2020 Acura TLX vs 2019 Kia Forte

The 2019 Kia Forte presented a fresh design that, at first glance, might have seemed like a mere facelift, but it was actually an all-new generation. It retained its familiar jellybean-like shape and a front-end design that was both plucky and slightly menacing. The side of the vehicle featured a subtle "swoop," while the taillight band connecting each side above the license plate was a less favored design element. Overall, the Forte's design was more mature compared to previous generations. Inside, the Forte's cabin was contemporary and high-tech, with influences from the sporty Kia Stinger, including a sport steering wheel and a floating touchscreen. The instrument panel's crisp look bore hints of Audi's small car design, a nod to Kia's head of design, Peter Schreyer, who previously worked at Audi.

In contrast, the 2020 Acura TLX, especially with the A-Spec option package, offered a handsome yet somewhat anonymous design. The A-Spec package added visual upgrades like 19-inch wheels and revised bumper designs, enhancing its appeal. The PMC Edition, hand-built in Acura's Performance Manufacturing Center, featured a dazzling Valencia Red Pearl paint and unique exterior accents. The TLX's interior exuded quality, with supple leather, heated and ventilated seats, and ample room for both front and rear passengers. However, the trunk space was limited to 14.3 cubic feet, which was more in line with compact cars rather than midsize sedans.

The 2019 Kia Forte was equipped with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a CVT, which Kia referred to as an iVT. The Forte's CVT managed power well, providing an immediate response and making the car quick off the line. It handled corners with confidence, displaying minimal body roll and precise steering. The Forte's suspension offered refined handling without being too harsh over bumps. Fuel economy was impressive, with the CVT-equipped Forte achieving 30 mpg city, 40 highway, and 34 combined.

The 2020 Acura TLX PMC Edition boasted a 290-hp, 3.5-liter V6 engine, a 9-speed automatic transmission, and a torque-vectoring SH-AWD system. The V6 provided a steady build-up of power, transforming the TLX into a thrill ride in Sport or Sport+ mode. The SH-AWD system enhanced driving dynamics, allowing the TLX to pivot and lunge out of corners. The automatic transmission was well-behaved, and the TLX's handling capabilities did not compromise ride quality. The TLX returned 23 mpg in combined driving, matching the EPA's estimate.

The 2019 Kia Forte's interior dimensions grew, offering a more comfortable space for occupants. The front seat provided ample legroom, though headroom was slightly tight for taller individuals. The backseat offered adequate headroom and legroom, and the trunk space expanded to 15.3 cubic feet, one of the largest in its class. The EX trim featured a smart trunk system for added convenience.

The 2020 Acura TLX's cabin was a compelling companion for daily drives, with high-quality materials and outstanding front seats. Rear passengers enjoyed favorable accommodations, including air-conditioning vents and available heated seats. However, the trunk space was limited to 14.3 cubic feet, which was compact for a midsize sedan.

The 2019 Kia Forte came standard with an 8-inch UVO touchscreen, offering an intuitive layout with vivid colors and fonts. Physical buttons and conventional tuning and volume dials enhanced user experience. Kia's UVO e-services provided additional features like enhanced roadside assistance and vehicle diagnostics.

The 2020 Acura TLX's infotainment system was less user-friendly, with a dual-screen setup that caused distraction and frustration. The top display was not a touchscreen, while the bottom display was, leading to confusion. The voice-recognition system was subpar, and the navigation graphics were outdated. However, the Acura/ELS premium audio system and smartphone charger were appreciated features.

The 2019 Kia Forte offered standard forward-collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and driver-attention warning. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. The lane-keeping assist was notably active, providing minor steering inputs to keep the car centered.

The 2020 Acura TLX had adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. However, its aging architecture reflected in its IIHS crash-test ratings, with an Acceptable result in the small overlap frontal-impact test. The TLX earned 5-star ratings in NHTSA tests but lacked the smoothness and refinement of more modern systems.