2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2023 Nissan Altima

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was a versatile offering, available in coupe, convertible, sedan, and station wagon body styles, a variety unmatched by most 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, with no rear-wheel drive option. The AMG-tuned E-Class models, like the AMG E53, offered a more powerful engine and were available in all body styles except the All-Terrain wagon. The E-Class consistently ranked high in reviews, though it was not known for cost-effectiveness. The AMG E53 Cabriolet, with its luxurious features and high price tag, was a car for those who appreciated opulence and style, offering a stunning design with AMG styling, intricate wheels, and a matte-blue paint finish.

The 2023 Nissan Altima, continuing Nissan's long-standing presence in the family car market, featured updated front styling with a revised grille and new wheel designs, enhancing its visual appeal. In Canada, the Altima was available in four trims: S, SR, SR Premium, and Platinum, and stood out as the only mid-size sedan with standard all-wheel drive. However, the variable-compression turbocharged engine was exclusive to the U.S. market. The Altima's interior, while featuring some hard plastics, was comfortable and user-friendly, with new simulated wood dashboard trim and double-stitched seams. The Altima's design updates and features aimed to maintain its relevance in a market where sedans were becoming less common.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 models were equipped with a 3.0-litre turbo inline-6 engine featuring EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology, producing 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. This setup ensured robust throttle response across a wide rev range, with an acceleration time of 4.6 seconds to 100 km/h. The AMG Speedshift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ variable AWD system provided excellent power delivery, with multiple AMG Dynamic Select driving modes allowing for a customizable driving experience. 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 the convertible top adding to its versatility. Despite some cowl shake, the E53 Cabriolet felt solid and sure-footed, with its exhaust note enhancing the driving experience.

The 2023 Nissan Altima in Canada came with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with a CVT, producing 182 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. The AWD system could deliver up to half of the engine's output to the rear wheels. The CVT was programmed to mimic a traditional automatic transmission, with paddle shifters available on the SR Premium trim for added engagement. Fuel economy ratings were 9.1 L/100 km city, 6.5 highway, and 7.9 combined for the base trim, with slightly higher figures for other trims. The Altima's performance was adequate, though the ride was firm, and road noise was noticeable at highway speeds. In the mountains, the Altima displayed good grip and cornering, but the steering felt lifeless, and the brakes showed signs of overheating under certain conditions. Overall, the Altima was more of an automotive appliance, lacking the dynamic engagement of some rivals.

The Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet was a true four-passenger convertible, with comfortable seating for adults in both the front and rear. The Aircap system reduced cabin turbulence with the top down, and the focus was on driver and front passenger comfort. Standard features included heated seats, a heated steering wheel, 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 helped maintain a cool and quiet cabin. The test car featured multi-contour front seats with massage and an Air Balance interior fragrance system, providing exceptional comfort on long drives. The trunk offered 360 litres of cargo space with the top up, but this was significantly reduced with the top down.

The 2023 Nissan Altima's interior was simple and user-friendly, with controls laid out logically and clear analog gauges. Nissan's Zero Gravity seats were exceptionally comfortable, though the leather upholstery was somewhat sticky. The Altima featured dual-zone automatic climate control, a power sunroof, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. However, the front passenger seat lacked height adjustment, making entry and exit more challenging. The floor mats were difficult to remove, posing a potential safety hazard. Rear seat comfort was good, with ample legroom and headroom, and rear air conditioning vents were standard in Canada. The trunk offered 437 litres of cargo space, smaller than some competitors but usefully shaped.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system, known for its complexity and ease of use. Two 12.3-inch screens formed the foundation of the system, offering high-resolution displays. Interaction options included the touchscreen, physical controls, a digital voice assistant, and steering wheel touchpad buttons. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Wi-Fi service, and an augmented reality video overlay for navigation. A head-up display and a Burmester surround-sound audio system were available. The MBUX system was customizable, though its extensive menu structure could be challenging to navigate, and the digital assistant could be accidentally activated.

The 2023 Nissan Altima came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, including Bluetooth, wired Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. A new 12.3-inch touchscreen system was available on higher trims, offering navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay, and a wireless smartphone charging pad. NissanConnect Services required a subscription and included remote engine starting and an SOS calling button. The Bose nine-speaker audio system was available on higher trims, performing well for some music types. The new infotainment system represented a significant improvement, with a better user interface and graphics, though climate control adjustments were not possible via voice commands.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class included standard safety features such as forward collision warning, 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 a collision 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 added features like adaptive cruise control, lane-centring assistance, and evasive steering assist. The package was effective, with adaptive cruise control and Active Steering Assist being particularly impressive.

The 2023 Nissan Altima featured the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The lane-departure warning used a steering wheel vibration, and the blind-spot monitoring system employed a light on the windshield pillar. The Altima also had a rear-seat reminder system and Easy Fill Tire Alert. ProPilot Assist, available on higher trims, added adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. While generally effective, ProPilot Assist needed refinement for smoother operation. The Altima received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, though it received a Poor rating in the updated side-impact test.