2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2023 BMW 3 Series

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was a versatile offering, available in coupe, convertible, sedan, and station wagon body styles, a variety unmatched by many competitors. The E-Class sedans, designated as E350, featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while all variants could be upgraded to the E450, which boasted a turbo 3.0-liter inline-six with EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid technology. Rear-wheel drive was standard, with the option for 4Matic all-wheel drive. For those seeking performance, the AMG-tuned E-Class models, excluding the All-Terrain wagon, offered the AMG E53 with a more powerful version of the E450’s engine. Despite its high ranking in previous reviews, the E-Class struggled with cost-effectiveness, especially in the AMG E53 Cabriolet variant, which, with options, could reach an MSRP of nearly $110,000. However, the luxurious design, both inside and out, made it a standout for those willing to invest in its opulence.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series, a staple of the Bavarian brand since 1975, continued to impress with its seventh-generation model, refreshed for 2023. The lineup included the petrol-powered 330i and M340i, as well as the plug-in hybrid 330e. The exterior design updates were subtle yet sporty, maintaining the classic narrow kidney grille and introducing redesigned full-LED headlights. The 3 Series offered standard 18-inch double-spoke light alloys, with an optional 19-inch upgrade. Inside, the real transformation occurred with the introduction of BMW iDrive 8, featuring a 27.2-inch BMW Curved Display. The minimalist dashboard design and driver-centric cockpit enhanced the driving experience, especially with the M Sport package. The 3 Series balanced comfort and performance, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a modern, sporty sedan.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 models were powered by a 3.0-liter turbo-six engine with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology, producing 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. This setup ensured robust throttle response across a wide rev range, with a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds. The AMG Speedshift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system provided excellent power delivery, complemented by AMG Dynamic Select driving modes. The E53 Cabriolet featured AMG-tuned air suspension and a performance exhaust system, with optional 20-inch wheels and summer performance tires. The dual nature of the E53 was evident, offering a quiet, comfortable ride for leisurely drives and a dynamic, engaging experience on twisty roads.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series retained its powertrains from previous years, with the 330i featuring a twin-turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The 330e plug-in hybrid offered a combined output of 288 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, with a 0-60 mph time of 5.6 seconds and up to 22 miles of electric-only range. The M340i, with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, delivered 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, reaching 60 mph in 4.1 seconds. Fuel economy was competitive across the trims, with the 330i achieving up to 29 mpg combined. The 330i, equipped with the M Sport package, provided a balanced driving experience, excelling in comfort and handling, though not as sport-tuned as the M340i or M3.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet was a true four-passenger convertible, offering comfort for adults in both the front and rear seats. The Aircap system reduced cabin turbulence with the top down, while heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and the Airscarf neck-warming system enhanced comfort. Sun-reflective leather and ventilated front seats were available for hot weather, and the triple-layer acoustic soft top kept the cabin cool and quiet. The multi-contour front seats with massage and Air Balance interior fragrance system added to the luxury experience. However, trunk space was limited to 9.5 cubic feet with the top up, and even less with it down.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series offered a compact yet comfortable interior, with 38.7 inches of headroom and 42 inches of legroom in the front, and 37.6 and 35.2 inches, respectively, in the rear. Standard SensaTec faux leather upholstery and power-adjustable front sport seats provided support, though the seat bottom cushion was somewhat stiff. The iDrive controller knob and ergonomic design made controls easily accessible. Cargo capacity was 17 cubic feet, with rear seats folding in a 40/20/40 split for larger items. Standard features included a power moonroof, with options for a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, and remote start.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system, with two 12.3-inch screens forming the foundation. The system was complex yet intuitive, with swipe and scroll functions on the steering wheel requiring some acclimation. Interaction was possible via touchscreen, physical controls, voice assistant, or steering wheel buttons. Standard features included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with upgrades like WiFi service and augmented reality navigation. The Burmester surround-sound audio system provided excellent sound quality, though the digital assistant could be inadvertently activated by saying “Mercedes.”

The 2023 BMW 3 Series introduced the iDrive 8 system, featuring a 12.3-inch driver information display and a 14.9-inch touchscreen. The system was user-friendly, with customizable widgets and easy navigation via touch or voice commands. The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant understood natural speech patterns, simplifying voice activation. Standard tech features included USB-C ports, Bluetooth, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a 10-speaker HiFi sound system. Optional upgrades included wireless device charging, a Harman Kardon sound system, and a 5G hotspot.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class included standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Cabriolet also had pop-up rollbars for rollover protection. Mercedes Pre Safe and Pre Safe Sound were standard, preparing the cabin for collisions and protecting hearing. Active Parking Assist and a surround-view camera system aided parking, while the Driver Assistance Package offered additional features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series received a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA, though the PHEV model was unrated. The 2022 model earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS. Standard safety features included a rearview camera, LED headlights, BMW Assist eCall, and Active Guard. The Driving Assistance Package added features like blind spot detection and lane-departure warning, while the Driving Assistance Professional Package offered semi-autonomous driving systems. Additional safety options included Parking Distance Control and Drive Recorder.