SoMo Showdown – VW CC vs. Acura TL

VW CC
Acura TL
List Price
$42,630
$43,235
Horsepower
280bhp @6200
305bhp @6300
Torque
265lb-ft @2750rpm
275lb-ft @5000rpm
Engine
dohc 4-valve 6cyl
dohc 4-valve 6cyl

This time, we pit the suave European demeanor of the VW CC against the eager and spontaneous Acura TL. The Acura handling is crisp and sharp, with a suspension that, in contrast to the CC, is tuned for a more hard-core enthusiast. This unfortunately leads to a slightly harsher ride than its VW opponent, and where the CC displays the quiet reserve of a European dignitary, the TL transmits more road noise than a Japanese popstar’s zealous fan boy. It’s a tolerable noise, though, considering some of it is coming from the 3.7 liter VTEC-enhanced V6, the most powerful production engine Acura has ever built.

The comparison continues in the cockpit, as well. The Acura TL is laden with technological knobs and gauges splashed throughout the cabin and the thick, shrouded dash, while the VW CC provides a more humble and dignified display of its tech. Outside on the Acura TL, the techno-worship continues, with a boastful swooping chrome “V” and bottom-heavy style presenting itself in the front. The VW, again, answers with a more refined, classy exterior almost to the point of introversion.

There you have it. The spirited, eager Acura TL and the dignified VW CC – two personalities you might find playing opposite each other in any summer buddy flick (AKA “Bromance”). Both prove to have the juice, its only a question of how you want to show it to the rest of the world.

Which do you like more? The cheerful ostentation of Japanese design or the say-more-with-less European sensibilities approach? Make yourself heard with a comment below or participate in our poll now…

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    Do You Prefer European or Japanese Design?

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