2023 Dodge Charger 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 have been hard to distinguish from its predecessor for those not deeply familiar with the brand. 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, with 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 and underbody paneling, while wheel sizes varied by trim, with options ranging from 17 to 19 inches. The GTI was available in staple colours like silver, black, and white, with additional hues like Atlantic Blue Metallic and King’s Red Metallic. Inside, plaid cloth seats were standard on lower trims, with leather available on the Performance trim, and the classic golf-ball shifter knob was retained for manual models.

The 2023 Dodge Charger, largely unchanged since its 2015 update, maintained a distinct and modern appearance compared to competitors like the Accord and Camry. The base model was somewhat plain, but the V8 versions, especially the Scat Pack with a widebody kit, were visually striking. The widebody kit included flared fenders, 20-inch wheels, and a large hood scoop, with a design that evoked a racetrack. The Swinger variant added unique touches like black brake calipers and bronze wheels, though it also featured retro decals and badges. The interior, unchanged since 2011, was dated with a small touchscreen and plasticky controls, though it included Nappa leather and Alcantara seats with green stitching. Despite its age, the Charger’s interior was functional, with familiar controls and adequate space for mayhem.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI boasted a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, a significant increase from its 1983 predecessor. The engine reached peak horsepower at 5,000 rpm, with torque available from a low 1,750 rpm, making it a joy to drive on winding roads. Power was sent 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 Mk8 GTI featured a retuned suspension with a lighter front assembly and stiffer rear springs, enhancing its handling. Various drive modes and a limited-slip differential improved cornering performance, while the top-tier Performance trim offered adaptive damping for even more dynamic driving.

The 2023 Dodge Charger offered a range of engines, starting with a 3.6-litre V6 producing up to 300 horsepower and 264 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The V6 was the only engine available with all-wheel drive, though its performance in adverse conditions was lacking. The Charger R/T featured a 5.7-litre V8 with 370 horsepower, while the Scat Pack’s 6.4-litre V8 delivered 485 horsepower and 475 pound-feet of torque, providing thrilling acceleration and a satisfying soundtrack. The Hellcat models, with a supercharged 6.2-litre V8, offered up to 807 horsepower, though their power was challenging to manage. The Charger’s handling was surprisingly good for its size, with precise steering and strong brakes, especially on the Scat Pack Widebody trims.

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 generous, making the GTI suitable for family use.

The 2023 Dodge Charger, despite its size, felt cramped inside. Headroom was adequate without a sunroof, but the footwells were tight, and rear legroom was limited by the transmission tunnel. The trunk offered 470 litres of space. The Charger’s controls were straightforward, with large buttons and switches for climate and audio systems, providing a familiar and distraction-free environment.

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 on the base trim and a 10-inch version with navigation on higher trims, with standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The system was easy to navigate, though the touch-capacitive controls were frustrating. Volkswagen’s Car-Net system offered remote access features via a smartphone app.

The 2023 Dodge Charger lacked the latest Uconnect system and advanced driver-assistance features. Its 8.4-inch touchscreen was small but user-friendly, with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and voice recognition. The Charger SRT Dashboard app allowed customization of performance settings, including launch control and line lock for drag racing. Hellcat models featured additional cooling functions accessible through the touchscreen.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI offered advanced driver assistance systems through Volkswagen’s IQ.Drive, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and forward collision warning. However, these features were 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 2023 Dodge Charger received four out of five stars from NHTSA in most crash tests, with five stars for rear passengers in side tests. It lacked standard advanced safety features, with options like forward collision warning and adaptive cruise control available on higher trims. Blind-spot monitoring was optional on Hellcat models and some lower trims.