with its blend of luxury and power, delivering a performance that felt both refined and thrilling. The Honda Accord, while not as aggressive, provided a smooth and competent performance that emphasized comfort and efficiency. The Hyundai Sonata N Line stood out with its sporty design and exhilarating performance, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a more dynamic driving experience.
Each of these sedans had its own strengths and appealed to different aspects of driving preference. The TLX was the luxury performer, the Accord was the refined all-rounder, and the Sonata N Line was the sporty contender. In the end, it was clear that choosing between them would come down to individual preferences and priorities.