2022 Audi A4 vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The 2022 Audi A4 presented a clean and conservative aesthetic, serving as an ideal backdrop for its striking Tango Red paint and Black Edition package. The classic five-arm rotor-design wheels added a touch of automotive design perfection. Inside, the A4 maintained a restrained elegance with black interiors accented by aluminum trim and metallic highlights. The dashboard seamlessly integrated air vents, and controls were clearly marked, enhancing usability. The high-quality materials and the 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit digital instrumentation panel contributed to a sophisticated cabin, although the tablet-style touchscreen infotainment system seemed somewhat out of place.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class exuded sleekness and elegance, maintaining its status as a flagship sedan. The exterior design featured a long, low profile with a significant distance between the front axle and dashboard, enhancing its elegance. The S-Class proudly displayed its Mercedes-Benz grille and star hood ornament. Inside, the dashboard was adorned with open-pore wood trim and a 12.8-inch touchscreen, complemented by a separate 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. The cabin was meticulously crafted with high-quality materials, offering a luxurious and comfortable environment for both driver and passengers.

The 2022 Audi A4 offered two engine options. The 40 TFSI model featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 201 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque, achieving a fuel economy rating of 8.2 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. It accelerated to 100 km/h in approximately 6.5 seconds. The 45 TFSI model, tested here, delivered 261 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, with a lowered sport suspension as part of the S-line package. It reached 100 km/h in about 5.4 seconds, with a fuel economy of 8.8 L/100 km. The A4's Quattro Ultra AWD system provided efficient power distribution, and the driving experience was enhanced by steering wheel paddle shifters and a refined engine.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, specifically the S500 model, featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six-cylinder mild-hybrid engine with EQ Boost, delivering 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. The EQ Boost system added up to 21 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque during high-demand situations. The S500 accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds, while the S580, with a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8, achieved the same in 4.4 seconds. Both models used a nine-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic AWD. Despite their weight, the S-Class models offered flat and predictable handling, with fuel consumption ratings of 9.9 L/100 km for the S500 and 12.2 L/100 km for the S580.

The 2022 Audi A4, sitting low to the ground, posed challenges for entry and exit, with small door openings and a snug cabin. However, once inside, the front seats offered exceptional comfort with soft leather, power adjustments, and a thigh-support cushion. The A4 featured a three-zone automatic climate control system, separate from the infotainment screen, ensuring ease of use. Rear-seat comfort was adequate for shorter trips, though legroom was limited. Interior storage was minimal, with the centre console bin occupied by a wireless charging pad. The 340-litre cargo space was well-finished, with storage nets and enclosed hinges.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class excelled in providing a spacious and luxurious cabin. Second-row passengers enjoyed powered sun blinds and a Panorama Sunroof. The 510-litre trunk offered ample storage space. The cabin featured six USB-C ports and a 115-volt power supply. Front seats were equipped with rapid-heating active multicontour seats, while optional features included ventilated seats, heated armrests, and massaging rear seats. The Executive Rear Seating package, exclusive to the S580, catered to chauffeured passengers with reclining seats and additional controls. Soft-close doors added convenience, and the S-Class came with a four-year/80,000-kilometre warranty.

The 2022 Audi A4 featured the MIB3 version of Audi Multi-Media Interface (MMI) with a 10.1-inch touchscreen display. The screen supported smartphone-like functions and provided acoustic feedback. The A4 included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Audi Connect services. The test car had a navigation system, wireless smartphone charging, and a 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system. The MMI was intuitive, with separate climate controls and steering wheel buttons for volume and tuning. The voice recognition technology was accurate but slow to respond.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class boasted a 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen interface for the MBUX infotainment system, offering superior image quality and energy efficiency. The 12.3-inch LED virtual instrument panel provided customizable themes. 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. The standard Burmester 3D Surround sound system delivered high-fidelity audio, with an optional 4D Surround system for an immersive experience. The S-Class also offered EQ Boost and rear-axle steering for enhanced manoeuvrability.

The 2022 Audi A4 offered a range of safety features under the Audi Pre Sense umbrella, including collision preparation, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. The test vehicle included lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control with Traffic Jam Assist. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system. The A4 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was equipped with advanced safety and driver assistance systems. Notable features included Magic Vision Control, active distance assist Distronic, active steering assist, and active brake assist with cross-traffic function. The S-Class also featured Pre-Safe systems for collision preparation and car-to-x communication. Rear-passenger airbags and rear-seat belt bags were available for added safety. The S-Class prioritized safety innovation and leadership.