2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class vs 2022 Volkswagen Jetta
Overview | |
MSRP$109,800 | MSRP$20,365 |
Listings196 | Listings350 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews7.5 out of 10 | Expert reviews6.7 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 Volkswagen Jetta Reviews SummaryVolkswagen’s career sales leader, the Jetta receives a mild but value-minded refresh for the 2022 model year. Although the compact sedan’s lineup has been pared down (farewell, SEL Premium and R-Line), the Jetta’s standard features, technology, and power rating get a welcomed boost. | |
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Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine3.0L 429 hp I6 | Engine1.5L 158 hp I4 |
Drive TrainAWD | Drive TrainFWD |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity5 |
Horsepower429 hp @ 6100 rpm | Horsepower |
MPG City20 | MPG City29 |
MPG Highway29 | MPG Highway43 |
Engine | |
Engine Name3.0L 429 hp I6 | Engine Name1.5L 158 hp I4 |
Torque384 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm | Torque |
Horsepower429 hp @ 6100 rpm | Horsepower |
DrivetrainAWD | DrivetrainFWD |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City20 | MPG City29 |
MPG Highway29 | MPG Highway43 |
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 Space14.1 cu ft |
Curb Weight4740 lbs | Curb Weight2989 lbs |
Height59.2 in | Height57.7 in |
Length208.2 in | Length186.5 in |
Width83.0 in | Width70.8 in |
Wheelbase126.6 in | Wheelbase105.7 in |
Maximum Payload | Maximum Payload915 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
Overview | ||
MSRP | $109,800 | $20,365 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | ||
Expert reviews | 7.5 out of 10Read full review | 6.7 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
Cons
| Pros
Cons
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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. | Volkswagen’s career sales leader, the Jetta receives a mild but value-minded refresh for the 2022 model year. Although the compact sedan’s lineup has been pared down (farewell, SEL Premium and R-Line), the Jetta’s standard features, technology, and power rating get a welcomed boost. |
Video | No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 3.0L 429 hp I6 | 1.5L 158 hp I4 |
Drive Train | AWD | FWD |
Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Horsepower | 429 hp @ 6100 rpm | |
MPG City | 20 | 29 |
MPG Highway | 29 | 43 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 3.0L 429 hp I6 | 1.5L 158 hp I4 |
Torque | 384 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm | |
Horsepower | 429 hp @ 6100 rpm | |
Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 20 | 29 |
MPG Highway | 29 | 43 |
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 | 14.1 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 4740 lbs | 2989 lbs |
Height | 59.2 in | 57.7 in |
Length | 208.2 in | 186.5 in |
Width | 83.0 in | 70.8 in |
Wheelbase | 126.6 in | 105.7 in |
Maximum Payload | 915 lbs | |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class as 7 out of 10 and the 2022 Volkswagen Jetta as 6 out of 10 for look and feel.
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's interior ambient lighting is a standout feature, with around 250 LED elements and the option to choose from 64 colors.
The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta receives a mild makeover, including exterior styling tweaks, improved infotainment, and more features. The design changes are subtle, with updates to the front fascia, bumper, grille, and rear taillights. The interior features comfortable seating for four adults, with ample passenger space and user-friendly controls for climate, audio, and heated/ventilated seats.
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 9 out of 10 and the 2022 Volkswagen Jetta 6 out of 10 for performance.
The base 2021 Mercedes-Benz S500 4Matic is equipped with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine, producing 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. The S580 4Matic features a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, generating 496 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. Both versions utilize a nine-speed automatic transmission and incorporate EQ Boost, a mild-hybrid system that enhances efficiency and performance.
The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The Jetta offers impressive fuel economy, with the manual transmission achieving 29 mpg city, 43 mpg highway, and 34 mpg combined. The automatic transmission models are rated at 31 mpg city, 41 mpg highway, and 35 mpg combined for S and Sport trims, and 29 mpg city, 40 mpg highway, and 33 mpg combined for SE and SEL trims.
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 8 out of 10 and the 2022 Volkswagen Jetta 7 out of 10 for form and function.
The 2021 S-Class offers ample front and rear headroom, rear legroom, and cargo space. The front seats are equipped with 19 motors for adjustment, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The interior features a spacious center console with a wireless phone charger and cupholders, while rear-seat passengers benefit from a large console/armrest with cupholders and climate controls.
The Volkswagen Jetta provides generous passenger space for four adults, with comfortable seating and user-friendly controls for climate, audio, and heated/ventilated seats. The cabin offers ample storage options, including door pockets, a center console bin, and a sunglass holder.
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 9 out of 10 and the 2022 Volkswagen Jetta 7 out of 10 for technology.
The 2021 S-Class features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, 12.8-inch OLED central touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 30-speaker Burmester audio system. The Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system offers enhanced computing power and personal profile customization, along with an augmented-reality head-up display.
The 2022 Jetta is equipped with the Digital Cockpit digital instrument cluster, with the SEL trim featuring a 10.25-inch display and enhanced customization options. The standard infotainment system includes a 6.5-inch touchscreen with App-Connect for Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and MirrorLink integration. The SEL model offers wireless App-Connect, wireless device charging, and premium Beats Audio sound.
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 7 out of 10 and the 2022 Volkswagen Jetta 8 out of 10 for safety.
The S-Class offers a comprehensive suite 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 vehicle also incorporates advanced driver-assist features such as traffic-sign recognition and a new steering wheel with capacitive sensors.
The 2022 Jetta comes standard with blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and forward-collision warning with automatic braking and pedestrian recognition. The IQ.DRIVE safety package, available on higher trims, includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, Travel Assist, and Emergency Assist.
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is 7.5 out of 10, while the 2022 Volkswagen Jetta scores 6.7 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class emerges as the preferred choice for consumers seeking a luxurious, powerful, and technologically advanced vehicle with a comprehensive suite of safety features. Although keep in mind that these vehicles are not direct rivals, so the choice will ultimately come down to what type of vehicle it is that you need.
Choose the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class if:
- You prioritize luxurious and spacious interior with advanced ambient lighting and premium materials.
- You seek a powerful and technologically advanced vehicle with a comprehensive suite of safety features.
- You are willing to invest in a high-end luxury sedan with a prestigious badge and an array of optional extras.
Choose the 2022 Volkswagen Jetta if:
- You are looking for a cost-effective compact sedan with a user-friendly infotainment system and comfortable seating for four adults.
- You prioritize fuel efficiency and value a vehicle with impressive fuel economy ratings.
- You seek a vehicle with a comprehensive suite of driver-assist features and a competitive starting price.
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is 7.5 out of 10, while the 2022 Volkswagen Jetta scores 6.7 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class emerges as the preferred choice for consumers seeking a luxurious, powerful, and technologically advanced vehicle with a comprehensive suite of safety features. Although keep in mind that these vehicles are not direct rivals, so the choice will ultimately come down to what type of vehicle it is that you need.
Choose the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class if:
Shop Now- You prioritize luxurious and spacious interior with advanced ambient lighting and premium materials.
- You seek a powerful and technologically advanced vehicle with a comprehensive suite of safety features.
- You are willing to invest in a high-end luxury sedan with a prestigious badge and an array of optional extras.
Choose the 2022 Volkswagen Jetta if:
Shop Now- You are looking for a cost-effective compact sedan with a user-friendly infotainment system and comfortable seating for four adults.
- You prioritize fuel efficiency and value a vehicle with impressive fuel economy ratings.
- You seek a vehicle with a comprehensive suite of driver-assist features and a competitive starting price.
By: CarGurus + AI
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