2019 Kia Optima vs 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The 2019 Kia Optima, while not as revolutionary in design as its earlier models, still managed to capture attention with its appealing aesthetics. The car featured a distinctive tiger-nose grille, stylish fender-vent trim, and an optional black panoramic glass roof, offering a variety of trim levels to suit different tastes and budgets. However, the availability of interior color options was limited, which could make finding the perfect combination a bit challenging. The price range for the Optima varied from $22,900 for the base LX to $35,790 for the SX Turbo with the Limited Package, with the plug-in hybrid model being the most expensive. The SX Turbo trim, which was tested, boasted a sleek, sporty look with blacked-out exterior elements, 18-inch aluminum wheels, and red brake calipers, priced at $33,505.

In contrast, the 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was reminiscent of its predecessors with a smooth, rounded body, though it could have benefited from a few more edges. Its design was versatile, available in sedan, wagon, coupe, or cabriolet forms, appealing to conservative buyers. The sedan, with its hood ornament and chrome grille, exuded traditional Mercedes elegance. The E-Class's LED lighting and proportions, whether on the Luxury model's higher suspension or the sportier versions, were visually appealing. The cabriolet, in particular, showcased the car's fluid form, with a contrasting soft top revealing a luxurious interior. The E-Class was known for its multi-tone leathers, aluminum and wood accents, and high-resolution digital screens, creating a sophisticated and comfortable environment.

The 2019 Kia Optima offered a range of five engines, including hybrid options. The base LX and sporty S trims featured a 185-horsepower, 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, while the EX Turbo had a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine producing 178 hp. The hybrid models provided impressive fuel efficiency, with the plug-in hybrid offering up to 28 miles of electric range. The SX Turbo trim, tested, came with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine delivering 245 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. It provided smooth acceleration and was equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission, offering four driving modes: Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Smart. The SX Turbo's steering and brakes were commendable, though the steering lacked crispness on challenging roads. The sport-tuned suspension provided a firm ride, but excess body motion was noted on uneven terrain.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, specifically the E350, replaced the E300 with a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 255 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. The engine, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, offered improved response and noise reduction. The E350 was quick off the line but lacked midrange power, making passing maneuvers challenging. The E450, with a 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 362 hp, offered a more balanced performance. The E-Class's standard setup provided a comfortable ride, with AMG models offering enhanced performance. The AMG E53 featured a hybrid setup with 429 hp, while the AMG E63 S boasted a 4.0-liter V8 with 603 hp. Fuel economy varied, with the E63 S being the least efficient.

The 2019 Kia Optima was designed for comfort and practicality, with a spacious interior and a 15.9-cubic-foot trunk. The controls were logically arranged, and the car offered numerous storage options. The front seats provided various adjustments, with available heating and ventilation. The backseat offered impressive legroom and comfort, with rear air-conditioning vents and USB ports. The Smart Trunk feature was convenient, though it could open unintentionally. Overall, the Optima was easy to live with, offering a blend of comfort, utility, and luxury with the Limited Package.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, while featuring a complex COMAND infotainment system, offered a functional interior with ample space and excellent sightlines. The digital dash was customizable, and the coupe had a usable rear seat. The wagon included a rear-facing jump seat for children. The E-Class's interior was luxurious, with features like seat climate controls on the door panels and a net for securing items. Despite the infotainment system's complexity, the E-Class provided a comfortable and spacious environment.

The 2019 Kia Optima came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen display featuring UVO technology, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a reversing camera. The Optima S and EX Turbo added satellite radio and UVO eServices, which relied on the owner's smartphone data plan. The SX Turbo included a navigation system, HD Radio, and a Harman Kardon audio system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though the font choice was unique.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class boasted advanced technology, including a semi-automated driving system and a V2X communication system. The car featured Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto as standard. The Burmester stereo offered surround-sound modes, and the front camera activated automatically when parking. The E-Class also included unique features like the Energizing Comfort Package and a Track Pace app for AMG models. Despite its complexity, the E-Class was equipped with cutting-edge technology.

The 2019 Kia Optima was equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance and collision-avoidance systems, making it a great value for safety-conscious buyers. Standard features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Optima received top ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with only minor exceptions.

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 models were not tested but were expected to perform similarly. The E-Class featured innovative safety technologies, including Pre-Safe Sound and side bolster inflation during side collisions. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, with additional driver-assist features available as options.