2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is 8.7 out of 10, while the 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class scores 7.8 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the S-Class is the recommended choice for those seeking the pinnacle of luxury, performance, and technology in a sedan.
Choose the 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class if:
- You want a stylish and modern sedan with a strong brand identity.
- You seek a balance of luxury and sportiness in a more compact package.
- You appreciate advanced infotainment and driver assistance features at a lower price point.
Choose the 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class if:
- You prioritize luxury and comfort with advanced technology features.
- You desire a powerful and smooth driving experience with excellent handling.
- You need a spacious and well-appointed interior for executive-level comfort.
Overview | |
MSRP$111,100 | MSRP$43,550 |
Average price$81,703 | Average price$37,116 |
Listings323 | Listings245 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews8.7 out of 10 | Expert reviews7.8 out of 10 |
Pros
| Pros
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2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Reviews SummaryThe 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a full-size four-door luxury sedan with a 48-volt mild hybrid gasoline-electric powertrain, including a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder gas engine (S500) or twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 (S580), with EQ Boost, a nine-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive (AWD). The S500 starts at $111,100; the S580 starts at $117,700. The EPA estimates the S500 can achieve fuel economy of up to 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway/24 mpg combined, while the S580 is rated at 16 mpg city/25 mpg highway/19 mpg combined. | |
2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Reviews SummaryThe Mercedes-Benz C-Class was the automaker’s entry-level model, but it needed a new role. Mercedes now has a line of compact cars serving as lower-priced entryways to the brand, so it’s moving the C-Class upmarket. The redesigned 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan borrows design elements from the automaker’s flagship S-Class to entice new car buyers on a budget who still want the most Mercedes for their money. The C-Class competes against a formidable array of small sports sedans. Like the Mercedes, the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, Lexus IS, and Volvo S60 are fixtures in this segment, with nameplates that date back at least two decades. The Acura TLX, Cadillac CT4, and Infiniti Q50 are newer names that build on their respective brands’ experience in the segment. The Genesis G70 is a relative newcomer from a recently launched brand that’s already managed to impress. The all-new C-Class launches in C300 sedan form with standard rear-wheel drive (RWD), optional 4Matic all-wheel drive (AWD), and Premium, Exclusive, and Pinnacle trim levels. Our test car was a C300 4Matic in the top Pinnacle trim. An AMG C43 performance model is also on the way, but it’s not expected to hit showrooms until after the C300, which arrives at dealerships later this spring. | |
No video found | No video found |
Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine3.0L 429 hp I6 | Engine |
Drive TrainAWD | Drive Train |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity5 |
Horsepower429 hp @ 6100 rpm | Horsepower |
MPG City21 | MPG City |
MPG Highway30 | MPG Highway |
Engine | |
Engine Name3.0L 429 hp I6 | Engine Name2.0L 255 hp I4 |
Torque384 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm | Torque273 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm |
Horsepower429 hp @ 6100 rpm | Horsepower255 hp @ 5800 rpm |
DrivetrainAWD | DrivetrainRWD |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City21 | MPG City |
MPG Highway30 | MPG Highway |
Interior | |
Leather SeatsOptional | Leather Seats |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity5 |
Key Features | |
Navigation SystemOptional | Navigation System |
Sunroof/MoonroofOptional | Sunroof/MoonroofStandard |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space12.9 cu ft | Cargo Space12.6 cu ft |
Curb Weight4740 lbs | Curb Weight3825 lbs |
Height59.2 in | Height56.6 in |
Length208.2 in | Length187.0 in |
Width83.0 in | Width80.0 in |
Wheelbase126.6 in | Wheelbase112.8 in |
Maximum Payload1387 lbs | Maximum Payload1202 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is 8.7 out of 10, while the 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class scores 7.8 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the S-Class is the recommended choice for those seeking the pinnacle of luxury, performance, and technology in a sedan.
Choose the 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class if:
Shop Now- You want a stylish and modern sedan with a strong brand identity.
- You seek a balance of luxury and sportiness in a more compact package.
- You appreciate advanced infotainment and driver assistance features at a lower price point.
Choose the 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class if:
Shop Now- You prioritize luxury and comfort with advanced technology features.
- You desire a powerful and smooth driving experience with excellent handling.
- You need a spacious and well-appointed interior for executive-level comfort.
