2020 Acura TLX vs 2020 Toyota Corolla

The 2020 Toyota Corolla, despite its modern redesign, was not considered particularly attractive, often compared to a less appealing alien visage. However, when equipped with SE or XSE trim and the Celestite paint colour, it presented a more appealing compact sedan look. The interior quality saw significant improvements, with soft-touch surfaces replacing the previously cheap plastics, although the transmission shifter reminded drivers of its economy car status. The Corolla's pricing started at $18,990, with the XSE trim reaching $28,490 before fees.

In contrast, the 2020 Acura TLX underwent a design refresh that improved its appearance, though it remained somewhat anonymous. The A-Spec option package added sporty visual enhancements, making it more appealing. The TLX's interior was noted for its quality materials and comfort, with features like heated and ventilated seats. The base model started at $37,490, with the SH-AWD and Technology Package priced at $43,190, and the A-Spec version at $45,690.

The 2020 Toyota Corolla offered a 1.8-litre 4-cylinder engine with 139 horsepower for the L, LE, and XLE trims, paired with a CVT. The SE and XSE trims featured a more powerful 169-horsepower, 2.0-litre engine, and a more sophisticated CVT with paddle shifters. The Corolla XSE provided a sporty driving experience with a smooth ride, thanks to its independent rear suspension. However, it lacked power for rapid acceleration, and the CVT, while unobtrusive, didn't fully support dynamic driving. Fuel efficiency was rated at 7.7 L/100 km in the city and 6.1 on the highway.

The 2020 Acura TLX offered a standard 206-horsepower, 2.4-litre engine with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission for front-wheel-drive models. The SH-AWD versions came with a 290-horsepower, 3.5-litre V6 engine and a nine-speed automatic. The V6 provided a steady power build-up, and the SH-AWD system enhanced driving dynamics by distributing power to individual wheels. The TLX was comfortable for daily driving, with a firm yet not too stiff ride. It returned 10.2 L/100 km on a testing loop, slightly below the expected 10.3 L/100 km.

The 2020 Toyota Corolla, though smaller than a Camry, accommodated a family of four comfortably for various trips. However, the lack of rear air-conditioning vents and USB ports, along with the low seating position, were drawbacks. The interior offered comfortable seating, but taller passengers might find headroom limited. Storage was minimal, with a trunk space of 371 litres, sufficient for a few suitcases and bags.

The 2020 Acura TLX provided a quality interior with ample space for front passengers, featuring heated and ventilated seats. Rear passengers enjoyed good legroom and air-conditioning vents. Storage was adequate, though the trunk space was limited to 405 litres, more akin to a compact car than a midsize sedan.

The 2020 Toyota Corolla featured the Entune 3.0 infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, but not Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, with a high-mounted touchscreen and familiar controls. Higher trims offered an 8-inch display and additional features like HD Radio and SiriusXM. The system worked well with Apple CarPlay, but Android users might find it lacking.

The 2020 Acura TLX's dual-screen infotainment system was criticized for its complexity and lack of user-friendliness. The top display was not a touchscreen, while the bottom one was, leading to confusion. The system lacked a tuning knob, and the voice-recognition system was subpar. However, the Acura/ELS premium audio system was praised, and the car offered Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

The 2020 Toyota Corolla came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering features like low-light pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane-tracing assist. It received a 5-star rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.

The 2020 Acura TLX included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. It earned 5-star ratings from the NHTSA but did not qualify for a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS due to an Acceptable rating in the small overlap frontal-impact test. The safety systems were effective but lacked the refinement of more modern vehicles.