2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2022 BMW 2 Series

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 received updates such as squinted headlights, an inverted trapezoid grille, and horizontal taillights, giving it a slightly edgier appearance. Despite these changes, the E-Class maintained its reputation as a handsome and elegant vehicle, available in sedan, wagon, coupe, and convertible forms. The interior was a luxurious haven, with rich woods, aluminum, and carbon fiber accents, complemented by advanced technology like dual 12-inch screens and a digital instrument panel.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW 2 Series introduced a new exterior design that avoided the aggressive front fascia seen in other BMW models. The 2 Series was available in various configurations, including the RWD 230i Coupe and AWD M240i xDrive Coupe, with the four-door Gran Coupe also in the lineup. The 2 Series Coupe variants featured an extended wheelbase, making them longer, wider, and lower than their predecessors. The design included a wider kidney grille, flared fenders, and reshaped headlights and taillights, giving the coupe an agile appearance. The interior was straightforward and driver-oriented, with standard perforated SensaTec upholstery and optional Vernasca leather. The 2 Series offered a high-end vibe with mixed material finishes, though some areas revealed cost-cutting measures.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class saw a significant change with the introduction of electrified inline-six powertrains for the E450 model, replacing the conventional V6 engines. The E450 became a hybrid, utilizing a 48-volt electrical system to provide extra power and torque, allowing the engine to shut off more frequently to save fuel and reduce emissions. The E450's 3.0-liter inline-six engine produced 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, with additional power from the battery's overboost. The AMG E53 model added a second turbo, delivering 429 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque, while the AMG E63 S boasted a 4.0-liter V8 engine with 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. The E-Class offered a balance of performance and comfort, with variable-rate air suspension and rear-biased AWD enhancing its driving dynamics.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series, despite its subcompact size, delivered impressive performance. The 230i Coupe featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, while the M240i xDrive Coupe's 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six produced 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. The 230i Coupe accelerated to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds, while the M240i xDrive achieved the same in 4.1 seconds. Both models had a top speed of either 130 mph or 155 mph, depending on specifications. The 2 Series came with an eight-speed Sport automatic transmission, calibrated for smooth shifts and quick responses. The M240i xDrive included performance features like an aerodynamic kit, adaptive M suspension, and M Sport brakes, providing balanced and refined handling.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offered a spacious cabin for four adults, with ample headroom and legroom. The coupe's rear seats were comfortable, while the convertible's folding soft top limited rear space. The wagon provided additional cargo space with a stowable rear-facing jump seat. The E-Class sedan had 13 cubic feet of trunk space, while the two-door models offered 10 cubic feet or less with the roof down. The E450 All-Terrain wagon added ground clearance and plastic body cladding for a rugged look. The E-Class featured a redesigned infotainment system with dual screens, though mastering its functions required some learning.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series, being a small coupe, had limited rear seat space, suitable for children or short trips. The front seats were relatively spacious, but the slanted roofline and rear window design restricted rear headroom. The trunk offered 10 cubic feet of cargo space, with 40/20/40-split fold-down rear seats for added versatility. The interior featured soft touch points and improved ergonomics, with updated multifunction buttons on the steering wheel. The lower console area had a layout similar to other new BMW models, enhancing usability.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system, offering a touch-sensitive main screen with improved organization and shortcut buttons. Gesture control and natural voice processing enhanced user interaction, while features like live camera feeds and massaging seats added convenience and comfort. The system lacked over-the-air updates, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were not wireless. Optional driving assists provided semi-autonomous capabilities, though drivers were advised to remain in control.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series came equipped with an 8.8-inch touchscreen and a 5.1-inch driver information display, featuring the iDrive 7 operating system with over-the-air updates. The system included cloud-based navigation, real-time traffic updates, and connected services. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration were standard, with an optional head-up display and Live Cockpit Professional package available. The 2 Series offered remote features like the BMW Digital Key and a 10-speaker Hi-Fi sound system, with an optional Harman Kardon system for enhanced audio quality.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was highly rated for safety, with a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick+" designation from the IIHS. The E-Class featured innovations like Pre-Safe Sound and side collision protection, with standard forward automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. Optional driver-assist features enhanced safety further.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series included the Active Driving Assistant suite, with standard features like blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, and lane departure warning. Optional safety features included adaptive front LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, and a 360-degree surround view. The BMW Drive Recorder allowed for recording driving footage, though the 2 Series had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA.