2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid

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 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 engine. The E53 Cabriolet, with its luxurious features and a base price of $85,400, was a testament to opulence, though its cost-effectiveness was questionable. The car's design, especially with AMG styling and a matte-blue paint finish, was striking, and the interior exuded luxury with high-resolution digital displays and premium materials.

The 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid, six years into its eighth generation, had styling that was either familiar or enhanced by new features like the Reservoir Blue paint and Nightshade Edition's matte-bronze wheels. The Nightshade Edition, available with SE trim, offered a choice between a standard 2.5-liter engine or a hybrid setup, with FWD or AWD for non-hybrids. The SE-spec interior, while durable, was marred by cheap-looking plastics and road noise. The Camry Hybrid's base price started at just over $29,000, with the SE Hybrid Nightshade Edition priced at $32,983. Despite its affordability, the Camry's interior lacked the refinement of its competitors, and its trunk space was limited compared to others in its class.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 featured 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, with multiple driving modes available. The E53 Cabriolet's AMG-tuned air suspension and performance exhaust system, along with optional 20-inch wheels, enhanced its dynamic capabilities. The car excelled as both a comfortable cruiser and a spirited performer, with its AWD system and heated features making it suitable for various weather conditions.

The 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid offered three powertrains, with the hybrid version combining a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle engine, an electric motor, and a lithium-ion battery for a total of 208 horsepower. The hybrid system used a CVT to drive the front wheels, with six programmed ratios for a more traditional feel. Despite an EPA rating of 46 mpg, the test car averaged only 33.4 mpg, likely due to driving conditions and modes. The Camry Hybrid's electric motor provided good acceleration, and the regenerative braking system was well-tuned. The SE Nightshade's sport suspension offered decent handling, though stability control was sensitive. While not as engaging as a Honda Accord, the Camry Hybrid was enjoyable to drive, though fuel economy was a concern.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet was a true four-passenger convertible, with comfortable seating and an Aircap system to reduce cabin turbulence. The focus was on front-seat comfort, with heated and ventilated options, a neck-warming Airscarf, and multi-contour seats with massage. The triple-layer soft top provided insulation, and the trunk offered 9.5 cubic feet of space, reduced when the top was down.

The 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid prioritized simplicity and durability, with a straightforward layout and controls. Most models featured dual-zone climate control, with available heated and ventilated seats. The test car's front seats offered power adjustment for the driver and manual for the passenger, with comfortable seating for longer drives. The rear seats were less spacious, lacking air vents, and the trunk held 15.1 cubic feet, smaller than competitors but accommodating full-size suitcases.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class excelled in digital instrumentation and infotainment with its MBUX system, featuring two 12.3-inch screens. The system was user-friendly, with multiple interaction methods, including voice control. Standard features included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with optional WiFi and augmented reality navigation. The Burmester audio system provided excellent sound quality, though the digital assistant could be inadvertently activated.

The 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid offered a 7-inch or 9-inch touchscreen with smartphone connectivity, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The larger system added navigation and a JBL sound system. Both systems supported Amazon Alexa and SiriusXM, with connected services available. The test car's 7-inch screen was basic, with physical controls that could be improved for ease of use. Additional tech options included a driver information center and head-up display, though the test car lacked these features.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class included standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Cabriolet had pop-up rollbars for rollover protection. Pre Safe and Pre Safe Sound systems prepared occupants for collisions, while Active Parking Assist and a surround-view camera aided parking. The optional Driver Assistance Package added advanced features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, enhancing safety.

The 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid came with 10 airbags, a rear-seat reminder, and Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, which included forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. However, the system lacked refinement, with abrupt braking and lane-keeping issues. The Camry received five-star NHTSA ratings and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS, though it performed poorly in the updated side-impact test, potentially affecting future ratings.