Is it also true that Acura used the same transmission that is in the new Jeep Cherokees? Because Acura definitely had notice (at least some) of how horrible those transmissions were performing before production of the TLX.

No. Just a shifter. I don't mind the electronic parking brakes, but I prefer a shifter to this button layout that really doesn't save that much space. If you're going to go with the no-shifter option, go with the Merc E-Class set-up.....Acutally no. Just a shifter.

4Runner is like a Grand Cherokee but without the reliability issues.

It may sub-par compared to the Fusion or Legacy, but it is still a peer car that most people will cross-shop in the AWD segment. The new version of the 200 isn't as bad as previous Chrysler products, even if it tends to look like a round jelly bean and lacks any sort of automotive excitement in its design. Reviews…

I didn't get the impression this post was about used cars under $20k. There are plenty of used cars and SUVs under $20k that would be fine options. I think the post was focused on new cars under $20k, meaning non-luxury vehicles.

I was pointing out that the Chrysler 200, which is a non-luxury car, is available in AWD. As are the Ford Fusion and Subaru Legacy. You can purchase all three midsized cars without having to go into the premium or luxury segment for new cars.

For the midsized segment, Ford Fusion, Subaru Legacy and Chrysler 200 are the only midsized sedans that I've been able to find that offer decent AWD systems outside of the premium or luxury brands.

I don't think anyone is going to confuse an Explorer for a Range Rover. Especially on the interior. Explorer is a unibody SUV geared towards families. Range Rover is a much more off-road oriented vehicle.

Grill is a blatant rip off of the Ford/Aston Martin grill:

This is.....actually pretty good. Ford surprised me with the surprisingly good design for the Fusion and now they have done a decent job with this refresh. I would dare to say that Ford is actually putting out decent vehicles now.

Are we going to get a review of the TLX SH-AWD? It looks decent on paper but have heard mixed things. I know Acura thought the TLX would help turn them around on the sedan front.

I'll take a Fusion or Accord over the 200, both in terms of performance and design.

Drove one of these after test driving a Fusion Tit and Accord Touring. Even in top trim, the 200 underwhelmed. But if Chrysler can sell a boat load of these, I'd consider it a "commercial" success. I just don't know who the target buyer is for these.