2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2023 BMW 3 Series

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 all variants could be upgraded to the E450, which boasted a turbo 3.0-litre inline-six with EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid technology. In Canada, the E-Class came standard with 4Matic all-wheel drive, with rear-wheel drive not available. The AMG-tuned E-Class models, like the AMG E53, offered a more powerful version of the E450 engine, providing a thrilling driving experience. The AMG E53 Cabriolet, with its luxurious matte-finish paint, premium leather, and carbon fibre trim, was a testament to opulence, though its high price tag made it a choice for those looking to flaunt their wealth. The interior was a haven of luxury, with high-resolution digital displays, Burmester speaker grilles, and supple leather, creating an ambiance of pure indulgence.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series, a staple of the Bavarian brand since 1975, received a mid-cycle refresh for the model year. The lineup included the petrol-powered 330i and M340i, as well as the plug-in hybrid 330e. The exterior design updates were subtle yet sporty, with a narrow kidney grille and redesigned full-LED headlights. The lower air intakes and character lines led to flared rear-wheel arches, creating a striking first impression. New paint options like Skyscraper Grey and Brooklyn Grey metallic added to the visual appeal. Inside, the 3 Series featured the advanced BMW iDrive 8 system with a 27.2-inch Curved Display, offering a driver-centric cockpit. The minimalist dashboard design reduced button clutter, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 models were powered by 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 delivered maximum power or torque between 1,800 rpm and 6,100 rpm, ensuring a responsive throttle at nearly any speed. The AMG Speedshift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ variable AWD system efficiently transferred power to the pavement. The AMG Dynamic Select driving modes allowed drivers to tailor the car's character to their preferences. The E53 Cabriolet featured an AMG-tuned air suspension and performance exhaust system, with optional 20-inch wheels and summer performance tires. The convertible offered a dual personality, serving as a quiet cruiser or a spirited performer on mountain roads. Despite some cowl shake over bumps, the E53 Cab felt solid and sure-footed, with an amplified exhaust note enhancing the driving experience. The car's three-season, top-down driving suitability was highlighted by its heated features and AWD system, making it a versatile choice for various weather conditions.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series retained its powertrains from previous model years, with the 330i and 330e featuring a twin-turbo 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, and the M340i equipped with a twin-turbo 3.0-litre inline-six. All models came with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with the M3 offering a six-speed manual option. In Canada, xDrive AWD was standard on all models except the PHEV, which was also available with RWD. The 330i produced 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in 5.6 seconds. The 330e, with its electric motor, offered a combined output of 288 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, with a 35 km electric-only range. The M340i, with its 48-volt mild-hybrid system, delivered 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, reaching 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds. The 3 Series offered a balance of performance and fuel economy, with the 330i xDrive achieving 9.8 L/100 km city, 7.0 highway, and 8.6 combined. The 330e had a gas-only rating of 8.8 L/100 km and an electric efficiency of 3.2 Le/100 km combined. The M340i achieved 10.3 L/100 km city, 7.4 highway, and 9.0 combined. The 330i sedan provided a comfortable ride with precise steering, while the M340i and M3 offered elevated performance options for enthusiasts.

The 2022 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 with the top down, while heated seats and a heated steering wheel were standard. The test car featured rapid-heating front seats, heated armrests, and the Airscarf neck-warming system. Sun-reflective leather and ventilated front seats were available for hot weather, and the triple-layer acoustic soft top kept the cabin cool and quiet. The multi-contour front seats with massage and Air Balance interior fragrance system enhanced long drives. With the top raised, the trunk held 360 litres of cargo, but this volume was halved with the top down, similar to a Mazda MX-5 Miata.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series offered a compact yet comfortable interior, with front headroom of 982 mm and legroom of 1,066 mm. Rear occupants had 955 mm of headroom and 894 mm of legroom, providing ample space for average-size adults. The standard SensaTec faux leather upholstery and power-adjustable front sport seats offered good support, though the seat bottom cushion was somewhat stiff. The leather steering wheel provided excellent grip, and the ergonomics were well-designed, with easy access to controls. The iDrive controller knob was intuitive to use. The 3 Series offered 481 litres of cargo space, with rear seats folding in a 40/20/40-split for larger items. Standard features included a power moonroof, heated front seats, and remote start, with options for a heated steering wheel, power lumbar support, and keyless entry.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, known for its complexity and ease of use. Two 12.3-inch screens formed the foundation of MBUX, offering high-resolution displays that remained clear even in sunlight. Interaction with MBUX was possible through the touchscreen, centre console controls, digital voice assistant, or steering wheel touch-sensing buttons. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Wi-Fi service, and an augmented reality video overlay for navigation. A head-up display and Burmester surround-sound audio system were available. Challenges with MBUX included navigating its extensive menu structure and accidental activation of the digital assistant, especially in a convertible with the top down.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series introduced the BMW iDrive 8 system, featuring a 12.3-inch driver information display and a 14.9-inch touchscreen. The system was user-friendly, with touch functionality similar to a smartphone or tablet. Widgets on the main menu could be reorganized, and the driver information cluster was customizable. The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant allowed for voice-activated control, minimizing frustrations with commuting. The system's cloud-based navigation could be affected by weak cellular service. Standard tech features included USB-C ports, enhanced Bluetooth, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, a 10-speaker HiFi audio system, and over-the-air updates. Optional features included wireless device charging, a premium Harman Kardon surround sound system, and a wireless 5G hotspot.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class came with standard safety features such as forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Cabriolet featured pop-up rollbars for rollover protection. Mercedes Pre Safe and Pre Safe Sound were standard, preparing the cabin for impact and protecting occupants' 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 included adaptive cruise control, Active Steering Assist, and other advanced safety features. The package impressed with its adaptive cruise control and lane-change functionality.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series received a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA, though the PHEV model was not rated. The IIHS had not yet rated the 2023 model, but the 2022 model earned a Top Safety Pick nod. Standard safety features included a rear view camera, LED headlights, BMW Assist eCall, Active Guard, and the Active Protection System. Additional safety features were available in packages, including the Advanced Driver Assistance Package with active blind spot detection, lane-departure warning, and semi-autonomous driving systems. The optional head-up display and parking assistance added convenience and safety.