2022 Dodge Charger vs 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI, although redesigned, retained a familiar look that might not be immediately noticeable to those not well-versed in Volkswagen's design language. The new model was longer and lower, maintaining the same wheelbase, which contributed to a stable silhouette while preserving the nimbleness of its predecessors. The GTI's styling was classic, with a smooth hood and a subtle honeycomb-patterned air intake. The signature red accent line across the front added a touch of drama, especially when paired with the optional light bar. Aerodynamic improvements were subtle but effective, with redesigned side-view mirrors and underbody paneling. The GTI came with red brake calipers and wheel sizes varying by trim, and it offered a range of colours, including some vibrant options like Atlantic Blue Metallic and Pomelo Yellow Metallic. Inside, the GTI featured plaid cloth seats or Vienna leather upholstery, depending on the trim, and retained the iconic golf-ball shifter knob in manual models.

The 2022 Dodge Charger, built on a platform dating back to 2005, had undergone significant updates over the years, with a major facelift in 2015. Its design was modern and menacing, contrasting with the retro styling of its Challenger counterpart. The interior, however, felt dated, with thick bezels and chunky controls, though it was user-friendly. The Charger offered a range of trims, from the base SXT with a V6 engine to the high-performance Hellcat and Jailbreak models with supercharged V8s. The cabin, while not the most advanced, was functional, with a focus on ease of use. The Charger was available with a variety of performance and appearance packages, making it a versatile choice for those seeking both practicality and power.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI was powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This engine, an updated version of the EA888, featured integrated exhaust headers for improved heat management. The GTI's power was delivered to the front wheels through either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The GTI's fuel consumption was estimated at 9.3 L/100 km in the city and 7.0 on the highway with the automatic transmission. The GTI's handling was enhanced by a retuned suspension, with a lighter front assembly and stiffer rear springs. Various drive modes allowed for customization, and the electronic torque-sensing limited-slip differential improved cornering performance. The top-tier Performance trim offered the DCC adaptive damping system for even greater handling precision.

The 2022 Dodge Charger offered a range of engine options, starting with a 3.6-litre V6 producing up to 300 horsepower in the SXT AWD and GT trims. The R/T trim featured a 5.7-litre Hemi V8 with 370 horsepower, while the Scat Pack 392 boasted a 6.4-litre Hemi V8 with 485 horsepower. The Hellcat models took performance to another level with a supercharged 6.2-litre Hemi V8, producing 717 horsepower in the standard Hellcat and up to 807 horsepower in the Jailbreak. All engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive standard and all-wheel drive available on V6 models. The Hellcat's acceleration was impressive, with a 0-60 mph time of 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 315 km/h. The Widebody setup improved handling, allowing the Charger to take corners with precision.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI offered a balance of performance and practicality, with 564 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats and 977 litres with the seats folded. The driver-centric interior featured a centre stack angled towards the driver and a unique "light and sight" panel for easy control of headlights and defogging settings. Rear legroom was surprisingly generous, making the GTI suitable for family use.

The 2022 Dodge Charger, a large sedan, provided ample legroom in both rows, though headroom was limited. The high centre console and performance bucket seats created an intimate driver experience. The Charger's trunk offered 467 litres of space, but the small trunk lid and high rear bumper made loading large items challenging. Despite these limitations, the Charger combined sports-car performance with practicality, offering a usable trunk and four doors.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI featured a fully digital driver information display with customizable gauge layouts and ambient lighting profiles. The infotainment system included an 8-inch touchscreen in the base trim and a 10-inch version with navigation in higher trims. Standard features included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth connectivity. The GTI's Car-Net system provided remote access to vehicle information and controls.

The 2022 Dodge Charger came standard with a 7-inch touchscreen running the Uconnect infotainment system, known for its user-friendly interface. An 8.4-inch version was available on higher trims, offering larger icons and easier navigation. Both screens included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. While not the most advanced, the Charger's technology was functional and easy to use.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI was equipped with Volkswagen's IQ.Drive, offering advanced driver assistance systems like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. However, IQ.Drive was only available on automatic models. Park Distance Control was standard on all trims, with Park Assist available on the Performance trim. The GTI had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2022 Dodge Charger offered limited standard safety features, with only a backup camera and rear parking sensors included. Optional safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and more. The Charger received a Marginal rating in the IIHS driver’s side overlap test and a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA.