2023 Acura Integra vs 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The 2023 Acura Integra was a testament to Acura's cohesive design language, seamlessly fitting into the brand's lineup with its pentagonal grille, JewelEye headlights, and sharply creased character lines. It replaced the ILX compact sedan, offering a fresh five-door liftback design reminiscent of the third-generation Integra. The car's wide track and long wheelbase gave it a solid, planted look, while the embossed "Integra" name added a nostalgic touch. In Canada, the Integra was available in three trims: base, A-Spec, and Elite A-Spec, each with distinct wheel designs and performance all-season tires. Inside, the Integra shared some similarities with the Honda Civic but maintained its unique identity with features like honeycomb grilles and a 9-inch colour touchscreen. The Elite A-Spec trim offered microsuede inserts, though it lacked ventilated seats, and while it didn't match the bespoke refinement of German rivals, it was well-constructed and offered a premium feel.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class defied the trend of cold, technical designs with its elegant proportions, softly rounded forms, and bold detailing. The star-map grille texture, star-shaped taillight illumination, and chrome roofline added distinctive character, promising a timeless appeal. In Canada, the E-Class was available in E 350 4Matic and E 450 4Matic models, starting at $73,900. The E-Class offered a luxurious interior with Tonka Brown Nappa leather upholstery, a Superscreen triple-display glass panel, and an active ambient lighting system. The car blended classic luxury with high-tech modernism, providing a plush and sophisticated driving experience.

The 2023 Acura Integra marked a first for the model with its turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 200 horsepower and 192 pound-feet of torque. The engine felt lively and paired beautifully with the six-speed manual transmission, available only on the Elite A-Spec trim. The manual transmission featured automatic rev-matching technology, making downshifting smooth and effortless. The Integra's brakes and suspension provided a sporty yet comfortable ride, and its wide track and long wheelbase contributed to its impressive handling capabilities. The variable-ratio electric power-steering system offered a natural feel on highways and sharp responsiveness in corners. The Integra also featured three drive modes—Comfort, Normal, and Sport—plus an individual mode, with Sport mode enhancing the car's performance characteristics.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offered two engine options: the E 350 4Matic with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, and the E 450 4Matic with a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine delivering 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. Both models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic all-wheel drive, along with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The E 350 provided ample power for most drivers, though its fuel economy fell short of expectations. The optional Airmatic Package added an adaptive air suspension and rear-axle steering, enhancing the E-Class's ride quality and handling. While the E-Class excelled in comfort and luxury, it was not a sports sedan, focusing more on providing a soothing and refined driving experience.

The 2023 Acura Integra's liftback design offered practicality with 688 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats. However, the high lift-over height could be challenging for shorter individuals or those with heavy luggage. The interior provided ample space and comfort for the driver and passengers, with a logical dashboard layout and smart storage solutions. Rear passengers enjoyed decent legroom, though headroom was limited due to the steeply sloped roofline. The back seat cushions were notably soft, adding to passenger comfort.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offered a comfortable interior with supportive front seats available in MB-Tex, genuine leather, or premium Nappa leather. The seats were heated and power-operated, with optional ventilation. The rear seats provided good leg support and a tall riding position, though entering and exiting could be challenging due to the intrusive rear wheel wells. The trunk offered 540 litres of cargo space, with a tall enough design to accommodate full-size suitcases. The interior featured practical storage solutions, including sizable door pockets and a hidden centre console bin.

The 2023 Acura Integra came standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster. The Elite A-Spec trim added a 9-inch colour touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a head-up display, and a wireless charging pad. The ELS Studio 3D premium audio system with 16 speakers provided an exceptional audio experience. The Integra's technology offerings made it a strong contender in its segment, especially with the Elite A-Spec trim.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class showcased the third-generation Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a 14.4-inch infotainment touchscreen. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a navigation system with augmented video technology. The MBUX allowed for personalized driver profiles and routines, while the 17-speaker Burmester 4D surround-sound system delivered an outstanding audio experience. The Superscreen Package added a 12.3-inch touchscreen for the passenger and a video camera for conference calls, enhancing the E-Class's technological appeal.

The 2023 Acura Integra set a new standard for safety equipment, offering a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) as standard. Features included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more. The Elite A-Spec trim added low-speed braking control and parking sensors. The Integra received a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class included numerous safety features, with the Driver Assistance Package offering 14 additional technologies for $2,150. Highlights included upgraded Pre-Safe features, Active Emergency Stop Assist, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping systems. The ADAS performed well, though some features, like the Automatic Lane Change function, required caution. The E-Class's safety systems were practical and effective in daily driving situations.