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

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class retained its stunning design from the previous year, following a comprehensive makeover that left many in awe. Despite the growing popularity of SUVs, the S-Class stood as a testament to the enduring appeal of luxury sedans. Its sleek exterior, characterized by a long distance between the front axle and dashboard, exuded elegance and sophistication. The interior was equally impressive, featuring high-quality materials and a dashboard adorned with open-pore wood trim and a 12.8-inch touchscreen, complemented by a separate 12.3-inch digital instrument panel.

In contrast, the 2023 BMW 3 Series, while maintaining its sporty essence, underwent subtle exterior design modifications. The narrow kidney grille and redesigned full-LED headlights contributed to its athletic appearance. The cabin, however, was where the real transformation occurred, with the introduction of the BMW Curved Display powered by iDrive 8. This 27.2-inch continuous high-definition screen created a driver-centric cockpit, emphasizing a minimalist approach with fewer buttons. The 3 Series offered a compact yet comfortable interior, with standard features like a power moonroof and heated front seats.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class offered a choice between the S500 and S580 models, both equipped with the EQ Boost system. The S500 featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six-cylinder engine, producing 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, with an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft from the electric motor. The S580, on the other hand, boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine. Both models utilized a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic AWD. Despite their weight, the S-Class models were quick, with the S500 reaching 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and the S580 in 4.4 seconds. Fuel consumption for the S500 was 11.4 L/100 km city/8.0 highway/9.9 combined, while the S580 was rated at 14.3 L/100 km city/9.5 highway/12.2 combined.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series offered a range of powertrains, including the 330i, 330e, and M340i. The 330i featured a twin-turbo 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in 5.6 seconds. The 330e, a plug-in hybrid, combined a twin-turbo 2.0-litre engine with an electric motor for a total output of 288 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, offering up to 35 km of electric-only range. The M340i, with a 3.0-litre inline-six engine and 48-volt mild-hybrid system, delivered 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, reaching 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds. Fuel economy varied, with the 330i xDrive rated at 9.8 L/100 km city/7.0 highway/8.6 combined, and the M340i at 10.3 L/100 km city/7.4 highway/9.0 combined.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class excelled in providing a luxurious and spacious interior. It featured powered sun blinds for second-row passengers, a Panorama Sunroof, and a 510-litre trunk. The cabin was equipped with six USB-C ports and a 115-volt power supply in the second row. Front-row passengers enjoyed rapid-heating active multicontour seats with memory and lumbar support. Optional features included ventilated seats, heated armrests, and the Executive Rear Seating package for the S580, offering a 43-degree recline and power calf rest.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series, while compact, offered a comfortable interior with headroom of 982 mm and legroom of 1,066 mm in the front, and 955 mm and 894 mm in the rear. Standard upholstery was SensaTec faux leather, with power-adjustable front sport seats providing good support. The 3 Series featured a 481-litre cargo space, with rear seats folding in a 40/20/40 split. Standard amenities included a power moonroof and heated front seats, with optional features like a heated steering wheel and keyless entry.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was equipped with cutting-edge technology, including a 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen for the MBUX infotainment system, offering superior image quality and energy efficiency. The 12.3-inch LED virtual instrument panel provided customizable visual themes. Optional features included a 3D instrument cluster and augmented reality head-up display. The standard Burmester 3D Surround sound system delivered high-fidelity audio, with an available 4D system adding headrest speakers. The S-Class also featured EQ Boost and rear-axle steering for enhanced maneuverability.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series introduced the BMW Curved Display with iDrive 8, combining a 12.3-inch driver information display and a 14.9-inch touchscreen. The system allowed for easy customization and voice control via the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. Standard tech features included USB-C ports, Bluetooth, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a 10-speaker HiFi audio system. Optional upgrades included wireless device charging, a Harman Kardon surround sound system, and a wireless 5G hotspot.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was packed with safety features, including Magic Vision Control, active distance assist Distronic, active steering assist, and active brake assist. The Pre-Safe systems prepared the vehicle for imminent collisions, while car-to-x communication shared warning messages. Rear-passenger airbags and rear-seat belt bags were available for added safety.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series received a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included a rear view camera, LED headlights, and Active Guard. The Advanced Driver Assistance Package offered additional features like active blind spot detection and lane-departure warning. The optional head-up display and parking assistance further enhanced safety.