2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2022 Lexus IS

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance was a nod to its predecessor, the 2008 Lexus IS F, maintaining the essence of a powerful, naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V8 engine. This engine delivered 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque, channelled to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. Priced at $72,900 Canadian, the IS 500 F Sport Performance was a thrilling ride, offering both excitement and comfort. It was a car that appealed to both the emotional and logical sides of driving enthusiasts, providing a balance of performance and daily usability. However, its price was significantly higher than other models in the IS lineup, such as the IS 350 F Sport and IS 300 RWD.

The exterior of the IS 500 F Sport Performance was subtly aggressive, with minor styling tweaks like a raised hood and quad exhaust outlets. It featured exclusive 19-inch alloy wheels and a more understated look, appealing to those who preferred a car that spoke softly but carried a big stick. Inside, the IS 500 shared its interior with the IS 350 F Sport, offering a comfortable and well-constructed cabin for four. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though the touchpad on the centre console was seen as unnecessary. Overall, the IS 500 F Sport Performance was a compelling choice for those seeking a blend of performance and luxury.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offered a diverse range of body styles, including coupe, convertible, sedan, and station wagon. The E-Class sedans came with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine in the E350 model, while the E450 variants featured a turbo 3.0-litre inline-six with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology. In Canada, all E-Class models came standard with 4Matic all-wheel drive. The AMG E53 model, available in most body styles except the All-Terrain wagon, provided a more powerful version of the E450's engine.

The AMG E53 Cabriolet, with its matte-finish paint, premium leather, and carbon fibre trim, was a luxurious and visually stunning vehicle. Priced at $103,000 Canadian, it was not a car for the budget-conscious. The E53 Cabriolet combined modern Mercedes design with AMG styling, larger wheels, and a convertible top, creating a vehicle that was both elegant and sporty. Inside, the high-end spec offered digital displays, Burmester speaker grilles, and luxurious materials, making it a true representation of Mercedes' commitment to luxury and performance.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance was equipped with a 5.0-litre V8 engine, producing 472 horsepower at 7,100 rpm and 395 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. This rear-wheel-drive vehicle featured an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission and a limited-slip differential. It offered various driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport S, and Sport+, allowing drivers to tailor the car's performance to their preferences. Lexus claimed the IS 500 could accelerate to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. The adaptive variable suspension and Yamaha rear performance damper provided a comfortable ride and improved stability. Despite its weight, the IS 500 was agile and thrilling to drive, with a distinctive engine note. However, it was not particularly fuel-efficient, averaging 13.3 litres per 100 kilometres during testing.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 featured a 3.0-litre turbo inline-six engine with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology, generating 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. The engine provided robust performance across a wide rev range, with a 0-100 km/h time of 4.6 seconds. The AMG Speedshift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system ensured power was effectively delivered to the road. The E53 Cabriolet's AMG-tuned air suspension and performance exhaust system enhanced its dynamic capabilities. The car's dual personality allowed it to be a comfortable cruiser or a spirited performer, with the AMG Dynamic Select driving modes offering a range of driving experiences. The E53 Cabriolet was well-suited for three-season driving, with features like heated seats and a neck-warming system.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 offered a comfortable interior with effective climate control, seat heaters, and a heated steering wheel. The front seats were snug yet comfortable, providing excellent support and a driver-focused position. Rear seats were adequate for average-height adults, but rear passengers lacked smartphone charging options. Storage was decent, though the touchpad controller took up valuable space. The trunk was small, measuring 305 litres. The control layout was user-friendly, with clear buttons and knobs, making it easy to operate the vehicle's features.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet was a true four-passenger convertible, with comfortable seating for all occupants. The Aircap system reduced cabin turbulence with the top down. The front seats received special attention, with features like heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and a neck-warming system. Sun-reflective leather and ventilated front seats were available for hot weather. The triple-layer acoustic soft top helped maintain a cool and quiet cabin. The test car included multi-contour front seats with massage and an Air Balance interior fragrance system. The trunk offered 360 litres of cargo space with the top up, but this was significantly reduced with the top down.

The 2022 Lexus IS featured a touchscreen infotainment system, addressing previous ergonomic issues. The system was intuitive, with separate climate and stereo controls. The IS 500 Premium's voice command system was highly effective, handling queries accurately. Standard features included an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The IS 500 added a 10.3-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, delivering impressive sound quality.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class boasted the MBUX infotainment system, known for its user-friendly interface. Two 12.3-inch screens formed the foundation of the system, offering high-resolution displays. Interaction options included the touchscreen, physical controls, voice assistant, and steering wheel touch-sensing buttons. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Wi-Fi service, and an augmented reality navigation overlay. A head-up display and Burmester surround-sound audio system were available. The MBUX system was customizable, though its extensive menu structure required some acclimation.

The 2022 Lexus IS came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, a comprehensive suite of safety features. It included driving assistance, collision warning, emergency braking, lane keep assist, and collision-prevention technologies. The system was generally agreeable, with effective lane-departure warning and adaptive cruise control. However, some features, like low-speed automatic braking, could be aggravating in certain situations. The IS received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, though it had a four-star frontal-impact collision rating.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class included standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The E-Class Cabriolet featured pop-up rollbars for rollover protection. Mercedes Pre Safe and Pre Safe Sound were also standard, preparing the cabin and occupants for a collision. Active Parking Assist and a surround-view camera system aided parking. The optional Driver Assistance Package added features like adaptive cruise control, lane-centring assistance, and rear collision preparation. The package was highly effective, with impressive adaptive cruise control and Active Steering Assist.