2023 Acura Integra vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class retained its fantastic design from the previous year, following a complete makeover that was widely praised. Despite the growing popularity of SUVs, the S-Class continued to make a strong case for the sedan with its sleek and elegant design. The long distance between the front axle and the dashboard added to its elegance, while the proud Mercedes-Benz grille and star hood ornament highlighted its prestigious lineage. Inside, the S-Class offered a luxurious cabin with high-quality materials and a sophisticated dashboard featuring a 12.8-inch touchscreen and a separate 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, providing a delightful experience for both driver and passengers.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura Integra presented a modern design that seamlessly fit into Acura's lineup, sharing design elements with the TLX sedan and RDX and MDX crossovers. The Integra replaced the ILX compact sedan, offering a five-door liftback design that harkened back to the third-generation Integra. Its wide track and long wheelbase gave it a solid, planted look, while the embossed "Integra" name added a nostalgic touch. Inside, the Integra shared some similarities with the Honda Civic but maintained its unique identity with features like honeycomb grilles and a 9-inch color touchscreen. The interior was comfortable, though rearward visibility was somewhat limited, and the lack of ventilated seats was a notable omission for a premium vehicle.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was designed for both serene commuting and exhilarating weekend drives. The S500 model featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder mild-hybrid engine with EQ Boost, delivering 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, with an additional 21 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque from the electric motor. The S580 model offered a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine, also with EQ Boost. Both models used a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic AWD, providing impressive acceleration with 0-60 mph times of 4.9 seconds for the S500 and 4.4 seconds for the S580. Despite their weight, the S-Class models handled smoothly and offered powerful braking, with fuel economy ratings of up to 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway for the S500.

The 2023 Acura Integra introduced a turbocharged engine for the first time, with a 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder producing 200 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque. The A-Spec with Technology trim offered a six-speed manual transmission with rev-matching technology, providing a lively and engaging driving experience. The Integra's handling was impressive, with a firm suspension and a variable-ratio electric power-steering system that adjusted the steering feel based on wheel position. While the Integra was only available with front-wheel drive, its wide track and long wheelbase contributed to its planted feel through corners. The Integra also offered three drive modes—Comfort, Normal, and Sport—allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience to their preferences.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class excelled as an executive sedan, offering a spacious and luxurious cabin with features like powered sun blinds, a Panorama Sunroof, and a 13.8-cubic-foot trunk. The front seats provided exceptional comfort with heating, ventilation, massage functions, and memory settings. The Executive Line package for the S580 added rear-seat enhancements, including active multicontour seats and a high-end rear-seat entertainment system. The S-Class also featured soft-close doors, ensuring a quiet and refined experience for all occupants.

The 2023 Acura Integra's liftback design provided practicality with 24.3 cubic feet of cargo space, though the high lift-over height could be challenging for loading heavy items. The interior offered a logical dashboard layout, comfortable front seats, and decent legroom for rear passengers, though headroom was limited for taller individuals. The Integra's rear seat cushions were notably soft, providing comfort for passengers despite the limited space.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was equipped with cutting-edge technology, including a 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen for the MBUX infotainment system and a 12.3-inch LED virtual instrument panel. Optional features like a 3D instrument cluster and augmented reality head-up display enhanced the driving experience. The standard Burmester 3D Surround sound system provided high-fidelity audio, with an available 4D system for an immersive experience. The S-Class also featured advanced powertrain and chassis technologies, such as EQ Boost and rear-axle steering, improving efficiency and maneuverability.

The 2023 Acura Integra offered a range of technology features, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. The A-Spec with Technology trim added a 9-inch touchscreen, wireless connectivity, a head-up display, and a wireless charging pad. The ELS Studio 3D premium audio system with 16 speakers provided an impressive sound experience, surpassing the standard 8-speaker system. The Integra's technology offerings made it a strong contender in its segment, especially with the top-tier trim.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was packed with safety features, including Magic Vision Control, adaptive cruise control, active steering assist, and active brake assist. The Pre-Safe systems prepared the vehicle for imminent collisions, while car-to-x communication shared road condition warnings. The S-Class also offered rear-passenger airbags and occupant restraint protection for added safety.

The 2023 Acura Integra set a new standard for safety equipment, with features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist included as standard. The A-Spec with Technology trim added low-speed braking control and parking sensors. The Integra received a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, though the IIHS had not yet tested it.