2021 Dodge Charger vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The 2021 Dodge Charger, a staple in the muscle car segment, continued to captivate buyers with its diverse range of variants, including the high-performance SRT Hellcat Redeye. Despite its decade-old design, the Charger maintained a distinctive look that resonated with its "brotherhood of muscle" ethos. The widebody styling option added an athletic flair, while the array of wheel, brake, and colour choices allowed for personalization. However, the interior, though improved over time, still lacked the premium feel expected at higher price points, with hard plastics and basic technology features.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class exuded luxury and sophistication, retaining its sleek design from the previous year's overhaul. As Mercedes-Benz's flagship sedan, the S-Class combined elegance with a rich heritage, offering a refined exterior and a meticulously crafted interior. The cabin was adorned with high-quality materials and cutting-edge technology, including a 12.8-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. The S-Class provided a serene and comfortable environment, making it a top choice for executives and luxury car enthusiasts.

The 2021 Dodge Charger offered a range of powertrains, catering to different performance preferences. The base models, including the SXT and GT, featured a 3.6-litre V6 engine producing up to 300 horsepower, while the R/T variant boasted a 5.7-litre HEMI V8 with 370 hp. The Scat Pack models upped the ante with a 6.4-litre V8 delivering 485 hp. At the top of the lineup, the SRT Hellcat Redeye's supercharged 6.2-litre V8 churned out an impressive 797 hp, making it a powerhouse on the road. Despite its performance prowess, the Charger lacked a manual transmission option, and its fuel efficiency varied significantly across models.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, available in S500 and S580 variants, featured advanced powertrains with EQ Boost technology. The S500's 3.0-litre inline-six-cylinder engine, combined with a mild-hybrid system, produced 429 hp, while the S580's twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 offered even more power. Both models utilized a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic AWD, ensuring smooth and responsive driving. The S-Class excelled in both performance and efficiency, with the S500 achieving a 0-100 km/h time of 4.9 seconds and the S580 doing it in 4.4 seconds. Despite its size, the S-Class handled with precision and offered a comfortable ride.

The 2021 Dodge Charger, a four-door sedan, balanced performance with practicality, offering a spacious interior and a 60/40 split-folding rear seat for added cargo space. While the technology was somewhat dated, the Charger provided essential features and a user-friendly layout. The steering wheel's design facilitated easy access to controls, though paddle shifters could be accidentally engaged during spirited driving.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class excelled in providing a luxurious and comfortable environment for both driver and passengers. The cabin featured powered sun blinds, a Panorama Sunroof, and a 510-litre trunk for ample storage. Front-row occupants enjoyed rapid-heating active multicontour seats, while the Executive Rear Seating package offered additional comfort for rear passengers. The S-Class's attention to detail extended to its soft-close doors and extensive warranty coverage, ensuring a premium experience.

The 2021 Dodge Charger came equipped with basic technology features, including a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. Optional upgrades included a larger 8.4-inch screen, premium audio systems, and navigation. However, the lack of a head-up display and the dated Uconnect system limited its technological appeal.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class boasted a state-of-the-art MBUX infotainment system with a 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen. The system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with an optional 3D instrument cluster and augmented reality navigation. The S-Class's audio experience was enhanced by a Burmester 3D Surround sound system, with an available 4D upgrade. The car's advanced technology extended to its powertrain and chassis, with features like EQ Boost and rear-axle steering.

The 2021 Dodge Charger received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with standard features like brake assist and electronic stability control. Optional safety packages included adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class prioritized safety with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, including active distance assist, active brake assist, and active lane-keeping assist. The S-Class also offered innovative systems like Magic Vision Control and car-to-x communication, enhancing both safety and convenience. Rear-passenger airbags and other executive-level safety features further distinguished the S-Class in this regard.