2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class vs 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid was a striking departure from its predecessors, garnering admiration from even those who weren't car enthusiasts. Its sleek, fastback profile and elegant design were a testament to Hyundai's transformation under the guidance of design chief Peter Schreyer. The Sonata Hybrid's exterior was marked by its innovative LED running lights, which seamlessly integrated into the chrome trim, enhancing its aerodynamic appeal. The interior was equally impressive, offering a luxurious feel with its big screens, ambient lighting, and high-quality materials, rivaling even some luxury brands.

In contrast, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class maintained a familiar exterior design, yet boasted a drag coefficient of 0.22, making it more aerodynamic than a Toyota Prius. The S-Class was slightly larger than its predecessor, with a longer wheelbase and increased dimensions, contributing to its imposing presence. The interior was designed around the infotainment touchscreen and digital instrument cluster, with a minimalist approach that included rectangular air vents and a decluttered dashboard. The ambient lighting system was a standout feature, with 250 LED elements offering a vibrant and customizable experience.

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid featured a 2.0-liter Atkinson cycle engine paired with a 51-hp electric motor, delivering a combined 192 hp. The six-speed automatic transmission provided a more traditional driving experience compared to the CVTs found in most hybrids. While the gearbox occasionally hesitated, the Sonata Hybrid's silent interior, plush ride, and competent chassis made for a comfortable drive. The Blue trim level offered exceptional fuel efficiency, achieving 50 mpg city, 54 mpg highway, and 52 mpg combined, with a range of up to 686 miles on a single tank.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class offered two engine options: the S500 4Matic with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six producing 429 hp, and the S580 4Matic with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 generating 496 hp. Both models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and the EQ Boost mild-hybrid system, which added 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque for short bursts. The S-Class achieved 0-60 mph times of 4.8 seconds for the S500 and 4.4 seconds for the S580. The standard air suspension and rear-wheel steering enhanced the driving experience, providing a smooth and composed ride.

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited trim featured solar panels that could generate extra driving range and run the air conditioning when parked. The interior offered spacious rear-seat legroom, heated seats, and a quiet cabin, with 16 cubic feet of cargo space. The push-button gear selector and intuitive controls made for a user-friendly experience, while the Limited trim boasted a high-resolution digital dash and advanced infotainment system.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class provided more headroom and rear legroom than its predecessor, with segment-leading shoulder room. The cargo space increased to 12.9 cubic feet, though it remained smaller than some competitors. The front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The center console offered ample storage, and the optional Executive Line package transformed the rear seats into a luxurious space with power adjustments and climate control.

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid's infotainment system on the Limited trim was a highlight, with a soothing color scheme and intuitive interface. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Hyundai Blue Link, with a digital key for remote access. The Highway Driving Assist and head-up display provided a semi-automated driving experience, while the blind-spot camera feeds enhanced safety.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch OLED central touchscreen, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The updated MBUX system offered increased computing power and a more touchscreen-reliant interface. The augmented-reality head-up display and voice-control system added to the tech-savvy experience, while the ambient lighting reacted to various functions, providing a dynamic atmosphere.

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and was a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS. Standard safety features included emergency forward braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Limited trim offered additional features like parking sensors and Highway Driving Assist.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class lacked crash-test ratings but was equipped with numerous safety features, including an industry-first rear-passenger airbag. Standard driver-assist features included adaptive cruise control, automated lane centering, and a 360-degree camera system. Mercedes claimed improvements in traffic-sign recognition and lane-keep assist, enhancing the overall safety package.