2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI vs 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid

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 of 2,631 millimetres, which contributed to a stable silhouette while preserving the nimbleness characteristic of earlier models. The styling adhered to the classic 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, the GTI offered plaid cloth seats as standard, with Vienna leather on the Performance trim, and retained the classic golf-ball shifter knob for manual transmission models.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid, while largely a carryover model, surprised with its futuristic and expressive exterior design. The front end featured a sneering face and muscular features, with wheel sizes ranging from 17 to 19 inches depending on the trim. The interior was equally expressive, with a wild dashboard design and a sweeping curve across the centre stack. The control centre housed a large infotainment touchscreen, and the gear selector and cupholders were conveniently placed. The second row offered roomy and comfortable seating, even for the middle seat, which was often neglected in other vehicles. Toyota's attention to fit and finish was evident in the Camry Hybrid, with high-quality materials and precise construction throughout the exterior and interior.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI was a testament to the evolution of performance, boasting a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivered 241 horsepower, a significant increase from its 1983 predecessor's 90 horsepower. The updated EA888 engine featured integrated exhaust headers for better heat management and reached peak horsepower at 5,000 rpm. The GTI's 273 pound-feet of torque, available at a low 1,750 rpm, made it a joy to drive on winding roads. Power was sent 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 Mk8 GTI featured a retuned suspension, with a lighter front assembly and stiffer rear springs, enhancing its handling capabilities. Various drive modes and a limited-slip differential contributed to its agile performance, while the DCC adaptive damping system in the Performance trim allowed for precise adjustments.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid focused on fuel efficiency, with the entry-level LE model achieving ratings of 4.9 L/100 km in the city and 4.8 on the highway. The hybrid system combined a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, producing a total of 208 horsepower. An electronically controlled CVT sent power to the front wheels, with paddle shifters available on SE and XSE models. The Camry Hybrid offered drive modes including EV, Eco, Normal, and Sport, though maintaining EV mode was challenging. The hybrid's handling benefited from a lower centre of gravity due to the battery placement, providing a sporty feel compared to taller vehicles. While the focus on efficiency affected responsiveness, the Camry Hybrid delivered a comfortable and economical driving experience.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI balanced performance and practicality, offering 564 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 977 litres with the rear seats folded. The driver-centric design featured a centre stack angled towards the driver and a unique "light and sight" panel for adjusting headlights and defogging settings. Rear legroom was surprisingly generous, making the GTI suitable for family use despite its compact size.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid excelled in comfort and usability, with a reasonable driving position and ample headroom. The front seats offered various storage options, while the second row provided easy access and generous space. The Camry Hybrid's trunk matched the standard Camry's 428 litres, with a passthrough for long items and foldable rear seats for larger cargo. Toyota's warranty coverage included a three-year/60,000-kilometre basic warranty, a five-year/100,000-kilometre powertrain warranty, and extensive coverage for the hybrid battery and components.

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 premium Harmon Kardon audio system, though the touch-capacitive controls were less user-friendly. Volkswagen's Car-Net system provided remote access features via smartphone.

The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid was equipped with advanced technology, including a JBL-tuned premium audio system with nine speakers on the XLE model. Standard features across all trims included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility. The LE trim had a 7-inch touchscreen, while others featured a 9-inch display. The Camry Hybrid also offered a smart key system, push-button start, and a projected-path rearview camera. Higher trims included a 10-inch head-up display and additional luxury features.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI came with Volkswagen's IQ.Drive suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including Travel Assist for semi-autonomous driving, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear traffic alert. 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 Toyota Camry Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ as standard, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features such as a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic high beams. The Camry Hybrid also included Toyota's Star safety system, 10 airbags, and a tire pressure monitoring system. A blind-spot monitor was available on all trims except the base LE. The Camry Hybrid received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA.