Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs Toyota Corolla Hybrid

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid presented a refreshed design with subtle updates, including a new all-wheel-drive option for most trims and a slight power increase. Its exterior styling was more appealing than previous generations, featuring a sculpted front end with wraparound headlights and a sporty trapezoidal grille. However, the side and rear designs remained conventional. Inside, the Corolla Hybrid offered a minimalistic design with an abundance of hard plastics, which detracted from the overall quality. The XSE trim added SofTex synthetic leather, but the interior still felt less substantial compared to competitors like the Honda Civic and Mazda 3.

In contrast, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class embraced a more luxurious and timeless design. It featured long hood and short deck proportions, with distinctive elements like a star-map grille texture and star-shaped taillight illumination. The E-Class was available in E 350 4Matic and E 450 4Matic models, with prices starting at $73,900. The interior was a blend of classic luxury and high-tech modernism, with options like Tonka Brown Nappa leather upholstery and a Superscreen triple-display glass panel. The E-Class exuded luxury and sophistication, setting a high standard for design and comfort.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid was powered by a 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine with hybrid drive, producing 134 horsepower and 156 pound-feet of torque. This was an increase of 13 hp and 10 lb-ft over the previous model. The Corolla Hybrid LE-trim test vehicle featured a new 40-hp electric motor for on-demand AWD. While the hybrid powertrain responded quickly from a standstill, acceleration to 100 km/h took around nine seconds, slower than gas-powered small sedans. The dedicated EV drive mode was challenging to maintain on open roads, but braking was consistent and easy to modulate. Handling was adequate, though not particularly engaging, and road noise was noticeable.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offered two engine options: the E 350 4Matic with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, and the E 450 4Matic with a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine delivering 375 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. Both models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic AWD. The E-Class also included a 48-volt mild-hybrid system for improved fuel economy. The E 350 felt swift, though it missed the mark on fuel economy, while the E 450 offered impressive acceleration. The Airmatic Package provided a smooth ride, though the E-Class excelled more in comfort than sporty handling.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid offered ample front space for taller occupants, though the steering wheel's limited telescoping range could be an issue for long-limbed drivers. The cabin's simplicity was approachable, with basic climate controls and well-placed steering-wheel buttons. Interior storage was adequate, with a small plastic tray, cupholders, and a medium-sized centre armrest bin. Rear seats provided enough headroom and legroom for average adults, and the trunk offered 371 litres of cargo space. However, the rear seats didn't fold flat, making it challenging to load larger objects.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class provided a comfortable interior with supportive front seats available in MB-Tex, genuine leather, or Nappa leather. The rear seats offered good leg support and a tall riding position, though entering and exiting could be challenging due to intrusive rear wheel wells. Despite appearances, the E-Class had practical storage options, including sizable door pockets and a roomy centre armrest bin. The trunk offered 540 litres of cargo space, accommodating full-size suitcases. The 40/20/40-split folding rear seat expanded capacity as needed.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid featured an 8-inch multimedia touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The system was quick to respond, with improved voice commands activated by saying "Hey Toyota." Over-the-air software updates kept the system current, and it could pair two Bluetooth devices simultaneously. However, the JBL audio system available in the U.S. was not offered in Canada.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class showcased the third-generation MBUX infotainment system, pairing a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display with a 14.4-inch infotainment touchscreen. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a navigation system with augmented video technology. The MBUX allowed for personalized driver profiles and routines, while the 17-speaker Burmester 4D surround-sound system provided exceptional audio quality. The Superscreen Package added a 12.3-inch touchscreen for the passenger and a video camera for conference calls, enhancing the E-Class's technological prowess.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with four stars for rollover protection. The IIHS awarded the standard 2022 Corolla sedan its top score of "good" and named it a Top Safety Pick+. The Corolla Hybrid came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, including features like frontal collision warning, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and a blind-spot monitor.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class included numerous safety features, with the Driver Assistance Package offering 14 additional technologies for $2,150. Highlights included upgraded Pre-Safe features, Active Emergency Stop Assist, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping systems. The Automatic Lane Change function and Active Speed Limit Assist were part of the package, though some features could be turned off if desired. The ADAS was practical for daily driving, with the lane-keeping assist system impressing during testing.