2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was a versatile offering, available in coupe, convertible, sedan, and station wagon body styles, a variety unmatched by many competitors. The E-Class sedans, designated as E350, featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the E450 variants boasted a turbo 3.0-litre inline-six with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology. In Canada, the E-Class came standard with 4Matic all-wheel drive, enhancing its appeal in diverse driving conditions. The AMG-tuned E-Class models, particularly the AMG E53, offered a more powerful engine and sportier performance, making them a favourite among driving enthusiasts. However, the E-Class was not known for its cost-effectiveness, with the AMG E53 Cabriolet model reaching an as-tested MSRP close to $120,000 Canadian. Despite its high price, the E53 Cabriolet was a luxury statement, featuring matte-finish paint, premium leather, and carbon fibre trim, exuding a sense of opulence and style.

The interior of the AMG E53 Cabriolet was a testament to modern luxury, with high-resolution digital displays, glow-in-the-dark air vents, and Burmester speaker grilles. The convertible's design purity was evident, especially with the AMG styling, larger wheels, and a convertible top. The matte-blue paint finish added a luminescent touch, making the vehicle stand out. Inside, the cabin was a haven of luxury, with soft leather and a sophisticated fragrance system, ensuring that the E53 Cabriolet looked, felt, and smelled like a high-end vehicle. The E-Class was a blend of elegance and performance, appealing to those who valued both style and driving dynamics.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class retained its fantastic design from the previous year's complete makeover, continuing to impress with its sleek and elegant profile. As Mercedes-Benz's flagship sedan, the S-Class had a rich history, tracing its roots back to the 1954 "Ponton" models. The seventh-generation S-Class, code-named "W223," was available in S500 and S580 sedan variants, with no plans for additional body styles. The S-Class's exterior was defined by its sleek lines and long profile, with a significant distance between the front axle and the dashboard, adding to its elegance. The proud Mercedes-Benz grille and star hood ornament further emphasized its lineage.

Inside, the S-Class dashboard was a delight, featuring a waterfall of open-pore wood trim and a 12.8-inch touchscreen in the centre stack. The 12.3-inch digital instrument panel was separate from the infotainment screen, allowing for distinct functions and enhancing the cabin's luxurious feel. The S-Class was dressed in high-quality materials, meticulously fitted and assembled, creating a serene and comfortable environment for both driver and passengers. The S-Class was a testament to Mercedes-Benz's commitment to luxury and innovation, offering a refined driving experience.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 models were equipped with a 3.0-litre turbo inline-6 engine featuring Mercedes' EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology. This system used a 48-volt electrical setup and an integrated starter generator to enhance power output and efficiency. The AMG-tuned engine produced 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, delivering robust performance across a wide rev range. The E53 could accelerate from 0 to 100 kilometres per hour in just 4.6 seconds, thanks to its AMG Speedshift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ variable AWD system. The E53 Cabriolet also featured an AMG-tuned air suspension and performance exhaust system, with optional 20-inch wheels and summer performance tires.

The E53 Cabriolet showcased its dual personality, offering a quiet and comfortable ride for leisurely drives, while transforming into a dynamic performer on mountain roads. The AMG Dynamic Select driving modes allowed drivers to tailor the car's character to their preferences. Despite some cowl shake due to the convertible design, the E53 Cabriolet felt solid and sure-footed, with an amplified exhaust note enhancing the driving experience. The E-Class Cabriolet was suitable for three-season, top-down driving, with heated features ensuring comfort even in cooler weather. The AWD system and heated wiper blades made it possible to drive the E53 Cabriolet in winter conditions, provided winter tires were used.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was designed for both executive commuting and weekend pleasure driving. The S500 model featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six-cylinder mild-hybrid engine with EQ Boost, providing an additional 21 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque during high-demand situations. The S500 produced 429 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque, while the S580 model offered a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 with the same EQ Boost system. Both models used a nine-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and standard 4Matic AWD. Despite their weight, the S500 and S580 were quick off the line, with acceleration times of 4.9 and 4.4 seconds, respectively, for 0-100 km/h.

The S-Class offered a smooth and responsive driving experience, with flat and predictable handling and powerful braking. The S500 had fuel consumption ratings of 11.4 L/100 km city, 8.0 highway, and 9.9 combined, while the S580 was rated at 14.3 L/100 km city, 9.5 highway, and 12.2 combined. With a 76-litre fuel tank, the S-Class allowed for extended drives without frequent stops. The S-Class was a blend of luxury and performance, catering to both business and pleasure.

The Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet was a true four-passenger convertible, offering comfortable seating for adults in both the front and rear. The Aircap system reduced cabin turbulence when the top was down, enhancing passenger comfort. The E-Class Cabriolet prioritized driver and front passenger comfort, with standard heated seats and a heated steering wheel. The test car featured rapid-heating front seats, heated armrests, and the Airscarf neck-warming system. Sun-reflective leather and available ventilated front seats ensured comfort in hot weather, while the triple-layer acoustic soft top kept the cabin cool and quiet.

The test car's multi-contour front seats with massage and Air Balance interior fragrance system provided a luxurious experience on long drives. With the top raised, the E-Class Cabriolet offered 360 litres of trunk space, though this was reduced by half when the top was down. Despite limited cargo space, the E-Class Cabriolet was a stylish and comfortable choice for those seeking a luxury convertible experience.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class excelled as an executive sedan, offering a spacious and comfortable cabin with ample storage and cargo space. Second-row passengers enjoyed powered sun blinds and a Panorama Sunroof, while a 510-litre trunk provided generous storage capacity. The cabin featured six USB-C ports and a 115-volt power supply for rear passengers. The driver and front passenger benefited from rapid-heating active multicontour seats, lumbar support, and comfort headrests, with options for ventilated seats, heated armrests, and massaging rear seats.

The Executive Rear Seating package, exclusive to the S580, catered to chauffeured passengers with a 43-degree recline, power calf rest, and rear controls for the right front seat. The S-Class's soft-close doors prevented slamming, though their wide opening could pose a challenge for some occupants. The S-Class was covered by a four-year/80,000-kilometre warranty, ensuring peace of mind for owners. The S-Class was a luxurious and well-appointed sedan, ideal for those seeking comfort and convenience.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, known for its complexity and ease of use. The system included two 12.3-inch screens—a touchscreen and digital instrument cluster—offering high-resolution displays. MBUX could be controlled via the touchscreen, steering wheel touchpad buttons, digital voice assistant, or physical controls on the centre console. The system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with upgrades like Wi-Fi service and augmented reality navigation.

The E-Class test car included a Burmester surround-sound audio system, enhancing the audio experience. While MBUX was user-friendly, its extensive menu structure could be challenging to navigate, and the digital assistant could be inadvertently activated. In a convertible, wind noise could affect the assistant's performance, but this was expected. Overall, the E-Class offered a sophisticated and customizable infotainment experience.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was equipped with the latest MBUX infotainment system, featuring a 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen. OLED technology provided superior image quality and energy efficiency, with rich black levels and clear definition. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a 12.3-inch LED virtual instrument panel offering customizable themes. The optional 3D instrument cluster added depth and visual interest, enhancing the driving experience.

The S-Class's augmented video for navigation and available augmented reality head-up display provided clear and futuristic guidance. The Burmester 3D Surround sound system delivered high-fidelity audio, with an optional 4D system adding headrest speakers. The S-Class's powertrain and chassis featured EQ Boost and rear-axle steering, improving maneuverability. The S-Class offered a cutting-edge technology experience, combining advanced infotainment and driving assistance features.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class came with a range of standard safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The E-Class Cabriolet also featured pop-up rollbars for rollover protection. Mercedes Pre Safe and Pre Safe Sound systems prepared the cabin and occupants for potential collisions, with the latter emitting "pink noise" to protect hearing.

Active Parking Assist and a surround-view camera system aided parking, while rain-sensing wipers with Magic Vision Control improved visibility. The optional Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control, Active Steering Assist, and other advanced features. The E-Class offered a comprehensive suite of safety technologies, ensuring driver and passenger protection.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was equipped with an extensive array of safety and driver assistance features. Magic Vision Control optimized windshield spray, while active distance assist Distronic adaptive cruise control and active steering assist enhanced driving convenience. The S-Class also included active brake assist, active blind-spot assist, and active lane-keeping assist, among other features.

Pre-Safe systems prepared the S-Class for imminent collisions, while car-to-x communication shared road condition warnings. The S-Class offered rear-passenger airbags and seat belt bags, along with soft-close doors for added convenience. The S-Class was a leader in safety innovation, providing comprehensive protection for all occupants.