2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2023 Cadillac CT5

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 the E450 variants boasted a turbo 3.0-liter inline-six with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology. Rear-wheel drive was standard, with an option for 4Matic all-wheel drive. For those seeking performance, the AMG-tuned E-Class models, like the AMG E53, offered a more powerful 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 interior, with high-resolution digital displays and premium materials, made it a standout in terms of design and comfort.

In contrast, the 2023 Cadillac CT5, particularly in its CT5-V variant, was a rare sight on Southern California roads, drawing attention with its unique styling. The test vehicle featured a light gray metallic color called Rift and 19-inch aluminum wheels with a Pearl Nickel finish. Positioned between the standard CT5 and the high-performance CT5-V Blackwing, the CT5-V offered a sporty yet more affordable option. Priced at $59,405 with options, it competed with the Audi A6, BMW 5 Series, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class in size and power, but its interior quality was more comparable to the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. The CT5-V's interior was a mix of high-quality materials and less impressive details, with standard features like ambient lighting and a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Despite some shortcomings, the CT5-V provided a spacious and comfortable cabin, especially for front-seat occupants.

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 powertrain ensured a robust response across the rev range, with a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 4.4 seconds. The AMG Speedshift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ variable AWD system delivered power efficiently, with multiple AMG Dynamic Select driving modes available to alter the car's character. The E53 Cabriolet's AMG-tuned air suspension and performance exhaust system, along with optional 20-inch wheels and summer performance tires, enhanced its driving dynamics. The convertible offered a dual personality, serving as a quiet cruiser or a spirited performer, depending on the driving mode selected.

The 2023 Cadillac CT5-V housed a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine, generating 360 horsepower and 405 pound-feet of torque. It could accelerate to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds, though it felt slower than it sounded. The 10-speed automatic transmission powered the rear wheels through an electronic limited-slip differential, with AWD available as an option. The CT5-V offered several driving modes, including Tour, Sport, Track, My Mode, and V-Mode, each adjusting the car's dynamics. The Magnetic Ride Control adaptive damping suspension and Brembo front brakes contributed to its performance capabilities. However, the CT5-V was not a quiet car, with noticeable road noise and suspension racket. Despite these issues, it provided enjoyable driving dynamics, especially on back roads, though the steering lacked feel and feedback.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet was a true four-passenger convertible, offering comfort for both front and rear occupants. 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. The sun-reflective leather and available ventilated front seats helped keep the cabin cool in hot weather. The triple-layer acoustic soft top provided insulation from external noise and temperature extremes. 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 Cadillac CT5-V, built on the same platform as the smaller CT4 and Chevrolet Camaro, offered a roomier and more comfortable interior. The standard 18-way power-adjustable front seats, wrapped in Inteluxe artificial leather, provided good comfort and support. Genuine leather, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel were optional. The rear seats, though slightly challenging to access, offered decent comfort and support. The CT5-V's trunk provided 11.9 cubic feet of cargo space, with additional hidden storage under the trunk floor and a deep well for smaller items. The 60/40 split back seat allowed for longer items to be transported.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, renowned for its complexity and ease of use. Two 12.3-inch screens formed the foundation of MBUX, offering high-resolution displays. Interaction with MBUX was possible through the touchscreen, physical controls, digital voice assistant, or steering wheel buttons. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, WiFi service, and an augmented reality video overlay for navigation. The test car also featured a Burmester surround-sound audio system with metal speaker grilles.

The 2023 Cadillac CT5-V's Cadillac User Experience (CUE) infotainment system was praised for its simplicity. It included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, and OnStar services with a Wi-Fi hotspot. The CT5-V also offered wireless smartphone charging, Alexa Built-in, and a Bose 15-speaker audio system. The system's controls were intuitive, with stereo volume and radio tuning controls on the center console and steering wheel. An embedded navigation system was optional, and the test car did not have it. However, Apple CarPlay was easy to use, though future models may not support it due to GM's decision to replace it with subscription-based services.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class came with standard safety features, including forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Cabriolet also featured pop-up rollbars for rollover protection. Mercedes Pre Safe and Pre Safe Sound were standard, preparing the cabin and occupants for a collision and protecting hearing during an impact. Active Parking Assist, a surround-view camera system, and rain-sensing wipers with Magic Vision Control were also included. The optional Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control, Active Steering Assist, and other advanced safety features.

The 2023 Cadillac CT5 featured the Cadillac Smart System, which included forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, a vibrating Safety Alert Seat, and Teen Driver monitoring. The CT5-V added adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The optional Super Cruise 1 Package offered hands-free driving assistance on approved highways, with adaptive cruise control, lane-centering, and lane-change systems. Super Cruise was impressive but required driver attention and manual intervention in certain situations.