2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2022 Subaru WRX

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 S-Class and C-Class models. The E-Class had 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 sedan, wagon, coupe, and convertible variants. The interior was a luxurious haven, with rich woods, aluminum, and carbon fibre accents, complemented by advanced ambient lighting and a dual 12-inch screen setup that replaced analog gauges with a digital display.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru WRX presented a more subtle exterior design, despite being 5 centimetres wider than its predecessor. The front end retained a small hexagonal grille and signature hood scoop, while the side profile was simplified with black plastic cladding that improved aerodynamics. The rear featured flared fenders and a large plastic bumper, with taillights designed to resemble illuminated magma. The WRX's interior saw significant improvements, with better fit and finish, a D-shaped steering wheel, and carbon-fibre-pattern trim accents. The sport seats offered comfort and support, making the WRX a practical choice for daily commuting.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class introduced electrified inline-six powertrains, replacing the conventional V6 engines. The E450 model became a hybrid, utilizing a 48-volt electrical system to enhance power and torque briefly. This system allowed the engine to shut off more frequently, theoretically saving fuel and reducing emissions. The E450's 3.0-litre I6 engine produced 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, with additional overboost from the battery. The AMG E53 model added a second turbo, delivering 429 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque, while the AMG E63 S boasted a 4.0-litre V8 engine with 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. The E-Class offered a balance of performance and comfort, with variable-rate air suspension and rear-biased AWD enhancing its driving dynamics.

The 2022 Subaru WRX featured a new 2.4-litre turbocharged Boxer engine, producing 271 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. While the power increase was minimal compared to the previous model, the WRX's AWD system and choice of a six-speed manual or CVT transmission provided versatility. The manual transmission offered a satisfying driving experience, with precise gear shifts and a responsive clutch. The WRX's suspension, mounted on the Subaru Global Platform, improved ride quality and reduced body roll, making it a capable performer on challenging roads.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offered a spacious cabin with ample headroom and legroom for four adults. The interior featured redesigned infotainment controls, with touchpads on the steering wheel and shortcut buttons for navigation and stereo settings. The E-Class sedan provided 540 litres of trunk space, while the wagon offered up to 1,820 litres with seats folded. The coupe and convertible variants had less cargo space, but the wagon's stowable rear-facing jump seat added versatility.

The 2022 Subaru WRX, despite lacking a hatchback option, increased its cargo capacity to 354 litres, with a 60/40 split-fold function for the rear seats. The sport seats were comfortable and supportive, available in cloth, premium cloth, or Ultrasuede upholstery. The WRX's standard AWD system and practical interior made it a compelling choice for those seeking a performance-focused sedan with everyday usability.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system, with a touch-sensitive main screen and improved menu organization. Gesture controls, natural voice processing, and a live feed from the front camera enhanced the user experience. The system included massaging seats, seat kinetics, and various display options for the instrument cluster. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were not wireless, the E-Class offered a range of connected services and optional driving assists.

The 2022 Subaru WRX introduced an 11.6-inch tablet-style touchscreen display in Sport-trim models, offering a visually impressive interface. Physical controls for climate and audio functions complemented the touchscreen, although Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration had limitations. The base-trim WRX featured a dual 7-inch display setup, while an optional 11-speaker Harman Kardon stereo system was available in higher trims.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class received high safety ratings, with a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick+" designation from the IIHS. The E-Class offered innovative safety features, including Pre-Safe Sound, side bolster inflation, and crosswind countermeasures. Standard safety equipment included forward automatic emergency braking, a driver-attention monitor, and blind-spot monitoring, with additional driver-assist features available as options.

The 2022 Subaru WRX's safety features varied by transmission. CVT-equipped models came with Subaru's EyeSight suite, offering automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. Manual transmission models lacked EyeSight but included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert in higher trims. The WRX's Subaru Global Platform improved crash energy absorption, and the car came standard with seven airbags.