2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class vs 2022 Dodge Charger
Overview | |
MSRP$109,800 | MSRP$32,500 |
Listings196 | Listings1737 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews7.5 out of 10 | Expert reviews8.0 out of 10 |
Pros
Cons
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Cons
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2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Reviews SummaryThe S-Class not only sits at the top of the Mercedes hierarchy in price and prestige, but it has also long served as a technological showcase. In the press release for the redesigned 2021 S-Class, Mercedes repeatedly noted the innovations—from anti-lock brakes to airbags—that were introduced on the big sedan and eventually trickled down to mainstream vehicles. With the previous generation dating back to the 2014 model year (with a significant update for 2018), the Mercedes-Benz S-Class was in need of an update to maintain that status, and to keep pace with other full-size luxury sedans like the Audi A8, BMW 7 Series, and Lexus LS. To do that, the new S-Class gets a more sophisticated infotainment system, new powertrains, and more aerodynamic bodywork, among other features. The 2021 S-Class launches in two configurations, both with 4Matic all-wheel drive (AWD) and EQ Boost mild-hybrid systems. The S500 4Matic has a six-cylinder engine, while the S580 4Matic has a V8. We spent a few days with the Mercedes-Benz S580 for this review. A Mercedes-Maybach S680 4Matic version will follow in the first half of 2022, and you can expect a new AMG performance version sometime in the future as well. | |
2022 Dodge Charger Reviews SummaryA living fossil is an animal that exists today that resembles a long-extinct species. There are a number of sharks and mollusks that fit this description. And the same could be said for the 2022 Dodge Charger. It has muscular proportions, a similar layout, and an identical name to long-dead forebears, but it carries on in its own way—despite the veracity of any shared DNA. Given how much the auto industry is changing, the Charger is an unlikely car for this decade—or even this century. But perhaps not. As much as the industry is rapidly evolving, buyer behavior might not be so quick to change. For every electric vehicle enthusiast, there are those who truly wish to stick to their guns when it comes to traditional gas vehicles. And certainly many lament the dwindling light of the big, thirsty muscle car. Whether it be nostalgia or a more timeless form of automotive enthusiasm, the Dodge Charger clearly hit a nerve with many over the past two decades. Whether you prefer electric cars, hybrids, 4x4s, or even mass transit, it’s hard to argue the fact that the automotive world is just a better place with cars like the Dodge Charger in it. | |
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Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine3.0L 429 hp I6 | Engine3.6L 292 hp V6 |
Drive TrainAWD | Drive TrainRWD |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity5 |
Horsepower429 hp @ 6100 rpm | Horsepower292 hp @ 6350 rpm |
MPG City20 | MPG City19 |
MPG Highway29 | MPG Highway30 |
Engine | |
Engine Name3.0L 429 hp I6 | Engine Name3.6L 292 hp V6 |
Torque384 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm | Torque260 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm |
Horsepower429 hp @ 6100 rpm | Horsepower292 hp @ 6350 rpm |
DrivetrainAWD | DrivetrainRWD |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City20 | MPG City19 |
MPG Highway29 | MPG Highway30 |
Interior | |
Leather SeatsOptional | Leather Seats |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity5 |
Key Features | |
Navigation SystemOptional | Navigation System |
Sunroof/MoonroofOptional | Sunroof/Moonroof |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall | Front Crash Overall4 |
Side Crash Overall | Side Crash Overall5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space12.9 cu ft | Cargo Space16.5 cu ft |
Curb Weight4740 lbs | Curb Weight3940 lbs |
Height59.2 in | Height57.8 in |
Length208.2 in | Length198.4 in |
Width83.0 in | Width82.7 in |
Wheelbase126.6 in | Wheelbase120.0 in |
Maximum Payload | Maximum Payload1160 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | Maximum Towing Capacity1000 lbs |
Overview | ||
MSRP | $109,800 | $32,500 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | ||
Expert reviews | 7.5 out of 10Read full review | 8.0 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
Cons
| Pros
Cons
|
Summary | The S-Class not only sits at the top of the Mercedes hierarchy in price and prestige, but it has also long served as a technological showcase. In the press release for the redesigned 2021 S-Class, Mercedes repeatedly noted the innovations—from anti-lock brakes to airbags—that were introduced on the big sedan and eventually trickled down to mainstream vehicles. With the previous generation dating back to the 2014 model year (with a significant update for 2018), the Mercedes-Benz S-Class was in need of an update to maintain that status, and to keep pace with other full-size luxury sedans like the Audi A8, BMW 7 Series, and Lexus LS. To do that, the new S-Class gets a more sophisticated infotainment system, new powertrains, and more aerodynamic bodywork, among other features. The 2021 S-Class launches in two configurations, both with 4Matic all-wheel drive (AWD) and EQ Boost mild-hybrid systems. The S500 4Matic has a six-cylinder engine, while the S580 4Matic has a V8. We spent a few days with the Mercedes-Benz S580 for this review. A Mercedes-Maybach S680 4Matic version will follow in the first half of 2022, and you can expect a new AMG performance version sometime in the future as well. | A living fossil is an animal that exists today that resembles a long-extinct species. There are a number of sharks and mollusks that fit this description. And the same could be said for the 2022 Dodge Charger. It has muscular proportions, a similar layout, and an identical name to long-dead forebears, but it carries on in its own way—despite the veracity of any shared DNA. Given how much the auto industry is changing, the Charger is an unlikely car for this decade—or even this century. But perhaps not. As much as the industry is rapidly evolving, buyer behavior might not be so quick to change. For every electric vehicle enthusiast, there are those who truly wish to stick to their guns when it comes to traditional gas vehicles. And certainly many lament the dwindling light of the big, thirsty muscle car. Whether it be nostalgia or a more timeless form of automotive enthusiasm, the Dodge Charger clearly hit a nerve with many over the past two decades. Whether you prefer electric cars, hybrids, 4x4s, or even mass transit, it’s hard to argue the fact that the automotive world is just a better place with cars like the Dodge Charger in it. |
Video | No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 3.0L 429 hp I6 | 3.6L 292 hp V6 |
