2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class vs 2022 Honda Civic

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class retained a familiar exterior design, yet its aerodynamic efficiency was noteworthy, boasting a drag coefficient of 0.22. This model was slightly larger than its predecessor, with increased length, wheelbase, height, and width. The car's size was its most striking feature, complemented by the classic Mercedes hood ornament and grille. Standard 19-inch wheels were offered, with optional 20-inch and 21-inch wheels. The interior was centered around a prominent infotainment touchscreen and digital instrument cluster, with a minimalist design approach. Ambient lighting was a standout feature, with 250 LED elements and 64 color options. Interior materials included Nappa leather and open-pore wood trim, though the piano-black trim was prone to smudging.

The 2022 Honda Civic presented a more conservative and mature exterior design, reminiscent of the larger Accord sedan. The new model was less flashy than its predecessor, appealing to those who preferred a more understated look. Inside, Honda focused on simplicity, with a minimalistic layout and a metal honeycomb mesh across the dashboard to conceal air vents. The interior materials were improved, especially in the Touring trim, reflecting a newfound maturity. The Civic's design changes aimed to enhance comfort and practicality, making it a more refined choice in the compact car segment.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class offered two engine options: a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six in the S500 4Matic, producing 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, and a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 in the S580 4Matic, delivering 496 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. Both engines featured EQ Boost, a mild-hybrid system providing an additional 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 achieved it in 4.4 seconds. The S-Class included standard air suspension and optional E-Active Body Control, with rear-wheel steering enhancing maneuverability. Despite some wind noise at highway speeds, the S-Class maintained composure on twisty roads, with precise steering and minimal body roll in Sport and Sport+ modes.

The 2022 Honda Civic offered two engine choices: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque for the LX and Sport trims, and a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder with 180 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque for the EX and Touring trims. Both engines were paired with a CVT, featuring Step Shift programming for a more traditional automatic feel. The Civic's Sport and Touring trims included a Sport transmission mode, enhancing responsiveness. The Civic's improved structural rigidity, suspension tuning, and steering feel contributed to its enjoyable handling. However, the Civic Touring's fuel economy fell short of expectations, achieving 30.4 mpg compared to the EPA's estimate of 34 mpg.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class offered increased front and rear headroom, as well as more rear legroom compared to its predecessor. It boasted 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 front seats featured 19 motors for adjustment, heating, ventilation, and massage, with head restraints equipped with pillows. The center console provided ample storage, while rear-seat passengers enjoyed a large console with cupholders and climate controls. The optional Executive Line package added power-adjustable rear seats and four-zone climate control, making it ideal for chauffeur service.

The 2022 Honda Civic prioritized comfort with redesigned front seats offering improved support. The Touring trim featured a power driver's seat with excellent thigh support, though the front passenger seat lacked height adjustment. The Civic's low stance made entry and exit challenging for some, but rear legroom was generous. The Civic Touring included two rear USB ports but lacked rear air conditioning vents. The redesigned center console offered less storage but more accessible cupholders. Trunk volume was 14.8 cubic feet, or 14.4 cubes with Touring trim, accommodating full-size suitcases and featuring a split-folding backseat for added utility.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch OLED central touchscreen, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The MBUX infotainment system offered increased computing power and relied more on the touchscreen. The S-Class included an augmented-reality head-up display, projecting navigation directions. While the digital instrument cluster had impressive graphics, the steering-wheel touchpads were small and challenging to use. The ambient lighting reacted to certain functions, though it felt gimmicky. 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 Honda Civic's digital instrumentation varied by trim, with the Touring trim featuring a 10-inch display offering greater customization and driving data. The Vehicle Activity display indicated when headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals were active. The standard infotainment setup included a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the Touring trim offered a 9-inch display with wireless connectivity and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The Civic's infotainment system performed well, with effective voice recognition technology and a user-friendly interface.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class lacked crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, but it included numerous safety features, such as a rear-passenger airbag, adaptive cruise control, automated lane centering, and blind-spot monitoring. Mercedes improved traffic-sign recognition and lane-keep assist, while the new steering wheel featured capacitive sensors. The S-Class' driver-assist systems performed well, handling highway curves and reacting smoothly to traffic changes.

The 2022 Honda Civic featured an upgraded Honda Sensing suite, including Traffic Jam Assist, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and Lane Keeping Assist. The Civic replaced its LaneWatch system with a proper blind-spot warning system and rear cross-traffic alert. The Civic's architecture was stronger, with new airbag designs and rear side-impact airbags. A rear-seat reminder system was standard, enhancing safety for all occupants.