2021 Subaru Legacy vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The 2021 Subaru Legacy was a solid contender in the midsize-sedan market, competing with well-known models like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. Available in six trim levels, the Legacy offered a range of features from basic to premium, including standard low-beam and high-beam steering-responsive LED headlights. Its design, while not particularly stylish, adhered to Subaru's branding, focusing on safety and reliability. The Legacy's exterior included high-gloss stainless steel moldings and various wheel options, adding a touch of sophistication. Inside, the Legacy featured a blend of high-quality materials and practical design, though it lacked the flashy extras found in more premium vehicles.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class continued to impress with its sleek design and luxurious features. The S-Class, representing the seventh generation of Mercedes-Benz's flagship sedan, maintained its reputation for elegance and sophistication. The exterior design was sleek, with a long profile and a proud Mercedes-Benz grille. Inside, the S-Class boasted a waterfall of open-pore wood trim and a 12.8-inch touchscreen in the center stack. The cabin was meticulously fitted with high-quality materials, providing a luxurious and comfortable environment for both drivers and passengers.

The 2021 Subaru Legacy offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, and a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive (AWD). The Legacy's AWD system provided excellent traction and stability, making it a reliable choice for various driving conditions. The 2.5-liter engine achieved an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the turbocharged engine earned 24 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class offered two engine options as well: a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder mild-hybrid engine with 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque, and a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine with EQ Boost. The S500 model, equipped with the inline-six engine, could accelerate from 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds, while the S580 model, with the V8 engine, achieved the same in 4.4 seconds. Both models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic AWD. The S500 delivered up to 21 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, while the S580 was rated at 16 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.

The 2021 Subaru Legacy focused on comfort and spaciousness, with improved seat positioning and sound insulation. The front seats were available with manual or power adjustments, and the rear seats provided ample legroom for adults. The Legacy's cabin felt spacious, with good forward visibility for the driver. However, the trunk space was limited to 15.1 cubic feet, which was a trade-off for the extra legroom in the second row.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class excelled in providing a luxurious and comfortable cabin. Second-row passengers enjoyed powered sun blinds and a Panorama Sunroof, while the trunk offered 13.8 cubic feet of storage space. The cabin featured six USB-C ports, a 115-volt power supply, and active multicontour seats with massage and memory functions. The Executive Line package added even more luxury, including rear-seat entertainment and additional heating options. The S-Class also featured soft-close doors, ensuring a quiet and serene environment.

The 2021 Subaru Legacy came equipped with dual 7-inch infotainment and climate control displays on the base model, while higher trims featured an 11.6-inch infotainment screen. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and multiple USB ports. Higher trims added navigation, a Harman Kardon premium audio system, and additional power outlets. However, the infotainment system's design was criticized for its unsophisticated appearance and fingerprint-prone housing.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was packed with advanced technology, including a 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen and a 12.3-inch LED virtual instrument panel. The optional 3D instrument cluster and augmented reality head-up display provided a futuristic driving experience. The standard Burmester 3D Surround sound system delivered high-fidelity audio, with an available 4D Surround system for an even more immersive experience. The S-Class also featured advanced driver assistance systems and rear-axle steering for improved maneuverability.

The 2021 Subaru Legacy earned top safety scores from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTSA). Standard safety features included Subaru EyeSight technology, adaptive cruise control, pre-collision automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning. Additional safety options included reverse automatic braking and blind-spot monitoring. The Legacy's EyeSight system was effective but could be overly sensitive and intrusive at times.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Magic Vision Control, active distance assist, active brake assist, and Pre-Safe systems. The S-Class also offered rear-passenger airbags and rear-seat belt bags for added protection. The car-to-x communication system allowed the S-Class to share and receive warning messages about road conditions, enhancing overall safety.