2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class vs 2022 BMW i4

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class retained a familiar exterior design, yet boasted a drag coefficient of 0.22, making it more aerodynamic than a Toyota Prius. It was slightly larger than its predecessor, with a longer wheelbase and increased dimensions. 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 focus was on the infotainment touchscreen and digital instrument cluster, with a minimalist design featuring ambient lighting with 250 LED elements and 64 color options. High-quality materials like Nappa leather and open-pore wood trim were standard, though the piano-black trim was prone to smudging.

The 2022 BMW i4 shared styling cues with the gasoline 4 Series Gran Coupe, featuring a polarizing oversized grille. It was more aerodynamic than its sibling, with a drag coefficient of 0.24 for the base model and 0.25 for the M50. The i4 had lighter alloy wheels and a battery pack mounted below the floor for improved handling. The interior balanced minimalism with traditional BMW elements, featuring a freestanding screen and familiar controls. Material quality was up to BMW standards, though leather upholstery was not standard.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class offered two engine options: a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with 429 horsepower and a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 with 496 horsepower. Both engines featured EQ Boost, a mild-hybrid system adding 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque for short bursts. The S500 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds, while the S580 did it in 4.4 seconds. The S-Class included standard air suspension and rear-wheel steering, enhancing maneuverability and ride quality.

The 2022 BMW i4 had two models: the eDrive40 with 335 horsepower and the M50 with 536 horsepower. The eDrive40 reached 0 to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds, while the M50 did it in 3.7 seconds. The i4 featured a low center of gravity and rear air suspension, with the M50 offering adaptive M suspension and sport brakes. The Dynamic Handling Package improved ride quality and handling, making the i4 fun to drive despite its weight. The integrated braking system provided natural pedal feel, though the adaptive recuperation system was less predictable.

The 2021 S-Class offered more headroom and rear legroom than its predecessor, with segment-leading shoulder room. Cargo space increased to 12.9 cubic feet, though it remained less than competitors. The front seats featured 19 motors for adjustment, heating, ventilation, and massage. The interior had ample storage, with a large center console and rear-seat amenities like power-adjustable seats and climate control.

The 2022 BMW i4 had a low seating position despite the battery pack, but the fastback roof limited headroom. It offered more rear legroom than the Polestar 2, though front seats lacked bolstering. The center console was efficiently designed, but the wireless charging pad was small, and the steering column lacked power adjustment. Cargo space was 10 cubic feet, less than the Polestar 2 and Tesla Model 3, with no front trunk.

The 2021 S-Class featured a 12.3-inch digital cluster and 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The MBUX system was more powerful, with functions moved to the touchscreen. The augmented-reality HUD was helpful, though the digital cluster controls were small. Ambient lighting reacted to functions, and personal profiles could be accessed with biometric recognition.

The 2022 BMW i4 included the iDrive8 system with a 12.3-inch cluster and 14.9-inch touchscreen. Standard features were Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and OTA updates. The rotary controller and voice recognition made the system user-friendly. Optional features included a head-up display and Harman Kardon audio.

The 2021 S-Class lacked crash-test ratings but included a rear-passenger airbag and numerous driver-assist features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. Mercedes claimed improvements in system performance, with lane-centering handling curves well.

The 2022 BMW i4 also lacked crash-test ratings but offered standard driver-assist features like forward-collision warning and blind-spot monitoring. The optional Driving Assistance Professional Package added adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The Parking Assistant Package included a 360-degree camera and parking aids.