Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs Nissan Maxima

The 2021 Nissan Maxima, as a flagship sedan, set a bold design precedent for other Nissan models. Its distinctive styling, featuring a "floating" roofline and "V-Motion" grille, was later adopted by smaller models like the Altima, Sentra, and Versa. The Maxima stood out with its striking Art Deco locomotive-like front end and massive grille, making it a unique presence on the road. The 40th Anniversary Edition trim, although not available in Canada, offered elements like 19-inch gloss-black alloy wheels and black exterior trim on the SR grade, enhancing its bold appearance.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offered a variety of body styles, including coupe, convertible, sedan, and station wagon, showcasing its versatility. 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 mild-hybrid technology. The AMG E53 Cabriolet, with its matte-finish paint, premium leather, and carbon fibre trim, exuded luxury. Its design purity, especially with AMG styling and a convertible top, made it a standout. Inside, the high-end spec offered digital displays, Burmester speaker grilles, and supple leather, epitomizing luxury.

The 2021 Nissan Maxima was equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 300 horsepower and 261 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive (FWD). While it wasn't a "four-door sports car," the Maxima delivered a quick and enjoyable driving experience, with the V6 engine providing a satisfying sound. The CVT was responsive, enhancing the driving experience. However, the Maxima's steering lacked precision, and the front end struggled with grip, leading to torque steer under heavy throttle. Despite these limitations, the Maxima offered a sporty design and a comfortable ride, especially during highway cruising.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet featured a 3.0-litre turbo inline-6 engine with EQ Boost, generating 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided robust throttle response across a wide rev range, achieving 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds. The AMG Speedshift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system ensured power was effectively delivered to the road. The E53 Cabriolet's AMG-tuned air suspension and performance exhaust system enhanced its dynamic capabilities. The car's dual personality allowed for both relaxed cruising and spirited driving, with the AMG Dynamic Select driving modes offering a tailored driving experience.

The 2021 Nissan Maxima prioritized front-seat space, offering generous headroom and legroom for the driver and front passenger. However, this came at the expense of rear-seat passengers, who experienced cramped conditions. The centre console's proximity to the driver added to the feeling of confinement. Despite these drawbacks, the Maxima's "Zero Gravity" front seats provided comfort and support. The Maxima's trunk offered 405 litres of cargo space, the least among its competitors, due to its sedan design.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet accommodated four adults comfortably, with an Aircap system reducing cabin turbulence when the top was down. The focus was on driver and front passenger comfort, with features like heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and a neck-warming Airscarf system. The triple-layer acoustic soft top maintained a quiet cabin, while multi-contour front seats with massage and an Air Balance fragrance system enhanced long-distance comfort. The trunk offered 360 litres of cargo space with the top up, reducing significantly when the top was down.

The 2021 Nissan Maxima's technology showed its age, with an 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. A WiFi hotspot and USB ports were standard, along with an 11-speaker Bose audio system. However, the infotainment system's graphics and interface were dated, with small icons and confusing notification sounds. While analog controls were available, the overall experience was less than intuitive.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class excelled in digital instrumentation and infotainment with its MBUX system. Two 12.3-inch screens provided high-resolution displays, and interaction was possible via touchscreen, voice assistant, or steering wheel controls. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, WiFi service, and an augmented reality navigation overlay. A head-up display and Burmester surround-sound audio system added to the premium experience. While the MBUX system required some acclimation, it offered extensive customization and functionality.

The 2021 Nissan Maxima received top safety ratings, including an IIHS "Top Safety Pick+" and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and more. The Maxima lacked the ProPilot Assist system but offered a comprehensive suite of safety technologies.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class included standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The E-Class Cabriolet featured pop-up rollbars for rollover protection. Mercedes Pre Safe and Pre Safe Sound were standard, preparing the cabin for potential collisions. The optional Driver Assistance Package added advanced features like adaptive cruise control and Active Steering Assist, enhancing safety and driver convenience.