2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2022 BMW 2 Series

The 2022 BMW 2 Series presented a fresh exterior design that diverged from the aggressive front fascia seen in other BMW models. It maintained a sleek and aerodynamic appearance with a wider kidney grille and upright triangular air curtains. The M240i xDrive Coupe, in particular, showcased a performance-oriented style with shadowy M-type accents and the M Shadowline package, which extended dark finishes to various exterior elements. The interior of the 2 Series was straightforward and driver-focused, featuring standard perforated SensaTec upholstery and optional Vernasca leather. The cabin exuded a high-end vibe with mixed material finishes, although some areas revealed cost-cutting plastics.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet exuded luxury and sophistication. The AMG E53 Cabriolet, with its matte-blue paint and AMG styling, looked sensational. Inside, the E-Class offered a high-end experience with bright digital displays, Burmester speaker grilles, and supple leather. The cabin was designed for comfort, featuring heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and a neck-warming Airscarf system. The E-Class Cabriolet was a true four-passenger convertible, providing ample space for adults in both the front and rear seats. The Aircap system reduced turbulence when the top was down, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series Coupe delivered impressive performance despite its subcompact size. The 230i Coupe featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, while the M240i xDrive boasted a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The 230i Coupe accelerated to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds, while the M240i xDrive achieved the same in just 4.1 seconds. Both models had a top speed of either 130 mph or 155 mph, depending on specifications. The 2 Series came with an eight-speed Sport automatic transmission, calibrated for smooth and quick shifts. The M240i xDrive included performance features like an aerodynamic kit, adaptive M suspension, and M Sport brakes, providing stability and agility.

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+ AWD system ensured power delivery to the pavement. The E53 Cabriolet accelerated to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. The AMG Dynamic Select driving modes allowed drivers to alter the car's character, offering a balance between comfort and performance. The AMG-tuned air suspension and performance exhaust system enhanced the driving experience, while the optional 20-inch wheels with summer performance tires provided excellent grip.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series was compact, seating four, but the rear seats were best suited for children or short trips. The front seats offered relative comfort, but taller passengers might find the space cramped. The coupe's slanted roofline and design elements limited rear headroom and trunk space, though the 40/20/40-split fold-down rear seats helped maximize cargo capacity. The interior featured soft touchpoints and improved ergonomics, with multifunction buttons on the leather-wrapped sport steering wheel.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet was a true four-passenger convertible, providing comfort for adults in both the front and rear seats. The Aircap system reduced cabin turbulence with the top down, enhancing passenger comfort. The E-Class Cabriolet focused on driver and front passenger comfort, offering heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and a neck-warming Airscarf system. The triple-layer acoustic soft top kept the cabin cool and quiet, while the multi-contour front seats with massage and Air Balance interior fragrance system added to the luxury experience. The trunk offered 9.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the top up, though this was reduced when the top was down.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series featured an 8.8-inch touchscreen and a 5.1-inch driver information display, with the option to upgrade to a 10.25-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital display. The BMW Live Cockpit Plus system offered over-the-air updates, cloud-based navigation, and real-time traffic updates. Connectivity features included a WiFi hotspot, USB ports, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The optional Live Cockpit Professional added a head-up display and enhanced infotainment capabilities. The standard audio system included 10 speakers, with an optional Harman Kardon 14-speaker system available.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class excelled in digital instrumentation and infotainment with its MBUX system. Two 12.3-inch screens formed the foundation of the system, offering high-resolution displays. MBUX could be controlled via touchscreen, steering wheel buttons, voice commands, or physical controls. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and optional features like WiFi service and augmented reality navigation. The test car featured a Burmester surround-sound audio system with metal speaker grilles. The MBUX system was customizable, though its extensive menu structure required some acclimation.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series came with Active Driving Assistant, which included features like active blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. Additional safety options included adaptive front LED headlights, automatic high beams, and a 360-degree surround view. The BMW Drive Recorder allowed for recording driving footage. The 2 Series had not yet been rated by IIHS or NHTSA.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class included standard safety features like forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The E-Class Cabriolet featured pop-up rollbars for rollover protection. Mercedes Pre Safe and Pre Safe Sound were standard, preparing the cabin for collisions and protecting occupants' hearing. Active Parking Assist and a surround-view camera system aided parking. The optional Driver Assistance Package added features like adaptive cruise control, Active Steering Assist, and Pre Safe Plus. The test car included this package, which impressed with its driver aids.