2022 BMW i4 vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The 2022 BMW i4 retained much of the styling from the gasoline-powered 4 Series Gran Coupe, which led to mixed reactions due to its oversized grille and the use of the term "Gran Coupe" for what was essentially a four-door sedan with a rear hatch. Despite this, the i4 was more aerodynamic than its gasoline counterpart, with a drag coefficient of 0.24 for the base model and 0.25 for the M50 version. BMW achieved this through various design tweaks, including a smooth underbody and an active grille flap. The interior of the i4 balanced modern minimalism with traditional BMW elements, featuring a freestanding screen and familiar controls, although leather upholstery was not standard.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class continued to impress with its sleek design, following a complete makeover the previous year. The S-Class maintained its status as Mercedes-Benz's flagship sedan, with a long and elegant profile that exuded sophistication. The exterior was marked by a proud Mercedes-Benz grille and star hood ornament, while the interior featured a waterfall of open-pore wood trim and a 12.8-inch touchscreen. The cabin was adorned with high-quality materials, providing a luxurious experience for all passengers.

The 2022 BMW i4 offered impressive performance with its electric powertrains. The base i4 eDrive40 produced 335 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.5 seconds. The M50 model, with its two-motor setup, delivered 536 hp and 586 lb-ft of torque, reaching 0-60 mph in just 3.7 seconds. Despite its weight, the i4 handled well, thanks to its low center of gravity and advanced suspension systems. The adaptive suspension provided a smooth ride, while the integrated braking system offered a natural pedal feel. However, the adaptive recuperation system's inconsistent regenerative braking was a minor drawback.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class excelled in both performance and comfort. The S500 model featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder engine with EQ Boost, delivering 429 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque. The S580 model boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine, also with EQ Boost. Both models used a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic AWD. The S500 accelerated from 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds, while the S580 achieved it in 4.4 seconds. Despite their weight, both models offered flat and predictable handling, making them suitable for both commuting and spirited driving.

The 2022 BMW i4 provided a low seating position despite its battery pack, but the fastback roof limited headroom. The interior felt open, with an efficiently designed center console. However, the seats were flat and hard, lacking the expected bolstering. The i4 offered 10 cubic feet of cargo space, less than its competitors, and lacked a front trunk. The absence of a power-adjustable steering column was also noted.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class excelled in interior space and comfort. The cabin featured powered sun blinds, a Panorama Sunroof, and a 13.8-cubic-foot trunk. The front seats offered heating, ventilation, massage, and memory functions, while the Executive Line package added luxury features for rear passengers. The S-Class's doors opened wide, but soft-close functionality prevented slamming. The vehicle came with a four-year/50,000-mile warranty.

The 2022 BMW i4 showcased the latest BMW iDrive8 infotainment system with a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and 14.9-inch central touchscreen. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, navigation, and OTA updates. The user experience was familiar to BMW drivers, with a rotary controller and effective voice recognition system.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was equipped with cutting-edge 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 navigation enhanced the driving experience. The Burmester audio system provided high-fidelity sound, while the EQ Boost and rear-axle steering added to the vehicle's performance capabilities.

The 2022 BMW i4 came with standard driver-assist features such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The optional Driving Assistance Professional Package added adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The Parking Assistant Package included a 360-degree camera system and parking sensors.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was loaded with safety features, including Magic Vision Control and a range of driver assistance systems. The Pre-Safe systems prepared the vehicle for imminent collisions, while car-to-x communication shared warning messages. The S-Class also offered rear-passenger airbags and occupant restraint protection.