2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2023 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 48-volt mild-hybrid technology. In Canada, the E-Class came standard with 4Matic all-wheel drive, enhancing its appeal in diverse weather conditions. The AMG-tuned E-Class models, particularly the AMG E53, offered a more powerful version of the E450's engine, catering to driving enthusiasts. The E-Class was known for its luxurious interior, with high-resolution digital displays, premium materials, and a sophisticated design that exuded modern elegance.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, part of the seventh generation that debuted in 2021, continued to impress with its S 500 and S 580 trims. For 2023, the S-Class embraced electrification with the S 580e plug-in hybrid, featuring a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six engine paired with a 28.6-kWh battery and electric motor. The S-Class exuded calm sophistication with its clean lines and sculpted front end, enhanced by optional high-gloss black trim and 20-inch AMG wheels. Inside, the S-Class offered a luxurious experience with 15 leather upholstery colours and five trim materials, including a panoramic sunroof and superb fit and finish. The S 580e's interior was a haven of comfort, with features like massaging seats and a wellness program designed to enhance the driving experience.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet was powered by a 3.0-litre turbo inline-six engine with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology, producing 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. This engine delivered robust performance across a wide rev range, with a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 4.6 seconds. The AMG Speedshift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ variable AWD system ensured power was effectively delivered to the road. The E53 Cabriolet featured an AMG-tuned air suspension and performance exhaust system, with optional 20-inch wheels and summer performance tires. The car's dual personality allowed it to be a quiet cruiser or a spirited performer, with AMG Dynamic Select driving modes offering a range of driving experiences.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz S 580e combined a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six engine with a 28.6-kWh battery and electric motor, offering 90 kilometres of all-electric range. The S 580e delivered 510 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque, with a 0-100 km/h time of 4.4 seconds. The nine-speed automatic transmission provided seamless gear shifts, while the buttery soft air suspension ensured a smooth ride. Rear-wheel steering enhanced manoeuvrability, and the car transitioned smoothly between electric and gas power in Hybrid mode. The S 580e's powertrain was impressive, offering a blend of performance and efficiency, with a combined rating of 4.6 Le/100 km.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet was a true four-passenger convertible, offering comfort for both front and rear passengers. The Aircap system reduced cabin turbulence with the top down, while heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and a neck-warming Airscarf system enhanced comfort. The car's sun-reflective leather and ventilated front seats kept occupants cool in hot weather. The E53 Cabriolet's trunk offered 360 litres of cargo space with the top up, but this was significantly reduced with the top down.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was packed with standard features, including massaging, heated, and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and armrests. Power sunshades and soft-closing doors added to the luxury experience, while ambient lighting offered 64 colours for a personalized touch. The Energizing Comfort wellness program combined lighting, massage, audio, fragrance, and climate controls for a unique experience. The S-Class offered 350 litres of trunk space, less than the standard S-Class but comparable to other luxury plug-in hybrids.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system with two 12.3-inch screens, offering high-resolution displays and a user-friendly interface. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Wi-Fi service, and an augmented reality video overlay for navigation. The Burmester surround-sound audio system provided excellent sound quality, while the digital assistant offered voice control, though it could be inadvertently activated by wind noise in the convertible.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class boasted a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen with the latest MBUX system. The system featured a map-based home screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an augmented reality navigation system. The S-Class also offered wireless charging, USB-C ports, and a standard Burmester sound system. The natural-language AI assistant was responsive, and the system included games for entertainment during charging.

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, and the Pre Safe and Pre Safe Sound systems prepared occupants for a collision. The optional Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control, lane-centring assistance, and other advanced features, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class offered a comprehensive suite of ADAS safety features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The hands-on highway driver-assist system used adaptive cruise control and lane-centring, with automatic lane changes. Crosswind Assist and Speed Limit Assist added to the safety features, though rear cross-traffic alert was an extra-cost option in Canada. The S-Class had not yet been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS.