2021 BMW 2 Series vs 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, reminiscent of its predecessors, boasted a smooth, rounded body that echoed the design language of the larger S-Class and smaller C-Class. Despite its streamlined appearance, which some felt could use a few more edges, the E-Class was a versatile vehicle available in sedan, wagon, coupe, or cabriolet forms. Its design catered to a conservative audience, with options like a traditional hood ornament and chrome grille on the sedan, or a sportier grille with a prominent Mercedes emblem. The LED lighting added a delicate touch, and the car's proportions were visually appealing, whether on the Luxury model's higher suspension or the sportier versions with larger wheels and quad exhausts. The cabriolet, in particular, showcased the E-Class's fluid form, with a contrasting soft top that revealed a luxurious interior. The cabin, when specified with multi-tone leathers and polished wood, was a delight, featuring two feet of high-resolution digital screens, circular air vents, and ambient lighting in 64 colors. Even the base model felt a cut above its competitors, offering a serene and opulent driving experience.

The 2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, introduced as a new model, marked BMW's first foray into front-wheel drive in the U.S. market, despite its name suggesting a coupe, it was a four-door sedan. This entry-level BMW was designed for those aspiring to own a vehicle with the iconic kidney grille and blue-and-white roundel. Available in 228i and M235i models, with optional xDrive all-wheel-drive, the 2 Series Gran Coupe offered a blend of affordability and BMW's signature driving dynamics. The car's design included visual tricks to balance its front-drive proportions, such as large LED headlights and a tapering roofline. Inside, the 2 Series adhered to BMW's modern design language, with geometric shapes, a touchscreen infotainment system, and digital instrumentation. The materials were upscale, and the optional leather added a touch of luxury. Despite being an entry-level model, the 2 Series Gran Coupe, when equipped with features like the M Sport Package, felt anything but basic, offering a sophisticated driving experience.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offered a range of powertrains, starting with the E350, which replaced the E300. The E350 featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. This engine, with its twin-scroll turbo design, provided quicker response and held gears longer, though it struggled with passing maneuvers at higher speeds. For more power, the E450's 3.0-liter V6 with 362 hp and 369 lb-ft offered a balanced and effortless performance. The AMG models, E53 and E63 S, took performance to another level, with the E53's hybrid setup delivering 429 hp and the E63 S's V8 producing 603 hp. The E-Class's fuel economy ranged from 19 to 32 mpg, depending on the powertrain and body style.

The 2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, particularly the 228i xDrive model, featured a 228-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed sport automatic transmission and optional AWD. BMW claimed a 0-60 mph time of six seconds for the 228i xDrive, offering a lively driving experience. The car included performance-enhancing technologies like brake-fade compensation and cornering brake control. The M Sport Package added M Sport steering, enhancing the driving dynamics. The suspension was firm but kept the car glued to the road, and the 2 Series Gran Coupe averaged 27.9 mpg during testing, slightly above the EPA's estimate.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, while featuring a complex COMAND infotainment system, offered a spacious and functional interior. The system, not touchscreen-based, required multiple steps for various functions, which could be distracting. However, the E-Class excelled in comfort and practicality, with features like seat controls on the door panels and ample space in all dimensions. The coupe had a usable rear seat, and the wagon offered a rear-facing jump seat for children. The digital dash, when set up correctly, provided clear and high-resolution displays.

The 2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, designed primarily for two passengers, offered sport-bolstered front seats and adequate storage. The rear seats, while accessible through extra doors, were cramped, especially for taller passengers. The trunk, however, was spacious at 15.2 cubic feet, with a 40/20/40-split folding rear seat for added utility. Despite its fast roofline, the Gran Coupe did not offer the same cargo utility as its larger sibling, the 4 Series Gran Coupe.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was packed with advanced technology, including a semi-automated driving system capable of steering, lane changes, and obstacle avoidance. The Driver Assistance Package added numerous features, while the V2X system communicated with other Mercedes models about road conditions. The infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with options like a Burmester stereo and the Energizing Comfort Package for a personalized experience.

The 2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe featured Live Cockpit Plus with a 5.1-inch display, upgradeable to a fully digital 10.25-inch display with the Premium Package. The infotainment system, using iDrive 7.0, included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system. The system was user-friendly, with responsive software and multiple control options. The car also offered a premium sound system and optional Gesture Control, though the latter was not always accurate.

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, while untested, were expected to perform similarly. The E-Class featured innovative safety technologies like Pre-Safe Sound and side bolster inflation during a side collision. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, with additional driver-assist features available as options.

The 2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe offered a Driving Assistance Package with adaptive cruise control and parking assistance, though the test car lacked these features. It included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. The IIHS rated the Gran Coupe highly for crash protection, though it missed a Top Safety Pick due to headlight performance and vehicle-to-pedestrian test results.