Genesis G70 vs Acura TLX

The 2024 Acura TLX, which underwent a significant redesign in 2021, received subtle yet notable updates for this model year. The most prominent changes included a frameless front grille, enhancing its elegant appeal, and the removal of the large radar emitter that previously obstructed the Acura emblem. Jewel Eye LED headlights flanked the streamlined grille, and large air intakes completed the striking front fascia. Along the sides, Acura demonstrated a minimalist approach to character lines, contributing to a sleek profile. The Type S model of the TLX especially stood out with Berlina black split-spoke 20-inch rims wrapped in Pirelli Cinturato P7 all-season tires. The TLX offered three primary trim levels, known as packages: Technology, A-Spec, and Type S. The base model was discontinued, making the Technology Package the entry-level option. Visual enhancements were present across all trims, with the Type S boasting additional features like a gloss black front splitter, rear diffuser, and quad exhaust outlets. Inside, the TLX delivered luxury with leather upholstery across all trims and standard heated front seats, with ventilation available in the higher trims. The new 12.3-inch center infotainment screen was prominent, though its busy center stack could be confusing for some, especially with the push-button shifter and rotary drive-mode selector. Genesis made a splash with the 2024 G70, lauded for its perfect blend of elegance and sportiness. The car's front end featured signature quad LED headlights, large air intakes, and a sleek grille design. Standard 19-inch alloy wheels complimented the overall aesthetic. With ten exterior color options, the Kawah Blue stood out despite its additional cost of $650. Inside, the G70 offered updated design elements like new air vents, a push-to-start button, and a digital climate control panel. A frameless rearview mirror and aluminum trim options added to the modern feel. The cabin came in three color choices: gray, red, and black. The build quality was impeccable, with high-quality materials throughout.

The TLX offered two powertrains. The base engine was a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder delivering 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. The TLX with Technology Package featured front-wheel drive, while the A-Spec version came standard with the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), which could send 70% of the engine's power to the rear axle and 100% of that to either rear wheel. The Type S variant, however, was the performance star, boasting a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque, available from as low as 1,400 RPM. This allowed the Type S to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around five seconds. The adaptive dampers, strong stabilizers, and big Brembo brake calipers reinforced this model's sporty credentials. The various driving modes—Comfort, Normal, Sport, and Sport+—offered distinct experiences, with Sport+ bringing the car to life with enhanced steering feedback and a more aggressive exhaust note. The 2024 G70 upped its game with a base 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine generating 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, a considerable increase from the previous model year. An eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters provided smooth shifts. For those seeking more power, the 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 engine offered 365 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were available in rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. Adaptive handling was a standout feature, delivered by the dynamic chassis and newly standard Brembo brakes. The G70 excelled on an autocross course, especially in RWD format, with minimal understeer and quick turn-in. The drive modes included Comfort, Smart, Eco, Sport, Sport+, and Custom, with Sport+ providing the best throttle response and shifting dynamics. The V6 version also included a mechanical limited-slip differential and electronically controlled suspension, enhancing the driving experience.

The Acura TLX's dimensions placed it between luxury compact and midsize sedans. At 194.6 inches long with a 113-inch wheelbase, it matched well with the likes of the Audi A6 and BMW 5 Series in length but aligned closer to the Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series in wheelbase. This resulted in a spacious front cabin but relatively tight rear seat legroom at 34.9 inches, less than some compact sedans. Cargo space was competitive at 13.5 cubic feet, but again fell short of true midsize competitors. Its long hood contributed to a striking look but compromised interior space, making it less practical for tight urban environments. The G70 was available in Advanced and Sport Prestige trims with the 2.5-liter engine, while the 3.3-liter offered Sport Advanced and Sport Prestige trims. Standard features included heated mirrors and front seats, dual-zone HVAC, and a hands-free trunk. The narrower legroom in the rear seats made it less ideal for taller passengers, but front occupants enjoyed 16-way power-adjustable seats and high-end materials like Nappa leather and microfiber suede headliner in the higher trims. Cargo space was limited to 10.5 cubic feet, significantly less than the TLX and competitors like the BMW 3 Series, which offered 17 cubic feet.

The TLX came packed with technology, starting with the ELS Studio premium audio system in all models, upgraded to a stellar 17-speaker ELS Studio 3D system in A-Spec and Type S trims. Standard features included Bluetooth connectivity, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a wireless charging pad. New for 2024 was Amazon Alexa integration. However, the 12.3-inch center infotainment screen used a unique True Touchpad Interface (TTI), which mapped touchpad positions directly to the screen. This system proved cumbersome, especially when using phone projection, requiring excessive swiping and raising safety concerns. The G70 featured a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, with quick response times and clear graphics. Genesis' digital key, compatible with both Android and iOS, and the Connected Services suite added a layer of convenience. Navigation-based adaptive cruise control and an available head-up display enhanced drivability. Audiophiles could opt for the Lexicon premium audio system with 15 speakers, though the standard six-speaker system was competent. Multiple USB ports and available wireless charging kept devices powered.

The TLX was well-equipped with safety features under the AcuraWatch ADAS suite, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, road-departure mitigation, and rear cross-traffic monitoring. For 2024, blind-spot monitoring now included lane-change alert, and the front camera and radar had improved field of view. The TLX had received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and top scores in all IIHS tests, though it had not yet been awarded a 2024 Top Safety Pick+. The G70 also offered a comprehensive suite of driver aids, such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The Highway Driving Assist combined adaptive cruise control and lane following assist for a semi-autonomous driving experience. Noteworthy was the blind view monitor that displayed video feeds of blind spots on the digital gauge cluster. Additionally, the G70 featured a unique front center airbag to cushion impacts between the driver and passenger. The IIHS rated it "Good" in most categories but "Marginal" in child seat ease of use.