2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI, despite its new body panels, retained a familiar look that might not be immediately distinguishable from its predecessor unless you were a dedicated fan. The car was longer and lower, maintaining a 103.6-inch wheelbase, which contributed to a stable silhouette while preserving its nimble handling. The styling followed the classic GTI form, with a smooth hood, a subtle honeycomb-patterned air intake, and the signature red accent line running between the LED headlights. Aerodynamic improvements 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 18-inch alloys on the S and SE trims and 19-inch wheels on the Autobahn trim. Color options ranged from staple shades like silver, black, and white to more vibrant choices like Atlantic Blue Metallic and Kings Red Metallic, with Pomelo Yellow Metallic available exclusively for the Autobahn trim.

Inside, the GTI featured standard plaid cloth seats on the S and SE trims, with Vienna leather available on the SE and standard on the Autobahn. The classic golf-ball shifter knob was retained for manual transmission models, and all trims included stainless steel pedals. The interior was designed with a driver-centric approach, featuring a center stack angled towards the driver and a unique “light and sight” panel for adjusting headlights and defogging settings.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, following a complete makeover in 2021, continued to impress with its sleek design and luxurious feel. The S-Class, rooted in a long history dating back to the 1954 “Ponton” models, represented the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz’s sedan lineup. The seventh-generation S-Class, code-named “W223,” was available in S500 and S580 sedan variants, with no plans for coupe or convertible versions. The exterior was defined by its extended, low profile, and a long distance between the front axle and the dashboard, contributing to its elegant design. The S-Class featured a proud Mercedes-Benz grille and a star hood ornament, maintaining its distinguished lineage.

The interior of the S-Class was a masterpiece of luxury, with a waterfall of open-pore wood trim and a 12.8-inch touchscreen in the center stack. The 12.3-inch digital instrument panel was separate from the infotainment screen, allowing for distinct functions. The cabin was adorned with high-quality materials, meticulously fitted and assembled, providing a serene and comfortable environment for all passengers.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI, introduced to the U.S. in 1983, had evolved significantly from its original 90-horsepower model. The 2022 version boasted a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This power was delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The GTI’s fuel economy was estimated at 24 mpg city, 34 highway, and 28 combined with the manual transmission, slightly improving with the automatic. The GTI featured a retuned suspension, with a lighter front assembly and stiffer rear springs, enhancing its handling. Various drive modes and a standard electronic torque-sensing limited-slip differential contributed to its agile performance, making it a joy to drive on curving roads.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class offered two engine options: a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder mild-hybrid engine in the S500, producing 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque, and a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 in the S580, delivering 496 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. Both models featured the EQ Boost system, adding up to 21 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque during high-demand periods. The S-Class used a nine-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and standard 4Matic AWD. Despite its weight, the S500 could accelerate from 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds, while the S580 achieved the same in 4.4 seconds. The S500’s fuel economy was rated at 21 mpg city, 30 highway, and 24 combined, with the S580 at 16 mpg city, 25 highway, and 19 combined. The S-Class’s handling was smooth and responsive, making it suitable for both commuting and weekend drives.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI balanced performance and practicality, offering 19.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seat and 34.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The driver-centric interior featured a center stack angled towards the driver and a unique “light and sight” panel for adjusting headlights and defogging settings. Rear legroom was surprisingly spacious, making the GTI suitable for transporting a family of four.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class excelled in providing a luxurious and comfortable cabin. Second-row passengers enjoyed powered sun blinds and a Panorama Sunroof, while the 13.8-cubic-foot trunk offered ample storage space. The cabin featured six USB-C ports, a 115-volt power supply, and a range of comfort options, including heated and ventilated seats with massage functions. The Executive Line package added rear-seat enhancements, including a high-end entertainment system and additional comfort features. The S-Class’s doors, although large, were soft-close, ensuring a quiet and refined experience.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI featured a fully digital driver information display with customizable gauge layouts and ambient lighting profiles. The infotainment system included an 8.25-inch touchscreen in the S trim and a 10-inch screen with navigation in the SE and Autobahn trims. Standard features included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth connectivity, with a 9-speaker Harmon Kardon sound system in the higher trims. Volkswagen’s Car-Net system offered various connected services, some of which required additional subscriptions.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was equipped with a 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen and a 12.3-inch LED virtual instrument panel. The optional 3D instrument cluster added depth and visual interest, while the augmented video for navigation and available augmented reality head-up display provided advanced driver assistance. The standard Burmester 3D Surround sound system could be upgraded to a 4D system with headrest speakers. The S-Class also featured rear-axle steering, enhancing maneuverability.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI came with Volkswagen’s IQ.Drive, offering advanced driver assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. However, IQ.Drive was only available on automatic GTIs. All trims included Park Distance Control, with the Autobahn trim adding Park Assist for automatic parking.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was loaded with safety features, including Magic Vision Control, adaptive cruise control, active brake assist, and various Pre-Safe systems. The S-Class also offered car-to-x communication, rear-passenger airbags, and rear-seat belt bags for added safety.