2023 Honda Accord Hybrid 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, 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, underbody paneling, and revised wheel-arch linings. The GTI came with red brake calipers and wheel sizes varying by trim, with a range of staple and vibrant colours available. Inside, plaid cloth seats were standard on base and Autobahn trims, while Vienna leather was standard on the Performance trim, and the classic golf-ball shifter knob was retained in manual models.

The 2023 Honda Accord Hybrid presented a sleek and refined exterior, drawing comparisons to luxury sedans like the Audi A7. It was 7 centimetres longer than its predecessor, featuring a redesigned front grille and updated LED lighting. The new model maintained its Accord identity while offering a more upscale appearance. The front grille was more upright, with blacked-out LED headlights and taillights spanning the rear. The increased length and rear track contributed to a planted stance, accentuated by a long, flowing roofline. The Accord Touring offered six exterior colours and 19-inch alloy wheels, with optional gloss-black HPD alloys. Inside, the dashboard design was updated, featuring a standard digital instrument display and a 12.3-inch touchscreen in the Hybrid Touring, equipped with features like Amazon Alexa and wireless connectivity. The Canyon River Blue Metallic paint and black leather interior added to the upscale feel, with cloth seats standard in the Hybrid Sport.

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 faster warm-up. The GTI delivered 273 pound-feet of torque at a low 1,750 rpm, making it a joy to drive on curving 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 city and 7.0 L/100 km highway with the automatic transmission. The Mk8 GTI featured a retuned suspension, with a lighter front assembly and stiffer rear springs, complemented by electronic torque-sensing limited-slip differential and various drive modes. The Performance trim offered the DCC adaptive damping system for enhanced driving dynamics.

The 2023 Honda Accord Hybrid was equipped with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and two electric motors, producing 204 horsepower sent to the front wheels via a CVT. The Accord Hybrid offered smooth and efficient performance, seamlessly switching between electric and gas power. It provided sufficient power for highway merges and passing, with a suspension that absorbed road imperfections well. The regenerative braking system was enhanced with six levels of regen, offering a more fine-tuned experience. The Accord's agile handling made it relaxing to drive in various environments, and its increased length did not hinder parking ease.

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

The 2023 Honda Accord Hybrid adopted a layout similar to the Civic and CR-V, with a honeycomb mesh trim hiding the air vents. The infotainment screen was centrally placed, with easy-to-reach controls for climate and seat settings. The Touring trim included heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated rear seats. The Accord Hybrid featured a traditional gearshift and a dedicated volume control knob. The front seats provided excellent support, while rear legroom and shoulder room were generous, though headroom was limited by the roofline. Trunk space was ample at 473 litres, with easy access due to a low load floor.

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, offering Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth connectivity. The Performance trim included a 9-speaker Harmon Kardon audio system. The Car-Net system provided remote access features.

The 2023 Honda Accord Hybrid came with a 12.3-inch touchscreen in the Hybrid model, offering intuitive menus and easy navigation. The Touring trim included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless charging pad, Google Built-in, Amazon Alexa, and a head-up display. A 12-speaker Bose audio system, HD radio, and four USB ports were also included.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI featured IQ.Drive, offering advanced driver assistance systems like Travel Assist, 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 on all trims, with Park Assist available on the Performance trim. The GTI had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2023 Honda Accord Hybrid included a comprehensive suite of safety features, part of the Honda Sensing bundle, such as a multi-angle rearview camera, automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and more. The Touring trim added parking sensors and a head-up display. The Accord Hybrid earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS, with high scores in crash tests and safety features.