2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI, despite its 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 GTI's styling adhered to the classic Volkswagen Golf GTI form, featuring a smooth hood and a subtle honeycomb-patterned air intake. The signature red accent line extended between the LED headlights, with an optional light bar adding 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 more vibrant choices like Atlantic Blue Metallic and Pomelo Yellow Metallic for the Performance trim. Inside, plaid cloth seats were standard on lower trims, while the Performance trim featured Vienna leather upholstery.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offered a variety of body styles, including coupe, convertible, sedan, and station wagon, with the E350 sedan featuring a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The E450 variants, equipped with a turbo 3.0-litre inline-six and EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology, were available with 4Matic AWD in Canada. The AMG E53 models, including the Cabriolet, boasted a more powerful version of the E450's engine. The AMG E53 Cabriolet, priced at $103,000, featured premium leather, carbon fibre trim, and a matte-finish paint. The design was characterized by a modern purity, with AMG styling, intricate wheels, and a matte-blue paint finish. Inside, the high-end spec included digital displays, Burmester speaker grilles, and luxurious leather, creating an opulent atmosphere.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI was powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. The engine, an updated version of the EA888, featured integrated exhaust headers for improved heat management. The GTI's torque peaked at a low 1,750 rpm, providing a thrilling driving experience, especially on curving roads. Power was delivered to the front wheels via 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, electronic torque-sensing limited-slip differential, and various drive modes. The Performance trim offered the DCC adaptive damping system for improved handling.

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. The engine's power was accessible across a wide rev range, allowing for a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 4.6 seconds. The AMG Speedshift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system provided excellent power delivery. The E53 Cabriolet's AMG-tuned air suspension and performance exhaust system enhanced its driving dynamics. The car's dual personality allowed for both relaxed cruising and spirited driving, with AMG Dynamic Select driving modes offering further customization. The E53 Cabriolet was suitable for three-season driving, with features like heated seats and a neck-warming system for cooler weather.

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 driver-centric interior featured a centre stack angled towards 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 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet accommodated four adults comfortably, with an Aircap system to reduce cabin turbulence. The focus was on front-seat comfort, with standard heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and a neck-warming system. The car's sun-reflective leather and ventilated front seats provided comfort in hot weather. The trunk offered 360 litres of cargo space with the top up, reduced to about half with the top down.

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 GTI's Car-Net system offered remote access features, although the touch-capacitive controls were less user-friendly.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class boasted the MBUX infotainment system with two 12.3-inch screens. The system was user-friendly, with multiple interaction methods, including voice commands and touch controls. Standard features included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with optional upgrades like Wi-Fi service and augmented reality navigation. The Burmester surround-sound audio system provided excellent sound quality.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI was equipped with Volkswagen's IQ.Drive suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including 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, with Park Assist available on the Performance trim. The GTI had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS.

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 E-Class Cabriolet also had pop-up rollbars for rollover protection. Additional safety features were available in the Driver Assistance Package, including adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance. The package was praised for its effectiveness, particularly the adaptive cruise control and Active Steering Assist.