2023 Honda Accord Hybrid vs 2022 Audi A4

The 2022 Audi A4 presented a clean and conservative aesthetic, serving as an ideal backdrop for its striking Tango Red paint and Black Edition package. The classic five-arm rotor-design wheels added a touch of automotive design perfection. Inside, the A4 maintained a restrained elegance with black interiors accented by aluminum trim and metallic highlights. The dashboard seamlessly integrated air vents, and controls were clearly marked, contributing to a high-quality feel. The 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit and ambient lighting enhanced the interior, though the tablet-style touchscreen seemed somewhat out of place.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda Accord Hybrid exuded a near-luxury appeal, drawing comparisons to the sleek lines of the Audi A7. The redesigned front grille and updated LED lighting contributed to its sophisticated look. The Accord's longer body and wider rear track gave it a planted stance, complemented by a flowing roofline. The Touring trim featured 19-inch alloy wheels and a choice of six exterior colours. Inside, the Accord's updated dashboard design included a digital instrument display and a 12.3-inch touchscreen, offering features like Amazon Alexa and wireless connectivity. The Canyon River Blue Metallic paint and black leather interior added to its upscale feel.

The 2022 Audi A4 offered two engine options: the 40 TFSI with 201 horsepower and the 45 TFSI with 261 horsepower. Both engines were paired with a seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission and Audi's Quattro Ultra AWD system. The 45 TFSI model, with its sport suspension, accelerated to 100 km/h in approximately 5.4 seconds and had a fuel economy rating of 8.8 L/100 km. The A4's driving modes and paddle shifters enhanced the driving experience, while its brakes and steering provided reliable performance. The cabin remained quiet, thanks to dual-pane acoustic glass and a low drag coefficient.

The 2023 Honda Accord Hybrid featured a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine combined with two electric motors, delivering 204 horsepower to the front wheels via a CVT. While lacking AWD, the Accord Hybrid offered smooth and efficient performance, with seamless transitions between electric and gas power. The suspension effectively absorbed road imperfections, and the regenerative braking system was upgraded to six levels for better control. The Accord's agile handling made it easy to drive in various environments, and its increased length did not hinder parking ease.

The 2022 Audi A4's low stance made entry and exit challenging, but once inside, the front seats provided exceptional comfort with power adjustments and thigh support. The rear seats, while supportive, offered limited legroom and were best suited for shorter trips. Interior storage was minimal, with the centre console housing the wireless charging pad. The A4's 340-litre cargo space was well-finished, with enclosed hinges and storage nets.

The 2023 Honda Accord Hybrid's cabin adopted a design similar to the Civic and CR-V, featuring honeycomb mesh trim and dual-zone climate control. The Touring trim included heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated rear seats. The traditional gearshift and physical volume knob added convenience. The front seats provided excellent support, while the rear seats offered generous legroom and shoulder room, though headroom was limited by the roofline. The Accord's 473-litre trunk was spacious and easy to access.

The 2022 Audi A4 featured the MIB3 version of Audi's MMI, with a 10.1-inch touchscreen supporting smartphone-like functions. The system included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system. The MMI was intuitive, with separate climate controls and a useful voice recognition system. The head-up display was difficult to see with polarized sunglasses.

The 2023 Honda Accord Hybrid's Touring trim boasted a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Google Built-in, and Amazon Alexa. The system was easy to navigate, and the physical controls for volume and climate were appreciated. The Accord also featured a wireless charging pad, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Audi A4 offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Audi Pre Sense, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system. The A4 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The driver assistance tech was effective, though the adaptive cruise control occasionally required driver intervention.

The 2023 Honda Accord Hybrid came equipped with the Honda Sensing suite, featuring automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and more. The Touring trim added parking sensors and a head-up display. The Accord's design included slimmer front A-pillars for better visibility. It earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with high scores in crash tests and safety features.