2021 Lexus ES vs 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, reminiscent of its predecessors, boasted a smooth, rounded body that aligned with the brand's traditional design language. Despite its streamlined appearance, which some critics felt could use a few more edges, it maintained a familial resemblance to the larger S-Class and smaller C-Class. This model was available in various forms, including sedan, wagon, coupe, and cabriolet, catering to a conservative clientele. The sedan, in particular, exuded luxury with its classic hood ornament and chrome grille, while the sportier models featured a prominent Mercedes emblem. The E-Class's LED lighting added a touch of elegance, and its proportions, whether on the Luxury model's higher suspension or the sportier versions, always struck a visual balance.

Inside, the E-Class cabriolet stood out with its contrasting soft top and luxurious interior. The cabin, when specified with multi-tone leathers and polished wood, offered a sumptuous experience. The expansive digital screens, circular air vents, and ambient lighting in 64 colors created a modern yet serene environment. Even the base model, with its leatherette and standard seats, felt superior to many competitors, providing a space of solitude and comfort.

The 2021 Lexus ES expanded its lineup with the introduction of the ES 250 series, featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and standard all-wheel drive, priced similarly to the ES 350 with a 3.5-liter V6 and front-wheel drive. The ES 300h hybrid variant offered improved fuel economy at a premium. Lexus made blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert standard on most trims, and introduced a limited-production Black Line Special Edition for the ES 350. This edition featured unique styling elements and came with a matching luggage set.

The ES 350 F Sport Black Line Special Edition, with its striking black and white interior, showcased the model's dramatic design. Despite sharing a platform with the Toyota Avalon, the ES maintained its Lexus identity through high-quality materials and design. The F Sport trim added sporty elements like 19-inch wheels and a rear spoiler, enhancing its appeal. The ES's bold grille required some getting used to, but overall, it was a well-designed sedan with a long, lean profile.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offered a range of powertrains, starting with the E350's turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 255 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, provided improved response and reduced noise compared to previous models. While the E350 was quick off the line, its performance waned at higher speeds, making passing maneuvers challenging. The E450, with its 3.0-liter V6 engine delivering 362 hp and 369 lb-ft, offered a more balanced and effortless driving experience. For those seeking more power, the AMG E53 and AMG E63 S models provided 429 hp and 603 hp, respectively, with performance-tuned all-wheel drive.

The 2021 Lexus ES 350 featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine generating 302 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The ES 350 accelerated to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds, with an EPA fuel economy rating of 25 mpg combined. The F Sport model, equipped with an adaptive damping suspension, offered Sport+ and Custom driving modes, enhancing its dynamic capabilities. While the ES 350 F Sport was not a true sports sedan, it provided a sporty driving experience with firm ride quality and flat cornering.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, despite its complex COMAND infotainment system, offered a functional interior with ample space and excellent sightlines. The digital dash, when configured correctly, provided clear and high-resolution displays. The coupe featured a usable rear seat, while the wagon included a rear-facing jump seat for children. The E-Class's interior was thoughtfully designed, with features like seat controls on the door panels and a net for securing items in the front passenger footwell.

The 2021 Lexus ES boasted a daring interior layout that remained functional, with sport-bolstered front seats offering 10-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. The rear seats provided good legroom and comfort, with rear air conditioning vents and an available power rear window sunshade. The ES's trunk measured 13.9 cubic feet, and the test car featured a hands-free power trunk. While storage was plentiful, it was configured with numerous small compartments rather than large bins.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was equipped with advanced technology, including a semi-automated driving system and a V2X communication system. The infotainment system, though complex, offered features like Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Burmester stereo provided a nightclub-like sound experience, and the car included unique features like the Energizing Comfort Package and a Track Pace app for AMG models.

The 2021 Lexus ES featured a touchpad-based infotainment system, which required attention to operate. However, the ES offered separate climate and stereo controls, as well as dynamic voice command technology. The optional 12.3-inch widescreen display, while not a touchscreen, provided a clear interface. The ES included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 10-speaker premium sound system, with an available 17-speaker Mark Levinson system.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan and wagon received a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS. The E-Class featured innovative safety technologies, such as 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 Lexus ES came standard with Lexus Safety System 2.0, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on most trims. The ES received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA.