2023 Acura Integra vs 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The 2023 Acura Integra showcased a cohesive design language that aligned seamlessly with Acura's larger models like the TLX sedan and the RDX and MDX crossovers. With its pentagonal grille, JewelEye headlights, and sharply creased character lines, the Integra presented a modern and recognizable aesthetic. The five-door liftback design, embossed "Integra" name, and wide track gave it a solid, planted look, distinguishing it from the outgoing ILX compact sedan. Inside, the Integra shared some similarities with the Honda Civic but maintained enough unique elements to avoid feeling like a mere re-skin. The 9-inch color touchscreen, thin steering wheel, and excellent exterior visibility were notable features, although rearward visibility was less impressive. The A-Spec and A-Spec with Technology trims offered microsuede upholstery, which, while effective in keeping the driver in place, lacked breathability and did not include ventilated seats.

In contrast, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class exuded a timeless elegance with its long hood, short deck proportions, and softly rounded forms. The star-map grille texture, star-shaped taillight illumination, and chrome accents added distinctive character. The E-Class came in E 350 4Matic and E 450 4Matic models, with prices starting at $62,300. Our test car, loaded with options, had an MSRP of $82,450. The interior was a blend of luxury and technology, featuring Tonka Brown Nappa leather upholstery, a Superscreen triple-display glass panel, and an active ambient lighting system. The E-Class managed to combine classic luxury with high-tech modernism, making it a plush and sophisticated choice.

The 2023 Acura Integra introduced a turbocharged 1.5-liter 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 in the A-Spec with Technology 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 handling capabilities were impressive for a front-wheel-drive vehicle. 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 noticeably enhancing the driving experience.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offered two engine options. The E 350 4Matic came with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 6.1 seconds. The E 450 4Matic featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, reaching 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds. Both models used a nine-speed automatic transmission and included 4Matic all-wheel drive. The 48-volt mild-hybrid system improved fuel economy and assisted in launching the car. Despite the E 350's official EPA rating of 27 mpg in combined driving, our test observed 23.8 mpg. The optional Airmatic Package, with adaptive air suspension and rear-axle steering, provided a smooth and controlled ride, although it felt slightly unnatural on rough roads. The E-Class excelled in comfort and quietness, making it a consummate luxury car.

The 2023 Acura Integra's liftback design offered practicality with 24.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. However, the high lift-over height made loading and unloading heavy items challenging. The front seats were comfortable, with a logical dashboard layout and smartly placed storage options. Rear passengers had decent legroom but limited headroom due to the steeply sloped roofline. The rear seat cushions were soft, adding to passenger comfort.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class provided a comfortable interior with supportive front seats available in MB-Tex artificial leather, genuine leather, or premium Nappa leather. The seats were heated and power-operated, with optional ventilation. The rear seats offered good leg support and a tall riding position, although entering and exiting were challenging due to intrusive rear wheel wells. The trunk provided 19.1 cubic feet of cargo space, with a 40/20/40-split folding rear seat for additional capacity. Practical storage options included sizable door pockets, a hidden center console bin, and a roomy bin under the split-top center armrest.

The 2023 Acura Integra came standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster. The Technology package added a 9-inch color touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless charging pad, and a head-up display. The top-tier trim also included additional USB ports and the ELS Studio 3D premium audio system with 16 speakers, providing an exceptional audio experience.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured the third-generation Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a 14.4-inch infotainment touchscreen. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a navigation system with augmented video technology. The MBUX allowed for up to 800 different vehicle settings across seven driver profiles and included online music and video streaming. The optional Superscreen Package added a 12.3-inch touchscreen for the front passenger and a video camera for conference calls. The MBUX digital voice assistant was responsive and conversational, enhancing the overall user experience.

The 2023 Acura Integra came standard with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, traffic jam assist, traffic sign recognition, and more. The A-Spec with Technology trim added low-speed braking control, front and rear parking sensors, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration awarded the Integra five out of five stars overall in its crash tests.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class included numerous safety features, with the Driver Assistance Package offering 15 additional technologies for $1,950. This package included upgraded Pre-Safe features, Active Emergency Stop Assist, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping, lane-centering, and lane-change systems. The ADAS worked well, although the lane-centering assist allowed a wider driving line on curves. The Automatic Lane Change function and Active Speed Limit Assist were useful but could be turned off if desired. The lane-keeping assist system was particularly impressive, providing decisive steering corrections when needed.