Drive Train | AWD | RWD |
Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Horsepower | 429 hp @ 6100 rpm | 292 hp @ 6350 rpm |
MPG City | 20 | 19 |
MPG Highway | 29 | 30 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 3.0L 429 hp I6 | 3.6L 292 hp V6 |
Torque | 384 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm | 260 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm |
Horsepower | 429 hp @ 6100 rpm | 292 hp @ 6350 rpm |
Drivetrain | AWD | RWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 20 | 19 |
MPG Highway | 29 | 30 |
Interior | ||
Leather Seats | Optional | |
Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Key Features | ||
Navigation System | Optional | |
Sunroof/Moonroof | Optional | |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 4 | |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 12.9 cu ft | 16.5 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 4740 lbs | 3940 lbs |
Height | 59.2 in | 57.8 in |
Length | 208.2 in | 198.4 in |
Width | 83.0 in | 82.7 in |
Wheelbase | 126.6 in | 120.0 in |
Maximum Payload | 1160 lbs | |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | 1000 lbs | |
The exterior styling of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class may not appear drastically different from its predecessor, but it boasts a remarkable drag coefficient of 0.22, indicating superior aerodynamics. The S-Class is longer, with a longer wheelbase, and slightly taller and wider than its predecessor. The interior features a minimalist design, with a prominent infotainment touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. The car offers luxurious materials, ambient lighting with 250 LED elements, and a two-panel glass roof.
The 2022 Dodge Charger, sharing a platform with the Challenger and Chrysler 300, underwent a major update in 2015, resulting in a more modern and menacing design. The cabin, while not the most cutting-edge, offers a user-friendly layout. The Charger lineup includes various trims, each with distinct engine options, ranging from a V6 to a supercharged 6.2-liter V8. The top-tier Hellcat Widebody model delivers supercar-level power and performance.
The S-Class offers two powerful engine options: a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six producing 429 horsepower and a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 generating 496 hp. Both versions feature a nine-speed automatic transmission and EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. The S-Class delivers a refined and comfortable driving experience, with impressive handling and steering precision.
The Charger lineup offers a range of engine options, from a V6 to a supercharged 6.2-liter V8, with the top-tier Hellcat Widebody model delivering exceptional acceleration and performance. The Widebody setup enhances traction and cornering capabilities, providing a thrilling driving experience.
The S-Class offers a spacious interior with luxurious front seats and ample rear legroom. The car features 12.9 cubic feet of cargo space, and optional extras like power-adjustable rear seats can impact cargo capacity. The interior design is focused on comfort and convenience, with ample storage options and advanced features.
The Charger provides generous legroom in both rows, but headroom may be limited for taller occupants. The car offers 16.5 cubic feet of trunk space, with the R/T and Hellcat trims combining sports-car performance with practicality.
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 9 out of 10 for technology, and the 2022 Dodge Charger 7 out of 10.
The S-Class features a comprehensive infotainment setup, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, 12.8-inch OLED central touchscreen, and advanced MBUX system. The car offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 30-speaker Burmester audio system, and optional rear-seat infotainment with dual 11.6-inch touchscreens.
The Charger comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen running the Uconnect infotainment system, with an 8.4-inch version available on higher trims. The system offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, providing a user-friendly interface.
The S-Class offers a wide array of safety features, including an industry-first rear-passenger airbag, adaptive cruise control, automated lane centering, automatic emergency braking, and a 360-degree camera system. The car prioritizes advanced driver-assist technologies for enhanced safety.
The Charger offers limited standard safety features, with options for modern safety technologies such as forward-collision avoidance, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring.
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is 7.5 out of 10, while the 2022 Dodge Charger scores 8.0 out of 10. Based on these ratings, and acknowledging that these models are not direct rivals, the 2022 Dodge Charger emerges as the recommended choice for the majority consumers, offering exceptional performance, practicality, and value for its segment-leading capabilities.
Choose the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class if:
- You prioritize a luxurious and spacious interior with advanced technology features.
- You seek a refined and comfortable driving experience with powerful engine options.
- You are willing to invest in a high-end luxury sedan with a focus on comfort, convenience, and safety.
Choose the 2022 Dodge Charger if:
- You desire a high-performance sedan with a range of powerful engine options, including supercharged V8 variants.
- You are looking for a practical and versatile sedan with ample trunk space and sports-car performance.
- You value a user-friendly infotainment system and seek exceptional value for performance capabilities.
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is 7.5 out of 10, while the 2022 Dodge Charger scores 8.0 out of 10. Based on these ratings, and acknowledging that these models are not direct rivals, the 2022 Dodge Charger emerges as the recommended choice for the majority consumers, offering exceptional performance, practicality, and value for its segment-leading capabilities.
Choose the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class if:
Shop Now- You prioritize a luxurious and spacious interior with advanced technology features.
- You seek a refined and comfortable driving experience with powerful engine options.
- You are willing to invest in a high-end luxury sedan with a focus on comfort, convenience, and safety.
Choose the 2022 Dodge Charger if:
Shop Now- You desire a high-performance sedan with a range of powerful engine options, including supercharged V8 variants.
- You are looking for a practical and versatile sedan with ample trunk space and sports-car performance.
- You value a user-friendly infotainment system and seek exceptional value for performance capabilities.
By: CarGurus + AI
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