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

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 a longer wheelbase and increased dimensions in 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 offered a choice of 64 colors. High-quality materials like Nappa leather and open-pore wood trim were standard, although the piano-black trim was prone to smudging and reflections.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series introduced a new exterior design, avoiding the aggressive front fascia seen in other BMW models. It was available in rear-wheel-drive 230i Coupe and all-wheel-drive M240i xDrive Coupe variants, with the four-door Gran Coupe also offered. The 2 Series Coupe had a longer wheelbase and increased dimensions, giving it a leaner, more aerodynamic appearance. The M240i xDrive Coupe featured performance-oriented styling with shadowy M-type accents. Standard 18-inch wheels on the 230i Coupe and 19-inch wheels on the M240i xDrive Coupe were available, with optional performance tires. The interior was driver-focused, with standard SensaTec upholstery and optional Vernasca leather. The 2 Series offered an 8.8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with an optional 10.25-inch display, and a range of optional features like keyless entry and ambient lighting.

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 electric assist. The S500 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds, while the S580 achieved it in 4.4 seconds, with top speeds electronically 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 highway speeds, the S-Class maintained composure on twisty roads, with precise steering and effective driving modes.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series packed impressive performance for its size. The 230i Coupe featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, while the M240i xDrive boasted a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. The 230i Coupe reached 60 mph in 5.5 seconds, while the M240i xDrive did it in 4.1 seconds. Both models had top speeds of 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 paddle shifter responses. The M240i xDrive included performance features like an aerodynamic kit, adaptive M suspension, and M Sport brakes. The 2 Series offered balanced handling, though the steering feel was somewhat numb, leading to a disconnected driving experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class provided more front and rear headroom, as well as increased rear legroom compared to its predecessor. It offered segment-leading shoulder room, enhancing the sense of spaciousness. Cargo space increased to 12.9 cubic feet, though it remained less than some competitors. The S-Class featured power-adjustable front seats with 19 motors, offering heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The center console included a large storage bin and a wireless phone charger. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed a console with cupholders and climate controls, with the optional Executive Line package adding power-adjustable rear seats and four-zone climate control.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series was compact, with rear seats best suited for children or short trips. The coupe's design, including a slanted roofline, limited rear headroom and trunk access. The 2 Series offered 10 cubic feet of cargo space, with 40/20/40-split fold-down rear seats for added flexibility. The interior featured soft touchpoints and improved ergonomics, with multifunction buttons on the leather-wrapped sport steering wheel. The lower console layout mirrored other new BMW models, enhancing usability.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class came 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 relied more on the touchscreen. The S-Class included a 30-speaker Burmester audio system and an augmented-reality head-up display. The digital instrument cluster had beautiful graphics, though the steering-wheel touchpads were small and challenging to use. The S-Class allowed drivers to set up personal profiles with biometric or facial recognition, and rear-seat occupants could send navigation directions to the main screen.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series featured an 8.8-inch touchscreen and a 5.1-inch driver information display, with the iDrive 7 operating system and over-the-air updates. The infotainment system included cloud-based navigation, real-time traffic updates, and connected services. The 2 Series offered a WiFi hotspot, two USB ports, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The optional Live Cockpit Professional upgraded the infotainment to a 10.25-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital display. The BMW Digital Key allowed remote access via the My BMW App, and a Harman Kardon 14-speaker system was available for enhanced audio.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class included a range of safety features, such as an industry-first rear-passenger airbag, adaptive cruise control, automated lane centering, and automatic emergency braking. The S-Class also featured blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, lane-change assist, traffic-sign recognition, and a 360-degree camera system. Mercedes claimed improvements in these systems, with lane-centering handling highway curves and adaptive cruise control reacting smoothly to traffic changes.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series came with Active Driving Assistant, including blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, lane departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. Standard safety features included a rearview camera, park distance control, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included adaptive front LED headlights, automatic high beams, and a 360-degree surround view. The BMW Drive Recorder could capture driving footage before and after a collision.