2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, part of the W213 generation, showcased a design evolution that embraced the "sensual purity" theme, moving away from the sharper angles of its predecessor. This model featured a more fluid and curvier form, reminiscent of the 2014 S-Class and 2015 C-Class. The E-Class received updates such as squinted headlights, an inverted trapezoid grille, and horizontal taillights, giving it a slightly edgier appearance. Despite these changes, it maintained its reputation as a handsome and elegant vehicle, available in sedan, wagon, coupe, and convertible forms. The interior was a luxurious haven, adorned with rich woods, aluminum, and carbon fibre, complemented by intricate details like metal speaker grilles and elaborate stitching. The cabin was a blend of decadence and modernity, with two 12-inch screens providing crisp detail and vibrant colours, making it a standout in its class.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class continued to impress with its sleek and sophisticated design, following a complete makeover in the previous year. The S-Class, known for its flagship status, retained its elegant and elongated profile, characterized by a long distance between the front axle and dashboard, enhancing its overall elegance. The interior was a testament to luxury, featuring a waterfall of open-pore wood trim and a 12.8-inch touchscreen in the centre stack. The cabin was meticulously crafted with high-quality materials, offering a serene and comfortable environment for both drivers and passengers. The S-Class dashboard, with its separate 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, added to the car's allure, providing a visually appealing and functional layout.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class introduced significant changes to its powertrain, transitioning from conventional V6 engines to electrified inline-six powertrains for its high-volume models. The E450 became a hybrid, utilizing a 48-volt electrical system to supplement the traditional 12-volt system. This setup provided an additional 21 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque for brief periods, enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. The E450's 3.0-litre inline-six engine produced 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, offering a quiet and smooth driving experience. The AMG E53 model added a second turbo, delivering 429 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque, while the AMG E63 S boasted a hand-built 4.0-litre V8 engine with 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, making it a performance powerhouse. Despite its impressive capabilities, the E-Class prioritized comfort and stability, providing a balanced driving experience.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class offered a refined performance with its turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six-cylinder mild-hybrid engine in the S500 model. The EQ Boost system added 21 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, enhancing the engine's output of 429 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque. The S580 model featured a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine, also benefiting from the EQ Boost system. Both models utilized a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic AWD, delivering impressive acceleration and handling. The S500 achieved 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds, while the S580 accomplished it in 4.4 seconds. Despite their weight, both models offered a smooth and responsive driving experience, making them suitable for both commuting and leisure driving. The S-Class's fuel efficiency was respectable, with the S500 consuming 11.4 L/100 km city and 8.0 highway, while the S580 used 14.3 L/100 km city and 9.5 highway.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured a redesigned infotainment system with a touchscreen interface, enhancing user-friendliness. The cabin was spacious, accommodating four adults comfortably, with ample headroom and legroom. The E-Class offered various body styles, including a coupe, convertible, and wagon, each with its own unique features. The sedan provided 540 litres of trunk space, while the wagon offered 640 litres, expandable to 1,820 litres with seats folded. Despite its luxurious interior, some features like rear USB ports and heated rear seats were missing in certain models.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class excelled in providing a luxurious and comfortable cabin, catering to both drivers and passengers. The interior featured powered sun blinds, a Panorama Sunroof, and a 510-litre trunk for ample storage. The cabin was equipped with six USB-C ports and a 115-volt power supply, ensuring connectivity for all passengers. The front seats offered rapid-heating active multicontour features, while the Executive Rear Seating package in the S580 provided additional comfort for rear passengers. The S-Class's doors, although wide-opening, were equipped with soft-close functionality, adding to the overall convenience and luxury.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class introduced the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a touchscreen interface with improved organization and functionality. The system included natural voice processing, gesture controls, and a live feed from the front camera for navigation. While the system lacked over-the-air updates and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it offered a range of connected services and optional driving assists. The instrument cluster provided customizable displays, allowing drivers to personalize their driving experience.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class boasted advanced technology, including a 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen and a 12.3-inch LED virtual instrument panel. The OLED screen offered superior image quality and energy efficiency, while the optional 3D instrument cluster added depth and visual interest. The S-Class featured augmented video for navigation and an available augmented reality head-up display, enhancing driver assistance. The audio experience was elevated with a standard Burmester 3D Surround sound system, with an optional 4D system for an immersive experience. The S-Class also offered rear-axle steering, improving maneuverability and handling.

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+" from the IIHS. It featured innovations like Pre-Safe Sound and side collision protection, along with standard and optional driver-assist features. The E-Class prioritized safety, offering a range of advanced systems to protect occupants.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class continued Mercedes-Benz's tradition of safety innovation, offering a comprehensive suite of standard and optional safety features. The S-Class included Magic Vision Control, adaptive cruise control, active steering assist, and various Pre-Safe systems. It also featured car-to-x communication, enhancing safety through shared warning messages. The S-Class provided executive-level safety upgrades for rear passengers, ensuring a secure and comfortable ride.