2022 BMW 3 Series vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The 2022 BMW 3 Series, particularly the M340i model, was a testament to BMW's commitment to performance and style. With a range of models from the 330i to the high-performance M3, the 3 Series offered a variety of powertrains, including a turbocharged four-cylinder engine in the 330i and 330e, and a turbocharged six-cylinder engine in the M340i. The M340i, priced at $67,390 with options, featured a special-order Barbera Red paint and Cognac SensaTec upholstery, enhancing its sporty and upscale appeal. The exterior design, with its exclusive grille and bumper designs, Shadowline trim, and 19-inch wheels, provided a striking presence on the road. Inside, the M340i's interior combined quality materials with a technical design, focusing on driving enjoyment rather than luxury.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, following a complete makeover in 2021, continued to impress with its sleek design and luxurious features. As Mercedes-Benz's flagship sedan, the S-Class maintained its reputation for elegance and sophistication. The exterior design was characterized by a long, low profile, with a proud Mercedes-Benz grille and star hood ornament. Inside, the S-Class offered a waterfall of open-pore wood trim and a 12.8-inch touchscreen, complemented by a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. The cabin was dressed in high-quality materials, meticulously fitted and assembled, providing a serene and luxurious environment for both drivers and passengers.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series M340i was equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 382 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivered impressive performance, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. The M340i's driving dynamics were enhanced by its M Sport suspension, variable sport steering, and optional Adaptive M Suspension, providing a thrilling and precise driving experience. Despite its performance focus, the M340i achieved a respectable fuel economy of 24.9 mpg on the evaluation route, just shy of the EPA rating of 26 mpg combined.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class offered two engine options: a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six with EQ Boost in the S500, and a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 in the S580. The S500's engine produced 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque, with an additional 21 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque from the EQ Boost system. The S580 delivered even more power, with a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds. Both models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic AWD, providing smooth and responsive performance. The S-Class's handling was flat and predictable, with powerful braking, making it suitable for both commuting and weekend driving.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series M340i offered a balance of driving satisfaction and passenger comfort. The power-adjustable front sport seats provided ample support, while the rear seats offered enough legroom for four relatively tall passengers. The interior featured a three-zone automatic climate control system, with options for heated seats and a heated steering wheel. The 17 cubic-foot trunk and 40/20/40-split folding rear seats added practicality and utility to the sporty sedan.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class excelled in providing a luxurious and comfortable cabin for both drivers and passengers. The executive sedan featured powered sun blinds, a Panorama Sunroof, and a 13.8-cubic-foot trunk. The front seats offered heating, ventilation, massage functions, and memory settings, while the rear seats could be upgraded with the Executive Line package for additional comfort and entertainment features. The S-Class's interior was designed for ease of access and comfort, with soft-close doors and a range of luxury options.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series came standard with Live Cockpit Professional, featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The iDrive 7.0 system was intuitive, offering multiple control options, including voice recognition and gesture control. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 10-speaker HiFi sound system. The Driving Assistance Professional package added advanced safety features, such as a surround-view camera system and autonomous parking capability.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was equipped with a 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen and the latest MBUX infotainment system. The OLED screen provided superior image quality and energy efficiency, while the 12.3-inch LED virtual instrument panel offered customizable visual themes. The S-Class featured augmented video for navigation and an optional augmented reality head-up display. The standard Burmester 3D Surround sound system delivered high-fidelity audio, with an available 4D Surround system for an immersive experience. The S-Class also offered advanced driver assistance features, including rear-axle steering for improved maneuverability.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series included Active Guard, a package with forward-collision warning, pedestrian and cyclist detection, and city-speed automatic emergency braking. The optional Driving Assistance package added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, while the Driving Assistance Professional package offered lane-keeping assist and semi-autonomous driving features. The 3 Series earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Magic Vision Control, active distance assist, and active brake assist. The S-Class also offered Pre-Safe systems, car-to-x communication, and available rear-passenger airbags. These features, combined with Mercedes-Benz's commitment to safety innovation, made the S-Class a leader in safety technology.