2018 Acura TLX vs Kia Stinger. Thoughts?
#161
Team Owner
I don't see what is wrong with comparing the two. It's normal for certain brands to move up over time and others to move down. Acura right now isn't the Acura from a decade+ ago. Neither is Kia.
#162
Chapter Leader (Southern Region)
I think he means because Kia is levels above.
Better to compare Fiat to Acura, or Lada.
Better to compare Fiat to Acura, or Lada.
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TacoBello (01-26-2018)
#163
You'll Never Walk Alone
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How does it feel to use sport+ and manual mode everyday with your fantastic car because all other modes are shit? Give me break, you don't know good cars ... Please tell me why my 2.0Toy beats your busted ass transmission in any mode using less fuel and with 2 cylinders less. Alex on Autos confirmed it, 5.8 vs 5.4 seconds (TLX vs A5 SB, which is the same shit to me).
Piss off with your Jetta comments, TLX was based on a dollar store design or else they wouldn't have cut on everything and make it what it is, a disappointment to the Accord...
Piss off with your Jetta comments, TLX was based on a dollar store design or else they wouldn't have cut on everything and make it what it is, a disappointment to the Accord...
#164
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Car & Driver just listed its 2017 entry level listings. Alfa got the grand prize, Audi was the pick of the litter & Stinger did very well.
Alfa Romeo Giulia
Audi A5 Sportback
Audi A4
Audi A5
MB C-Class
BMW 3
BMW 4
Kia Stinger
BMW 4 Grand Coupe
Jaguar XE
Infiniti G60
Infiniti G50
Lexus IS
Lexus RC
Caddy ATS
Buick Regal Sportback
Acura TLX
Lincoln MKZ
Volks CC
Volvo S60
Buick Regal
Alfa Romeo Giulia
Audi A5 Sportback
Audi A4
Audi A5
MB C-Class
BMW 3
BMW 4
Kia Stinger
BMW 4 Grand Coupe
Jaguar XE
Infiniti G60
Infiniti G50
Lexus IS
Lexus RC
Caddy ATS
Buick Regal Sportback
Acura TLX
Lincoln MKZ
Volks CC
Volvo S60
Buick Regal
Last edited by BEAR-AvHistory; 01-26-2018 at 01:33 PM.
#165
Chapter Leader (Southern Region)
Is someone going to create a TLX vs Regal thread?
#166
Race Director
#167
Chapter Leader (Southern Region)
I actually had a Buick Regal as a rental a few months back
Not terrible, there were things I didn't like about it for sure, but livable.
Not terrible, there were things I didn't like about it for sure, but livable.
#168
Team Owner
Uh oh!!! Another mod bashing Acura!!! You're gonna get it, Maj!!
#169
Chapter Leader (Southern Region)
I'm not bashing Acura
I have an Acura
I have an Acura
#170
Team Owner
That's like saying "I'm not racist. I have one Asian friend"
#171
Chapter Leader (Southern Region)
Yeah, my neighbor owns an Acura.. and he's black Asian too
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#172
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#173
Team Owner
#174
Chapter Leader (Southern Region)
What a piece of shit, I bet the rear window doesn't even roll down.
#175
Azine Jabroni
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#176
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#177
Senior Moderator
iTrader: (1)
Knock off the personal attacks. 3 members just got off a temp ban. This subforum is a cesspool that is being cleaned up.
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#178
Racer
I saw it yesterday in person at the car show. It's a good looking car, but it's large...very long. It's not a car I would consider purchasing as I don't need anything that big. There were a lot of people huddled around it checking it out.
#179
Chapter Leader (Southern Region)
#180
Racer
No , the Stinger
#181
Chapter Leader (Southern Region)
Well that large and very long car you just described is shorter and smaller than the TLX
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BEAR-AvHistory (01-29-2018)
#182
Racer
#183
Senior Moderator
I test drove a Stinger GT2 AWD today
One of the best things about the Cleveland Auto Show is that many of the automakers offer ride and drives. I took advantage of a short ride and drive of the Stinger GT AWD in GT2 trim, the top of the line. I drove my TLX A-Spec SH-AWD to the auto show today, so I can give a direct comparison. As these things, go, I didn't get much time with the GT, and no highway acceleration runs.
