2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class vs 2020 Lexus ES

The 2020 Lexus ES had evolved significantly from its earlier iterations, shedding its "boring" label with a more aggressive design. The introduction of the large spindle grille in 2016, which grew even larger in the 2020 model, complemented the car's larger proportions. The rear design was more subdued, featuring thin taillamps and a pronounced kink at the back of the side windows. Inside, the ES boasted a blend of modern technology and soft-touch materials, with a large infotainment screen integrated into the dash. The interior was second only to Mercedes-Benz in terms of execution.

In contrast, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class maintained a similar exterior styling to its predecessor but with improved aerodynamics, boasting a drag coefficient of 0.22. The new model was slightly larger in all dimensions, enhancing its road presence. The interior was designed around the infotainment touchscreen and digital instrument cluster, with a minimalist approach. Ambient lighting was taken to a new level with 250 LED elements and 64 color options. The materials used were top-notch, including Nappa leather and open-pore wood trim, although the piano-black trim was prone to smudging.

The 2020 Lexus ES was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 302 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup allowed the ES to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 6.6 seconds, with a top speed of 131 mph. The ride was comfortable and refined, with the Dynamic Control Shocks contributing to a smooth experience. The F Sport trim offered an Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) with adjustable dampers and additional drive modes, including Sport+ for a more engaging driving experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class offered two engine options: a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six in the S500 4Matic, producing 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque, and a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 in the S580 4Matic, delivering 496 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. Both engines featured EQ Boost, a mild-hybrid system adding 21 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque for short bursts. The S500 accelerated from 0-60 mph in 4.8 seconds, while the S580 did it in 4.4 seconds. The S-Class also featured standard air suspension and rear-wheel steering, enhancing its handling and comfort.

The 2020 Lexus ES offered a spacious cabin with ample head- and legroom in both rows. The front doors had deep pockets, and the center console featured multiple storage options. The trunk provided 16.7 cubic feet of space, which was mid-pack for the segment. However, the rear seats did not fold down, limiting the ability to carry larger items.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class improved on its predecessor with more front and rear headroom and rear legroom. The cargo space increased to 12.9 cubic feet, although it was still less than some competitors. The front seats were highly adjustable with 19 motors, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The center console offered ample storage, and the rear seats could be power-adjusted with the optional Executive Line package, making it suitable for chauffeur service.

The 2020 Lexus ES featured the Lexus Remote Touch system, controlling either an 8-inch or 12.3-inch display. The system included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a 10-speaker premium audio system or an optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson stereo. A head-up display was also available, providing crisp graphics and customization.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class came with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch OLED central touchscreen, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Burmester audio system and rear-seat infotainment setup with 11.6-inch touchscreens were optional. The updated MBUX system offered increased computing power and a more touchscreen-reliant interface. The S-Class also featured an augmented-reality head-up display and biometric or facial recognition for personal profiles.

The 2020 Lexus ES came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including forward collision avoidance, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic high beams. It also featured pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-keep assist, and lane-tracing assist.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class included a rear-passenger airbag and a comprehensive suite of driver-assist features, such as adaptive cruise control, automated lane centering, automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, lane-change assist, traffic-sign recognition, a driver-attention monitor, and a 360-degree camera system. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering systems performed exceptionally well.