2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class vs 2021 Toyota Corolla

The 2021 Toyota Corolla, particularly in its SE and XSE trims, presented a more attractive design than its predecessors. Sporting features like sport-design bumpers, a mesh grille insert, and 18-inch aluminum wheels, the Corolla aimed to appeal to those seeking a sportier look. The Celestite Gray metallic paint added a unique blue undertone, enhancing its visual appeal. However, certain design elements, such as the hood shut line and the over-styled rear bumper, detracted from its overall aesthetic. The interior of the Corolla XSE was a significant improvement over previous models, with high-quality materials like soft leatherette and robust switchgear, creating a sense of substance and simplicity. Despite its minimalist design, practical storage was somewhat lacking.

In contrast, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class maintained a classic exterior design with subtle aerodynamic improvements, boasting a drag coefficient of 0.22. The car's size and iconic Mercedes features, such as the hood ornament and grille, added a touch of luxury. The interior was designed around the infotainment touchscreen and digital instrument cluster, with a minimalist approach that eliminated clutter. The ambient lighting system, with 250 LED elements and 64 color options, added a modern touch. High-quality materials like Nappa leather and open-pore wood trim were standard, although the piano-black trim was prone to smudging. The S-Class offered a spacious and comfortable cabin, with features like power-adjustable seats and a two-panel glass roof enhancing the luxury experience.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla SE and XSE were equipped with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a Dynamic Shift CVT, offering a Sport driving mode and paddle shifters. The CVT was noted for its mechanical first gear, which improved initial acceleration and reduced the typical CVT droning. The Corolla's TNGA platform contributed to its low center of gravity and enjoyable driving dynamics. While not a sport sedan, the Corolla XSE provided predictable handling and was engaging enough for spirited driving. The EPA estimated a combined fuel economy of 34 mpg, though real-world testing yielded 31.1 mpg.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class offered two engine options: the S500 4Matic with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six producing 429 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque, and the S580 4Matic with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 delivering 496 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. Both engines featured EQ Boost, a mild-hybrid system providing additional power and efficiency. The S500 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds, while the S580 achieved it in 4.4 seconds. The S-Class came with standard air suspension and optional E-Active Body Control, enhancing ride quality and handling. Rear-wheel steering improved maneuverability, and the S-Class maintained composure on twisty roads, with precise steering and minimal body roll.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla XSE offered SofTex leatherette seats with fabric inserts, front-seat heating, and an eight-way power driver's seat for added comfort. The rear seats provided good support but limited headroom and legroom. The trunk offered 13.1 cubic feet of cargo space, which was average for the segment. The Corolla hatchback provided more cargo space at 17.8 cubic feet. However, the sedan's trunk lacked an interior handle for closing.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class improved on its predecessor with more headroom and rear legroom, though front legroom was limited. The trunk space increased to 12.9 cubic feet, but some optional features could reduce cargo capacity. The front seats were highly adjustable, with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The center console offered ample storage, and rear 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 the S-Class suitable for chauffeur service.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla came standard with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa, and SiriusXM satellite radio. It also included a year of Safety Connect services and a three-month Wi-Fi hotspot trial. The SE and XSE trims featured an 8-inch touchscreen, with the XSE offering additional connectivity features. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with physical knobs and buttons for easy navigation. The JBL sound system provided good depth but lacked clarity.

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 was more powerful and touchscreen-reliant, with easy-to-use controls. The S-Class also offered an augmented-reality HUD and a 30-speaker Burmester audio system. Some features, like the ambient lighting and digital instrument cluster, were more gimmicky than practical. The S-Class allowed for personal profiles with biometric access and rear-seat navigation input.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and more. The system performed well, though adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance had minor issues. The 2020 Corolla received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA, but the 2021 model required re-testing due to new airbags.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class included numerous safety features, such as a rear-passenger airbag, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. The S-Class' driver-assist systems were noted for their smooth performance and ability to handle highway curves. The steering wheel featured capacitive sensors, eliminating the need for steering inputs to detect driver presence. While crash-test ratings were unavailable, the S-Class' safety features were advanced and effective.