2022 Subaru WRX vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class retained its fantastic look from the 2021 model, following a complete makeover that many agreed was spot-on. Despite the growing popularity of SUVs, the S-Class sedan continued to tell a compelling story of elegance and luxury. With its roots tracing back to the 1954 "Ponton" models and officially blossoming in 1972 with the W116 series, the S-Class has been Mercedes-Benz's flagship sedan. The 2022 model, part of the seventh generation (W223), was available in S500 and S580 variants, with no additional body styles announced for the year.

The exterior of the S-Class was sleek, with a long, low profile that erased memories of its boxy predecessors. The extended distance between the front axle and the dashboard added to its elegance. The proud Mercedes-Benz grille and star hood ornament were unmistakable. Inside, the dashboard featured a waterfall of open-pore wood trim and a 12.8-inch touchscreen, complemented by a separate 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. High-quality materials were meticulously fitted throughout the cabin, ensuring a luxurious experience.

The 2022 Subaru WRX, on the other hand, offered a more subtle design. The new model was two inches wider than its predecessor, with a signature hood scoop and a small hexagonal grille. The side profile was less busy, featuring black plastic cladding with air outlets to improve airflow and a hexagonal pattern to reduce turbulence. The rear fenders flared dramatically, and the taillights had a multifaceted design. The overall look was smoother and more streamlined, though the cladding could be distracting on brightly colored models like the Solar Orange test car.

Inside, the WRX saw significant improvements. The sport seats were comfortable and supportive, with premium cloth or Ultrasuede upholstery depending on the trim. The fit and finish were markedly better, with a D-shaped steering wheel, aluminum-alloy pedal covers, and carbon-fiber-pattern trim accents. The WRX finally looked like a modern vehicle, setting itself apart from more pedestrian Subaru models.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was designed for both serene commuting and weekend pleasure driving. The S500 model featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder mild-hybrid engine with EQ Boost, adding up to 21 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque to the engine's 429 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque. The S580 model had a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8, also with EQ Boost. Both models used a nine-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and standard 4Matic AWD. Despite their weight (4,740 pounds for the S500 and 4,775 pounds for the S580), both models were quick off the line, with the S500 reaching 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds and the S580 in 4.4 seconds. The S500 delivered up to 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway/24 mpg combined, while the S580 was rated at 16 mpg city/25 mpg highway/19 mpg combined.

The 2022 Subaru WRX featured a new 2.4-liter turbocharged Boxer engine, producing 271 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. While the power improvement over the previous model was minimal, the WRX still offered a spirited driving experience. The standard AWD system and the choice between a six-speed manual transmission and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) provided versatility. The manual transmission was precise and satisfying, while the CVT offered faster shift points and variable torque distribution. The new WRX also benefited from the Subaru Global Platform, which improved suspension tuning and ride quality, making it more forgiving on rough roads.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class excelled as an executive sedan, offering a roomy and comfortable cabin with ample storage and cargo space. Second-row passengers enjoyed powered sun blinds and a Panorama Sunroof. The 13.8-cubic-foot trunk provided plenty of space for luggage. The cabin featured six USB-C ports and a 115-volt power supply in the second row. The driver and front passenger enjoyed heated and ventilated active multicontour seats with massage and memory functions. The Luxury Line added a heated steering wheel, heated armrests, and rear-seat heating, while the Executive Line (exclusive to the S580) upgraded the rear seats and included a high-end rear-seat entertainment system.

The 2022 Subaru WRX offered practicality at its price point, with a cargo capacity of 12.5 cubic feet and a 60/40 split-fold rear seat. The sport seats were comfortable and supportive, with premium cloth or Ultrasuede upholstery. The WRX's standard AWD system added to its appeal as a performance-focused sedan in the $30,000 range.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was packed with advanced technology. The 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen interface for the MBUX infotainment system offered superior image quality and energy efficiency. The 12.3-inch LED virtual instrument panel provided crisp imagery and customizable themes. The optional 3D instrument cluster added depth and visual interest. The augmented video for navigation and the available augmented reality head-up display (HUD) enhanced the driving experience. The standard Burmester 3D Surround sound system and the available Burmester 4D Surround system provided high-fidelity audio. The EQ Boost system and rear-axle steering added to the S-Class's technological prowess.

The 2022 Subaru WRX featured an 11.6-inch tablet-style touchscreen display in premium trims and higher, with physical controls for climate and audio functions. The system supported Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, though the integration was not perfect. The base trim had a less elegant setup with two 7-inch displays. An 11-speaker Harmon Kardon stereo system was available in higher trims.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class was loaded with standard and available safety features. Magic Vision Control adjusted windshield spray for optimal visibility. Driver assistance features included adaptive cruise control, active steering assist, active brake assist, and more. The Pre-Safe systems prepared the car for imminent collisions. The S-Class also offered rear-passenger airbags and rear-seat belt bags for added safety.

The 2022 Subaru WRX's safety features depended on the transmission. CVT-equipped models came with Subaru's EyeSight suite, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. Manual transmission models did not have EyeSight due to the risk of stalling during panic stops. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on higher trims. The Subaru Global Platform improved crash energy absorption, and the WRX came with seven airbags as standard.