lightonthehill

Not a bad comparison. I saw two glaring flaws:

(1) - He added not only the tech package (which is fine), but also both the Premium and Sport packages to his imaginary Maxima, running the tab over $40K. Can't do that. Even if we could, over half of each of the Premium and Sport packages are exact duplicates. The maximum fair normal top for the Maxima should have been SV plus Premium plus tech for around $38K, which is SIX BIG ONES under the Acura TL top of $44K.

(2) - Although clearly stating that the base TL was a wimpy vehicle, he then proceeded to factor in the positive attributes of the more-upscale AWD version TL and the 3.7 liter (more expensive and very low volume selling) top of the line TL, which are not direct competitors of the Maxima. By comparison, it was rather clear from the pics, descriptions, etc, he was NOT testing the Sport version of the Maxima.

I will give him credit for astutely pointing out the grotesque styling of the TL (he feels the TL back looks contrived, while the front is very difficult to adjust to), while seeming to approve of Maxima's styling, stating unequivocally that it has clearly been improved.

Summarizing his position: For similarly equipped vehicles, expect to pay about $5K less for the Maxima, which is a better car than the base TL. But if you have money to burn, the top of the line TL at around $44K is probably the best of the bunch (as well it should be).

Summarizing my take on his position: Not a bad review. He delved very little into performance, which is a little surprising, since it is all some reviewers look at, but got into comparisons many casual buyers are interested in, and, overall, was quite fair to both cars.