2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2021 Toyota Camry

The 2021 Toyota Camry aimed to break away from its past reputation of being a generic sedan by incorporating more dynamic styling elements. The design featured flared wheel arches and sleek headlights and taillights that gave the car a wider appearance. However, the SE and XSE trims were criticized for their excessive use of fake vents, which added unnecessary visual clutter. The LE and XLE trims offered a cleaner, albeit still large, grille design. The Camry was built on the TNGA-K platform, shared with other Toyota models like the Avalon and RAV4. The interior mirrored the exterior's chaotic styling, with a mix of contrasting materials and trim elements that lacked a cohesive design theme. Despite the low-rent feel of the materials, the Camry's interior was functional, with standard features like 16-inch steel wheels on the base LE trim and options for larger alloy wheels on higher trims.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class exuded luxury and sophistication, available in various body styles including coupe, convertible, sedan, and station wagon. The AMG E53 Cabriolet, in particular, showcased a stunning design with matte-finish paint, premium leather, and carbon fibre trim. The E-Class was praised for its design purity, with AMG styling, intricate wheels, and a convertible top that added to its allure. Inside, the E53 Cabriolet offered a luxurious experience with high-resolution digital displays, Burmester speaker grilles, and supple leather. The car's interior was designed to provide comfort and elegance, making it a standout in its class.

The 2021 Toyota Camry offered a range of powertrains, starting with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine that delivered 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque with FWD, and slightly less with AWD. The XSE models featured a dual-exhaust system that increased output to 206 hp and 186 lb-ft with FWD. A naturally-aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine was also available, producing 301 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque. The Camry Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre engine with electric assist for a total output of 208 hp. The Camry's chassis tuning provided a balance between handling and ride quality, making it enjoyable to drive. The AWD system, derived from the RAV4, could send up to 50% of torque to the rear wheels, enhancing traction without compromising space.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet featured a 3.0-litre turbo inline-6 engine with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology, producing 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. The engine's power delivery was robust, with a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 4.6 seconds. The AMG Speedshift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system ensured power was effectively transferred to the road. The E53 Cabriolet offered multiple AMG Dynamic Select driving modes, allowing drivers to tailor the car's performance to their preferences. The AMG-tuned air suspension and performance exhaust system further enhanced the driving experience, making the E53 Cabriolet a versatile and exhilarating vehicle.

The 2021 Toyota Camry provided generous rear headroom and legroom, though front space was slightly compromised. The front seats were adjustable and comfortable, with excellent outward visibility. Cargo space was average at 428 litres, and in-cabin storage was limited. The Camry featured analog controls for essential functions, improving ease of use, though some controls were awkwardly placed. Dual-zone automatic climate control was available on higher trims.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet was a true four-passenger convertible, with comfortable seating and an Aircap system to reduce cabin turbulence. The focus was on driver and front passenger comfort, with standard heated seats and steering wheel, and available rapid-heating features. The Airscarf neck-warming system and sun-reflective leather added to the comfort. The trunk offered 360 litres of space with the top up, but this was reduced significantly when the top was down.

The 2021 Toyota Camry came with a standard 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a nine-speaker JBL audio system. A 10-inch head-up display was available on the XSE and XLE trims. The infotainment system was functional but lacked standout features, with plain graphics and limited USB ports.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system with two 12.3-inch screens, offering high-resolution displays and multiple interaction methods. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and optional Wi-Fi service. An augmented reality video overlay for navigation and a head-up display were available. The Burmester surround-sound audio system provided exceptional sound quality. The MBUX system was praised for its functionality, though it required some acclimation.

The 2021 Toyota Camry earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. It came with the TSS 2.5+ package, including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. New features included enhanced forward-collision warning and a Rear Seat Reminder. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on higher trims.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class included standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The E-Class Cabriolet had pop-up rollbars for rollover protection. Mercedes Pre Safe and Pre Safe Sound were standard, along with Active Parking Assist and a surround-view camera. The optional Driver Assistance Package added advanced features like adaptive cruise control and Active Steering Assist.