2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2021 Toyota Corolla

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, part of the W213 generation, showcased a design evolution that embraced "sensual purity," a concept introduced by Mercedes' chief designer, Gorden Wagener. This model moved away from the sharper angles of its predecessor, adopting a more fluid and curvier form reminiscent of the S-Class and C-Class. The E-Class featured a slightly edgier front with squinted headlights and an inverted trapezoid grille, while the rear design echoed the W212 with horizontal taillights. Despite the absence of the classic standing hood ornament, the E-Class maintained its elegance across its various body styles, including sedan, wagon, coupe, and convertible. The interior was a luxurious blend of rich woods, aluminum, and carbon fibre, with intricate details like metal speaker grilles and elaborate stitching, creating an inviting and opulent space.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Corolla, particularly in its 12th-generation SE and XSE trims, was considered one of the most attractive Corollas in recent history. The sportier trims featured design elements like sport-design bumpers, a mesh grille insert, and 18-inch aluminum wheels, enhancing its visual appeal. However, some design aspects, such as the hood shut line and over-styled rear bumper, were seen as less cohesive. The Corolla's interior, especially in the XSE trim, offered significant improvements in materials and design, with features like SofTex leatherette seats and an eight-way power driver's seat. Despite some limitations in rear seat space and trunk capacity, the Corolla provided a comfortable and practical cabin environment.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class introduced significant changes to its powertrain lineup, notably transitioning from conventional V6 engines to electrified inline-six powertrains for models like the E450. This hybrid system, featuring a 48-volt electrical system, provided additional power and torque, enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. The E450's 3.0-litre inline-six engine produced 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, with overboost capabilities. The AMG E53 model added a second turbo, delivering 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, offering brisk acceleration and a refined driving experience. The AMG E63 S, with its 4.0-litre V8 engine, produced an impressive 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque, making it a high-performance variant with advanced features like variable-rate air suspension and rear-biased all-wheel drive.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla SE and XSE models were equipped with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, generating 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. The Dynamic Shift CVT, paired with paddle shifters and a Sport driving mode, provided a smooth and engaging driving experience. The Corolla's TNGA platform contributed to its enjoyable driving dynamics, with components like electric steering and a multi-link rear suspension enhancing its handling capabilities. While not a sport sedan, the Corolla XSE offered a competent and engaging drive, with fuel efficiency ratings of 7.0 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, according to Natural Resources Canada.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured a redesigned infotainment system with a touchscreen interface, making everyday tasks more intuitive. The cabin was spacious, accommodating four adults comfortably, with ample headroom and legroom. The E-Class offered various body styles, each with unique features, such as the wagon's stowable rear-facing jump seat and the coupe's comfortable rear seats. However, some features like rear USB ports and heated rear seats were absent in certain trims. The E-Class sedan provided 540 litres of trunk space, while the wagon offered up to 1,820 litres with seats folded.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla XSE trim level included upgrades like SofTex leatherette seats, heated rear seats, and an eight-way power driver's seat, enhancing comfort and convenience. The Corolla's interior design emphasized simplicity and functionality, though rear seat space was somewhat limited in terms of headroom and legroom. The sedan's trunk offered 371 litres of cargo space, with the hatchback variant providing more capacity. Despite some limitations, the Corolla's interior was well-designed and practical for everyday use.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was equipped with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a touchscreen interface and natural voice processing. The system offered advanced features like live camera feeds with overlay arrows for navigation and massaging seats with side bolsters. While the system lacked over-the-air updates and wireless smartphone integration, it included standard features like a wireless phone charger and 4G WiFi. Optional driving assists provided semi-autonomous capabilities, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla offered a comprehensive infotainment package, including Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth as standard features. The XSE trim added SiriusXM functionality and navigation services. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with physical knobs and shortcut buttons for easy access to various functions. While the radio knobs could be more ergonomic, the overall system was praised for its simplicity and effectiveness.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was recognized for its safety, receiving a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick+" designation from the IIHS for the 2020 model. The E-Class featured innovative safety technologies like Pre-Safe Sound and side bolster inflation during collisions. Standard safety features included forward automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, with additional driver-assist features available as options.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering a suite of advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. The Corolla also included standard rear side-impact airbags and an available blind-spot warning system with rear cross-traffic alert. The 2020 Corolla received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with the 2021 model expected to maintain similar safety standards.