Interior: TLX wins.
Steering wheel has noticeably lower leather quality trim than the TLX. The TLX steering wheel is thicker right at 9 and 3, and the thumb rests are just perfectly placed for you to grab that chunky wheel at 9&3, and to rest your thumbs....just as you're supposed to (10 & 3 is wrong placement, 9 & 3 allows for better steering control...).
Interior layout looks pretty good at first glance. The soft touch areas are the same as in the TLX, basically anything above the middle of the door. Again, the soft touch areas are grainier and generally less refined than in the TLX.
I like the single screen in the Stinger. Stinger wins here. Clear screen, modern-looking navi graphics. It makes the stock Acura navi graphics look extremely dated. In my TLX, I use Apple Carplay and the Apple Maps interface is far superior to the Acura navi interface. Ideal would be that I could use Google Maps from my iPhone, but that's an Apple limitation, not an Acura limitation.
Rear seat is usable, but not ample. A little smaller than the TLX. TLX wins.
I personally like the seats in the A-Spec far better than in the Stinger GT--the A-Spec seats hold you in a little better and seem better fitted to me. I don't think there's a thigh bolster, or if there is, I didn't see it.
Shifter use is weird. You have to push a button to park, but you have to use the shift lever for everything else. At least with Acura's push button shifter, you deal with all buttons rather than part button and part shifter. TLX wins.
Storage: DAT HATCH YO! Stinger wins!
Other features: power folding mirrors, power trunk on the Stinger. Sure wish I had these on my TLX!
Driving: It's a wash.
Gobs of usable torque. I wish I had this in my TLX. Stinger wins by a mile. Acura, please give us a high-po version of the TLX!
Loose steering both at parking lot and at speed. No feedback at all from the road. While the TLX also has less road feel than my CTS-V or NSX, it's far better than the Stinger GT. TLX wins strongly here.
The AWD system in the GT does not provide torque vectoring in the same way that SH-AWD does. Handling is not as neutral in turns with the Stinger GT, as the TLX A-Spec. TLX wins.
8-speed tranny in the Stinger GT gave absolutely no hiccups or pauses at all during my short test drive. Stinger wins.
The GT2 AWD trim is $52.3k!
To conclude, the TLX is slower, has less power, has fewer features, and less cargo room, but the interior is more refined and SH-AWD is better than Kia's torque vectoring system. The Stinger GT wins on power , features, and storage. The Stinger GT is a great car for someone who wants to have a little fun and carry all their stuff, and to have all the modern features. Is it $7k (MSRP) better than the TLX A-Spec? I have to say, based on the features alone and the power, it may be. However, even with less power, the TLX is the better driver, needing only more power and a better transmission to catch up with the Stinger in those regards.
Acura definitely has to catch up on some features. At least the A-Spec is much less expensive.
Interior: TLX wins.
Steering wheel has noticeably lower leather quality trim than the TLX. The TLX steering wheel is thicker right at 9 and 3, and the thumb rests are just perfectly placed for you to grab that chunky wheel at 9&3, and to rest your thumbs....just as you're supposed to (10 & 3 is wrong placement, 9 & 3 allows for better steering control...).
Interior layout looks pretty good at first glance. The soft touch areas are the same as in the TLX, basically anything above the middle of the door. Again, the soft touch areas are grainier and generally less refined than in the TLX.
I like the single screen in the Stinger. Stinger wins here. Clear screen, modern-looking navi graphics. It makes the stock Acura navi graphics look extremely dated. In my TLX, I use Apple Carplay and the Apple Maps interface is far superior to the Acura navi interface. Ideal would be that I could use Google Maps from my iPhone, but that's an Apple limitation, not an Acura limitation.
Rear seat is usable, but not ample. A little smaller than the TLX. TLX wins.
I personally like the seats in the A-Spec far better than in the Stinger GT--the A-Spec seats hold you in a little better and seem better fitted to me. I don't think there's a thigh bolster, or if there is, I didn't see it.
Shifter use is weird. You have to push a button to park, but you have to use the shift lever for everything else. At least with Acura's push button shifter, you deal with all buttons rather than part button and part shifter. TLX wins.
