2021 Nissan Sentra vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, part of the W213 generation, showcased a design evolution that embraced the "sensual purity" theme, moving away from the sharper angles of its predecessor. This model featured a more fluid and curvier form, reminiscent of the S-Class and C-Class models. The E-Class had a slightly edgier front with squinted headlights and an inverted trapezoid grille, while the rear design echoed the W212 with horizontal taillights. The removal of the standing hood ornament marked a shift towards a sportier aesthetic, although the E-Class remained a reserved and conservative vehicle. Inside, the E-Class boasted a luxurious cabin with rich materials like polished woods, aluminum, and carbon fiber, complemented by advanced ambient lighting and intricate details. The dual 12-inch screens provided a modern touch, and the new steering wheel design added to the car's contemporary feel.

In contrast, the 2021 Nissan Sentra, entering its eighth generation, presented an athletic exterior with crisp lines and a bold V-Motion grille. The Sentra's design was a departure from its past, offering a more dynamic and serious look with expressive headlights. Available in eight exterior paint colors, including vibrant options like Monarch Orange Metallic and Electric Blue Metallic, the Sentra allowed for personalization. Inside, the Sentra's cabin was practical and comfortable, featuring a layered dash with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen. The flat-bottomed steering wheel added a sporty touch, and the spacious second row and trunk provided ample room for passengers and cargo. The Sentra's interior was designed for functionality, with well-placed controls and storage options.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class introduced significant changes to its powertrain lineup, with the E450 model transitioning to a hybrid system featuring a 48-volt electrical system. This setup provided additional power and torque, allowing for smoother engine starts and improved fuel efficiency. The E450's 3.0-liter inline-six engine produced 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, with an overboost feature for extra performance. The AMG E53 model added a second turbocharger, delivering 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, while the AMG E63 S boasted a hand-built 4.0-liter V8 engine with 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. Despite the impressive power figures, the E-Class prioritized comfort and refinement over outright speed, with various driving modes to suit different preferences. Fuel economy varied across models, with the E450 achieving 26 mpg combined and the AMG E63 S offering 18 mpg combined.

The 2021 Nissan Sentra featured a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 149 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive, the Sentra offered adequate performance for daily driving. Weighing between 3,036 and 3,084 pounds, the Sentra was relatively lightweight, contributing to its fuel efficiency. The S and SV models achieved 33 mpg combined, while the SR model offered 32 mpg combined. The Sentra's driving experience was enhanced by its well-tuned suspension and responsive steering, providing a comfortable and enjoyable ride. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the Sentra's power output was well-suited for its intended purpose, balancing efficiency and practicality.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured a redesigned infotainment system with a touchscreen interface, simplifying everyday tasks. The cabin was spacious, accommodating four adults comfortably, with ample headroom and legroom. The E-Class offered various body styles, including a sedan, coupe, convertible, and wagon, each with its own unique features. The sedan provided 13 cubic feet of trunk space, while the wagon offered up to 64 cubic feet with the seats folded. The coupe and convertible had less rear seat space, but the wagon included a stowable rear-facing jump seat for added versatility. Despite its luxury status, some features like rear USB ports and heated rear seats were not standard on all models.

The 2021 Nissan Sentra's interior was designed for practicality and comfort, with well-placed features and controls. The infotainment touchscreen was positioned at the top of the center stack, with traditional gear selector and open cupholders for convenience. The Sentra offered ample storage options, including a large glove compartment and roomy door pockets. The Zero Gravity front seats provided excellent comfort for long journeys, and the available Premium Package added features like power-adjustable seats and a moonroof. The Sentra's trunk offered 14.3 cubic feet of cargo space, with a split-folding rear seat for added flexibility.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was equipped with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a touchscreen interface with gesture control and natural voice processing. The system offered a range of features, including live camera feeds for navigation and optional extras like massaging seats and seat kinetics. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, they required a wired connection. The E-Class also offered advanced driver-assist features, with optional systems capable of semi-autonomous driving. The instrument cluster was highly customizable, allowing drivers to choose between traditional and modern displays.

The 2021 Nissan Sentra came with a standard audio system featuring AM/FM/USB connectivity, with upgrades available for higher trims. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard across all models, with an 8-inch touchscreen for SV and SR trims. The NissanConnect system offered a WiFi hotspot and remote access to vehicle functions via a smartphone app. While navigation was only available through a subscription service, the Sentra's tech features were user-friendly and integrated well with smartphones.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was recognized for its safety, earning a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS. The E-Class featured innovative safety technologies, including Pre-Safe Sound and side bolster inflation during collisions. Standard safety features included forward automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, with additional driver-assist features available as options.

The 2021 Nissan Sentra also prioritized safety, with a comprehensive suite of standard features. These included advanced airbags, a tire pressure monitoring system with Easy-Fill Tire Alert, and Nissan Safety Shield 360. The Sentra received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. Standard driver assistance features included automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring, with intelligent cruise control available on higher trims.