2021 Lexus ES vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

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. The ES lineup included various trims, such as Standard, F Sport, Luxury, and Ultra Luxury, with the Black Line Special Edition debuting in limited numbers. The ES 350 F Sport Black Line Special Edition boasted features like adaptive variable suspension, Sport+ and Custom driving modes, and a Navigation Package. The F Sport trim added unique styling elements, while the Black Line Special Edition featured exclusive black and white design details. The ES's design, characterized by its dramatic grille and sleek lines, was complemented by a striking black and white interior, showcasing Lexus's commitment to quality materials and high design.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class retained its sleek and elegant design from the previous year's complete makeover. As Mercedes-Benz's flagship sedan, the S-Class continued its legacy of luxury and sophistication, with the seventh-generation W223 model offering the S500 and S580 sedans. The S-Class's exterior was defined by its extended, low profile, and elegant design, with a proud Mercedes-Benz grille and star hood ornament. Inside, the S-Class featured a waterfall of open-pore wood trim and a 12.8-inch touchscreen, complemented by a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. The cabin was adorned with high-quality materials, meticulously fitted and assembled, providing a luxurious and comfortable environment for passengers.

The 2021 Lexus ES 350 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 driving the front wheels. The ES 350 offered Normal, Eco, and Sport driving modes, with the F Sport trim adding Sport+ and Custom modes. Lexus claimed a 0-60 mph time of 6.6 seconds, with an EPA fuel economy rating of 25 mpg combined. During testing, the ES 350 F Sport demonstrated unexpected competence and genuine driving enjoyment, with a firm ride and flat cornering stance, though it was not an outright sports sedan.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class offered two engine options: the S500 with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder mild-hybrid engine, producing 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque, and the S580 with a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8. Both models featured the EQ Boost system, providing additional power and torque during high-demand situations. The S500 and S580 used a nine-speed automatic transmission with standard 4Matic AWD. The S500 accelerated from 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds, while the S580 achieved the same in 4.4 seconds. Despite their weight, both models offered flat and predictable handling, with powerful and immediate braking. The S500 delivered up to 24 mpg combined, while the S580 offered 19 mpg combined.

The 2021 Lexus ES featured a daring interior layout, with sport-bolstered front seats offering 10-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. The rear seats provided good foot and legroom, with rear air conditioning vents and an available power rear window sunshade. The ES offered excellent outward visibility and plentiful storage, though the trunk space was limited to 13.9 cubic feet. The test car's hands-free power trunk added convenience for loading and unloading.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class excelled as an executive sedan, offering a roomy and comfortable cabin with ample storage and cargo space. Second-row passengers enjoyed powered sun blinds and a Panorama Sunroof, while the trunk provided 13.8 cubic feet of space. The cabin featured six USB-C ports and a 115-volt power supply in the second row. The front seats offered active multicontour adjustments with massage and memory functions, while the Executive Line catered to rear passengers with additional luxury features. The S-Class's soft-close doors added convenience, and the vehicle was covered by a four-year/50,000-mile warranty.

The 2021 Lexus ES faced challenges with its touchpad interface, requiring drivers to look away from the road to navigate the screen. However, the ES offered separate climate and stereo controls, dynamic voice command technology, and an optional 12.3-inch widescreen display. The ES included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and other connected services, with a 10-speaker premium sound system as standard and an available 17-speaker Mark Levinson system.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class featured a 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen interface with the latest MBUX infotainment system, offering superior image quality and energy efficiency. The 12.3-inch LED virtual instrument panel provided crisp imagery, with an optional 3D instrument cluster adding depth. The S-Class included augmented video for navigation and an available augmented reality head-up display. The standard Burmester 3D Surround sound system offered high-fidelity audio, with an available 4D system enhancing the experience. The S-Class also featured EQ Boost and rear-axle steering for improved maneuverability.

The 2021 Lexus ES came equipped with Lexus Safety System 2.0, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, 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 five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Magic Vision Control, active distance assist, active steering assist, and Pre-Safe systems. The S-Class also featured car-to-x communication and available rear-passenger airbags. These advanced safety systems underscored Mercedes-Benz's commitment to safety innovation and leadership.