2012 Acura TL vs. Its Competition

Bengt Halvorson Senior Editor

Starting at $35,605 for a very well-equipped base model with front-wheel drive, the 2012 Acura TL costs somewhat more than similarly equipped Mercedes-Benz C-Class, BMW 3-Series, or even Audi A4 models.

And it's truly a step up from those models, closer to the E-Class, 5-Series, and A6.

Yet unlike most of those sport sedans, the Acura TL remains a front- or all-wheel-drive sedan.

In recent years Audi has gone to lengths to move mass on its vehicles rearward and craft its vehicles into more traditional sport sedans.

Another top rival--but for a different type of shopper--is the Cadillac CTS; its well-sorted, rear-wheel-drive chassis, great powertrains, and sumptuous interior all appeal to traditionalists and those who want seriously good handling.

Another slightly off-the-radar pick might be the Nissan Maxima; Nissan calls the latest Maxima a four-door sports car, but it’s really more like the TL, with a V-6, front-wheel drive, and a nice ride and beautiful interior above all else.

VW’s CC sedan is also an attractive pick for style mavens; its base four-cylinder engine gets great mileage, too, but it’s not at all a sport sedan.

The rear-wheel-drive Hyundai Genesis sedan is another luxury value leader; although its interior is up to par with the TL in many respects, the comparable V-6 version won't get a nod from serious performance fans.