Overview | ||
MSRP | $111,100 | $43,550 |
Average price | $81,703 | $37,116 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | 4.8 | 4.8 |
Expert reviews | 8.7 out of 10Read full review | 7.8 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
| Pros
|
Summary | The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a full-size four-door luxury sedan with a 48-volt mild hybrid gasoline-electric powertrain, including a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder gas engine (S500) or twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 (S580), with EQ Boost, a nine-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive (AWD). The S500 starts at $111,100; the S580 starts at $117,700. The EPA estimates the S500 can achieve fuel economy of up to 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway/24 mpg combined, while the S580 is rated at 16 mpg city/25 mpg highway/19 mpg combined. | The Mercedes-Benz C-Class was the automaker’s entry-level model, but it needed a new role. Mercedes now has a line of compact cars serving as lower-priced entryways to the brand, so it’s moving the C-Class upmarket. The redesigned 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan borrows design elements from the automaker’s flagship S-Class to entice new car buyers on a budget who still want the most Mercedes for their money. The C-Class competes against a formidable array of small sports sedans. Like the Mercedes, the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, Lexus IS, and Volvo S60 are fixtures in this segment, with nameplates that date back at least two decades. The Acura TLX, Cadillac CT4, and Infiniti Q50 are newer names that build on their respective brands’ experience in the segment. The Genesis G70 is a relative newcomer from a recently launched brand that’s already managed to impress. The all-new C-Class launches in C300 sedan form with standard rear-wheel drive (RWD), optional 4Matic all-wheel drive (AWD), and Premium, Exclusive, and Pinnacle trim levels. Our test car was a C300 4Matic in the top Pinnacle trim. An AMG C43 performance model is also on the way, but it’s not expected to hit showrooms until after the C300, which arrives at dealerships later this spring. |
Video | No video found | No video found |
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 3.0L 429 hp I6 | |
Drive Train | AWD | |
Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Horsepower | 429 hp @ 6100 rpm | |
MPG City | 21 | |
MPG Highway | 30 | |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 3.0L 429 hp I6 | 2.0L 255 hp I4 |
Torque | 384 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm | 273 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm |
Horsepower | 429 hp @ 6100 rpm | 255 hp @ 5800 rpm |
Drivetrain | AWD | RWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 21 | |
MPG Highway | 30 | |
Interior | ||
Leather Seats | Optional | |
Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Key Features | ||
Navigation System | Optional | |
Sunroof/Moonroof | Optional | Standard |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 12.9 cu ft | 12.6 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 4740 lbs | 3825 lbs |
Height | 59.2 in | 56.6 in |
Length | 208.2 in | 187.0 in |
Width | 83.0 in | 80.0 in |
Wheelbase | 126.6 in | 112.8 in |
Maximum Payload | 1387 lbs | 1202 lbs |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class retained its fantastic design from the previous year, following a complete makeover that was widely praised. Despite the growing popularity of SUVs, the S-Class continued to make a strong case for the sedan with its sleek and elegant design. The long distance between the front axle and the dashboard added to its elegance, while the proud Mercedes-Benz grille and star hood ornament highlighted its prestigious lineage. Inside, the S-Class offered a luxurious cabin with high-quality materials, featuring a 12.8-inch touchscreen and a separate 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, providing a sophisticated and functional interior layout.
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class incorporated styling elements from other Mercedes models, resulting in a cohesive and stylish sedan. Its cab-rearward proportions emphasized its rear-wheel-drive platform, distinguishing it from the front-wheel-drive CLA-Class and A-Class. Standard LED headlights and taillights, with an optional Digital Light system, added to its modern appeal. Inside, the C-Class aimed to emulate the S-Class with features like a freestanding touchscreen, ambient lighting, and intricate speaker grilles. Despite its luxury aspirations, the C-Class came standard with MBTex synthetic leather, with Nappa leather available on higher trims, offering a comfortable yet slightly less opulent interior.
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was designed for both serene commuting and spirited driving. The S500 model featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder engine with EQ Boost, delivering 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, with an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft from the electric motor. The S580 model boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine, also with EQ Boost. Both models used a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic AWD. Despite their weight, the S500 and S580 accelerated from 0-60 mph in 4.9 and 4.4 seconds, respectively. The S500 achieved fuel economy ratings of 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway/24 mpg combined, while the S580 managed 16 mpg city/25 mpg highway/19 mpg combined.
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C300 model was powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system adding 20 hp and 148 lb-ft in short bursts. It accelerated from 0-60 mph in 5.9 seconds, with a top speed of 130 mph. The sportier AMG C43 version offered 402 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, reaching 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The C300's power delivery was occasionally marred by turbo lag, and the transmission exhibited some rough shifts. However, the ride quality was impressive, balancing luxury and sportiness, with good body control and precise steering on twisty roads.
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class excelled as an executive sedan, offering a spacious and comfortable cabin with luxury features. Second-row passengers enjoyed powered sun blinds and a Panorama Sunroof, while the 13.8-cubic-foot trunk provided ample storage. The cabin featured six USB-C ports and a 115-volt power supply in the rear. Front seats offered heating, ventilation, massage, and memory functions, with additional luxury options available. The Executive Line package enhanced rear-seat comfort with multicontour seats and entertainment systems. The S-Class's wide-opening doors, though luxurious, could be challenging to close, but soft-close functionality mitigated this issue.
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan offered increased interior space compared to its predecessor, with improved headroom and rear-seat legroom. It led its segment in front-seat headroom and rear-seat legroom, though front legroom was less competitive. The seats were comfortable, with good bolstering for spirited driving. Visibility was generally good, though thick rear pillars created blind spots. The trunk offered 17.9 cubic feet of space, with a wide opening for easy loading. A 40/20/40 split-folding rear bench allowed for longer items, and a power trunk release was available.
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was equipped with cutting-edge technology, featuring a 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen for the MBUX infotainment system, offering superior image quality and energy efficiency. The 12.3-inch LED virtual instrument panel provided crisp imagery, with an optional 3D cluster adding depth. Augmented video for navigation and an available augmented reality HUD enhanced the driving experience. The standard Burmester 3D Surround sound system delivered high-fidelity audio, with an optional 4D system adding headrest speakers. The S-Class also featured EQ Boost and rear-axle steering for improved maneuverability.
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class adopted a similar infotainment setup to the S-Class, with a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and 11.9-inch touchscreen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with a Burmester 3D surround-sound system available on higher trims. The MBUX system featured a "Zero Layer" setup, allowing easy access to functions. The voice recognition system was highly effective, and touch controls on the steering wheel were intuitive. The optional augmented-reality navigation system provided clear guidance with overlaid arrows on a front-camera feed.
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety and driver assistance features. Magic Vision Control optimized windshield spray, while active distance assist Distronic, active steering assist, and active brake assist enhanced driving safety. Pre-Safe systems prepared the vehicle for imminent collisions, and car-to-x communication shared road condition warnings. Rear-passenger airbags and rear-seat belt bags were available for added safety.
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class offered a range of advanced driver assistance systems, with many features standard. These included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and Pre-Safe systems. Optional features included lane-keep assist, a 360-degree camera system, and adaptive cruise control. Car-to-X communication provided real-time warnings about road conditions, enhancing safety.
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