2020 Acura TLX vs 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI

The 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI was a masterclass in understated design. It appeared as an ordinary 5-door hatchback, but its honeycomb grille, red accents, and twin exhaust outlets hinted at its hidden performance capabilities. The GTI was available in S, Rabbit Edition, SE, and Autobahn trims, with prices ranging from $27,595 to $37,095. The Rabbit Edition, priced at $28,895, featured gloss black 18-inch wheels, a rear roof spoiler, and side mirror caps, along with unique colors like Urano Gray and Cornflower Blue. Inside, the GTI's dashboard design, instrumentation, and controls were straightforward, exuding quality. The Clark Plaid cloth upholstery in the S and Rabbit Edition trims added a whimsical touch.

In contrast, the 2020 Acura TLX underwent a significant design update, resulting in a handsome yet somewhat anonymous appearance. The A-Spec option package enhanced its styling with 19-inch wheels, revised bumper designs, side sill skirts, and oversized round exhaust outlets. The limited-production TLX PMC Edition, priced at $50,945, featured a dazzling Valencia Red Pearl paint and unique body-color and gloss black exterior accents. Inside, the TLX PMC Edition boasted high-quality materials, outstanding front seats, and generous storage space. Rear occupants enjoyed air-conditioning vents and available heated rear cushions, though the trunk space was limited to 14.3 cubic feet.

The 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI was a thrill to drive, thanks to its turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, which produced 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The VAQ limited-slip differential, standard on all GTI trims, maximized traction and reduced understeer. The GTI's handling was impressive, with its Bridgestone Potenza RE97AS P225/40R18 tires and progressive, variable-ratio steering. Acceleration was quick, and the 6-speed manual gearbox provided a satisfying driving experience. The GTI's ride was stiff, but an adaptive damping suspension was available on higher trims. The GTI's brakes, borrowed from the Golf R, were sensitive and effective. Fuel economy was rated at 27 mpg combined, with real-world results of 25.1 mpg.

The 2020 Acura TLX PMC Edition featured a 290-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 engine, a 9-speed automatic transmission, and a torque-vectoring SH-AWD system. The V6 engine provided a steady build-up of power, with 267 pound-feet of torque arriving at 4,500 rpm. The SH-AWD system could send up to 70% of engine output to a single rear wheel, enhancing the TLX's handling. The automatic transmission was well-behaved, and the paddle shifters were enjoyable to use. The TLX's amplitude reactive dampers contributed to a solid and comfortable ride. The TLX returned 23 mpg in combined driving, matching the EPA rating.

The 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI was a versatile vehicle, accommodating both family and cargo needs. The front seats were height-adjustable and offered robust bolsters, with plaid cloth or available leather upholstery. The dashboard design was clear and functional, with ample storage space throughout the cabin. The backseat provided acceptable comfort, though leg space was tight. The trunk offered 22.8 cubic feet of cargo space, which could be expanded to 52.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2020 Acura TLX excelled in passenger comfort, with supple leather, heated and ventilated front seats, and ample room for both front and rear occupants. Rear passengers benefited from air-conditioning vents and available heated cushions. However, the trunk space was limited to 14.3 cubic feet, which was more in line with compact cars than midsize sedans.

The 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI's infotainment system included a 6.5-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth, and smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mirror Link. Higher trims offered an 8-inch display, HD Radio, satellite radio, and a Fender premium sound system. The GTI Autobahn trim included a navigation system and a semi-autonomous parking assistant. The Rabbit Edition's infotainment system was basic but functional, though pairing issues with Apple CarPlay and Pandora were noted.

The 2020 Acura TLX's dual-screen infotainment system was a source of frustration. The top display was not a touchscreen, while the bottom display was, leading to confusion and distraction. The system's graphics and voice recognition were outdated, and the layout was cluttered with buttons and switches. However, the Acura/ELS premium audio system provided good sound quality, and the car featured Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a smartphone charger.

The 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI offered forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert as standard on the Rabbit Edition. The GTI SE added Car-Net Safety & Security services, while the GTI Autobahn included adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beam headlights, lane-keeping assist, and an active blind-spot monitoring system. The GTI received a 5-star rating from the NHTSA and high marks from the IIHS, though it fell short in the small overlap frontal impact test.

The 2020 Acura TLX featured adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and road-departure mitigation as standard. A blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert was included on higher trims. The TLX earned 5-star ratings from the NHTSA but received an Acceptable rating in the IIHS small overlap frontal impact test. The TLX's advanced driver assistance systems lacked the refinement and sophistication of more modern vehicles.