2022 Hyundai Elantra vs 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI, despite its claim of having all-new body panels, retained a familiar look that might not have been immediately distinguishable from its predecessor to the casual observer. The eighth-generation model was longer and lower, maintaining the same wheelbase, which contributed to a stable silhouette while preserving the nimbleness characteristic of earlier models. The styling adhered to the classic GTI form, with a smooth hood and a subtle honeycomb-patterned air intake. The signature red accent line extended between the LED headlights, and an optional light bar added drama to the front end. Aerodynamic enhancements included redesigned side-view mirrors, underbody paneling, and revised wheel-arch linings. The GTI came with red brake calipers, with wheel sizes varying by trim. Colour options included traditional shades and some vibrant choices like Atlantic Blue Metallic and Pomelo Yellow Metallic. Inside, the GTI featured plaid cloth seats or Vienna leather upholstery, with a classic golf-ball shifter knob for manual transmission models.

In contrast, the 2022 Hyundai Elantra underwent a significant transformation with its 2021 redesign, shedding its previous unremarkable appearance for a striking new look. The seventh-generation Elantra boasted a longer wheelbase, wider stance, and lower roofline, creating a dramatic four-door-coupe silhouette. Its exterior styling, while reminiscent of the Sonata, had its own unique personality, with distinctive creases forming a "Z" shape on the doors. The interior saw improvements in material quality, offering a slightly above-average feel for the compact car class, despite some hard plastics. The Elantra was available in four trims in Canada, with the N Line featuring sporty styling elements and a black interior. The N Line's sport seats and leather-wrapped steering wheel added to its sporty appeal, though the seats were less comfortable for long distances.

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, reached peak horsepower at 5,000 rpm and delivered torque at a low 1,750 rpm, making it a joy to drive on winding roads. The GTI offered a choice between a six-speed manual transmission and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DSG) with paddle shifters, both sending power to the front wheels. 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 featured a retuned suspension, with a lighter front assembly and stiffer rear springs, enhancing its handling. Various drive modes allowed for customization, and the electronic torque-sensing limited-slip differential improved cornering performance. The top-tier Performance trim included the DCC adaptive damping system for even better handling.

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra offered multiple powertrain options. The standard engine for most trims was a 2.0-litre four-cylinder producing 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Elantra Hybrid featured a 1.6-litre Atkinson-cycle engine with an electric motor, delivering 139 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The N Line trim had a turbocharged 1.6-litre engine producing 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, paired with a seven-speed DCT. The N Line's DCT offered manual shift mode and drive modes, enhancing the driving experience. The N Line also featured sport-tuned suspension and a multi-link independent rear suspension, providing confident handling. The N Line's front brake rotors were larger, offering more stopping power. Overall, the Elantra N Line delivered a compelling package with its sporty performance and handling.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI balanced performance and practicality, offering 564 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats and 977 litres with the seats folded. The GTI's driver-centric design included a centre stack angled toward the driver and a "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 Hyundai Elantra combined stylish design with practicality. Its compact size made it easy to navigate tight spaces, and the interior offered clear instrumentation and controls. The Elantra's rear seat accommodated three children comfortably, though taller adults might find headroom limited due to the sloped roof. Cargo space was 402 litres, adequate for most needs, though the trunk opening was narrow. The Elantra's moonroof had a droning noise issue when fully open, and the lack of rear USB ports and air vents was a minor inconvenience.

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 display with navigation in higher trims. Standard features included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth connectivity. The Performance trim offered a 9-speaker Harmon Kardon audio system. Volkswagen's Car-Net system provided remote access features.

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra offered impressive technology for its price. The base Essential trim included an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and four speakers. Higher trims added a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, an eight-speaker Bose audio system, and a digital instrument cluster. The N Line trim tested had the 8-inch display and six speakers, with easy wireless pairing for Apple CarPlay. The audio system was adequate, though not as refined as the Bose system in other Hyundai models.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI featured IQ.Drive, a suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including Travel Assist, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear traffic alert. However, IQ.Drive was only available on automatic GTIs. 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 Hyundai Elantra offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, with automatic emergency braking standard across all trims. Other features included forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assistance, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot warning. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, rear automatic braking, and Highway Drive Assist. The Elantra received a five-star overall crash protection rating from NHTSA and top "Good" ratings from IIHS in all crash tests.