2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-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 lines of its predecessor. This model featured a more fluid and curvier form, reminiscent of the 2014 S-Class and 2015 C-Class. 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 Mercedes-Benz S-Class continued to impress with its sleek and sophisticated design, following a complete makeover in the previous year. The S-Class retained its flagship status with a long, low profile that exuded elegance. The exterior design was characterized by a proud Mercedes-Benz grille and a star hood ornament, while the interior was a testament to luxury and innovation. The dashboard featured a waterfall of open-pore wood trim and a 12.8-inch touchscreen, with a separate 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. The cabin was adorned with high-quality materials, offering a serene and comfortable environment for both drivers and passengers.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class introduced significant changes under the hood, transitioning from conventional V6 engines to electrified inline-six powertrains for its high-volume models. The E450 became a hybrid, utilizing a 48-volt electrical system to supplement the engine with an electric starter-generator, providing brief boosts of up to 21 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. This setup allowed for smoother engine restarts and improved fuel efficiency. The E450's 3.0-liter inline-six engine produced 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, while the AMG E53 added a second turbo, delivering 429 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque. The AMG E63 S, with its hand-built 4.0-liter V8 engine, boasted 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, offering exhilarating performance. Despite its power, the E-Class maintained a comfortable ride, with fuel economy ratings of 26 mpg combined for the E450 and 25 mpg combined for the E350.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class offered a refined driving experience with its turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder engine in the S500, producing 429 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque, enhanced by the EQ Boost system. The S580 featured a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine, also benefiting from EQ Boost. Both models utilized a nine-speed automatic transmission and 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 delivered smooth handling and powerful braking. The S500 offered fuel economy ratings of 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway, while the S580 achieved 16 mpg city/25 mpg highway.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured a redesigned infotainment system with a touchscreen interface, making everyday tasks more intuitive. The cabin was spacious, accommodating four adults comfortably, with ample headroom and legroom. The E-Class offered various body styles, including a sedan with 13 cubic feet of trunk space, a coupe, a convertible, and a wagon with a stowable rear-facing jump seat. The E450 All-Terrain wagon added versatility with increased ground clearance and plastic body cladding. However, some features like rear USB ports and heated rear seats were missing in the E53 model.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class excelled in providing a luxurious and comfortable environment for all occupants. The cabin featured powered sun blinds, a Panorama Sunroof, and a 13.8-cubic-foot trunk for ample storage. The front seats offered heating, ventilation, massage functions, and memory settings, while the Executive Line package enhanced rear-seat comfort with multicontour seats and entertainment systems. The S-Class also included six USB-C ports and a 115-volt power supply in the rear. Soft-close doors added convenience, although their wide opening angle could be challenging for some passengers.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was equipped with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a touchscreen interface and gesture controls. The system offered natural voice processing, live camera feeds for navigation, and optional driving assists. The instrument cluster allowed for customizable displays, providing a modern and interactive experience. However, the system lacked over-the-air updates, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were not wireless.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class showcased cutting-edge technology with a 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen and a 12.3-inch LED virtual instrument panel. The optional 3D instrument cluster added depth and visual interest, while augmented video for navigation and an available augmented reality head-up display enhanced the driving experience. The standard Burmester 3D Surround sound system provided high-fidelity audio, with an optional 4D system for an immersive experience. The S-Class also featured EQ Boost and rear-axle steering for improved maneuverability.

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. It featured innovations like 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 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class prioritized safety with a comprehensive suite of standard and optional features. Magic Vision Control optimized windshield spray, while driver assistance systems included adaptive cruise control, active steering assist, and active brake assist. The S-Class also offered car-to-x communication and rear-passenger airbags for enhanced protection.