2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2020 Nissan Altima

In Canada, the 2020 Nissan Altima was available in three trims: S, SV, and Platinum. The Platinum trim, priced at $37,028 before fees, featured 19-inch machined-finish aluminum wheels, enhancing its sleek appearance. The redesign from the previous year refined its styling, though some details like the door handle alignment and rear diffuser colour were less appealing. Inside, the Altima boasted a clean, ergonomic design with a high-mounted touchscreen infotainment system and straightforward climate controls. The interior materials were on par with other midsize sedans, with matte chrome and simulated wood trim adding a touch of elegance.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, redesigned for a more fluid and curvier look, drew inspiration from the S-Class and C-Class models. The updated design included squinted headlights and a trapezoid grille, giving it a slightly edgier appearance. Despite the removal of the classic standing hood ornament, the E-Class maintained its elegance across sedan, wagon, coupe, and convertible variants. The interior was a showcase of luxury, featuring rich woods, aluminum, and carbon fibre accents. The cabin was equipped with advanced technology, including two 12-inch screens and a new steering wheel with touch-sensitive controls, making it a modern and lavish space.

The 2020 Nissan Altima in Canada featured a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine producing 188 horsepower, paired with a CVT and standard AWD. This setup aimed to compete with SUVs by enhancing traction and handling. The Altima's suspension and steering systems contributed to a smooth ride, with Intelligent Ride Control and Intelligent Trace Control technologies enhancing driving dynamics. The CVT mimicked traditional automatic transmissions, though its power delivery could be abrupt at times.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class introduced electrified inline-six powertrains, with the E450 model featuring a hybrid system that added 21 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque for brief periods. The E450's 3.0-litre engine produced 362 hp and 369 lb-ft, while the AMG E53 variant offered 429 hp and 384 lb-ft with an additional electric supercharger. The AMG E63 S, with its 4.0-litre V8, delivered 603 hp and 627 lb-ft, making it a performance powerhouse. Despite its power, the E-Class maintained comfort and stability, with advanced suspension systems and AWD enhancing its driving experience.

The 2020 Nissan Altima's interior focused on comfort, with NASA-inspired seats providing a weightless sensation. However, it lacked a front passenger seat height adjuster and ventilated seats. Standard features included heated front seats and mirrors, with optional heated steering wheel and rear air vents. The trunk offered 436 litres of space, with practical features like grocery bag hooks.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class provided a spacious cabin for four adults, with ample headroom and legroom. The sedan offered 540 litres of trunk space, while the wagon provided up to 1,820 litres with seats folded. The E-Class Coupe and Convertible had less rear space, but the wagon included a rear-facing jump seat. The interior featured advanced controls and dual screens, though mastering the technology required some learning.

The 2020 Nissan Altima's infotainment system featured an 8-inch display with physical and virtual buttons for easy navigation. Standard connectivity included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with available features like a Bose audio system and NissanConnect Services. The system's voice recognition required specific commands, which could be improved.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class introduced the MBUX system with a touch-sensitive main screen and natural voice processing. The interface was user-friendly, with gesture controls and advanced navigation features. Optional extras included massaging seats and mood settings. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto weren't wireless, the system offered extensive customization and connectivity options.

The 2020 Nissan Altima came with standard safety features like forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. Higher trims included blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and ProPilot Assist, though the latter's alerts could be intrusive. The Altima received a 5-star NHTSA rating and an IIHS Top Safety Pick.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was highly rated for safety, with a 5-star NHTSA rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for the sedan. It featured innovative safety technologies like Pre-Safe Sound and side collision protection. Standard features included automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, with additional driver-assist options available.