2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, a continuation of the eighth-generation Sonata introduced in 2020, maintained its bold and distinctive styling. In a market where sedans often adopt aggressive designs, the Sonata Hybrid stood out with its unique appearance, though some found its catfish-like front end polarizing. The test model's matte gray paint and aerodynamic features, such as the integrated deck-lid spoiler and taillight strakes, added to its striking presence. Inside, the cabin offered a more conventional yet refined atmosphere, with soft-touch surfaces and a modern haptic bezel surrounding the vivid touchscreen infotainment system. The seats provided comfort and support for long journeys, ensuring rear-seat passengers also enjoyed a comfortable ride.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, following a complete makeover in 2021, continued to impress with its sleek and elegant design. The S-Class's long, low profile exuded sophistication, with a significant distance between the front axle and dashboard enhancing its elegance. The proud Mercedes-Benz grille and star hood ornament reinforced its prestigious lineage. Inside, the S-Class dazzled with a waterfall of open-pore wood trim and a 12.8-inch touchscreen in the center stack. The 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, separate from the infotainment screen, allowed for distinct functionality. The cabin was adorned with high-quality materials, meticulously fitted to create a luxurious environment.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid featured a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor and battery pack, delivering a combined 192 horsepower to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. The Limited trim's solar panel roof added approximately two miles per day to the driving range. The Sonata Hybrid offered solid acceleration, with a Drive Mode toggle allowing drivers to switch between Eco, Sport, Custom, and Smart modes. The vehicle often started in battery-only mode, with seamless transitions to the engine. The steering was light yet precise, and the brakes provided solid stopping power with a refined pedal feel.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, available in S500 and S580 models, boasted impressive performance with its turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder engine and EQ Boost system. The S500 produced 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, with the electric motor adding 21 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque during high-demand situations. The S580 featured a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine. Both models utilized a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic AWD. Despite their weight, the S-Class models were quick off the line, with the S500 reaching 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds and the S580 in 4.4 seconds. The S-Class offered a smooth and responsive driving experience, with impressive fuel efficiency for its class.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid provided 16 cubic feet of trunk space, matching the conventionally-powered Sonata and surpassing the Camry Hybrid. The cabin offered ample legroom for front passengers and decent rear-seat space, accommodating four adults comfortably for a weekend trip. However, the sloping roofline resulted in a low rear door opening, requiring occupants to lower their heads when entering. Once inside, rear headroom was adequate for adults. Front passengers enjoyed cargo pockets in the doors and a center console, with a convenient tray for small items.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class excelled in providing a spacious and luxurious cabin. Second-row passengers benefited from powered sun blinds and a Panorama Sunroof, while a 13.8-cubic-foot trunk offered ample storage. The cabin featured six USB-C ports and a 115-volt power supply in the second row. Front-row passengers enjoyed active multicontour seats with massage, memory, and lumbar support. The Luxury Line added features like a heated steering wheel and rear-seat heating, while the Executive Line catered to chauffeured passengers with advanced rear-seat amenities. The S-Class's soft-close doors ensured a quiet and refined experience.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with the Limited trim upgrading to a 10.25-inch screen with navigation and real-time traffic updates. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though CarPlay only occupied two-thirds of the larger screen. The touchscreen layout was intuitive, with crisp graphics on the Limited model. The stereo featured a traditional volume knob, while haptic buttons controlled other functions. The SEL and Limited trims included a wireless charging pad, and the Limited added a head-up display, though its adjustability was limited for taller drivers.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class showcased cutting-edge technology with its 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen and MBUX infotainment system. The OLED screen offered superior image quality and energy efficiency, while the 12.3-inch LED virtual instrument panel provided customizable visual themes. The optional 3D instrument cluster added depth and visual interest. The S-Class featured augmented video for navigation and an available augmented reality head-up display, enhancing driver assistance. The Burmester 3D Surround sound system delivered high-fidelity audio, with an available 4D system adding headrest speakers. The S-Class's powertrain and chassis included EQ Boost and rear-axle steering for improved maneuverability.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid came equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including forward-collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-follow assist were also standard. The Limited trim added a head-up display, 360-degree surround-view parking monitor, and parking sensors. The Sonata Hybrid earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was a 2021 IIHS Top Safety Pick.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class offered an extensive array of safety and driver assistance features, including Magic Vision Control, adaptive cruise control, active steering assist, and active brake assist. The Pre-Safe systems prepared the vehicle for imminent collisions, while car-to-x communication shared warning messages with other vehicles. The S-Class also offered rear-passenger airbags and advanced rear-seat safety features for executive-level protection.