Storage: DAT HATCH YO! Stinger wins!
Other features: power folding mirrors, power trunk on the Stinger. Sure wish I had these on my TLX!
Driving: It's a wash.
Gobs of usable torque. I wish I had this in my TLX. Stinger wins by a mile. Acura, please give us a high-po version of the TLX!
Loose steering both at parking lot and at speed. No feedback at all from the road. While the TLX also has less road feel than my CTS-V or NSX, it's far better than the Stinger GT. TLX wins strongly here.
The AWD system in the GT does not provide torque vectoring in the same way that SH-AWD does. Handling is not as neutral in turns with the Stinger GT, as the TLX A-Spec. TLX wins.
8-speed tranny in the Stinger GT gave absolutely no hiccups or pauses at all during my short test drive. Stinger wins.
The GT2 AWD trim is $52.3k!
To conclude, the TLX is slower, has less power, has fewer features, and less cargo room, but the interior is more refined and SH-AWD is better than Kia's torque vectoring system. The Stinger GT wins on power , features, and storage. The Stinger GT is a great car for someone who wants to have a little fun and carry all their stuff, and to have all the modern features. Is it $7k (MSRP) better than the TLX A-Spec? I have to say, based on the features alone and the power, it may be. However, even with less power, the TLX is the better driver, needing only more power and a better transmission to catch up with the Stinger in those regards.
Acura definitely has to catch up on some features. At least the A-Spec is much less expensive.
Last edited by neuronbob; 02-24-2018 at 06:32 PM.
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#184
Chapter Leader (Southern Region)
Great review Bob
#185
Banned
Well this S5 vs Stinger AWD Limited comparo was broadcasted today. Too bad it is ...in French.
https://noovo.ca/videos/rpm/kia-stin...rtback-technik
Very interesting nonetheless (with very good videos).
Their findings.
The S5 was with torque-vectoring package and it made quite an impact compared to a basic AWD like in the A4/A5/3-series/Stinger.
They don't feel that the $26000 price gap was worth it ($75000C Audi S5 ...lol)
I sat in both; I don't like either interior particularly. FAR from the Audi of late '80 early '90s.
And the Stinger is dead on birth. Another car that every talks about, but nobody buys. I think that the G70 will do better.
https://noovo.ca/videos/rpm/kia-stin...rtback-technik
Very interesting nonetheless (with very good videos).
Their findings.
The S5 was with torque-vectoring package and it made quite an impact compared to a basic AWD like in the A4/A5/3-series/Stinger.
They don't feel that the $26000 price gap was worth it ($75000C Audi S5 ...lol)
I sat in both; I don't like either interior particularly. FAR from the Audi of late '80 early '90s.
And the Stinger is dead on birth. Another car that every talks about, but nobody buys. I think that the G70 will do better.
#186
Team Owner
I think a big part of that is the dealerships themselves. They're price gouging people on the Stinger. It's one thing to do it on something like a Type R, that has brand cache... but for the Stinger? No way. Especially because it is a Kia and people still haven't accepted the brand (or Hyundai) as a worthy car brand- there are still plenty of haters out there.
I too don't think the Stinger will sell much. No one wants to pay above msrp on a Korean vehicle. They're not at that point yet.
I too don't think the Stinger will sell much. No one wants to pay above msrp on a Korean vehicle. They're not at that point yet.
#187
Wait to pick up a used Stinger. These things are going to depreciate faster than expired milk.
#188
Senior Moderator
In short, I agree with you, Taco.
#189
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That all said you still get the $52K performance in the base car & the mid level is not priced to bad with a lot of features. Personally think most of the action will be on the lower two flavors.
C&D said this
"The base GT comes in at $39,250. Stepping up to the GT1 trim adds a larger infotainment system with navigation, adaptive dampers, a 15-speaker audio system, and memory settings for the driver’s seat, among other features. That model costs $44,150."
This road test was at $41K
http://www.automobilemag.com/news/20...B1DD443FBC2ADD
My grandsons R-Spec coupe with the Genesis label was only $30K, with all the performance features including Brembo brakes & LSD is well equipped with creature comforts & is quick. They can package a lot into a car with a nice price.
Dealers will wise up when the don't sell Stingers with a mask & gun pricing just like the TLX dealers did.
C&D said this
"The base GT comes in at $39,250. Stepping up to the GT1 trim adds a larger infotainment system with navigation, adaptive dampers, a 15-speaker audio system, and memory settings for the driver’s seat, among other features. That model costs $44,150."
This road test was at $41K
http://www.automobilemag.com/news/20...B1DD443FBC2ADD
My grandsons R-Spec coupe with the Genesis label was only $30K, with all the performance features including Brembo brakes & LSD is well equipped with creature comforts & is quick. They can package a lot into a car with a nice price.
Dealers will wise up when the don't sell Stingers with a mask & gun pricing just like the TLX dealers did.
Last edited by BEAR-AvHistory; 02-25-2018 at 03:21 PM.
#190
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Just saw a Stinger commercial on TV. They are selling pure performance. Red car has Emerson Fittipaldi Former F1 World Champion & Indy winner at a track. Car is flying along goes into a smokey left turn drift. He straightens out, cut to the speedo climbing fast as he hits the paddles. Switch to an outside trailing shot of the car pulling away into the banking, flash up a graphic - 167MPH.
Not one mention of the multi-speaker sound system.
Not one mention of the multi-speaker sound system.
#191
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Good marketing but they are setting up some sitters;
"Stinger Experience participants will take on several dynamic challenges in the Stinger GT, as well as in the Audi A5, BMW 640i Gran Coupe and Porsche Panamera, through various dynamic exercises." Would not describe any of these three as agile. Expect a Miatia could stick it too them on an Auto-X course. Personally lapped a pair of 640 GC, 5 door hatch's, with a 435 a few times at the performance delivery program. In its price range an M240 would be interesting.
Not sure what the 0-60 times are for them but the Stinger being in the high 4's should be quicker.
Would take a shot at it but Charlotte, 350mile round trip. is out of range for an in & out with a few minutes seat time.
"Stinger Experience participants will take on several dynamic challenges in the Stinger GT, as well as in the Audi A5, BMW 640i Gran Coupe and Porsche Panamera, through various dynamic exercises." Would not describe any of these three as agile. Expect a Miatia could stick it too them on an Auto-X course. Personally lapped a pair of 640 GC, 5 door hatch's, with a 435 a few times at the performance delivery program. In its price range an M240 would be interesting.
Not sure what the 0-60 times are for them but the Stinger being in the high 4's should be quicker.
Would take a shot at it but Charlotte, 350mile round trip. is out of range for an in & out with a few minutes seat time.
Last edited by BEAR-AvHistory; 02-25-2018 at 06:25 PM.
#193
By far the most horrendous in the auto-biz, though Hyundai does slightly better than Kia. So while I do really like a lot of their cars, I always feel like waiting that year or two for depreciation to take a giant dump on the vehicle is a wise decision.
#194
Chapter Leader (Southern Region)
You don't get in on the 10 yr / 100k powertrain warranty then
#195
That is a fair point for you guys in the states, in Canada we only get a 5 years/100k warranty and by law in Canada all warranties must be fully transferrable with the vehicle/item. Iirc you guys get the warranty cut in half when you sell a vehicle correct?
#196
Chapter Leader (Southern Region)
I just checked, it's 5 yr / 60k mile (same as you guys eh) on a transfer.. .unless.. it's a certified used sale.
#197
So not too bad and when you save that enormous deprecation cost you come out on top. I went with a friend who bought a new Hyundai Tucson today and while I really like the car (7 DCT for the win!!) I couldn’t help but think the depreciation is going to hurt. But at least she loves it so it’s alright I guess.
#198
Drifting
The upcoming Genesis G70 is looking pretty interesting.
#199
I work at a automotive group that owns a franchise for Acura and Kia among other 3 major brands and honestly I can see why you would like the Stinger because it’s really NICE but in my personal opinion and experience I would go with the 2018 TLX Acura.
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#200
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BTW the BMW 3 Series/Stinger GT thread is up to 112 posts & 5000 views now. Lots of interest in this car.
Last edited by BEAR-AvHistory; 03-07-2018 at 01:08 PM.