2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class vs 2021 Nissan Altima

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class retained a familiar exterior design, yet its aerodynamic efficiency was notable, boasting a drag coefficient of 0.22. This model was slightly larger than its predecessor, with increased length, wheelbase, height, and width. The classic Mercedes hood ornament and grille added a touch of luxury, complemented by standard 19-inch wheels, with options for 20-inch and 21-inch wheels. Inside, the S-Class focused on a minimalist design centered around a prominent infotainment touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. The interior featured ambient lighting with 250 LED elements and high-quality materials like Nappa leather and open-pore wood trim. However, the piano-black trim was prone to smudging and glare.

The 2021 Nissan Altima showcased a strong family identity with its V-Motion grille, available in chrome or dark chrome. Its sleek, aerodynamic profile was enhanced by a sloping roofline and modern features like LED lighting and a range of wheel options from 16-inch steel to 19-inch alloy. Despite a slightly old-fashioned stance, the Altima's fit and finish were exceptional, with deep paint and rich chrome details. The interior was intelligently laid out, with a standard 8-inch touchscreen and a cowl-shrouded instrument panel for easy readability. Higher trims offered improved materials and features, making the Altima a comfortable and practical choice.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class offered two engine options: the S500 4Matic with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six producing 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque, and the S580 4Matic with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 delivering 496 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. Both models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and EQ Boost, a mild-hybrid system providing additional power and efficiency. The S500 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds, while the S580 achieved it in 4.4 seconds, with top speeds limited to 130 mph. The S-Class included standard air suspension and optional E-Active Body Control, along with rear-wheel steering for improved maneuverability. Despite some wind noise at high speeds, the S-Class maintained composure on twisty roads, with precise steering and effective driving modes.

The 2021 Nissan Altima offered a choice between a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 182 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, and a VC-Turbo engine exclusive to the SR VC-Turbo trim. The 2.5-liter engine, paired with a CVT, provided respectable performance and fuel economy, with FWD and AWD options. The VC-Turbo, a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 248 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, offered a more engaging driving experience. The Altima's suspension and steering provided decent feedback, with the VC-Turbo's sport-tuned suspension adding a touch of excitement. Despite the weight difference, the VC-Turbo was a lively performer, making the Altima a versatile choice for various driving preferences.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class offered increased front and rear headroom, as well as more rear legroom compared to its predecessor. While front legroom was limited, shoulder room was segment-leading, enhancing the sense of spaciousness. Cargo space increased to 12.9 cubic feet, though still less than some competitors. The S-Class featured luxurious front seats with 19 motors for adjustment, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The interior offered ample storage, with a large center console and wireless phone charger. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed a spacious console and optional power-adjustable seats with the Executive Line package, making the S-Class suitable for chauffeur service.

The 2021 Nissan Altima featured Nissan’s Zero Gravity front seats, praised for their comfort on long drives. Upper trims offered power adjustment, memory, leather, and heating. The front cabin included ample storage, with a large glovebox, center console, and door pockets. The second row provided room for two adults, with a 60/40 split-folding design for trunk access. The Altima's trunk offered 15.4 cubic feet of space, accommodating various cargo needs.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class came equipped with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch OLED central touchscreen, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The MBUX infotainment system offered increased computing power and touchscreen reliance, with functions like climate control and seat massagers integrated into the screen. The S-Class also featured an augmented-reality head-up display and a 30-speaker Burmester audio system. While some tech features were well-executed, others, like the steering-wheel touchpads, were less intuitive. The S-Class allowed for personal profiles with biometric access and rear-seat navigation input, enhancing the luxury experience.

The 2021 Nissan Altima included standard tech features like Nissan Intelligent Key, remote engine start, Bluetooth, and more. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard on most trims, with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen depending on the model. Higher trims offered additional USB ports, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a Bose audio system. The Altima also featured Nissan Door to Door Navigation and NissanConnect Services, providing a comprehensive tech package for a midsize sedan.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class lacked crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS but included numerous safety features, such as a rear-passenger airbag and a suite of driver-assist technologies. These included adaptive cruise control, lane centering, automatic emergency braking, and more. Mercedes claimed improvements in these systems, with features like traffic-sign recognition and lane-keep assist offering enhanced functionality. The S-Class' driver-assist tech performed well, handling highway curves and traffic changes smoothly.

The 2021 Nissan Altima featured Nissan Safety Shield 360, standard on SV and above, with automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot warning, and more. ProPilot Assist, available on higher trims, offered highway driving assistance, including adaptive cruise control and lane intervention. The Altima also offered an Intelligent Around View Monitor for easier parking. The Altima received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick + rating from IIHS, highlighting its strong safety credentials.