2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2023 Nissan Versa

Following a substantial refresh for the 2021 model year, the mid-size 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class lineup sees few changes. The most significant of them is the cancelation of E63 and E63 S AMG models. Reportedly due to supply chain problems, V8 engines are being dropped from much of the 2022 Mercedes-Benz lineup. That leaves the E-Class with turbocharged four-cylinder and six-cylinder power plants.

Additionally, a couple of paint colours are new. With the E-Class coupe and convertible body styles, rear USB charging ports are now standard equipment.

It’s getting hard to find a basic subcompact sedan, but Nissan is keeping the faith.

The Nissan Versa returned to the Canadian line-up in the 2021 model year after a six-year hiatus, slotting below the Sentra in the lineup. The most recent redesign was just a year earlier, for the 2020 model year. For 2023, the Versa gets a handful of updates, including freshened styling and more available tech features. In addition to the Versa S, the lineup includes SV and SR models; we tested the latter for this review.

Since the Versa has been on sale, the ranks of subcompact cars have thinned considerably. The Chevrolet Sonic, the Ford Fiesta, the Honda Fit, the Hyundai Accent, and the Toyota Yaris are no longer sold in North America. That leaves the Kia Rio and the Mitsubishi Mirage hatchback as the Versa’s main competitors, and the Rio is on its way out of Canada for 2024 as well. But, as is always the case in this market segment, shoppers must also consider whether to buy a new car like the Versa or a potentially better-equipped used car for similar money.