2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2023 Acura Integra

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was a versatile offering, available in coupe, convertible, sedan, and station wagon body styles, a variety unmatched by most competitors. The E-Class sedans, designated as E350, featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the E450 variants boasted a turbo 3.0-litre inline-six with EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid technology. In Canada, all models came standard with 4Matic all-wheel drive. The AMG E53 models, including the Cabriolet we tested, offered a more powerful version of the E450's engine, delivering a luxurious yet sporty experience. The AMG E53 Cabriolet, with its matte-finish paint, premium leather, and carbon fibre trim, was a visual delight, though its high price tag made it a choice for those willing to flaunt their wealth. Inside, the E-Class exuded luxury with high-resolution digital displays, Burmester speaker grilles, and supple leather, creating an opulent driving environment.

The 2023 Acura Integra, with its pentagonal grille, JewelEye headlights, and sharply creased lines, seamlessly fit into Acura's design language alongside the TLX sedan and RDX and MDX crossovers. Replacing the ILX compact sedan, the Integra featured a five-door liftback design, a nod to the third-generation Integra. In Canada, it was available in three trims: base, A-Spec, and Elite A-Spec, each offering distinct features like alloy wheels and performance tires. The Integra's interior shared some similarities with the Honda Civic, maintaining cost-effectiveness while offering unique touches like honeycomb grilles and knurled metal finishes. The Elite A-Spec trim added a 9-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a premium ELS Studio 3D audio system, enhancing the technological experience. Despite lacking the bespoke refinement of German rivals, the Integra was well-assembled and offered a sporty, engaging drive.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 featured a 3.0-litre turbo inline-6 engine with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology, producing 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain provided robust throttle response across a wide rev range, achieving 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds. The AMG Speedshift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system ensured power was effectively delivered to the road. The E53 Cabriolet's AMG-tuned air suspension and performance exhaust system, along with optional 20-inch wheels, enhanced its dynamic capabilities. The car's dual personality allowed it to be a quiet cruiser or a spirited performer, with AMG Dynamic Select driving modes adjusting its character. Despite some cowl shake, the E53 Cabriolet felt solid and sure-footed, making it suitable for three-season driving with its heated features and AWD system.

The 2023 Acura Integra introduced a turbocharged engine for the first time, a 1.5-litre four-cylinder producing 200 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a six-speed manual transmission and limited-slip differential, the Integra offered an engaging driving experience. The manual transmission featured automatic rev-matching, making downshifts smooth and effortless. The Integra's brakes and suspension provided a sporty yet comfortable ride, with its wide track and long wheelbase enhancing cornering stability. The variable-ratio electric power-steering system offered natural highway feel and sharp cornering response. The Integra's drive modes—Comfort, Normal, Sport, and Individual—allowed drivers to tailor the driving experience, with Sport mode noticeably stiffening the suspension and adding weight to the steering.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet was a true four-passenger convertible, offering comfort for both front and rear occupants. The Aircap system reduced cabin turbulence with the top down, while heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and the Airscarf neck-warming system enhanced comfort. Sun-reflective leather and ventilated front seats were available for hot weather, and the triple-layer acoustic soft top kept the cabin cool and quiet. The multi-contour front seats with massage and Air Balance interior fragrance system added to the luxury experience. With the top up, the trunk offered 360 litres of cargo space, though this was halved with the top down.

The 2023 Acura Integra's liftback design provided practicality, with 688 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats. However, the high lift-over height made loading heavy items challenging. The front seats featured a logical dashboard layout, smartly placed cupholders, and a centre console cubby. Rear passengers enjoyed decent legroom, though headroom was limited for taller individuals. The rear seat cushions were notably soft, enhancing comfort for passengers.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system, with two 12.3-inch screens forming the foundation. The system offered touchscreen, voice, and steering wheel control, with customization options for ease of use. Standard features included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with upgrades like Wi-Fi service and augmented reality navigation. The Burmester surround-sound audio system provided excellent sound quality. The MBUX system was intuitive, though the digital assistant could be accidentally activated, especially in a convertible with the top down.

The 2023 Acura Integra came standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster. The Elite A-Spec trim added a 9-inch touchscreen, wireless connectivity, and a head-up display. The wireless charging pad and ELS Studio 3D audio system with 16 speakers enhanced the technological experience. The Integra's tech offerings were competitive, with the Elite A-Spec trim providing a comprehensive suite of features.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class included standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Cabriolet featured pop-up rollbars for rollover protection. Mercedes Pre Safe and Pre Safe Sound prepared occupants for collisions, while Active Parking Assist and a surround-view camera aided parking. The optional Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control, lane-centring assistance, and other advanced features, enhancing safety.

The 2023 Acura Integra offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and traffic sign recognition. The Elite A-Spec trim added low-speed braking control and parking sensors. The Integra's safety features were available even with the manual transmission, a rarity in the segment. The IIHS awarded the Integra a Top Safety Pick+ designation, and the NHTSA gave it a five-star overall rating.