2019 Volvo S60 vs 2020 Acura TLX

The 2019 Volvo S60 marked a significant shift in Volvo's design philosophy, moving from quirky to a more sophisticated and sexy aesthetic. This model took the flagship S90's design and adapted it to a smaller luxury platform, competing with the likes of the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4. The S60's exterior maintained the straight lines and precise angles characteristic of Volvo, but its rear fender and C-pillar gave it a more athletic stance. The design was so captivating that it invited further exploration, even if it didn't prioritize function. The S60 was available in three trims: Momentum, R-Design, and Inscription, each offering a range of features from panoramic moonroofs to advanced driver-assistance systems.

In contrast, the 2020 Acura TLX underwent a design transformation a few years prior, resulting in a more handsome, albeit somewhat anonymous, appearance. The A-Spec option package enhanced its styling with sporty visual upgrades, while the limited PMC Edition offered a unique Valencia Red Pearl paint and hand-built craftsmanship. The PMC Edition was the pinnacle of the TLX lineup, priced at $50,945, but the base model started at $33,995. The TLX's design was more about understated elegance, with the A-Spec and Technology Packages adding to its appeal without breaking the bank.

The 2019 Volvo S60 offered a range of powertrain options, designated as T5, T6, and T8. The base T5 engine was a turbocharged 2-liter 4-cylinder producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, driving the front wheels. The T6 variant, which was tested, featured a twin-charged 2-liter 4-cylinder engine, delivering 316 hp and 295 lb-ft to all-wheel drive. The top-tier T8 was a plug-in hybrid, combining the T6's engine with electric power for a total of 400 hp and 495 lb-ft of torque. The T6 provided immediate throttle and transmission responses, making it a joy to drive. Despite its front-wheel-drive origins, the S60 felt like a rear-wheel-drive sedan, offering a firm and planted ride. The T6's fuel economy was estimated at 21 mpg city, 32 highway, and 25 combined, with real-world testing showing 23.2 mpg.

The 2020 Acura TLX PMC Edition boasted the top-performing powertrain in the lineup, featuring a 290-hp, 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and SH-AWD system. This setup provided a smooth power delivery, with peak torque of 267 lb-ft arriving at 4,500 rpm. The TLX's SH-AWD system enhanced its driving dynamics, allowing up to 70% of engine output to be directed to a single rear wheel. The TLX's automatic transmission was well-behaved, and the car's handling was aided by amplitude reactive dampers and a 61% front weight distribution. The TLX returned 23 mpg in combined driving, matching EPA estimates.

The 2019 Volvo S60's interior leaned towards form over function, with sensible steering-wheel-mounted controls and ample storage space. However, some design choices, like the awkwardly placed starter and drive-mode selector, detracted from usability. The conventional shifter was a welcome feature, offering familiarity in a market filled with proprietary designs. The S60's backseat was relatively spacious compared to competitors like the Lexus IS, and its 11.6 cubic feet of cargo space was average for the class.

The 2020 Acura TLX excelled in providing a quality and comfortable cabin experience. The interior featured supple leather, perfectly positioned heated and ventilated front seats, and ample room for both front and rear passengers. Rear occupants benefited from air-conditioning vents and available heated seats. While storage space was plentiful, the trunk was limited to 14.3 cubic feet, more akin to a compact car than a midsize sedan.

The 2019 Volvo S60 featured the Sensus touchscreen infotainment system, which adopted a tablet-like approach to menu navigation. While visually appealing, the system required multiple steps for simple tasks like adjusting climate controls, leading to a steep learning curve. The system occasionally lagged or froze, potentially causing frustration. However, it included a volume dial and a home button for easier navigation.

The 2020 Acura TLX's dual-screen infotainment system was a point of contention. The top display was not a touchscreen, while the bottom one was, leading to confusion and frustration. Climate controls were split between physical buttons and the touchscreen, and the glossy coating on some buttons made them difficult to read. The system lacked a tuning knob, and the navigation graphics were outdated. Despite these issues, the Acura/ELS premium audio system and smartphone charger were highlights, and the car supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The 2019 Volvo S60 came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including front- and side-impact airbags, a reversing camera, and a tire-pressure-monitoring system. It also offered driver-assistance systems like forward-collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and traffic-sign recognition. The Advance Package added a head-up display, headlight washers, a 360-degree camera, and the Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driving system.

The 2020 Acura TLX, while aging in terms of vehicle architecture, still offered a range of advanced driver assistance systems. It received 5-star ratings from the NHTSA but fell short of a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS due to an Acceptable rating in the small overlap frontal-impact test. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and road-departure mitigation. However, these systems lacked the refinement and sophistication of more modern vehicles.