2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class vs 2022 Toyota Camry

2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
$109,800MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2022 Toyota Camry
2022 Toyota Camry
$25,845MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
$109,800MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Toyota Camry
$25,845MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is 7.5 out of 10, while the 2022 Toyota Camry scores 7.2 out of 10. For a well-rounded luxury experience featuring state-of-the-art technology, superior comfort, and impeccable style, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class emerges as the recommended choice.

Choose the 2022 Toyota Camry if:

7.2of 10overall
  • You desire a sporty, performance-oriented sedan with a robust V6 engine and track-tuned driving dynamics.
  • You need practical in-cabin storage and appreciate straightforward infotainment with substantial standard technology.
  • Safety is paramount, and you prefer a vehicle with consistently high safety ratings and comprehensive driver-assist features.
Overview

MSRP

$109,800

MSRP

$25,845

Average price

$76,553

Average price

$25,007

Listings

351

Listings

3149
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.5 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.2 out of 10
Pros
  • Powerful engine
  • Comfortable
  • Impressive technology
Cons
  • High price
Pros
  • Available V6 engine
  • Standard advanced safety features
  • Excellent value for money
Cons
  • TRD trim doesn't feature a folding rear seat
  • Outdated technology

2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Reviews 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.

2022 Toyota Camry Reviews Summary

In 2021, Toyota sold more than 310,000 Camrys, making it the third best-selling vehicle of the year that was not a pickup truck. Considering all of the headlines about how people don’t buy cars anymore, you might find this fact surprising. And while many of those Camry sales were to fleet operators like rental car agencies, there are plenty of consumers who still want a roomy, reliable, efficient, safe, and affordable car. The 2022 Toyota Camry is what they often choose.
Popular Features & Specs

Engine

3.0L 429 hp I6

Engine

2.5L 203 hp I4

Drive Train

AWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

429 hp @ 6100 rpm

Horsepower

MPG City

20

MPG City

28

MPG Highway

29

MPG Highway

39
2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
$109,800MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Toyota Camry
2022 Toyota Camry
$25,845MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
$109,800MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Toyota Camry
$25,845MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is 7.5 out of 10, while the 2022 Toyota Camry scores 7.2 out of 10. For a well-rounded luxury experience featuring state-of-the-art technology, superior comfort, and impeccable style, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class emerges as the recommended choice.

Overview
MSRP
$109,800
$25,845
Average price
$76,553
$25,007
Listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
5.0
4.7
Expert reviews

7.5 out of 10

Read full review

7.2 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Powerful engine
  • Comfortable
  • Impressive technology
Cons
  • High price
Pros
  • Available V6 engine
  • Standard advanced safety features
  • Excellent value for money
Cons
  • TRD trim doesn't feature a folding rear seat
  • Outdated technology
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.

In 2021, Toyota sold more than 310,000 Camrys, making it the third best-selling vehicle of the year that was not a pickup truck. Considering all of the headlines about how people don’t buy cars anymore, you might find this fact surprising. And while many of those Camry sales were to fleet operators like rental car agencies, there are plenty of consumers who still want a roomy, reliable, efficient, safe, and affordable car. The 2022 Toyota Camry is what they often choose.
Video
Popular Features & Specs
Engine
3.0L 429 hp I6
2.5L 203 hp I4
Drive Train
AWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
5
5
Horsepower
429 hp @ 6100 rpm
MPG City
20
28
MPG Highway
29
39
Look and feel
2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
7/10
2022 Toyota Camry
6/10

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class exhibited refined yet familiar exterior styling. At first glance, it closely resembled the previous-generation S-Class, but one would notice the aerodynamic refinements such as a drag coefficient of 0.22, which outdid the Toyota Prius. The car had grown by 1.3 inches in length with a 2-inch longer wheelbase, and it was also slightly taller and wider than before. The fascia with the classic hood ornament and grille made a sophisticated statement, complemented by the standard 19-inch wheels, though 20-inch and 21-inch wheels were optional. The 20-inch wheels particularly filled the wheel wells compellingly in our test car.

Stepping inside, the interior design centered around the massive infotainment touchscreen and digital instrument cluster, which immediately drew attention due to their protruding presence. Mercedes had decluttered the cabin for a more streamlined, minimalist look, eliminating the traditional rotary controller and opting for sleek, rectangular air vents. The ambient lighting feature was taken to another level with 250 LED elements and 64 color options, integrated with infotainment and driver-assist functions.

The interior materials included Nappa leather, open-pore wood trim, and striking speaker grilles for the optional Burmester audio system. An expansive two-panel glass roof allowed both front and rear passengers to enjoy or shield from the sun. However, the piano-black trim was a downside, as it quickly became smudged, reflected sunlight, and appeared rather below par for a luxury vehicle.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD, in contrast, caught the eye with its new Cavalry Blue paint, a unique addition for the TRD model, alongside other features like standard heated side mirrors and dual-zone automatic climate control for all trims except the TRD. The SE Hybrid introduced a Nightshade Edition package for a more aggressive look. There were 13 versions to choose from, each tailored with varying price points starting just over $26,000 and peaking just under $37,000.

The TRD model stood out with its aerodynamic body kit, matte-black 19-inch wheels, red brake calipers, and a distinct rear spoiler. There was no mistaking it for any other Camry. Inside, despite the red backlighting on gauges and the embroidered TRD logos being less appealing, the Camry’s sporty design was functional. The car might have seemed like it was trying too hard for some, yet there was no denying the boldness was a stark departure from the traditionally tame Camry lineup.

Performance
2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
9/10
2022 Toyota Camry
8/10

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class impressed with two engine options: the S500 4Matic with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six delivering 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque, and the S580 4Matic sporting a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 generating 496 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. Both used a nine-speed automatic transmission and featured EQ Boost, adding 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque for short bursts. This mild-hybrid system paved the way for a more efficient stop/start system and electrical accessory drives. The S500 clocked zero to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds, while the S580 managed it in 4.4 seconds.

Standard air suspension enhanced ride comfort, with an optional E-Active Body Control suspension available later, and rear-wheel steering reduced the turning circle by seven feet. The S-Class showed off a balanced demeanor on twisty roads, with Sport and Sport+ modes fine-tuning the handling without compromising ride quality.

For the 2022 Toyota Camry TRD, the 3.5-liter V6 engine churned out 301 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. The car also featured sport-oriented transmission settings and proper throttle response adjustments, averaging 24.8 mpg in rigorous driving situations.

With "track-tuned" dynamics, including thicker underbody braces, stiffer sway bars, and TRD shocks, the TRD model ensured torsional rigidity and a firm yet communicative suspension. The car's robust brakes and summer performance tires wrapped around 19-inch wheels played into its fun-to-drive character on winding roads.

Form and function
2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
8/10
2022 Toyota Camry
5/10

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class enhanced its spacious feel with more front and rear headroom and additional rear legroom compared to its predecessor. Segment-leading shoulder room added to the interior's generous space. The cargo area had increased to 12.9 cubic feet, though still less than other luxury sedans. Impressive seating comforts featured 19 motors for adjustment, heating, ventilation, and massage functions.

On the other hand, the 2022 Toyota Camry TRD, with its sporty seats that offered power height adjustment, provided a low-slung driving position. The back seat held two adults comfortably but lacked rear-seat air vents, and the 60/40 split-folding rear seat was sacrificed for structural rigidity, yielding a fixed 15.1 cubic-foot trunk. However, the vehicle compensated with excellent in-cabin storage under the center armrest and ample stash space.

Technology
2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
9/10
2022 Toyota Camry
7/10

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class came with a high-tech arsenal: a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.8-inch OLED central touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and six USB ports. Upgrades included a 30-speaker Burmester audio system and a rear-seat entertainment setup with 11.6-inch touchscreens and a 7-inch tablet. The MBUX infotainment system had computing power increased by 50%, now featuring more touch-centric operation but maintaining hard buttons for essential functions.

Unique elements like the augmented-reality head-up display provided additional driving aids, though some features like ambient lighting were more aesthetic than functional. The steering-wheel touchpads, though equipped with premium graphics, were too small, leading to operational challenges.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Camry TRD featured a simpler 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with physical knobs and buttons. It came standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The option to upgrade to a 9-inch display brought additional subscription services and a 9-speaker JBL premium audio system, albeit with a somewhat bass-heavy output.

Safety
2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
7/10
2022 Toyota Camry
9/10

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class included standard advanced safety features such as a rear-passenger airbag, adaptive cruise control, automated lane centering, and a suite of other driver-assists like lane-keep assist, lane-change assist, and forward-collision warning. However, it had no crash-test ratings from NHTSA or IIHS available at the time.

Similarly, every 2022 Camry came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ featuring adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assistance, and a blind-spot monitoring system available on various trims. While the lane-departure system occasionally issued false warnings, the Camry achieved a “Top Safety Pick+” rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from NHTSA.

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By: CarGurus + AI

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