18. Lexus ES (vs. Acura TLX)
The Lexus ES was engineered to lure buyers away from the Acura TLX by doubling down on comfort, refinement, and luxury features. Lexus made the ES a smooth, quiet, and tech-rich sedan, deliberately contrasting Acura’s sportier TLX.
This rivalry sparked a feature war in the entry-luxury segment, with both brands continually upping the ante to attract discerning buyers.
The ES’s pursuit of serene luxury is a direct answer to Acura’s competitive push. Edmunds