2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2022 Lexus IS

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, part of the W213 generation introduced in 2017, transitioned from the sharper angles of its predecessor to a more fluid and curvier design, aligning with the aesthetic of the 2014 S-Class and 2015 C-Class. This design philosophy, termed "sensual purity" by Mercedes' chief designer Gorden Wagener, aimed to create a smooth and elegant appearance. The 2021 model featured updates such as squinted headlights, an inverted trapezoid grille, and horizontal taillights reminiscent of the W212. New bumpers with larger air intakes, new exhaust tips, and new wheels were also introduced, maintaining the E-Class's reputation for elegance across its sedan, wagon, coupe, and convertible variants.

Inside, the E-Class offered a luxurious experience with rich materials like polished and matte woods, aluminum, and carbon fiber. The cabin was adorned with intricate details such as metal speaker grilles, elaborate stitching, and ambient lighting that interacted with the car's climate and mood settings. The 2021 model introduced a digital instrument panel, replacing analog gauges, and new steering wheels with touch-sensitive controls. The interior, with its two 12-inch screens, provided a modern and lavish environment, unmatched by competitors at this price point.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance continued the legacy of the original 2008 IS F, featuring a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 472 hp and 395 lb-ft of torque. This power was delivered to the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. The IS 500 offered a thrilling driving experience, balancing emotional excitement with daily driving comfort. It commanded a premium price over the IS 350 F Sport and IS 300, but justified it with its performance and features.

The IS 500's design included a raised hood to accommodate the V8 engine, exclusive 19-inch wheels, and subtle styling tweaks. Inside, it shared the same interior as the IS 350 F Sport, with comfortable seating for four and quality materials. The 2021 update added a wide touchscreen display, improving the usability of the infotainment system. However, the touchpad on the center console remained, taking up valuable space. The trunk space was limited to 10.8 cubic feet, which was small even for compact cars.

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 power an electric starter-generator, providing up to 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque for brief periods. This system allowed the engine to shut off more frequently, saving fuel and reducing emissions. The 3.0-liter inline-six engine produced 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, with additional power from the battery's overboost. The AMG E53 model added a second turbo, increasing output to 429 hp and 384 lb-ft, while the AMG E63 S featured a 4.0-liter V8 engine with 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance featured a 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 472 hp at 7,100 rpm and 395 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. The car weighed 11 pounds less than the RC F coupe and 143 pounds more than the IS 350 F Sport, with a weight distribution of 56% front and 44% rear. The IS 500 used an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission and included a limited-slip differential. Driving modes included Eco, Normal, Sport S, and Sport+, with a Custom mode for personalized settings. The IS 500 could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds.

The IS 500's adaptive variable suspension and Yamaha rear performance damper provided a comfortable ride and greater stability. The car's brakes were upgraded for better performance, and the V8 engine delivered a thrilling driving experience. However, the IS 500's fuel economy was low, averaging 17.7 mpg during testing, below the EPA rating of 20 mpg combined.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured a redesigned infotainment system with a touchscreen, making everyday tasks easier. The touchpads on the steering wheel were reshaped, and shortcut buttons for navigation, stereo, and other settings remained. The cabin was spacious for four adults, with ample headroom and legroom. The E-Class offered various body styles, including a sedan with 13 cubic feet of trunk space, a coupe with 10 cubic feet, and a wagon with up to 64 cubic feet of cargo space.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance provided comfortable front seats with excellent bolstering and thigh support. The rear seats were adequate for average-height adults, and the car included rear air conditioning vents but lacked smartphone charging for rear passengers. The center console's touchpad controller took up space, and the trunk measured just 10.8 cubic feet. The IS 500's control layout was user-friendly, with buttons, knobs, and clear lettering.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system with a touchscreen interface. The system included natural voice processing, online searches, and a live feed from the front camera with overlay arrows and street names. Optional features included massaging seats, seat kinetics, and various connected services. The instrument cluster offered customizable graphics, and the car included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though not wireless.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance switched to a touchscreen infotainment display, improving usability. The system included an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The IS 500 Premium added a 10.3-inch touchscreen, navigation system, and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system. The dynamic voice command system was effective, and the car included connected services and a WiFi hotspot.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and was rated a "Top Safety Pick+" by the IIHS. The car included innovative safety features such as Pre-Safe Sound, side bolsters that shift occupants during a side collision, and steering and brakes that counter crosswinds. Standard safety features included forward automatic emergency braking, a driver-attention monitor, and blind-spot monitoring, with additional optional driver-assist features.

The 2022 Lexus IS included the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, a comprehensive package of safety features. The system included lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance, and low-speed automatic braking. The IS received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received a four-star rating for frontal-impact collision for the driver and front passenger.