2024 Volkswagen Golf GTI vs 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class broke away from the cold, technical designs of many modern vehicles. It featured a long hood, short deck proportions, and softly rounded forms, complemented by cleanly penned flanks and bold detailing. Distinctive elements like the star-map grille texture, star-shaped taillight illumination, and a chrome sweep defining the roofline added character. The E-Class was available in E 350 4Matic and E 450 4Matic models, starting at $62,300 plus a destination charge. However, most advanced features were bundled into optional packages. Our test E 350 4Matic, priced at $82,450, showcased luxury with Tonka Brown Nappa leather, a Superscreen triple-display, and a blend of classic luxury with modern technology.

The 2024 Volkswagen Golf GTI, a sporty version of the VW Golf, was only available as a five-door hatch. Its styling was more expressive than its predecessor, with a wide-mouth grille and standard LED headlights. The 380 special edition package marked the end of the manual GTI, featuring gloss black 19-inch wheels and a black roof. The GTI’s interior combined classic styling with modern tech, including a digital instrument cluster and a large infotainment screen. The signature plaid upholstery and golf-ball-like shifter added charm, though the steering wheel seemed borrowed from a VW Atlas.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offered two engine options. The E 350 4Matic had a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, reaching 60 mph in 6.1 seconds. The E 450 4Matic featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 375 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, achieving 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. Both models included a nine-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic AWD. A 48-volt mild-hybrid system enhanced fuel economy, though our E 350 test car fell short of the EPA’s 27 mpg estimate, achieving 23.8 mpg. The optional Airmatic Package provided an adaptive air suspension and rear-axle steering, offering a smooth ride but feeling slightly unnatural on rough roads. The E-Class excelled in comfort and luxury rather than sporty performance.

The 2024 Volkswagen Golf GTI used a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. It offered a six-speed manual or a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive. The GTI’s chassis featured an electronically-controlled limited-slip differential and optional adaptive damping. The driving experience was precise and stable, with excellent grip and suspension tuning. However, the GTI lacked excitement, with linear powertrain response and minimal turbo lag. It excelled as a daily driver, offering comfort and quietness, especially with adaptive dampers. The GTI balanced performance with everyday usability.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offered comfortable seating with options for MB-Tex, genuine leather, or premium Nappa leather. Heated and power-operated front seats were standard, with ventilation available. The rear seat entry was challenging due to intrusive wheel wells, but once seated, passengers enjoyed good leg support. The trunk offered 19.1 cubic feet of cargo space, though this seemed optimistic. Practical storage included sizable door pockets and a hidden center console bin.

The 2024 Volkswagen Golf GTI provided practicality with its hatchback design, offering 19.9 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 34.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Passenger space was comparable to sport compact sedans, with slightly more second-row headroom. Standard features included heated front seats, automatic climate control, and ambient lighting. SE and Autobahn trims added a sunroof, leather upholstery, and advanced climate control. However, haptic controls for temperature and audio volume hindered functionality, prioritizing form over function.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class showcased advanced technology with the third-generation MBUX infotainment system. It featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a 14.4-inch infotainment touchscreen. Optional features included a head-up display and a 17-speaker Burmester 4D surround-sound system. The Superscreen Package added a passenger touchscreen and a video camera for conference calls. The MBUX system was intuitive, with a responsive digital voice assistant and AI learning capabilities.

The 2024 Volkswagen Golf GTI included an 8.25-inch touchscreen on the base trim, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. SE and Autobahn models had a 10-inch touchscreen, Wi-Fi, and a nine-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. The 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro offered four configurations, though the design seemed cheesy. The infotainment system was generally user-friendly, but the instrument cluster struggled to convey information effectively.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class came with numerous safety features, with the Driver Assistance Package offering 15 additional technologies for $1,950. Highlights included upgraded Pre-Safe features, Active Emergency Stop Assist, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping systems. The Automatic Lane Change function worked well but was less suitable for fast-flowing traffic. The ADAS was practical for daily driving, with an impressive lane-keeping assist system.

The 2024 Volkswagen Golf GTI received top “Good” scores in some IIHS tests, though headlights varied in ratings. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The GTI also featured Intelligent Crash Response and Emergency Assist on DSG models. Additional options included park distance control and traffic sign recognition.