2019 Acura TLX vs. 2019 Mercedes-Benz C 300 Sedan

There is no denying that both the 2019 Acura TLX and 2019 Mercedes-Benz C300 sedan are rich in luxurious features and amenities. These sedans are designed with the discerning driver in mind. The one who expects the best from his or her driving experience and will settle for nothing less.

But, in a head-to-head comparison of the 2019 Acura TLX vs. 2019 Mercedes-Benz C300, which one is the winner?

As with all matches, there can be only one. However, in this case, the winner comes down to personal preference with respect to priorities behind the wheel. Of course, for other consumers, the ultimate determination comes down to the bottom-line and their own budgets.

A Few Similarities Shared Between Competitors

While there is plenty to distinguish one from the other, the TLX and C 300 share a few features. First of all, both provide ample space for five passengers; although, taller drivers and occupants will likely appreciate the added legroom and headroom afforded by the C 300.

Although safety scores, determined by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)¹ and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), are practically identical, the TLX does edge out ahead of the C 300. Boasting a perfect five out of five score across the board, the TLX is technically the safer of the two, given that the C 300 dropped one star in the Frontal Crash Rating category.

With respect to protections and peace of mind from warranties, both sedans come backed by the same details of 4-years or 50,000 miles.

From these basic similarities, things start to shift…

Pricing

Although there are always ways to afford high-end vehicles, like buying used or certified pre-owned models, the TLX and C 300 feature considerably different starting points with respect to initial MSRP. The 2019 Acura TLX starts at $33,000².

On the other hand, the 2019 Mercedes-Benz C300 is priced significantly higher to start, with original MSRP listed at $40,250 and exceeding $47,900 at higher level configurations.

Purely based on value, the 2019 Acura TLX is the more attractive option of the two.

Fuel Efficiency

When it comes to fuel efficiency, numbers fall in favor of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz C 300. Ranging between 23-24 city miles per gallon and 32-33 highway miles per gallon, the Mercedes-Benz makes every drop and dollar count. Although not too far off the mark, the Acura TLX does fall shy in comparison, returning only 20-23 city miles per gallon and 29-33 highway miles per gallon³.

Although the Acura TLX is arguably more affordable, those savings might be offset by an increase in pit-stops over the Mercedes.

Performance

Two engines are offered in the 2019 Acura TLX. The first is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, generating 206 horsepower and 182 lb-ft of torque, operated by an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The second is the available 3.5-liter  V6 engine, which produces 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission.

When it comes to the 2019 Mercedes-Benz C 300, drivers will pilot a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder turbocharged engine, capable of 241 horsepower, matched to a 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission with shift paddles on the steering wheel.

In this case, stronger performance comes from the 2019 TLX, provided consumers opt for the larger V6 engine. Standard operation between the two; however, returns a stronger showing from the 2019 C300.

Interior

Boasting luxurious interiors, both the 2019 Acura TLX and 2019 Mercedes-Benz C 300 are similar in spirit and style. However, space for cargo and passengers differs with the TLX coming out ahead in cargo capacity.

Cargo Capacity

Measuring 14.3 cubic feet of space, the trunk in the TLX makes extra room for groceries, luggage, and sports gear, compared to the 12.6 cubic feet afforded by the C 300 sedan.

Passenger Space Dimensions

For more precise comparison, the following are the dimensions provided to passengers in the 2019 Acura TLX, depending on front or back seating arrangements:

• Front Head Room: 37.2 inches
• Front Leg Room: 42.6 inches
• Front Shoulder Room: 57.5 inches
• Front Hip Room: 55.3 inches

As expected from most vehicles, things are little tighter in the backseat, with dimensions measured as follows:

• Back Head Room: 36.7 inches
• Back Legroom: 34.5 inches
• Back Shoulder Room: 55.4 inches
• Back Hip Room: 54.9 inches

By comparison, passengers in the front seat of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz C300 should expect space as follows:

• Front Head Room: 37.1 inches
• Front Leg Room: 41.7 inches
• Front Shoulder Room: 55.3 inches

Here, the back seat shares nearly identical measurement, with the exception represented by rear passenger leg room:

• Back Head Room: 37.1 inches
• Back Leg Room: 35.2 inches
• Back Shoulder Room: 55.5 inches

It’s safe to argue that between the 2019 Acura TLX vs 2019 Mercedes-Benz C 300, the C 300 prioritizes rear passenger comfort, while the TLX favors cargo capacity.

Handling and Accessibility

Given the wider exterior dimensions of the TLX compared to the C 300, drivers will experience an easier time with respect to parking the C 300 in tighter spaces or crowded lots. Similarly, because the TLX has a larger turning radius than the C 300, drivers might value the Mercedes-Benz over the Acura for enhanced maneuverability around tight corners and narrow streets.

Final Verdict

Driving either of these luxury sedans is an enviable seat to claim, with the ultimate decision really based in personal preference, but even more so – personal finance. If you’re a budget-conscious consumer, there is no competition between these two models. Awarded a Consumer Guide Best Buy in 2018,⁴ the Acura TLX will likely garner such distinction for the 2019 model year.

Additionally, Kelly Blue Book listed Acura as its 2018 “Top-rated Luxury Brand for 5-Year Cost of Ownership,”⁵ meaning that, between the two, the TLX offers more for less over time and well as up front.

When looking for luxury that won’t break the bank, avert your eyes from the Mercedes-Benz models and train your next test drive on the 2019 Acura TLX.

¹Government 5-Star Vehicle Scores are part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA’s) New Car Assessment Program. For additional information on the 5-Star Safety Ratings program, please visit www.safercar.gov.
²Prices shown are Acura suggested retail prices only and do not include taxes, license or destination and handling charge. Destination & Handling charge is $995 for sedans and $995 for SUVs. Acura vehicle accessory costs, labor and installation vary. Dealers set their own prices. Please consult your selected dealer.
³Based on model year EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, battery pack age/condition (hybrid models only) and other factors.
⁴Consumer Guide® is a registered trademark of Publications International Ltd. www.consumerguide.com
⁵2018 model-year vehicle’s projected cost to own for the initial five-year ownership period is based on the average Kelley Blue Book 5-Year Cost to Own data which considers depreciation and costs such as fuel and insurance. For more information, visit www.kbb.com