2021 Honda Civic vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The 2021 Honda Civic continued the tradition of segment-defining models that Honda released every decade or so. With its 10th-generation design, the Civic sedan offered a mix of love-it-or-hate-it styling that had become familiar on North American roads. The Touring trim, with its Cosmic Blue Metallic paint and 18-inch wheels, presented a striking appearance, though opinions varied depending on the angle and lighting. Inside, the Civic's cabin, while not as dramatic as when first introduced, still featured quality materials and thoughtful detailing. However, the infotainment screen size of 7 inches showed its age, despite the car's role as a trendsetter in the compact car segment.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, particularly the AMG E53 Cabriolet, exuded luxury and sophistication. The car's design purity was evident, especially with the AMG styling, larger wheels, and matte-blue paint finish. Inside, the E53 Cabriolet offered a high-end experience with bright digital displays, glow-in-the-dark air vents, and Burmester speaker grilles. The interior was a testament to luxury, with soft leather and a fragrance system enhancing the driving experience. The E-Class Cabriolet was designed for those who appreciated both style and substance, offering a blend of comfort and performance.

The 2021 Honda Civic offered a choice between a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 158 horsepower and a turbocharged 1.5-litre engine producing 174 horsepower. The latter, standard on the Touring trim, provided a spirited driving experience with 162 lb-ft of torque available from 1,700 to 5,500 rpm. The Civic's sophisticated suspension and steering contributed to its enjoyable ride, though the continuously variable transmission (CVT) was a point of contention due to its droning nature. Despite this, the Civic excelled in fuel economy, averaging 6.8 litres per 100 kilometres, surpassing official estimates.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet, on the other hand, boasted a 3.0-litre turbo inline-6 engine with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology, delivering 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain ensured robust performance across the rev range, with a 0-100 km/h time of 4.6 seconds. The AMG Speedshift nine-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic+ AWD system provided seamless power delivery, while the AMG Dynamic Select driving modes allowed for a tailored driving experience. The E53 Cabriolet's air suspension and performance exhaust system further enhanced its dynamic capabilities, making it a versatile performer on both highways and mountain roads.

The 2021 Honda Civic sedan, despite its low seating position, offered a spacious interior comparable to a decade-old midsize car. The front seats provided comfort with eight-way power adjustment for the driver, though the lack of rear air conditioning vents was a drawback. The centre console was a highlight, offering ample storage space, while the trunk provided 428 litres of cargo capacity, slightly reduced in the Touring trim due to the premium sound system.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet prioritized front passenger comfort with heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and a neck-warming Airscarf system. The sun-reflective leather and ventilated seats ensured comfort in hot weather, while the multi-contour front seats with massage added to the luxury experience. The E-Class Cabriolet's trunk offered 360 litres of space with the top up, though this was significantly reduced when the top was down.

The 2021 Honda Civic's technology offerings showed their age, with a standard 5-inch LCD screen and limited infotainment features. The Touring trim upgraded to a 7-inch touchscreen with a 10-speaker audio system, but the voice recognition system was unsophisticated. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, though the premium sound system was a notable improvement over the standard setup.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class excelled in digital instrumentation and infotainment with its MBUX system. Two 12.3-inch screens provided high-resolution displays, and the system offered multiple interaction methods, including voice commands and touch controls. The MBUX system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an augmented reality navigation overlay. The Burmester surround-sound audio system further enhanced the in-car experience, though the digital assistant could be inadvertently activated.

The 2021 Honda Civic came equipped with Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assistance. However, the LaneWatch system was limited to the right side, and the lack of a traditional blind-spot warning system was a drawback. Despite these limitations, the Civic earned top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offered a comprehensive set of standard safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Pre Safe and Pre Safe Sound systems prepared occupants for potential collisions, while the Driver Assistance Package added advanced features like adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance. The E-Class Cabriolet's pop-up rollbars and surround-view camera system further enhanced safety, making it a well-rounded choice for safety-conscious buyers.