2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was available in a variety of body styles, including coupe, convertible, sedan, and station wagon. This range of options was unmatched by other models. The E-Class sedans came in the E350 model, featuring a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while all variants could be upgraded to the E450, which boasted a turbo 3.0-liter inline-six engine with EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid technology. Rear-wheel drive was standard, but 4Matic all-wheel drive was also available. For driving enthusiasts, the AMG-tuned E-Class models, such as the AMG E53, offered a more powerful version of the E450’s engine.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class retained its fantastic look from the previous year's complete makeover. The S-Class, Mercedes-Benz’s flagship sedan, continued to impress with its sleek design and long profile, which exuded elegance. The seventh-generation S-Class, code-named “W223,” was available in S500 and S580 sedan models, with no additional body styles announced for the year. The exterior design featured a long distance between the front axle and the dashboard, enhancing its elegant appearance. The S-Class dashboard was a visual delight, with open-pore wood trim and a 12.8-inch touchscreen, complemented by a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 models were equipped with a 3.0-liter turbo-six engine featuring Mercedes' EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology. This system used a 48-volt electrical setup and an integrated starter generator to enhance power output and efficiency. The AMG-tuned engine produced 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque, delivering robust performance across a wide rev range. The E53 could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. The AMG Speedshift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ variable AWD system ensured the power was effectively transferred to the pavement. The E53 Cabriolet also featured an AMG-tuned air suspension and performance exhaust system, with optional 20-inch wheels and summer performance tires.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, particularly the S500 model, came with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder mild-hybrid engine, supplemented by the EQ Boost system. This system provided an additional 21 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque during high-demand situations, resulting in a total of 429 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque. The S580 model featured a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine with the same EQ Boost system. Both models used a nine-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and standard 4Matic AWD. Despite their weight, the S500 and S580 were quick off the line, with 0-60 mph times of 4.9 and 4.4 seconds, respectively. The S-Class offered a smooth and responsive driving experience, with fuel economy ratings of up to 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway for the S500 and 16 mpg city/25 mpg highway for the S580.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet was a true four-passenger convertible, providing comfort for both front and rear passengers. The Aircap system reduced cabin turbulence when the top was down. The focus was on driver and front passenger comfort, with standard heated seats and a heated steering wheel. The test car featured rapid-heating front seats, heated armrests, and the Airscarf neck-warming system. Sun-reflective leather and ventilated front seats were available for hot weather. The triple-layer acoustic soft top helped maintain a cool and quiet cabin. The trunk offered 9.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the top raised, but this was significantly reduced when the top was down.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class excelled as an executive sedan, offering a spacious and comfortable cabin with ample storage. Second-row passengers enjoyed powered sun blinds and a Panorama Sunroof. The 13.8-cubic-foot trunk provided sufficient cargo space. The cabin featured six USB-C ports and a 115-volt power supply in the second row. The driver and front passenger benefited from rapid-heating and ventilating active multicontour seats with massage and memory functions. The Luxury Line added a heated steering wheel, heated armrests, and rear-seat heating. The Executive Line, exclusive to the S580, upgraded the rear seats and included the MBUX high-end rear-seat entertainment system. The S-Class also featured soft-close doors for added convenience.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, which was both complex and user-friendly. The system included two 12.3-inch screens—a touchscreen and a digital instrument cluster. Interaction with MBUX was possible through the touchscreen, physical controls, voice assistant, or steering wheel buttons. The system supported Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, WiFi service, and an augmented reality video overlay for navigation. A head-up display and a Burmester surround-sound audio system were also available. The main challenges with MBUX were navigating its extensive menu and accidental activation of the voice assistant.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was equipped with the latest MBUX infotainment system, featuring a 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen. The OLED technology provided superior image quality and energy efficiency. The 12.3-inch LED virtual instrument panel offered crisp imagery and customizable themes. The optional 3D instrument cluster added depth and visual interest. The standard augmented video for navigation and the available augmented reality head-up display enhanced the driving experience. The S-Class also featured a Burmester 3D Surround sound system, with an optional 4D Surround system for an immersive audio experience. The powertrain and chassis technologies, including EQ Boost and rear-axle steering, further enhanced the S-Class's performance and maneuverability.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class came with standard safety features such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The E-Class Cabriolet also had pop-up rollbars for rollover protection. Mercedes Pre Safe and Pre Safe Sound systems were standard, preparing the cabin for a collision and protecting occupants' hearing. Active Parking Assist and a surround-view camera system aided parking. The optional Driver Assistance Package included adaptive cruise control, Active Steering Assist, front automatic braking, Evasive Steering Assist, and more. The package provided a comprehensive suite of driver aids, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was loaded with standard and optional safety features. Magic Vision Control adjusted windshield spray for optimal visibility. Driver assistance features included adaptive cruise control, active stop-and-go assist, active steering assist, active brake assist, active speed limit assist, active blind-spot assist, active lane-keeping assist, active parking assist, and Pre-Safe systems. The S-Class also featured car-to-x communication, sharing road condition warnings. For rear passengers, the S-Class offered available rear-passenger airbags and rear-seat belt bags, along with easy adjust headrests with occupant restraint protection.