2021 Volkswagen Passat vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

In 2011, when a Volkswagen Passat was launched customized for the North American market, VW thought the sedan was the key to domination. The Honda Accord and Toyota Camry were still the default mid-size sedan choice for most buyers at that time, after all, particularly in the U.S. where mid-size cars were much more strongly preferred. A lot has changed since then: SUVs are surging in popularity, and a diesel-emissions scandal has forced VW to focus more on electric cars. With the flashier Arteon now in the lineup, however, the Passat has been repositioned as VW's value-focused midsize sedan. Both the Passat and the Arteon are nearing the end of their lives here in Canada as they’ll be discontinued at the end of the 2022 model year.

The Passat got a significant update for the 2020 model year, so changes for 2021 are fairly limited. The previously available Comfortline trim level is gone, leaving just the Highline and Execline models. Adaptive cruise control is now standard. Our test car was a U.S.-spec SE model, the closest Canadian equivalent of which would be the Highline, though some equipment varies.

Following a substantial refresh for the 2021 model year, the mid-size 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class lineup sees few changes. The most significant of them is the cancelation of E63 and E63 S AMG models. Reportedly due to supply chain problems, V8 engines are being dropped from much of the 2022 Mercedes-Benz lineup. That leaves the E-Class with turbocharged four-cylinder and six-cylinder power plants.

Additionally, a couple of paint colours are new. With the E-Class coupe and convertible body styles, rear USB charging ports are now standard equipment.