2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2023 BMW 7 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 most 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 mild-hybrid technology. Rear-wheel drive was standard, with 4Matic all-wheel drive as an option. For those seeking performance, the AMG-tuned E-Class models, like the AMG E53, offered a more powerful version of the E450’s engine. The E-Class was known for its luxurious interior, especially in high-end trims like the AMG E53 Cabriolet, which featured premium materials and advanced technology, though it struggled with cost-effectiveness.

The 2023 BMW 7 Series introduced a bold new design language, particularly noticeable in its front-end styling with an oversized grille and split lighting elements. The 7 Series offered a range of powertrains, including the all-electric i7 and the 760i xDrive with a powerful V8 engine. The interior was modern and minimalistic, featuring a broad horizontal layout with high-quality materials. The rear seats were particularly spacious, with options like the Rear Executive Lounge Seating package adding a touch of luxury. However, some features, like the power-operated doors and the central rear entertainment screen, were seen as more of a novelty than a necessity.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 was equipped with a 3.0-liter turbo-six engine featuring EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology, producing 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. This setup allowed for a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 4.4 seconds. The AMG Speedshift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ variable AWD system provided excellent power delivery and handling. The E53 Cabriolet was versatile, offering a comfortable cruising experience with its AMG-tuned air suspension and performance exhaust system, while also being capable of spirited driving on winding roads.

The 2023 BMW 7 Series offered two initial powertrains. The base 740i featured a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system, producing 375 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.2 seconds. The 760i xDrive, with its 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8, delivered 536 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque, reaching 60 mph in 4.1 seconds. The 7 Series was praised for its smooth acceleration and braking, with a sportier handling profile than some competitors, though it sacrificed some ride comfort for performance.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet was a true four-passenger convertible, offering comfortable seating for adults in both the front and rear. The Aircap system reduced cabin turbulence with the top down, and features like heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and the Airscarf neck-warming system enhanced comfort. The trunk offered 9.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the top up, but this was significantly reduced with the top down.

The 2023 BMW 7 Series featured power-operated doors, which were more of a hindrance than a help. The front seats were comfortable with plenty of adjustments, while the rear seats offered ample space and luxury options like the lounge seating with massage functions. The trunk provided 13.7 cubic feet of cargo space, larger than some competitors, and the interior storage was adequate but not generous. The rear entertainment screen was impressive but could cause neck strain due to its central placement.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system, known for its user-friendly interface and high-resolution displays. The system included two 12.3-inch screens and could be controlled via touchscreen, voice commands, or steering wheel buttons. Features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an augmented reality navigation system were available, along with a Burmester surround-sound audio system.

The 2023 BMW 7 Series came with iDrive 8, which offered a wealth of features but was criticized for its complex menu structure. The system could be controlled via touchscreen, a central dial, or voice commands, with an 18-speaker Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System as standard. The optional theater screen had usability issues, and the overall system was seen as a step back in terms of user-friendliness.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class included standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The AMG E53 also featured pop-up rollbars for rollover protection and the Pre Safe system to prepare the cabin for a collision. Additional safety features were available in the Driver Assistance Package, which included adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.

The 2023 BMW 7 Series had standard safety features such as frontal collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. The optional Driving Assistance Professional package added a hands-free automated driving system for highways. The adaptive cruise control was praised for its smooth operation, and the highway driving assistant reduced driver fatigue on long trips.