2019 BMW 3 Series vs 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The 2019 BMW 3 Series maintained its evolutionary design approach, avoiding radical changes that might polarize opinions. It was slightly longer and wider than its predecessors, yet retained a compact footprint, making it easy to park and maneuver. The design featured subtle changes, such as the modification of the Hoffmeister kink on the rear doors, but overall, it adhered to the classic sport sedan aesthetics with a low hood, short overhangs, and a ground-hugging stance. The front was unmistakably BMW, with LED running lamps and kidney grilles that had been widened and stretched. Inside, the 3 Series kept its driver-focused layout, with a digital instrument panel and an optional wireless charging pad. However, some interior materials felt coarse, and the M Sport steering wheel was slightly too thick for some tastes.

In contrast, the 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class drew inspiration from its predecessors, featuring a smooth, rounded body that echoed the design language of the larger S-Class and smaller C-Class. Available in various body styles, the E-Class appealed to conservative buyers with its understated elegance. The sedan's design was particularly rich with a traditional hood ornament and chrome grille. The interior was luxurious, with multi-tone leathers, aluminum, and polished wood. Two high-resolution digital screens stretched across the dash, complemented by circular air vents and silver toggles for climate control. The ambient lighting offered 64 colors, enhancing the serene atmosphere. Even the base model felt a cut above its competitors, offering a refined and comfortable driving experience.

The 2019 BMW 3 Series was powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine, delivering 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. This engine was praised for its smoothness and torque, although it exhibited some turbo lag at low speeds. The M340i variant offered a twin-turbo 6-cylinder engine with 382 hp and 369 lb-ft, providing near-M3 performance. The 3 Series featured an 8-speed automatic transmission with perfect shifts, and the M Sport package added a lower suspension, staggered tires, and variable-ratio steering. Fuel economy for the 330i xDrive was rated at 25 mpg city and 34 highway.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E350 replaced the E300, featuring a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with 255 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. The engine was paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, offering improved response and reduced noise. The E450 variant boasted a 3.0-liter V6 with 362 hp and 369 lb-ft, providing effortless performance. AMG models, such as the E53 and E63 S, offered even more power, with the latter delivering 603 hp and 627 lb-ft from a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8. Fuel economy varied depending on the powertrain, with the E63 S rated at 16 mpg city and 23 highway.

The 2019 BMW 3 Series offered a spacious interior with improved backseat legroom and a 17-cubic-foot trunk. Visibility was excellent, and the seats were firm yet supportive. The infotainment system was intuitive, with a touchscreen and rotary controller. Climate controls were easy to use, and USB-C ports were available.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured a more complex infotainment system, with a non-touchscreen interface that could be distracting. However, the interior was spacious, with excellent sightlines and functional features like seat controls on the door panels. The coupe had a usable rear seat, and the wagon offered a rear-facing jump seat for children. The digital dash was customizable, and the overall interior design was luxurious and well-appointed.

The 2019 BMW 3 Series was equipped with advanced technology, including a subscription-based Apple CarPlay, a customizable iDrive system, and over-the-air updates. Gesture control and a personal assistant were available, though not always reliable. The Driving Assistance Professional Package offered semi-autonomous driving features.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class boasted impressive tech, with a semi-automated driving system and a V2X communication system. The dash was reconfigurable, and standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Burmester stereo and Energizing Comfort Package added to the luxury experience, while AMG models featured a Track Pace app for performance enthusiasts.

The 2019 BMW 3 Series was a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, with top ratings in crash tests and collision-avoidance systems. Standard safety features included pedestrian detection and forward emergency braking, while optional features included blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan and wagon received a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. The coupe and cabriolet were not tested but were expected to perform similarly. Innovative safety features included Pre-Safe Sound and side bolster inflation during a side collision. Standard features included forward emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, with additional driver-assist features available as options.