2023 Acura Integra 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 be 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 the GTI. 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 and wheel sizes varying by trim, with colours ranging from staple shades to more vibrant options like Pomelo Yellow Metallic for the Performance trim. Inside, the GTI offered plaid cloth seats as standard on base and Autobahn trims, with Vienna leather on the Performance, and retained the classic golf-ball shifter knob for manual models.

The 2023 Acura Integra presented a cohesive design language that aligned with Acura's larger models, featuring a pentagonal grille, JewelEye headlights, and sharply creased character lines. Replacing the ILX compact sedan, the Integra adopted a five-door liftback design, reminiscent of the third-generation Integra. The car's wide track and long wheelbase gave it a solid, planted look. In Canada, the Integra was available in three trims: base, A-Spec, and Elite A-Spec, with wheel sizes increasing with each trim. The rear design included a decklid spoiler, dual exhaust outlets, and distinctive taillights. Inside, the Integra shared some similarities with the Honda Civic but maintained a unique feel with features like honeycomb grilles for climate control vents and high-quality HVAC controls. The Elite A-Spec trim offered microsuede upholstery inserts, though they lacked breathability. Despite not matching the bespoke refinement of German competitors, the Integra was well-constructed and offered a premium feel.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI, a descendant of the 1983 model, boasted a significant power increase to 241 horsepower from a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This 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, especially on winding 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 city and 7.0 L/100 km highway with the automatic transmission. The Mk8 GTI featured a retuned suspension with weight reductions and stiffer rear springs, complemented by electronic systems like a torque-sensing limited-slip differential and adaptive damping in the Performance trim, enhancing its handling and ride comfort.

The 2023 Acura Integra introduced a turbocharged engine for the first time, a 1.5-litre four-cylinder producing 200 horsepower and 192 pound-feet of torque. The Elite A-Spec trim offered a six-speed manual transmission with a limited-slip differential, while lower trims came with a CVT. The Integra's manual transmission featured automatic rev-matching, making downshifts smooth and easy. The car also included automatic stop/start and brake hold features, enhancing the driving experience. The Integra shared its powertrain with the Honda Civic Si, providing a sporty ride with firm suspension and excellent handling, despite being front-wheel drive. The variable-ratio electric power-steering system offered a natural feel on highways and sharp response in corners. The Integra featured three drive modes—Comfort, Normal, and Sport—plus an individual mode, with Sport mode enhancing the car's dynamic performance.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI balanced performance with 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 unique "light and sight" panel for adjusting headlights and defogging settings. Rear legroom was surprisingly generous, making the GTI suitable for family use, although its cargo space fell short compared to competitors like the Hyundai Veloster N.

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 could be challenging for loading heavy items. The interior offered a logical dashboard layout, convenient storage options, and comfortable seating for front passengers. Rear legroom was adequate, but headroom was limited due to the sloped roofline. Despite these limitations, the Integra's rear seat cushions were notably soft, enhancing passenger comfort.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI featured a 10.25-inch 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, supporting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The Performance trim offered a 9-speaker Harmon Kardon audio system. Volkswagen's Car-Net system provided remote access features, though touch-capacitive controls were less user-friendly.

The 2023 Acura Integra came standard with a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. The Elite A-Spec trim upgraded to a 9-inch touchscreen with wireless connectivity and a head-up display. The trim also included a wireless charging pad and a premium ELS Studio 3D audio system with 16 speakers. The Integra's technology package was comprehensive, especially in the Elite A-Spec trim, offering a seamless and advanced user experience.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI offered advanced driver assistance systems through its IQ.Drive suite, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. However, these features were only available on automatic models. Park Distance Control was standard across all trims, with the Performance trim adding Park Assist for automated parking. The GTI had not been crash-tested by major safety organizations at the time.

The 2023 Acura Integra set a high standard for safety equipment, offering features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist across all trims. 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, unlike some competitors. The IIHS awarded the Integra a Top Safety Pick+ rating, and the NHTSA gave it a five-star overall rating.