2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2021 Nissan Maxima

The 2021 Nissan Maxima, as a flagship sedan, set the tone for other Nissan models with its distinctive styling elements like the “floating” roofline and “V-Motion” grille. These features were later adopted by smaller models such as the Altima, Sentra, and Versa. The Maxima stood out with its bold design, featuring a steeply-angled front end and a massive grille, giving it an Art Deco locomotive appearance. The 40th Anniversary Edition added a two-tone exterior, Ruby Slate Gray Pearl paint, black roof, and model-specific 19-inch gloss-black alloy wheels, along with red semi-aniline leather upholstery and heated rear seats, enhancing its sinister yet stylish look.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offered a variety of body styles, including coupe, convertible, sedan, and station wagon. The AMG E53 Cabriolet, in particular, showcased a blend of luxury and performance with its matte-finish paint, premium leather, and carbon fiber trim. The design purity of modern Mercedes vehicles was evident, with the AMG styling, larger wheels, and a convertible top adding to its allure. Inside, the high-resolution digital displays, glow-in-the-dark air vents, and Burmester speaker grilles emphasized luxury, making the E53 Cabriolet a standout in terms of both aesthetics and functionality.

The 2021 Nissan Maxima was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 300 horsepower and 261 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive (FWD). While it wasn't a "four-door sports car," the Maxima felt quick and the V6 engine sounded great. The CVT was responsive, and the car handled well in corners, though the steering lacked precision and the front end struggled with grip. Torque steer was noticeable under heavy throttle, but the Maxima remained a solid performer compared to competitors like the Toyota Avalon and Volkswagen Arteon. The Maxima excelled in highway cruising, offering a quiet cabin and comfortable ride despite its stiff suspension.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet featured a 3.0-liter turbo-six engine with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology, generating 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. The AMG Speedshift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ variable AWD system ensured robust performance, with a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds. The AMG Dynamic Select driving modes allowed for a versatile driving experience, from a cushy cruiser to a performance machine. The AMG-tuned air suspension and performance exhaust system, along with optional 20-inch wheels, enhanced its driving dynamics. The E53 Cabriolet excelled in both relaxed cruising and spirited driving, making it a versatile and enjoyable vehicle.

The 2021 Nissan Maxima provided generous space for the driver and front passenger, but rear-seat passengers had limited headroom and legroom. The seats were positioned far inboard, creating a cramped feeling despite the ample front headroom and legroom. The "Zero Gravity" front seats, designed for optimum support, were comfortable but lacked thigh bolstering. The Maxima's trunk offered 14.3 cubic feet of cargo space, the least among its competitors, with the Kia Stinger and Volkswagen Arteon offering more due to their hatchback designs.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet, a true four-passenger convertible, offered comfortable seating for adults in both the front and rear. The Aircap system reduced turbulence with the top down, and the heated seats, steering wheel, and Airscarf neck-warming system ensured comfort in various weather conditions. The sun-reflective leather and ventilated front seats added to the comfort in hot weather. The trunk provided 9.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the top raised, but this reduced significantly with the top down. The multi-contour front seats with massage and Air Balance interior fragrance system enhanced long-drive comfort.

The 2021 Nissan Maxima's technology showed its age, with an 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, and a built-in WiFi hotspot. The 11-speaker Bose audio system was available, but the infotainment system's graphics were dated, and small icons made navigation difficult. The analog controls were a plus, but the notification sounds were jarring and confusing.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class excelled in technology with its MBUX infotainment system, featuring two 12.3-inch screens for the touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. The system was user-friendly, with multiple interaction methods, including voice commands and touch-sensing buttons. Features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, WiFi service, and an augmented reality video overlay for navigation were included. The Burmester surround-sound audio system provided excellent sound quality, though the digital assistant could be accidentally activated.

The 2021 Nissan Maxima received top safety ratings, including an IIHS “Top Safety Pick+” and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, automatic high beams, and rear automatic emergency braking. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, a driver-alertness monitor, and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class included standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The E-Class Cabriolet also had pop-up rollbars for rollover protection. Mercedes Pre Safe and Pre Safe Sound were standard, preparing the cabin and occupants for a collision. Active Parking Assist and a surround-view camera system aided parking. The Driver Assistance Package added features like adaptive cruise control, Active Steering Assist, and Evasive Steering Assist, enhancing safety and driver assistance.