2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2020 Toyota Corolla

The 2020 Toyota Corolla, despite its modern redesign, was not considered particularly attractive, often compared to the unconventional aesthetics of other Toyota models. However, when equipped with the SE or XSE trim and the Celestite paint color, the Corolla presented a more appealing appearance, especially when compared to other Toyota sedans. The interior quality of the Corolla saw significant improvements, with the use of soft-touch surfaces replacing the previously cheap and glossy plastics. Despite these enhancements, the Corolla's transmission shifter reminded drivers of its economy car status, lacking the solid feel found in competitors like Hyundai or Kia. The Corolla's pricing started at $19,600, with the top XSE trim reaching around $28,800.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, part of the W213 generation, showcased a design evolution with a more fluid and curvier form, drawing inspiration from the S-Class and C-Class models. The E-Class maintained its elegant and handsome appearance, with new bumpers, exhaust tips, and wheels enhancing its overall look. The interior of the E-Class was a showcase of luxury, featuring rich woods, aluminum, and carbon fiber accents, along with advanced technology like dual 12-inch screens and a digital instrument panel. The E-Class offered a spacious and inviting cabin, with a focus on comfort and style, making it a standout in its class.

The 2020 Toyota Corolla offered a range of engine options, starting with a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 139 horsepower for the L, LE, and XLE trims. The SE and XSE trims featured a more powerful 169-hp, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, paired with a sophisticated CVT and paddle shifters. The Corolla's driving dynamics were well-tuned, providing a smooth and stable ride, thanks to its independent rear suspension. However, the Corolla XSE struggled with acceleration, lacking the power needed for more dynamic driving. The fuel economy was decent, with an EPA rating of 31 mpg city, 38 highway, and 34 combined.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class introduced electrified inline-six powertrains for the E450 model, featuring a hybrid system with a 48-volt electrical system. This setup provided extra power and torque, allowing for smoother engine operation and improved fuel efficiency. The E450 produced 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, while the AMG E53 model offered 429 hp and 384 lb-ft, thanks to a second turbocharger. The AMG E63 S model boasted a hand-built 4.0-liter V8 engine with 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, delivering exceptional performance. The E-Class offered a range of driving modes, from comfortable to sporty, ensuring a versatile driving experience.

The 2020 Toyota Corolla, despite being classified as a compact car, offered a surprisingly roomy interior, with the EPA designating it as a midsize car. The Corolla's cabin was comfortable for a family of four, although rear passengers faced challenges with heat and lack of amenities like rear air-conditioning vents and USB ports. The front seats were comfortable, with the driver's seat offering 8-way power adjustment. However, the lack of storage bins and small cupholders were notable drawbacks. The trunk space measured 13.1 cubic feet, providing ample room for luggage and other items.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured a spacious cabin, accommodating four adults comfortably. The interior was designed with luxury in mind, offering supportive cushions, ample headroom, and legroom. The E-Class sedan provided 13 cubic feet of trunk space, while the wagon offered up to 64 cubic feet with seats folded. The coupe and convertible models had less trunk space, especially with the roof down. The E-Class All-Terrain wagon added versatility with increased ground clearance and additional cargo space. The interior was equipped with advanced technology, including a redesigned infotainment system and dual screens.

The 2020 Toyota Corolla came equipped with the Entune 3.0 infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay compatibility but lacking Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, with a high-mounted touchscreen, stereo volume and tuning knobs, and main menu access buttons. The Corolla offered various connectivity options, including Amazon Alexa compatibility, Siri Eyes Free, and a range of trial services for navigation and safety. The XSE and XLE trims offered additional features like wireless device charging and a JBL premium sound system.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class introduced the MBUX infotainment system, offering a touchscreen interface with improved organization and functionality. The system featured natural voice processing, online searches, and gesture controls. The E-Class provided a range of advanced features, including live camera feeds for navigation, massaging seats, and seat kinetics. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were not wireless, the E-Class offered standard 4G WiFi and connected services. The instrument cluster allowed for customizable displays, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2020 Toyota Corolla was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) 2.0, offering a suite of active driver-assistance systems, including low-light pedestrian detection, daytime cyclist detection, and Lane Tracing Assist. The Corolla received a 5-star frontal-impact rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS. The blind-spot monitoring system was standard on higher trims and optional on others, although it lacked rear cross-traffic alert.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was recognized for its safety, receiving a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS. The E-Class offered a range of innovative safety features, including Pre-Safe Sound, side collision protection, and crosswind assistance. Standard safety features included forward automatic emergency braking, driver-attention monitoring, and blind-spot monitoring, with additional driver-assist features available as options.